The Summer Palace, one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks, transforms into a winter wonderland from late December to early February, offering a unique ice skating experience. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or looking to have some fun, this guide will help you make the most of your winter visit to the Summer Palace’s ice rinks.
Opening Hours and Ticket Information
Opening Dates: December 28 to February 4 (next year)
Operating Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (tickets stop being sold at 4:30 PM)
Ticket Prices: 20 CNY per person
Ice Rink Rentals:
- Ice Car (single): 50 CNY per ride
- Ice Car (double): 100 CNY per ride
- Ice Bicycle: 100 CNY per ride
- Electric Ice Equipment: 100 CNY per person for 20 minutes
Important: Ice skating poles are made of metal, so gloves are required. At first, you may find it a bit difficult, as the ice requires balance and strength, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll enjoy the thrill (plus, you can practice drifting!).
Getting to the Summer Palace Ice Rinks
The Summer Palace features two ice rinks, each offering different scenic experiences:
Kunming Lake Ice Rink
- Highlights: This rink offers the closest view of the iconic Tower of Buddhist Incense, Seventeen Arch Bridge, and Longevity Hill. During sunset, the golden light reflecting off the Seventeen Arch Bridge creates a breathtaking scene that’s impossible to capture in other seasons.
- How to Get There: Take Metro Lines 4 or 16 to Xiyuan Station and enter through the East Gate.
- Bonus: Climb to the top of the Tower of Buddhist Incense for a spectacular view of Kunming Lake and the ice rink.
Suzhou Street Ice Rink
- Highlights: This rink is located between ancient-style Jiangnan water town buildings. The quaint, traditional architecture of the shops along the river adds to the charm of the ice skating experience, making it a perfect spot for photo opportunities.
- How to Get There: Take Metro Line 4 to Beigongmen Station and enter through the North Gate.
Practical Tips for Visiting
Best Time for Photos:
- Visit on a clear day, especially around sunset, when the sunlight illuminates the Seventeen Arch Bridge in golden hues.
- For a quieter experience, take photos up close with the Tower of Buddhist Incense in the background. If you prefer a lively scene with skaters on the ice, try taking photos from a distance.
- Choose solid-colored coats for better photos, but make sure to stay warm!
- Be cautious while skating—don’t get distracted, and watch out for cracks in the ice.
Ticket Information:
- You’ll need both the Summer Palace admission ticket and the ice rink ticket to access the skating areas. Make sure to have your ID card handy for entry.
- For fewer crowds, try arriving in the morning. If you can’t make it early, aim to arrive before 4:30 PM, as this is when fewer people tend to enter, and you can avoid long lines.