On March 23rd, the "Royal Imperial River Route" officially sets sail! Now you can embark on a boat journey from Beijing Zoo to the Summer Palace. This is truly a unique way to travel, allowing you to not only enjoy the beautiful river scenery but also leisurely experience historical and cultural heritage in Beijing aboard the cruise. This route passes through landmarks such as the Zizhuyuan Park, Wanshou Temple, and the Five Pagoda Temple, ultimately arriving at the South Ruyi Gate Pier of the Summer Palace. The entire journey covers approximately 9 kilometers and takes about 60 minutes. Below, we'll list some highlights and must-see attractions along this route.

1. Must-See attractions

【Five Pagoda Temple】Also known as the Temple of the Five Pagodas, it is located on the north bank of Gaoliang River (Chang River) east of Baishi Bridge in Haidian District, Beijing. Renowned for its Diamond Throne Pagoda, it is the earliest Diamond Throne Pagoda in China.

Today, Five Pagoda Temple has been converted into the Beijing Stone Carving Art Museum. Two ginkgo trees in front of the pagoda, one male and one female, both over 300 years old and requiring three people to embrace, are considered treasures of Five Pagoda Temple. This attraction is a passing point without stopping. If you wish to visit, please make your way there before boarding the boat~

【Zizhuyuan Park】Located within the third ring road of Beijing, it is known for its bamboo-themed landscapes, showcasing the beauty of bamboo throughout the park. With various types of bamboo planted throughout, it is an excellent destination in Beijing for bamboo appreciation. Additionally, the park's lakes and pavilions provide visitors with tranquil resting areas. For those embarking on a boat journey from the Beijing Zoo, a transfer is required here. The Ziyu Bay Pier serves as the transfer pier. If you are entering from Zizhuyuan Park, you can start your journey by purchasing tickets at this pier~

【Wanshou Temple】Wanshou Temple, originally built during the Tang Dynasty, has undergone renovations and expansions during subsequent dynasties such as the Liao, Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing, making it one of the most artistically valuable ancient temples in Beijing. From the boat, you can admire its solemn and simple architectural style and feel its profound cultural heritage. The magnolia trees in Wanshou Temple are particularly famous, and if you have the chance to visit during spring, you can capture photos of the magnolia flowers. This attraction is a passing point without stopping. If you wish to visit, please make your way there before boarding the boat~

【Long River Scenery】The Long River is an important river in the western part of Beijing, with beautiful scenery along its course and a profound historical and cultural heritage. As the boat travels on the Long River, you can admire the lush trees lining both banks and the sparkling beauty of the water's surface.

【Summer Palace】The Summer Palace is a treasure of Chinese garden art and a world-famous imperial garden. Upon arrival by boat, you can stroll through the long corridor, admiring the artistic charm of structures like the Marble Boat and the Tower of Buddhist Incense, experiencing the grandeur and delicacy of the imperial garden.

Furthermore, during the cruise, you can also witness the unique urban landscape of Beijing, experiencing the city's bustling and tranquil sides. Every scene along the way is filled with the charm of history and culture, allowing you to deeply appreciate the allure of this ancient city of Beijing even while on the boat.

2. Travel recommendations

Five Pagoda Temple and Wanshou Temple are passing points, and the boat will not make a stop. If you wish to visit these two attractions separately, you should go there in advance. Please note that the boat operates from 10:00 to 16:00, departing on the hour. You may consider visiting Five Pagoda Temple in the morning and then walking to Zizhuyuan Park for sightseeing. After touring the park, you can board the boat at Ziyu Bay Pier and spend the afternoon at the Summer Palace.

How to buy tickets for the Beijing Royal Imperial River Cruise?

【Ticket Purchase Locations】

Beijing Zoo Pier:

- One-way and round-trip tickets from the Beijing Zoo to Zizhuyuan Park, as well as for the entire route to the Summer Palace.

Ziyu Bay Pier:

- One-way and round-trip tickets from Zizhuyuan Park to the Summer Palace, as well as to the Beijing Zoo.

South Ruyi Gate Pier of the Summer Palace:

- One-way and round-trip tickets from the Summer Palace to Zizhuyuan Park, as well as to the Beijing Zoo.

Note: Please make advance reservations for entry to the Beijing Zoo and the Summer Palace for sightseeing purposes.

3. Royal waterway map

Please rotate your phone horizontally~

Overall, taking a boat ride from the Beijing Zoo to the Summer Palace is an unforgettable travel experience. On the boat, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery while being immersed in the rich history and culture, making your journey more colorful and enriching.

Translator: NIU Lihua

Reviewer: ZHANG Bo