The Summer Palace, located in Beijing's Haidian District, is China's largest and most well-preserved royal garden. Originally constructed in 1750 during the Qing Dynasty as the "Garden of Clear Ripples," it is centered around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, blending natural beauty with exquisite architectural design inspired by Hangzhou's West Lake and Jiangnan gardens.

Spanning 290 hectares, with three-quarters covered by water, the Summer Palace offers breathtaking landscapes and historical landmarks. The Long Corridor, a 728-meter-long covered walkway adorned with over 14,000 colorful paintings, is a masterpiece of decorative art. The Seventeen-Arch Bridge, with its 544-meter span connecting South Lake Island and the eastern dike, showcases intricate carvings of over a hundred stone lions. Longevity Hill's Buddhist Fragrance Pavilion stands as the garden's centerpiece, offering panoramic views of Kunming Lake.

Other notable sites include Suzhou Street, a recreation of ancient Jiangnan-style marketplaces, and numerous temples, pavilions, and scenic spots. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998, the Summer Palace exemplifies Chinese landscaping artistry and the cultural grandeur of imperial China. Today, it continues to enchant visitors with its rich history and idyllic scenery.