Drift across Kunming Lake by traditional wooden dragon boat at the Summer Palace — the Qing Dynasty's lakeside masterpiece — then stroll the Long Corridor's 728-metre painted gallery with a private guide who brings every panel's mythology to life.
What to expect
Arrive via the East Palace Gate and begin on the famed Long Corridor, where every beam bears painted scenes from Chinese literature and legend. Your guide pauses at the Marble Boat — Empress Dowager Cixi's famously extravagant folly — for stories of the court's final decadent era. Board a wooden dragon boat for a serene 20-minute crossing of Kunming Lake to the South Lake Island pagoda, with the Western Hills framing the skyline. Lunch is served at a garden restaurant overlooking the lake.
Good to know
The Summer Palace is approximately 45 minutes from central Beijing; allow 3–4 hours on site. Dragon boat rides run April–October. The site is large — wear comfortable shoes. Pairs beautifully with a morning visit to the Temple of Heaven.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Beijing — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Beijing
- Private Great Wall at Mutianyu: Unrestored Grandeur & Cable Car
- Forbidden City Imperial Private Tour + Jingshan Rooftop Panorama
- Temple of Heaven: Sunrise Tai Chi & Imperial Ritual Grounds
- Hutong Food Safari: Dumplings, Hotpot & Hidden Teahouse
- Lama Temple, Confucius Temple & the Bell & Drum Towers at Dusk