The Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) is a vast imperial garden and palace complex in Beijing, China. It's one of the most famous and best-preserved royal gardens in the world, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.
Key features:
· Primary purpose: A retreat for emperors of the Qing Dynasty to escape the summer heat of the Forbidden City, and a place for royal leisure, politics, and religious ceremonies.
· Main areas: The complex centers around Longevity Hill (Wanshou Shan) and Kunming