Once celebrated as the "Garden of Gardens", the Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace) was the grandest imperial garden of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Covering 350 hectares in Beijing's Haidian district, just next to the Summer Palace, this extraordinary royal retreat combined magnificent palaces, tranquil lakes, elegant pavilions, and beautifully landscaped gardens into one of the world's greatest masterpieces of landscape design.
First built in 1707 and expanded by successive Qing emperors, Yuanmingyuan served as a royal residence and political center for more than 150 years. The vast complex originally consisted of three interconnected gardens — Yuanming Garden (Garden of Perfect Brightness), Changchun Garden (Garden of Eternal Spring), and Qichun Garden (Garden of Elegant Spring) — where emperors lived, governed and sought inspiration amid nature.
Although much of the palace was destroyed by the invading Anglo-French forces in 1860, its surviving ruins remain one of the most evocative historical sites in China. The garden’s former splendor also earned international admiration. French writer Victor Hugo (1802-85) praised Yuanmingyuan as a masterpiece that rivaled the greatest achievements of Western civilization.
Today, visitors can explore tranquil gardens, scenic lakes, and evocative ruins that together reveal both the former magnificence of the imperial retreat and the enduring legacy of one of China's most celebrated gardens. The park's best-known attraction is the Western Mansions Ruins, where Dashuifa, Haiyantang (Hall of Tranquil Sea), Xieqiqu (Palace of Balanced and Harmonious Wonder), Huanghuazhen (Yellow Flower Maze), and Yuanyingguan (View of Distant Seas) preserve the remains of an extraordinary fusion of Chinese and European garden design.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Yuanmingyuan is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the gardens are at their most pleasant. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming flowers, while autumn offers crisp air and beautiful golden scenery.
If you want to avoid crowds, try visiting on a weekday morning. Early hours are especially peaceful and ideal for walking, photography and exploring the ruins at a relaxed pace.
Don't miss
Explore the Western Mansions Ruins
The park's most iconic area preserves the remains of the Western-style palaces designed by Jesuit missionaries for the Qing imperial court. Wander among the ruins of Dashuifa, Haiyantang, Xieqiqu, Huanghuazhen, and Yuanyingguan — powerful reminders of the palace's former magnificence and among the most photographed landmarks in Yuanmingyuan.
Visit the Grand Model Exhibition
See a detailed scale model recreating Yuanmingyuan at its height, offering a vivid impression of the vast imperial garden before its destruction.
Walk or cycle through the gardens
Explore peaceful lakes, wooded paths, bridges, and open lawns at your own pace. Bicycle rental is available near several entrances and is a relaxing way to cover the park's extensive grounds.
Take in the seasonal scenery
Spring blossoms, summer lotus ponds, autumn foliage, and snow-dusted ruins each reveal a different side of Yuanmingyuan's landscape.
Pause by Fuhai Lake
The park's largest lake offers broad views across the historical gardens and is one of the best places to appreciate the tranquil atmosphere that once made Yuanmingyuan the Qing emperors' favorite retreat.
Practical info & Getting there
Ticket price:
General admission: 10 yuan ($1.45)/person
Western Mansions Ruins: 15 yuan/person
Grand model exhibition of the Yuanmingyuan at its peak: 10 yuan/person
Through ticket: 25 yuan/person
Getting there
By metro (recommended):
Take Beijing Metro Line 4 and get off at Yuanmingyuan Park Station.
By bus:
Several city buses stop near Yuanmingyuan Park and the surrounding area. Check local transit apps or maps for the most convenient route from your location.
By taxi or ride-hailing:
A taxi or ride-hailing service is a convenient option, especially if you are traveling with family or visiting multiple attractions in Haidian district. Search for "The Yuanmingyuan" or "圆明园" as your destination.
