As the largest and best preserved of imperial gardens in China, and one of the most famous classical gardens in the world, the Summer Palace is located in Haidian District, about 15 kilometers from the city proper.

During the Liao (907-1125) and Kin (1115-1234) dynasties, this scenic spot attracted pleasureseeking feudal rulers. In the Ming and Qomg dynasties, it became an imperial garden. In 1888, it was rebuilt by the Empress Dowager Ci Xi who spent an enormous amount of money on it from funds appropriated for building a Chinese navy. Ci Xi named it the Park of Nurtured Harmony, but it is generally known to foreigners as the Summer Palace.

It consists of Longevity Hall and Kunming Lake. All architectures is well arranged at the foot of the hill and by the lake, adding radiance and beauty to the park. Its main scenic spots include the Tower of Buddhist Incense, Long Corridor, Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, 17-Arch Bridge, Garden of Harmonious Interests, Suzhou Street and Marble Boat, etc.

You may take No.332 Bus at the Zoo, Or No.374 Bus at Gongzhufen to go to the Summer Palace.