Summer Palace? Honestly Overrated. But My Pics There? GOD TIER.

[Mr. Carlton Johnston]

Now, let's talk about the Summer Palace, especially a reminder for friends who are visiting China for the first time.

• When we speak of the Summer Palace, it's huge! However, to be honest, if you're not that keen on Chinese history, skipping it isn't a big deal.

  • Just like your hometown or other parks and gardens you've visited, it's more of the same old structures with some water features. That's pretty much all there is to it.
  • Besides, many of these structures aren't open to visitors; you can only admire them from afar. You know, if one were filled with gold, another with diamonds, and another with famous paintings… then maybe it would interest you (I know I know, it once held countless treasures, which were later looted… but let’s not mention that too loudly).
  • In today's circumstances, the doors remain closed. With the sun beating down on you as you climb up and down, what’s inside? A few dilapidated structures whose interiors you can’t see. All in all, things aren't as impressive here.
  • If one labels me an ignoramus, I won’t argue; visually speaking, it does appear unremarkable to me.

• Even if some historical stories add context—like when a tour guide says, “Look at that pavilion, with the characters written by Emperor Kangxi!”—well, I may not recognize those ancient characters anyway. When we go further to another "outstanding" pavilion, it’s identical to the previous one with just a different name. Is that how the magic works?

  • I get it, this garden has a significant historical impact, being a representative of northern Chinese gardens and a witness to all historical stormy change. Its precious treasures were once looted… all of this is in my awareness.
  • But honestly speaking, upon personally seeing it, I still think… it does appear unremarkable. In fact, visually speaking, this place feels similar to my neighborhood tea house that looks pretty good.
  • Historically-driven individuals may think otherwise, but these are my sincere views as what my eyes see.
  • Speaking of Empress Dowager Cixi (who once resided here as the de facto ruler of the late Qing Dynasty), had she seen more of the world, she might not find her own garden impressive either. It may not meet the standard now.

• WARNING! WARNING! Here comes the main complaint

  • For the top attractions in the Summer Palace—such as Wan Shou Mountain’s Fragrant Temple, Summer Palace Museum, the Suzhou-style Street—that imitates the southern China water towns—you'll have to purchase extra tickets besides the main entrance ticket!
  • That main entrance ticket looks affordable, but if you want to tour around all the prime spots, the price adds up to a hefty sum.

• Travel tips/recommendations for foreign friends:

  • Pre-planning: Before entering, research which attractions require additional fees, as well as whether they're truly worth your interest.
  • Selective touring: If you have budget constraints or don't want to exhaust yourself, choose just one or two premium attractions.
  • Consider combo tickets: At times, parks offer combo tickets including certain attraction fees. Compare prices before making purchases.
  • Maintain a relaxed mindset: If you don't wish to pay the extra fees, roam around the free zones and enjoy the lake scenery. After all, this was once a royal garden, and the sheer scale is still grand.

[Robyn Monahan]

Finally! Someone who feels the same way I do. I'm not really into cultural sites; I'm looking for breathtaking natural scenery. So far, I've only visited Shichahai and Beihai Park, and honestly, I wasn't particularly impressed by Beihai Park. I was on the fence about the Summer Palace and the Old Summer Palace, but after reading your post, it sounds like I can skip them, especially if they're similar. Now I'm wondering where to spend my last couple of days.

[Steve Beatty]

You could check out some exhibitions. They're usually quite good.

[Karen Bruen]

Those are cultural sites, alright. You kind of need some historical and cultural background to really appreciate them, otherwise, you might not get what makes them special.

[Mattie Lockman]

That makes sense.

[Danielle Purdy-Weimann]

So cunning! Deliberately using those 'engagement hacks' to get views!

[Guadalupe Barton]

Good point. What exactly are these 'engagement hacks' you're talking about?

[Maryann Daniel IV]

Don't push other users to roast you.