Old Summer Palace

  Old Summer Palace, known as "Yuanmingyuan," sits in Haidian District, northwest of Beijing's city center. Constructed in the 18th century, this vast imperial garden once spanned over 350 acres and showcased exquisite landscape design, blending traditional Chinese aesthetics with Western architectural elements. Visitors can explore the remnants of its elegant pavilions, fountains, and canals, many of which were destroyed during the Second Opium War in the 19th century. The site is particularly beautiful in early spring when the cherry blossoms bloom, drawing crowds eager to capture the scenic views. Today, people can wander the extensive grounds, learning about its rich history and the developments in garden design over centuries.