The Mountain Resort: A royal epic written with mountains and waters

In the Name of Politics – A Strategic Chessboard for Consolidating Unity
The name "Mountain Resort" originates from its cool climate, but its creation stemmed from a deeper political strategy. After 1677, to train the army, strengthen the northern border defenses, and enhance control over the Mongol tribes, the Qing court established the Mulan Hunting Ground on the Mongolian grasslands, about 350 kilometers from Beijing. Every autumn, the emperor would lead an army of tens of thousands to hold the grand "Mulan Autumn Hunt." To solve the problem of lodging along the way, more than twenty imperial palaces were built between Beijing and the Mulan Hunting Ground, with the Rehe Imperial Palace (i.e., the Mountain Resort), situated at a crucial point and boasting stunning scenery, becoming its central location. Therefore, the construction of the Mountain Resort was primarily a political endeavor by the Qing emperors to appease and unite the ethnic minorities on the frontier and consolidate national unity.

The Path of Construction—The Landscape Ideals of Three Emperors
The construction of the Summer Palace was a magnificent project spanning centuries.
- Construction began during the reign of Emperor Kangxi (1703-1713): In the 42nd year of Kangxi's reign (1703), the project officially commenced. The main focus was on expanding the lake area and constructing embankments for the islands, thus initially establishing the framework of the garden. Emperor Kangxi personally designated the "Thirty-Six Scenic Spots" with four-character names.
- The Qianlong Emperor's Golden Age (1741-1792): After ascending the throne, the Qianlong Emperor undertook a large-scale expansion of the Mountain Resort, adding numerous palaces and garden buildings. He also added "Thirty-Six Scenes" named with three characters each, collectively known as the "Seventy-Two Scenes of the Mountain Resort." By the fifty-seventh year of Qianlong's reign (1792), this royal garden, which integrated diverse landscapes and cultures from across China, was finally completed.
- From Summer Palace to Secondary Capital: In the early Qing Dynasty, Emperors Kangxi and Qianlong spent about half the year here, and many important political, military, ethnic and diplomatic affairs were handled here, making Chengde the second political center outside of Beijing.

In-depth understanding: Explore more of China's royal gardens and architectural wonders >> [The Forbidden City, Beijing]  | [The Summer Palace]

Natural Creation - Miniature Bonsai of Chinese Landforms
The Garden area of the Mountain Resort perfectly recreates the diverse landforms of the Chinese mainland, from the water towns in the southeast to the plateaus in the northwest. It is divided into three major parts: the lake area, the plain area and the mountain area.

The Elegant Lake District: A Dreamland of the Jiangnan region that shifts the heavens and the earth
The lake area is the essence of the mountain villa. Multiple lakes are ingeniously divided by continents, islands, Bridges and embankments, creating a Jiangnan atmosphere where the scenery changes with every step.
- Yanyu Tower: Built in imitation of the Yanyu Tower on South Lake in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, it is located on Qinglian Island. Every summer and autumn when the mist and rain are hazy, climbing the tower and looking into the distance, the lake and mountain scenery are like a Chinese ink-wash painting, which is one of the most poetic scenic spots in the mountain villa.
Jinshan Island: Built in imitation of the scenery of Jinshan in Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, it is surrounded by lakes on three sides and faces a stream on the other. The God Pavilion stands tall, making it the highest point and visual center of the lake area, exuding a strong sense of the elegance of the Jiangnan region.
- Rehe Spring: Located in the northeastern corner of the lake area, it is a famous hot spring source and the origin of the name "Rehe". Even in the severe winter, the spring water here flows ceaselessly and the mist rises, which is truly a wonder.

The vast plain area: The northern frontier scenery of grasslands and forests
To the north of the lake area, the terrain suddenly opens up. Here, the green grass is lush and the elk swim freely, recreating the vast and desolate scene of the Mongolian grassland.
- Ten Thousand Trees Garden: Ancient trees tower into the sky, and the meadow is vast. In the past, yurts were built there. It was an important place for the emperor to hold wild banquets and receive Mongolian nobles.
- Test Horse Dai: A vast grassland that was once the place where the emperor selected fine steeds and held horse races. Even now, strolling along it, one can still sense the heroic atmosphere of the past.

