Beijing Private Summer Palace Tour

Explore the grandeur of the Summer Palace in Beijing on a private tour tailored to your interests. This 4-hour excursion offers an immersive experience, uncovering the rich imperial history and UNESCO-listed landmarks. With convenient hotel pickup and an English-speaking guide, you’ll stroll along the serene Kunming Lake, uncover the secrets of the opulent Long Corridor, and marvel at the Tower of Buddhist Incense. But the true highlight may just lie beyond the garden’s walls.

Key Points

• A 4-hour customizable private tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Summer Palace in Beijing, priced from $199 per person.
• Highlights key attractions like Kunming Lake, Long Corridor, Tower of Buddhist Incense, and insights into Empress Dowager Cixi’s influence.
• Includes pickup from a central hotel and an English-speaking guide to explore the palace’s gardens, pavilions, and traditional architecture.
• Tour not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 80 years old, and drones are prohibited on the premises.
• Booking requires overseas passport details and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Beijing Private Summer Palace Tour is a 4-hour experience that allows visitors to customize the itinerary to their interests.

Priced from $199 per person, the private tour includes pickup from a central hotel and an English-speaking guide.

Guests will explore the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Summer Palace, the largest imperial garden globally.

The tour highlights key attractions such as Kunming Lake, the Long Corridor, and various historic halls, providing insights into Empress Dowager Cixi, Chinese emperors, and traditional architecture.

An optional hike to a pagoda offers panoramic views of the palace and Beijing.

Key Highlights

Visitors explore several key attractions during the Beijing Private Summer Palace Tour. The highlights include:

1. Kunming Lake: Admire the serene lake and its surrounding gardens, pavilions, and bridges.

2. Long Corridor: Stroll through this impressive, intricately decorated covered walkway.

3. Tower of Buddhist Incense: Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Summer Palace and Beijing skyline.

Guests also visit the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, Hall of Jade Billows, Yiyun Hall, and Garden of Virtue and Harmony, learning about Empress Dowager Cixi, Chinese emperors, and traditional architecture.

Empress Dowager CiXi and Imperial History

Empress Dowager Cixi played a crucial role in the Summer Palace‘s history. She was the de facto ruler of China in the late 19th century and spent lavishly on renovating the palace.

Cixi’s extravagant lifestyle, including the construction of the famous Marble Boat, drew criticism from the public. However, she also oversaw the expansion of the palace’s gardens and gardens, making it the largest imperial garden in the world.

Visitors can learn about Cixi’s influence and the lives of Chinese emperors as they explore the palace’s diverse architecture and landscaping.

Exploring the Summer Palace Gardens

What awaits visitors as they explore the expansive Summer Palace gardens? From the iconic Long Corridor to the picturesque Kunming Lake, the grounds offer a captivating blend of natural beauty and architectural grandeur.

Highlights include:

1. The Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, an ornate pavilion showcasing traditional Chinese design.

2. The Tower of Buddhist Incense, a striking pagoda providing panoramic views of the palace and its surroundings.

3. The Garden of Virtue and Harmony, a tranquil oasis featuring serene landscapes and delicate pavilions.

Visitors can enjoy the rich history and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Panoramic Views From the Pagoda

For those seeking a panoramic perspective of the Summer Palace and its vast grounds, the option to hike up to the Tower of Buddhist Incense is a must.

This iconic pagoda, standing tall within the palace gardens, offers unparalleled views across Kunming Lake and the palace’s architectural wonders.

The climb, though moderate, rewards visitors with a breathtaking vantage point to fully appreciate the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

From the pagoda’s summit, one can gaze out over the Long Corridor, the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, and the serene waters that define this imperial retreat.

Booking and Reservation Details

How does one go about booking this private Beijing Summer Palace tour?

The booking process is flexible and convenient. First, visitors can reserve their spot now and pay later, with no upfront payment required.

Visitors can reserve their spot now and pay later, with no upfront payment required.

Second, the cancellation policy is generous, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Finally, it’s important to provide the necessary information, such as overseas passport numbers, birthdate, and name, via WhatsApp (not valid for Chinese IDs).

This ensures a smooth booking experience and prepares the tour provider for a seamless tour.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The private Beijing Summer Palace tour includes several key services. It covers the English-speaking tour guide and taxi fare within the 4th Ring Road. Plus, the entrance fee to the Summer Palace is provided.

However, the tour excludes gratuities, taxi fare outside the 4th Ring Road, lunch, and any other expenses not explicitly listed. It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 80 years old.

Guests should bring their passport, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a hat, while the use of drones is strictly prohibited.

Important Considerations

Although this private Beijing Summer Palace tour offers a comprehensive experience, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

This private Beijing Summer Palace tour offers a comprehensive experience, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

1. Not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 80 years. The Summer Palace grounds can be challenging for those with mobility issues.

2. Drones aren’t allowed on the premises. Visitors should refrain from bringing drones or other unauthorized equipment.

3. During peak season, if Forbidden City tickets can’t be secured, the booking will be canceled with a full refund. This is to ensure a seamless tour experience.

Keeping these factors in mind will help set appropriate expectations and ensure an enjoyable visit to the stunning Summer Palace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Summer Palace?

Visitors can bring their own snacks and water to the Summer Palace. However, eating and drinking is generally not allowed inside the historic buildings and restricted areas of the palace grounds.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Summer Palace?

There’s no strict dress code for visiting the Summer Palace, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Avoid overly revealing or sleeveless attire, as it’s a historically significant site. Bringing snacks and water is generally allowed, but check ahead for any restrictions.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for an Extra Fee?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Guests can customize the tour to their interests and needs by discussing options with the English-speaking guide during the booking process.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Unfortunately, the tour operator doesn’t offer any student or senior discounts. The listed price of $199 per person is fixed for all participants, regardless of age or student status. The tour’s inclusions and policies don’t mention any discounted rates.

Can I Book a Private Tour for a Single Person?

Yes, you can book a private tour for a single person. The tour is customizable to your interests and includes pickup from your central hotel in Beijing.

The Sum Up

The Summer Palace in Beijing offers a unique opportunity to take in the grandeur of imperial history and the natural beauty of its serene gardens. With a customizable private tour, travelers can explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, learn about the influential Empress Dowager Cixi, and enjoy panoramic views from the iconic pagoda. This 4-hour experience is an ideal way to discover the majestic charm of this iconic Chinese landmark.

You can check availability for your dates here: