Walk in the footsteps of Empress Cixi, the formidable woman who ruled China for nearly half a century. Explore the Summer Palace, her cherished retreat where she exercised power and entertained guests with lavish ceremonies. Learn about her controversial reign, political maneuvering, and the dramatic final years of the Qing Dynasty through the very halls and gardens she called home.
-
Destination
-
Price
From 1330 cny
-
Min/Max travelers
Min. 1
-
Transport
-
-
Accommodation
N/A
Step into the opulent world of China’s most powerful woman, Empress Cixi, as you explore her beloved Summer Palace retreat. This enchanting journey combines a scenic cruise across Kunming Lake with an intimate exploration of the imperial gardens, pavilions, and corridors where the Dowager Empress once strolled. Discover the fascinating stories of palace intrigue and witness the architectural marvels that defined the final era of imperial China.
Glide across the tranquil waters of Kunming Lake aboard a traditional boat, experiencing the same serene views that once captivated the imperial court. Marvel at the stunning lakeside architecture, including the famous Marble Boat and Long Corridor, while enjoying perspectives of the palace that can only be appreciated from the water. This peaceful cruise offers perfect photo opportunities and a unique vantage point of China’s most beautiful imperial garden.
Day 1
Imperial Gardens and Lake Cruise Experience
Begin your imperial journey with a scenic cruise across Kunming Lake, following the same waters where Empress Cixi once enjoyed leisurely boat rides with her court. Disembark to explore the meticulously designed Summer Palace gardens, wandering through the famous Long Corridor adorned with thousands of painted scenes. Visit the Marble Boat, Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, and other significant pavilions while learning about Cixi's daily life, political decisions, and the dramatic events that shaped modern China. Your guided tour reveals both the architectural splendor and the human stories behind one of Beijing's most treasured UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Food
-
Accommodation
-
Travel is an emotional experience, cherishing new corners and venture into unknown landscapes.
Respecting this and giving back to society has taken an important role in our endeavours in leaving only footprints and taking only memories.
Travel life
Travel is an emotional experience, cherishing new corners and venture into unknown landscapes.
Respecting this and giving back to society has taken an important role in our endeavours in leaving only footprints and taking only memories.
Travel life
Create the experience of your dream with our travel experts
Make your own trailIncluded
- A half-day tour with a professional English-speaking guide. Other languages are on request and may be subject to supplementary charges
- Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver.
- Cruise as indicated in the programme;
- All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the description.
- All applicable taxes and service charges
Not Included
- Tours, inclusions of any kind and other services that are not outlined in the tour description
- Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees and optional tours, unless otherwise stated
- Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement.
- Compulsory Christmas and/or New Year dinner at included hotels
- Single supplement charges for single travelers, where applicable
- Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point
- Supplements for transfers for customers arriving or departing from any airport or resorts located outside the general pick-up and drop-off locations
- Hotel expenses of a personal nature, should an overnight be included: this includes mini-bar consumption, laundry, room service, any telephone or other communication cost not mentioned in the program
Important notes
Few important details to frame the experience:
- Tour operates seasonally from April to October only
- Cruise operates specifically from mid-April to mid-October (exact dates announced annually)
- Multiple pricing tiers available based on group size and service level
- Flexible departure times available before 4:00 PM
- Advance booking required at least 1 day prior to tour date
- Free cancellation available in case of bad weather conditions
- Valid identification (passport) required for entry to Summer Palace
- Comfortable walking shoes essential as tour involves extensive walking through palace gardens
- Weather-appropriate clothing recommended as significant portions conducted outdoors
- Photography allowed in most areas but restrictions may apply in certain pavilions
- Tour duration may vary based on cruise schedule and seasonal conditions
- Pickup time will be confirmed upon booking confirmation
- Cultural sensitivity appreciated at this significant imperial heritage site
- Tour may be subject to temporary closures due to maintenance or special events
- Cruise portion dependent on weather conditions and water levels
- Alternative indoor activities available if cruise cancellation occurs due to weather
- Peak season bookings may require additional advance notice beyond 1 day