The magnificent mountain area: A natural barrier that occupies four-fifths of the entire park
To the northwest of the mountain villa lies a continuous range of mountains, covering approximately four fifths of the entire garden. Here, gullies crisscross and the pine trees rustle like a sea. Originally, more than forty groups of buildings were scattered among them. Climbing to the pavilions such as "Snow on Nanshan Mountain", "Four-Faced Cloud Mountain" and "Sunset on Qingchui Peak", one can not only overlook the entire mountain villa but also enjoy the magnificent scenery of Qingchui Peak, a landmark of Chengde.

Humanistic craftsmanship: The simple and elegant heart of an emperor
In sharp contrast to the resplendent and magnificent Forbidden City, the palace architecture of the Mountain Resort is based on the principle of "simplicity and elegance", featuring blue bricks, grey tiles and the natural color of raw wood, highlighting Emperor Kangxi's governance philosophy of "indifference to fame and fortune, respect and sincerity".

Palace area: A ceremonial space for the front court and the back sleeping quarters
The palace area was located in the south of the mountain villa and served as the emperor's place for handling state affairs and daily living.
- Danbo Jingcheng Hall: The main hall in the palace area, commonly known as the "Nanmu Hall". The entire main hall is constructed with precious golden-threaded nanmu wood without any painted decorations. In the faint fragrance of nanmu wood, countless important court assemblies and grand ceremonies have been held.
The Yanbo Zhi Shuang Hall: The first of the Thirty-six scenic spots of Emperor Kangxi's reign, it was the emperor's bedroom. Here, "surrounded by beautiful mountains and ten miles of flat lakes", the environment is extremely peaceful and secluded. Emperor Xianfeng passed away here.
Songhe Studio: A place built by Emperor Qianlong for his mother, Empress Dowager, to rest and recuperate, with the meaning of "pine and crane prolonging life". Inside the courtyard, green pines and white cranes complemented each other beautifully, brimming with filial piety.

The Eight Outer Temples: Architectural monuments of ethnic integration
The twelve magnificent temples (collectively known as the "Eight Outer Temples") surrounding the eastern and northern foothills of the mountain resort are an inseparable part of the mountain resort. The Putuo Zongcheng Temple: Built in imitation of the Potala Palace in Xizang, it is grand in scale and imposing in appearance, commonly known as the "Little Potala Palace". It was built to celebrate the 60th birthday of Emperor Qianlong and the 80th birthday of Empress Dowager Chongqing, and witnessed historical events such as the eastward return of the Torghut tribe.
The Temple of Longevity and Happiness in Sumeru: Built in the style of the Tashilhunpo Monastery in Xigaze, Xizang, it was specially constructed to welcome the Sixth Panchen Lama to celebrate the birthday of Emperor Qianlong. The Han-style glazed roof and the Tibetan-style red platform and white walls complement each other beautifully.

Photography Secrets:
The Yanyu Tower and Jinshan Pavilion in the lake area are excellent spots for photographing the water scenery of Jiangnan. They are often shrouded in mist in the early morning or after rain, creating a fairy-like atmosphere.
The "Nanshan Snow Accumulation" Pavilion in the mountainous area is a classic vantage point for capturing the panoramic view of the mountain villa and the urban area of Chengde and the Eight outer Temples. It is especially suitable for shooting the "Hammer Peak Sunset" at sunset.
The red platform and white walls of the Putuo Zongcheng Temple in the Outer Eight Temples create a strong visual impact and make it a great place to take photos of Tibetan-style architectural masterpieces.
The buildings in the palace area are solemn and elegant. By using light and shadow to capture the nanmu columns and dougong brackets of the Danbo Jingcheng Hall, its ancient and simple beauty can be highlighted.

