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Beijing · China

Private Summer Palace Night Tour and City Illumination Experience

Starting From From $90.25 per person Current Project Expedition rate
4 Hours 3.98 / 5 0 reviews Easy activity level Private Single Day Tour Operated by Discover Beijing Tours
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The Experience

What your day looks like

Set off on an exclusive adventure to admire the Summer Palace’s nocturnal charm, far from the daytime throngs. Gaze at the spellbinding sunset over the Seventeen Arches Bridge, then stroll through the glowing pavilions and lush gardens. Your expert guide will regale you with vivid tales of imperial history, bringing the past to life. A dedicated private driver ensures smooth, hassle-free transfers to and from your destinations, letting you relax and soak in every moment. The rest of your evening is fully customizable: wander the vibrant lanes of Shichahai, admire the glittering skyline of the CBD, or catch the majestic glow of Tiananmen Square after dark. Seize this rare chance to experience Beijing’s iconic sights in an entirely new, unforgettable way.

At a Glance

The experience, in brief

  • Professional guide with indepth cultural insights
  • Private chauffeur for seamless doortodoor transfers
  • Savor exclusive access to iconic scenic spots
  • Relish personalized service tailored to your pace
Detailed Itinerary

The journey, in full

Your private tour guide and driver will arrive at your hotel within the 4th Ring Road of Beijing in the morning, ready to kick off your one-day itinerary. This exclusive itinerary provides a distinctive experience for guests eager to explore Beijing’s renowned Summer Palace. After meeting your guide and driver at your hotel, you will be escorted to a private air-conditioned vehicle that will take you directly to the Summer Palace, ensuring a comfortable and time-efficient journey. Break away from the bustling daytime crowds and immerse yourself in the Summer Palace’s elegance in a more serene setting. This private daytime tour offers great flexibility—you can choose to extend your stay, lingering by the Seventeen Arches Bridge to savor the peaceful ambiance and capture stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Next, your guide will lead you on a leisurely walk along the scenic Kunming Lake towards the north. Upon early arrival (before 10 am), you will have the chance to explore a variety of ancient courtyards, including the emperor’s bedroom, Emperor Qianlong’s study, and the courtyard of Empress Dowager Cixi. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Long Corridor, a magnificent open-air art gallery adorned with over 8,000 vivid paintings. These artworks depict a rich array of subjects, from exotic birds and blooming flowers to traditional Chinese landscapes and historical stories. Shaped like a bat with outstretched wings, the Long Corridor symbolizes joy and prosperity in Chinese culture. As you wander along this world’s longest corridor, your guide will share intriguing legends and cultural traditions behind the paintings, deepening your understanding of the site. Wrap up your Summer Palace adventure with a stop at the Marble Boat. Built in 1755 by Emperor Qianlong, this iconic structure serves as a symbolic reminder for the ruling class to prioritize the well-being of the people, carrying profound historical significance. At the end of your Summer Palace walking tour, your guide will offer a brief recap of your memorable experience. Afterwards, your guide and driver will take you back to your hotel, bringing this one-day itinerary to a perfect close.

Your Itinerary

Your day, step by step

Day 1

Beijing

Sightseeing at Summer Palace.

Continued

Beijing

Sightseeing at Long Corridor.

Continued

Beijing

Sightseeing at Marble Boat.

Continued

Beijing

Sightseeing at Olympic Green.

Continued

Beijing

Sightseeing at Tiananmen Square.

Before You Go

What to know before booking

Included

Professional English-speaking guide Hotel pickup and drop-off Transport by air-conditioned vehicle Entrance fee to the Summer Palace Entry/Admission - Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) Entry/Admission - Hall of Happiness and Longevity Entry/Admission - Long Corridor at the Summer Palace Entry/Admission - Kunming Lake

Not Included

Gratuities

What to Bring

Comfortable clothing and footwear Camera and other items you may need Spending money

Meeting & Pickup

We will pick you up from your hotel in Beijing City, please provide hotel information when making a booking.

Languages Offered

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Planning Notes

Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Manual By Business

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