Step into Yulan Hall and be transported to the opulent days of Qing Dynasty royalty! Once Empress Dowager Cixi's political hub, this gem in the Summer Palace dazzles with glazed-tile roofs and golden nanmu wood carvings. Stroll through courtyards paved with blue bricks as bronze wind chimes tinkle overhead—pure imperial elegance. Pro tip: Visit at dawn to enjoy this hidden masterpiece without the crowds.

Everything you need to know about Yulantang
Stay at Tingming Pavilion within the Summer Palace, a meticulously restored courtyard-style hotel located just a 5-minute walk from Yulan Hall. This historic retreat offers authentic Qing Dynasty architecture and views of Kunming Lake and Wanshou Mountain directly from its windows. Morning mist over the lake and golden-hour silhouettes of Yulan Hall create unforgettable moments. The hotel provides exclusive cultural programs, including "Yulan Hall History Talks" and traditional tea ceremonies, immersing guests in imperial court life. Convenient access via the park's electric shuttle ensures seamless exploration of all Summer Palace attractions.
The Summer Palace features an efficient circular electric shuttle system connecting all major attractions. From Yulan Hall, you can reach the 17-Arch Bridge, Fuxiang Pavilion, or Long Corridor in under 5 minutes. For a more leisurely pace, follow the scenic pathways along Kunming Lake, offering picturesque views of Yulan Hall and Wenlang Pavilion. Use the official "Summer Palace Smart Guide" app for real-time shuttle schedules, crowd forecasts, and audio tours. For a traditional experience, rent a pedal boat on the lake to glide past Yulan Hall’s reflection, capturing the classic Chinese garden composition.
Don’t miss the Imperial Tea Ceremony Workshop, led by a national intangible cultural heritage master, where you’ll learn Qing Dynasty tea rituals and point-tea techniques. Every Saturday afternoon features a Garden Calligraphy Gathering held in front of Yulan Hall, allowing guests to practice brush writing amid classical aesthetics. At night, enjoy the immersive Light & Shadow Summer Palace show, using projection mapping to recreate Emperor Qianlong’s evening banquets with live classical music. All events require advance HopeGoo via the official platform—consider bundling with accommodation for exclusive access.
Yes, the Children’s Discovery Center near Yulan Hall’s eastern entrance offers interactive exhibitions and garden-themed games. Kids can complete "Treasure Hunt Cards" to uncover historical figures hidden among rocks and pavilions, earning limited-edition garden-themed bookmarks upon completion. Nearby, a dedicated family pedal boat zone allows parents and children to row together across Kunming Lake, passing scenic views of Yulan Hall. Weekly "Imperial Nursery Rhyme Days" feature actors portraying Qing-era pageboys teaching traditional Beijing opera nursery rhymes, blending fun and cultural education.
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