云湖渔家 Miyun Beijing
Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the Old Summer Palace, a once-magnificent imperial garden, now a serene park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
云湖渔家 Miyun Beijing
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the Old Summer Palace, a once-magnificent imperial garden, now a serene park.
"A poignant reminder of imperial grandeur and tragic history, offering a peaceful escape."
🚶♀️ Rent a Cart or Bike
The park is huge! Renting an electric cart or bike saves energy and time, letting you see more.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and ruins.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ruins of the European Palaces
Western section
Explore the hauntingly beautiful remnants of grand European-style palaces, a testament to a bygone era.
Tranquil Lakes and Willow Trees
Throughout the park
Wander through serene landscapes dotted with picturesque lakes and weeping willow trees, offering a peaceful escape.
The 'Garden of Gardens'
Central area
Experience the grandeur of what was once considered the most magnificent imperial garden in the world.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Yuanmingyuan
Getting Around Yuanmingyuan
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Rent a Cart or Bike
The park is huge! Renting an electric cart or bike saves energy and time, letting you see more.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and ruins.
⏰ Go Early or Late
Avoid peak hours for a more peaceful experience and better photos.
🗺️ Grab a Map
The park is extensive. A map will help you navigate and find key points of interest.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Rent a Cart or Bike
The park is huge! Renting an electric cart or bike saves energy and time, letting you see more.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and ruins.
⏰ Go Early or Late
Avoid peak hours for a more peaceful experience and better photos.
🗺️ Grab a Map
The park is extensive. A map will help you navigate and find key points of interest.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Yuanmingyuan to be a historically significant and visually appealing site, offering a peaceful escape with its lakes and ruins. While some note the cost, most agree the experience is worthwhile for its unique blend of history and natural beauty.
"Good regardless of cost"
亦非园
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Yuanmingyuan is by taking the Beijing Subway. Line 4 will take you directly there. Exit B from the Yuanmingyuan Station is recommended for convenient access to the park.
Yes, Yuanmingyuan is very accessible by public transport, primarily the Beijing Subway Line 4. This makes it a convenient destination for tourists.
Exit B from Yuanmingyuan Station on Subway Line 4 is the most convenient exit for entering the park.
Several bus routes also serve Yuanmingyuan, offering alternative public transport options. Check local bus maps for routes like 331, 594, or 614.
Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging and expensive. Public transport is generally recommended for ease of access and to avoid traffic congestion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Yuanmingyuan is generally quite affordable. While the exact price can vary, it's considered good value for the experience.
It's usually possible to buy tickets upon arrival at the park. However, during peak tourist seasons, booking in advance might save time.
Yuanmingyuan typically opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check the official hours before your visit, as they can change seasonally.
Yes, there might be different ticket options, potentially including access to specific areas or attractions within the park. It's worth inquiring about these upon arrival.
Absolutely! Yuanmingyuan is an excellent destination for a day trip in Beijing, offering a blend of history, nature, and relaxation.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Yuanmingyuan features the impressive ruins of European-style palaces, vast lakes, lush gardens, and historical relics. It's a place for leisurely walks, photography, and appreciating history. +1
To fully explore Yuanmingyuan, plan for at least 3-4 hours. You can spend longer if you wish to relax by the lakes or rent a boat.
Yes, renting electric carts or bicycles is highly recommended to cover the expansive grounds efficiently. This is a popular option for visitors.
Yuanmingyuan offers numerous picturesque spots for photography, from the grand ruins to the serene natural landscapes. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.
There are usually some food stalls or small eateries within the park, but options might be limited. Bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as food options within the park can be limited and somewhat pricey. The numerous lakes and green spaces offer opportunities for a relaxed picnic. It's a great place to teach children about history in a visually stimulating environment, sparking their imagination about the former imperial grandeur.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the ruins, the park's lakes, willow trees, and traditional Chinese garden elements offer endless opportunities for capturing beautiful scenery. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid large crowds, which can interfere with shots. The interplay of light and shadow on the weathered stone structures creates compelling photographic narratives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tragic History of Yuanmingyuan
Tragically, Yuanmingyuan suffered immense destruction during the Second Opium War in 1860 when Anglo-French forces looted and burned the palace complex. This act of vandalism left behind the evocative ruins that visitors see today, serving as a poignant reminder of China's turbulent history and the devastating impact of foreign invasions. The site has since been preserved as a historical monument and a park, allowing visitors to reflect on its past glory and tragic end.
Despite its destruction, the remaining ruins and the natural beauty of the park continue to draw visitors. The site is a powerful symbol of imperial China's artistic achievements and its vulnerability. Exploring Yuanmingyuan offers a unique opportunity to connect with history and appreciate the resilience of cultural heritage.
Navigating the Expansive Grounds
To efficiently explore the park, renting an electric cart or a bicycle is highly recommended. These are readily available at various points within the park and can significantly reduce travel time between different sections, allowing you to cover more ground and see more of the historical sites and natural beauty.
When planning your route, consider focusing on specific areas if time is limited. The ruins of the European palaces are a major draw, as are the numerous lakes and traditional Chinese garden elements. A park map, available at the entrance, is invaluable for navigation and identifying points of interest.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit