Facing west, East Palace Gate is the main entrance to the Summer Palace. It has three openings, one in the center for the emperors and empresses exclusively while the two side for the princes and court officials.

A plaque inscribed with Chinese characters "the Summer Palace" written by emperor Guang Xu is hung over the gate.

In the center of the stairs in front of the gate is a stone carving depicting the scene of two dragons playing with a pearl. Made during the reign of Emperor Qianlong (1736-1795), it was originally set in Yuanmingyuan Garden and later moved here.

About 200m from the gate lies a memorial archway. On each side of the memorial archway is an inscription. The one facing the east is "Han Xu" which means "modesty" and the one west is "Yan Xiu" which means "collecting excellence"- not only excellent scenery but also excellent people.