The Summer Palace is one of the top spots to visit in Beijing, China. It’s full of history, beauty, and peaceful spaces that attract tourists from all over the world. If you’re an American citizen planning to visit, you’ll also need to get a tourist visa. Here’s an overview of the palace’s history, why it’s worth visiting, what to do there, and how to get your visa.
A Brief History of the Summer Palace
The Summer Palace was first built in 1750 during the Qing Dynasty as a place for emperors to relax. It was severely damaged during a war in 1860 but was rebuilt by Empress Dowager Cixi in the late 1800s. She used money meant for the navy to fix it as her private retreat.
Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved royal gardens in China. The palace mixes beautiful buildings with stunning natural landscapes, like Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill.
What Makes Tourists Love the Summer Palace
Tourists are drawn to the Summer Palace because of its mix of history, culture, and nature. The peaceful lake and gardens provide a nice break from the busy streets of Beijing.
Visitors enjoy boat rides on Kunming Lake or walking through the Long Corridor, a covered walkway filled with colorful paintings. For great views, head to the Tower of Buddhist Incense on top of Longevity Hill. There’s plenty to explore and photograph, making it a favorite stop for travelers.
Things to Do at the Summer Palace
When you visit the Summer Palace, there’s lots to see and do. You can:
- Take a boat ride on Kunming Lake.
- Walk across the Seventeen-Arch Bridge.
- Climb Longevity Hill for amazing views.
- Visit the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, where emperors held meetings.
There are also quieter spots in the gardens where you can relax or take photos of the stunning scenery.
Getting a Tourist Visa as an American
American travelers will need a Chinese tourist visa to visit the Summer Palace. Here’s how to get it:
- Apply for a Tourist Visa (L Visa): You must apply before you travel. You can do this through a Chinese consulate or embassy or with a visa service like the China Visa Department, which helps with the process.
- Documents You Need:
- A U.S. passport with at least six months left on it.
- A completed visa application form.
- A passport-style photo.
- Proof of travel plans, like flight and hotel bookings.
- Processing Time: It usually takes 4 to 5 business days, but you can speed it up if necessary.
Make sure you check the latest requirements before applying to avoid any delays.
How the China Visa Department Can Help
If you don’t live near one of the five Chinese embassies in the U.S., the China Visa Department can make the process easier for you. We help travelers from all over the country by handling the paperwork and getting your visa delivered to the right embassy. We also offer virtual and online appointments, so you can manage everything without leaving home.
Whether you’re in a hurry or need assistance with forms, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get started on securing your visa and make your trip to the Summer Palace hassle-free.
Final Thoughts
The Summer Palace is a beautiful historic site that offers visitors a peaceful escape in Beijing. It’s a must-see whether you’re interested in history or just want to take in the views. Just remember to plan and get your visa before you go so you can enjoy your visit without any issues. Remember, If you need help with the visa process, you can always contact the China Visa Department for assistance.