Five must-do things to unlock the Complete Royal Journey
1. Take a walk along the path that the "emperor" once trodden
Route: Enter through the Lizheng Gate and visit the Danbo Jingcheng Hall, the Four Knowledge Study, and the Yanbo Zhishuang Hall along the central axis to experience the solemn atmosphere of the emperor's governance and life.
- Experience: It is recommended to rent an audio guide or hire a tour guide to gain a deeper understanding of the historical stories behind each building.
2. Row a small boat on the Sai Lake
Key point: Taking a boat tour is the best way to experience the essence of the lake area. In summer, lotus flowers are in full bloom. Wandering among the lotus leaves, it feels as if one is in the south of the Yangtze River.
Route: Starting from the west bank pier of Ruyi Lake, you can pass by several core scenic spots such as Shuixinxie, Moonlit River Sound, Jinshan, and Yanyu Tower.
3. Climb a high mountain to overlook the miniature of the mountains and rivers
- Experience: Take the mountain tour bus within the scenic area (about 60 yuan per person) to easily reach several major viewing pavilions in the mountainous area, and enjoy a panoramic view of the lake area, plains, palaces and the Eight Outer Temples of Chengde in the mountain villa, directly experiencing the grand concept of "a microcosm of China's geography".
4. Watch a grand performance that transcends history
- Must-see: The large-scale live performance "The Prosperous Dynasty: The Grand Ceremony of Emperor Kangxi", set against the backdrop of real mountains and waters, showcases the civil and military achievements of Emperor Kangxi. The scene is extremely stunning (Separate tickets required, performed at night).
- Night Tour: In summer, the mountain villa sometimes offers night tour programs. The ancient buildings, illuminated by lights, have a unique charm.
5. Visit a place of faith with a shining golden roof
- Cultural Tour: At least choose one of the Eight Outer Temples (such as Puning Temple or Putuo Zongcheng Temple) for a visit to experience the profound history of the multi-ethnic cultural integration and the exquisite architectural art of the Qing Dynasty.

Suggested tour route
One-day "Panoramic Essence" Tour (Suitable for most Tourists)
In the morning: Enter through Lijeong Gate and visit the palace area (about 1.5 hours) → Walk to the lake area, take a cruise or walk along the lake to visit scenic spots such as Yanyu Tower and Jinshan (about 2 hours).
In the afternoon: Have a simple lunch near Ruyi Island → Take a mountain bus to tour the mountainous area and enjoy a distant view from pavilions such as "Snow on Nanshan" (about 1.5 hours) → If you have time after coming down the mountain, you can quickly visit the plain area of Wan Shu Yuan.
In the evening: Head to watch the live performance of "The Prosperous Dynasty: The Grand Ceremony of Emperor Kangxi".
IntoTravelChina Tip: This itinerary is compact and covers the main areas of the mountain villa. It is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queuing and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Two-day "In-depth Cultural" Tour (Highly Recommended)
Day 1: A full-day in-depth tour of the Summer Resort. In the morning, we carefully visited the palace area. In the afternoon, we leisurely took a boat ride on the lake area and climbed the mountain to enjoy the scenery. In the evening, we enjoyed the sunset on the lake area. Watch the live performance in the evening.
Day 2: Focus on the Outer Eight Temples. In the morning, visit Puning Temple (Guanyin with a Thousand Hands) and Puyou Temple. In the afternoon, tour Putuo Zongcheng Temple (Little Potala Palace) and Sumeru Fushou Temple to experience the peak fusion of Han and Tibetan architectural art.
IntoTravelChina's advantages: We can book the most suitable accommodation and performance tickets for you, arrange all transportation connections, and provide detailed cultural interpretations and tour routes of the Eight Outer Temples, allowing you to enjoy a worry-free and in-depth tour.

Professional Guide: IntoTravelChina can offer you a private customized itinerary, including a dedicated tour guide, transportation and activity arrangements, allowing you to enjoy a deep and worry-free trip. >> [Consult for Customization Now]

How to Get There: A Seamless Connection Guide
Chengde enjoys convenient transportation, especially it is very fast to get there from Beijing.
- From Beijing (most commonly used) :
- High-speed rail: From Beijing Chaoyang Railway Station to Chengde South Railway Station, the journey takes about 1 hour. After exiting the station, you can take Bus No. 69 or a taxi (about 20 minutes) to reach the scenic area.
- By car: Drive along the Jingcheng Expressway (G45), and it will take about 2.5 to 3 hours to reach the destination. Navigate to "Lizheng Gate Parking Lot of the Mountain Resort".
From the urban area of Chengde: You can take many bus routes such as No. 5, No. 11 and No. 15 directly to the "Mountain Resort" stop within the city.

