Beijing Summer Palace Shangri-La Hotel is highly recommended, offering direct views of Kunming Lake from its premium rooms. Located just a 5-minute walk from the South Ruyi Gate, it blends traditional Chinese architecture with modern luxury. Guests can enjoy exclusive early access to the garden at sunrise, capturing serene shots of the 17-Arch Bridge shrouded in mist. The hotel’s on-site tea lounge serves imperial-grade Pu-erh, enhancing the experience of Qing Dynasty elegance. Conveniently located near Line 4's "North Palace Gate Station," it ensures seamless access for travelers seeking both comfort and cultural immersion.

Begin your journey with the "Long Corridor Mystery Tour," led by expert guides who reveal the stories behind the 1,400+ painted panels along the famed corridor. For a more active adventure, rent a classic-style electric bicycle and ride along the West Dike to Wenchang Pavilion, stopping at Nanhu Island to visit Hanbi Tower for panoramic views. In the evening, book a night cruise on Kunming Lake, gliding past the Stone Boat under illuminated skies—experience the romantic ambiance known as "Imperial Garden Whispers." All tours can be arranged through the hotel concierge, ensuring personalized, crowd-free exploration.

Summer Palace Joy Resort is ideal for families, featuring a children’s playroom, hands-on craft workshops, and a dedicated pool area. The property incorporates traditional courtyard design with Huanghuali wood interiors, creating a warm, authentic atmosphere. Kids can join the "Empress Dowager Cixi’s Treasure Hunt" interactive game, blending history with fun challenges throughout the garden. The hotel offers free stroller rentals and customized kids’ meals, ensuring a stress-free trip. Just a 7-minute walk from the South Ruyi Gate, it also provides private rest zones within the garden for convenient breaks during exploration.

Take advantage of the garden’s electric shuttle service, available right at the South Ruyi Gate entrance, reaching Hall of Benevolent Longevity and Folang Pavilion in under 3 minutes. For a scenic alternative, walk the East Dike Trail, passing Zhi Chun Pavilion and the Stone Boat, a 20-minute stroll shaded by ancient trees and dotted with ducks. To save energy, reserve a private electric mobility vehicle (for two guests) with certified drivers. Audio-guided narration during the ride brings historical tales to life, enriching your visit with storytelling and convenience.

Summer Palace Listening Rain Villa offers an unparalleled cultural retreat. Inspired by Qing Dynasty scholar residences, the villa features antique calligraphy, inkstones, and rice paper displays. Daily "Calligraphy Workshop" sessions invite guests to practice brushwork under expert guidance. Evening events include Guqin music gatherings by the lotus pond and illuminated garden theater performances reenacting Emperor Qianlong’s legendary visits. All activities are complimentary, and guests receive a limited-edition "Garden Poetry Collection" booklet, deepening their connection to imperial artistry and heritage.

Discover Yu Cen Path, a lesser-known trail near the South Ruyi Gate leading to the ruins of Yishou Hall. This quiet path winds through ancient cypress trees and Ming Dynasty stone tablets, offering a peaceful escape. At the summit, enjoy sweeping views of Wanshou Mountain’s backside and the distant Qiwang Building. It’s a favorite spot for photographers capturing golden-hour light on glazed tiles. The hotel concierge provides a personalized guidebook and GPS-enabled map, enabling safe, off-the-beaten-path exploration of this overlooked gem—perfect for those seeking solitude and serenity amidst the imperial landscape.