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Royal Canal Cruise: The Empress’s Path
Skip Beijing traffic and travel like Qing royalty. Retrace the historic waterway once reserved exclusively for Empress Dowager Cixi. This 35-minute cruise is the most elegant, scenic way to reach the Summer Palace.
Highlights
Historic Start: Depart from Ziyu Bay Pier in Zizhuyuan Park after a peaceful stroll through bamboo groves.
Imperial Scenery: Glide 6.5km along the Changhe River. Pass the iconic Wanshou Temple and listen to royal history via onboard audio.
Elite Arrival: Dock at South Ruyi Gate Pier. A short bridge crossing puts you right at the Summer Palace entrance—no transfers or long walks.
Why Book This?
Beat the Crowds: Avoid subways and road congestion.
Living History: Travel the exact route used by emperors for centuries.
Pure Scenery: Enjoy willow-lined banks and classical Chinese beauty.
Arrive at the Summer Palace refreshed and ready to explore.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Metro Route Take Metro Line 4, 9, or 16 to National Library Station (Exit A). Walk to the North Gate of Zizhuyuan Park, then follow the Boat Pier signs to Ziyuwan Pier. Taxi Route Take a taxi to the North Gate of Zizhuyuan Park, then follow the Boat Pier signs to Ziyuwan Pier.
The cruise ends 50m from Summer Palace South Ruyi Gate. Buy tickets at the gate or as an add-on. For add-ons, contact us immediately after booking; per official rules, real-name registration with your ID/passport is required for entry.
Itinerary
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(Pass by)
Experience Beijing from a unique perspective with this Royal Canal cruise to the Summer Palace, following the historic waterway once used by Empress Dowager Cixi. Travel by boat along the peaceful imperial canal, avoiding traffic while enjoying one of the most relaxing and efficient routes to the Summer Palace. The cruise departs from Ziyu Bay Pier in Zizhuyuan Park and sails about 6.5 km to South Ruyi Gate. Along the way, enjoy willow-lined banks, calm waters, and landmarks such as Wanshou Temple. Getting there is easy. Take Metro Line 16 to Wanshou Temple Station (Exit C) and walk to the Northwest Gate, where the pier is just 50 meters inside. Or take Line 4 to National Library Station (Exit A), walk to the North Gate, then follow signs for 5 minutes. Taxi to the Northwest Gate is also convenient. After booking, please contact us via WhatsApp or email. We will send your QR code ticket for the day. Present it at the pier to exchange for a boarding pass and queue number before boarding
Admission ticket free -
1Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)
After arriving at the South Ruyi Gate of the Summer Palace by boat, you may begin your visit immediately. An optional Summer Palace entry ticket is available as an add-on (standard admission only), allowing you to skip the ticket purchase queue. To complete the reservation, please provide your full name and passport number right after booking. The Summer Palace is explored on a self-guided basis, giving you full flexibility to visit at your own pace. If you have selected the round-trip cruise option, please return to the South Ruyi Gate Pier at the designated time to board your return boat to Ziyu Bay Pier.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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