Just northeast of Summer Palace is the Ruins of Yuanmingyuan (the Perfection and Brightness Garden). It was also called the Old Summer Palace by Western tourists, and is distinguished from the Summer Palace in this way. With an area of 346 hectares, it had been built into the largest and most magnificent garden during the reign of Emperor Qianlong in the Qing period, but it was destroyed by British and French troops in the late 19th century. It is now deserted.

The Garden originally had a great lake in the middle of it, and it was surrounded by Nine Islets. Various temples and pavilions are scattered around the islets. Artisans have borrowed various sights from all over the country, including garden architecture from Suzhou, mountain scenery from Huangshan and the temple and monastery buildings as well. So be prepared to do some walking and feast your eyes on all of this distinctive architecture.

The islets can be mainly divided into three gardens: the western section - Yuanmingyuan (the Garden of Perfection and Brightness), the southern Changchunyuang (the Garden of Eternal Spring) and the eastern Wanchunyuan (the Garden of Eternal Spring). You will find the European Garden with its Great Fountain Ruins in Changchunyuan (the Garden of Eternal Spring). It is considered the only and best-preserved relic in the palace.

Yuanmingyuan is the largest one of the three gardens boasting 48 scenic spots, which are further divided into smaller areas. Constructions inside the garden include the Zhengda Guangming Hall where emperors handled political affairs; Jiuzhou Qingyan Hall where the imperial family dined; Anyou Palace where sacrificial ceremonies were held; Wenyuan Pavilion where books were stored; and Broken Bridge, Fallen Snow, a scenic spot imitating the style of the West Lake. Also kept in the garden is a large number of books, calligraphies and paintings, and treasures.

Emperors and empresses of the late Qing lived a luxurious life at the palace, spending money excessively. In the 10th year (1860) of Emperor Xianfeng, the English and French armies invaded Beijing and burned the palace to the ground. The remaining carved stone columns are a reminder of the crimes committed by imperialist powers.

Now the Garden is a place for people to promenade in summer.