Best visiting time
The Summer Resort can be visited all year round, but summer (June to August) is undoubtedly the golden season to experience its core functions.
- Summer retreat season (June to August) : At this time, the temperature inside the mountain villa is even lower than that in the urban area of Chengde. The lotus flowers in the lake area are in full bloom and the green trees provide shade, making it a genuine "summer retreat" destination. But it is also the time when there are the most tourists.
- Comfortable spring and autumn seasons (April to May, September to October) : The climate is pleasant and the scenery is beautiful. In spring, the mountains are ablaze with blooming flowers; in autumn, the forests are ablaze with colors. There are relatively fewer tourists, making the experience better.
- Winter quiet season (November - March of the following year) : There are few tourists and the ticket prices are off-season. You can enjoy the northern scenery of snow-covered pavilions and terraces, but some cruise ships in the lake area and mountain Tours may be suspended.

Accommodation options
- Area around the scenic spot (first choice)
Hotels in Chengde urban area: The range of choices is the widest, ranging from economy chains to five-star hotels. The dining and transportation are convenient, and it's very easy to get to the mountain villa and the Outer Eight Temples.
2. Specialized Resorts: There are some resorts near the scenic area or in the suburbs that offer yurt experiences or hot spring features, suitable for tourists seeking different accommodation experiences.
- Accommodation within the scenic area (Unique Experience) :
There used to be a hotel in the mountain villa, but the conditions were rather ordinary. The greatest advantage of staying here is that you can enjoy the serene beauty of the mountain villa after the park closes in the early morning or evening. Whether it is open or not and specific information need to be consulted with the scenic area in advance.

IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Suggestions
We suggest choosing accommodation based on the key points of your itinerary. If the main purpose is to visit the mountain villa and the Eight Outer Temples, choosing a hotel near Lizheng Gate or Dehui Gate is the most convenient. If you plan to visit more distant spots such as the Mulan Hunting Ground, we can design a circular itinerary for you that includes accommodation along the way. Tell us your budget and requirements, and we will match the most suitable place for you to stay. [Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]

The Summer Palace is not only a destination, but also the perfect starting point for exploring the diverse North China. In addition to the classic Northwest Loop, you can also choose the following journeys to deeply experience the fusion of history, nature, and culture.

6-Day In-Depth Imperial Culture Tour: This itinerary offers a profound exploration of imperial culture, focusing on the historical journey from the heart of imperial power to the tranquil summer palace. Key attractions include: Beijing (Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Badaling Great Wall, Summer Palace) → Chengde (Mountain Resort, Puning Temple, Putuo Temple). The tour perfectly blends the grandeur of Beijing's imperial capital with the elegant charm of Chengde's gardens. Within a week, you can experience the majesty of the Forbidden City, the grandeur of the Great Wall, the ingenuity of imperial gardens, and the magnificence of Tibetan temples. >> View the 6-Day In-Depth Imperial Culture Tour Itinerary for Beijing and Chengde

The story of the Summer Palace (Chengde Mountain Resort) is about the political wisdom of the empire, the integration and coexistence of different ethnic groups, and the pinnacle of classical art. IntoTravelChina focuses on creating in-depth, personalized, and worry-free travel experiences in China. Our travel experts can help you:

- Tailor-made itinerary: Design the perfect route that includes the Summer Palace, the Eight Outer Temples, and the scenery of Bashang, based on your interests and time.
- One-stop service: handle tickets, unique accommodations, transportation, local cultural guides, and performance bookings.
- Exclusive Experience: Expert explanations of Qing Dynasty history, guidance on the best camera angles, and a unique Manchu and Mongolian culinary experience.

Make your trip to Chengde more than just sightseeing; it's a cultural feast that delves into the depths of history and art.

Start planning your trip now!
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