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.
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Destination
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Trip duration
0.5 day
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Price
From 750 cny
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Min/Max travelers
Min. 4
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Transport
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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 Waterways & Garden Exploration
Experience the magnificent Summer Palace, Beijing's largest and most well-preserved royal garden, on this exclusive private tour. Your knowledgeable English-speaking guide will lead you through this UNESCO World Heritage site, revealing the rich history and stories behind its elegant pavilions, ancient corridors, and tranquil lakes. The highlight of your journey will be a memorable cruise along the Waterway of Empress Dowager Cixi, offering unique perspectives of this imperial retreat from the water—just as royal family members would have enjoyed centuries ago. Your private driver will collect you from your hotel at your preferred time (before 16:00), ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience throughout this 4.5-hour exploration of one of China's most stunning imperial landscapes.
Tour Highlights:
• Exclusive guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Summer Palace
• Scenic boat cruise on the imperial waterway
• Exploration of ornate pavilions and historic corridors
• Views of Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake
• Professional English-speaking guide throughout
Key Information:
• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Available: April to October only (cruise operates mid-April to mid-October)
• Departure time: Flexible before 16:00
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included within downtown Beijing
• Please bring your passport for entry
• Comfortable walking shoes recommended
• Free cancellation available in case of bad weather
• Book at least 1 day in advance
Food
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Accommodation
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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
- Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver.
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off service. Please meet our guide in your hotel lobby at the designated time.
- A 4.5-hour private tour with a professional English-speaking guide. Other languages are on request and may be subject to supplementary charges
- Cruise on The Waterway of Empress Dowager Cixi as indicated in the programme
- Entrance fees for the Summer Palace and cruise tickets
- Complimentary botteled of water with unlimited supplies
- 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.
- 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
Important notes
Few important details to frame the experience:
- Cruise operates specifically from mid-April to mid-October (exact dates announced annually)
- The tour duration is approximately 4.5 hours
- Flexible departure times available before 16:00 (4:00 PM)
- In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions. The waiting time for no-shows cannot exceed 30 minutes, after which the tour will be automatically canceled.
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off included within downtown Beijing area. Supplements apply for transfers outside these regions, please meet our guide in your hotel lobby at the designated time.
- 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