The architectural complex in front of Wanshou Mountain is the center of the entire park. Paiyun Palace, Foxiang Hall, Zhihui Sea constitute the two sides of the axle wire, and they make up the main architectural complex together with Zhuanlun Hall, Wufang Palace and Baoyu Palace. Foxiang Hall is 41-meters high, is constructed on top of a 20-meter high platform, and has become a symbol of the Summer Palace. You can get a great bird's eye view standing on the top of Foxiang Hall. The architectural complex, with Paiyun Palace at its center is a place where Cixi celebrated her birthday receiving respect and congratulations from all the important officials. The 728-meter Long Corridor provides a link to the governmental affairs area, living area and tourist area. In the water west of the Long Corridor, there is a 36-meter long ship made of rock, it is Qingyan Fang.

Beihai Park

West of the Forbidden City sits Beihai Park (beihai gongyuan) which was originally built for Kublai Khan before the Imperial Palace was even imagined. The scale of the park is appropriately regal and the huge lake is divided into three parts: Beihai (the North Lake), Zhonghai (the Central Lake) and Nanhai (the South Lake).

A walk around the various scenic spots in Beihai is definitely an enjoyable pastime. There are various places to take in along the way including: Jade Islet Isle, the Jade Jar of Dushan, the painted gallery, the Nine Dragon Screen, the Liulige Tower, Yong'an Temple, and the Five-Dragon Pavilion . There is also an expensive but classy restaurant, "The Fangshan" where reportedly the Empress Cixi used to dine!

Beihai is a peaceful place to wander and do some people watching. In summer, some ignore the No-swimming signs and dive into the lakes. In winter, skating is a popular pursuit.

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