Hidden Lotus Paradise in the Summer Palace

🌊 Rippling Waters, Fragrant Lotus Blossoms In the height of summer in Beijing, a gentle breeze carries the sweet aroma of lotus flowers. As poet Yang Wanli once described, "Endless green lotus leaves stretch to the horizon, and the lotus blossoms reflect a unique red under the sun." At this time, the Summer Palace transforms into a living painting, with verdant leaves and delicate pink petals creating a heavenly scene. The lotus flowers in the Summer Palace are primarily located in the Gengzhi Scenic Area on the west side of the West Causeway. From June to August each year, the waters west of the West Causeway are covered with lush lotus leaves, blossoms, and reeds, almost completely blanketing the lake. Nearly 100 acres of lotus flowers spread across the water, harmonizing with the distant views of the Western Hills and Jade Spring Hill, forming a magnificent summer tableau. 🏞️ Classical Gardens, Poetic Charm The Gengzhi Scenic Area is a pastoral landscape inspired by the Qing Dynasty's "Gengzhi Tu" (Pictures of Tilling and Weaving). It recreates scenes of mulberry fields, weaving houses, and water villages. The area is bordered by an expansive lake, with swaying tree shadows and reeds. The interplay of summer light and lotus flowers creates a vibrant atmosphere, with pavilions and terraces dotting the lakeside, offering a new view at every step. The lotus and water lilies in the lake are distributed along the winding shores, providing opportunities to enjoy the charm of the flowers, fish, and birds in a lively setting. In areas like Xiequ Garden and Yanshang Zhai, the lotus flowers add a touch of classical elegance to the summer garden. The planting of lotus flowers here is meticulously planned, with careful attention to density and height to ensure a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing landscape. Visitors can also clearly see fish swimming among the lotus ponds. 🚶‍♂️ Relaxing Routes for Exploration To help visitors fully appreciate the lotus flowers, the Summer Palace offers several touring routes. The East Palace Gate serves as the main entrance, leading directly to the architectural highlights of the palace. This area includes the residences of Empress Dowager Cixi, Emperor Guangxu, Empress Longyu, and court official Li Lianying, all of which can be visited in one go. From the East Palace Gate, you can stroll along the Long Corridor, enjoying the scenic views of Kunming Lake. The Long Corridor, like a colorful ribbon, winds along the lakeshore, offering breathtaking views on both sides. At the end of the corridor lies the Tower of Buddhist Incense, where you can climb up to enjoy a panoramic view of Kunming Lake and the blooming lotus flowers. 🌸 Blooming Lotus, A Feast for the Eyes The lotus flowers bloom from mid-June to mid-August, coinciding with the peak of summer heat. As you step into the Summer Palace, you are greeted by clusters of blooming lotus flowers. Their petals are as delicate as silk, their centers full and vibrant, exuding a faint fragrance that transports you to a fairytale world. The largest concentration of lotus flowers is west of the West Causeway, where they cover the lake and harmonize with the distant Western Hills and Jade Spring Hill. Imagine the breathtaking sight when all the lotus flowers are in full bloom—it’s truly something to look forward to. 📸 Picture-Perfect Moments The lotus flowers in the Summer Palace are not only a visual delight but also a perfect backdrop for photography. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a casual visitor, you’ll find plenty of angles to capture. In the early morning, the lotus pond is shrouded in mist, creating a dreamlike scene. In the evening, as the sun sets, golden light bathes the petals, making for a stunning view. In the Gengzhi Scenic Area, you can capture the beauty of lush lotus leaves and blooming flowers. In Xiequ Garden, the combination of classical architecture and lotus flowers creates a unique charm. Don’t forget to bring your camera to preserve these beautiful moments. 🍜 Culinary Delights A visit to the Summer Palace is not just about the scenery; it’s also an opportunity to savor local delicacies. Areas like Suzhou Street and Paiyun Hall offer a variety of snacks and dishes. On a hot summer day, enjoy a refreshing bowl of lotus seed soup or indulge in a refined imperial meal—it’s a treat for the taste buds. 🌟 Cultural Heritage The Summer Palace is not only a royal garden but also a testament to history. Originally built in 1750 during the 15th year of Emperor Qianlong’s reign, it was known as the Garden of Clear Ripples. It was burned down by Anglo-French forces in 1860 and later rebuilt. Every brick, tile, plant, and tree here carries a rich historical and cultural legacy. 🎥 Night Tours: A Different Vibe If a daytime visit isn’t enough, consider exploring the Summer Palace at night. Under the glow of lights, the lotus flowers appear even more enchanting. Strolling through the garden at night offers a unique experience of the royal garden’s charm, leaving a lasting impression. 📆 Best Time to Visit The best time to view the lotus flowers is from mid to late July when they are in full bloom, and the scenery is at its most spectacular. Miss this window, and you’ll have to wait another year. So, gather your family and friends and head to the Summer Palace to embrace the beauty of summer!