Top 10 relaxing summer destinations in China (6)

（Chinadaily.com.cn）  13:53, May 22, 2013  

5. Summer Palace,Beijing

Summer Palace was once the residence of the Dowager Empress Cixi who spent a great deal of money developing and improving the scenery and the surrounding areas of the palace. With great reflections and a beautiful scenery of endless tales, Summer Palace is one of the most visited places in Beijing. Not only was it a good summer resort for Cixi, but has long been a wonderful place for people to visit during the summer.

The Summer Palace landscape, dominated mainly by Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, covers an area of 2.9 square kilometers, three quarters of which is under water. Its 70,000 square meters of building space features a variety of palaces, gardens and other ancient-style architectural structures. Well known for its large and priceless collection of cultural relics, it was among the first group of historical and cultural heritage sites in China to be placed under special state protection.

Sunset is the best time for photographers who like to surround themselves in the beautiful scenery of Summer Palace. Visitors like to take photos during this time because the sunlight is at its softest period.