Climbing Longevity Hill: Discover the Soul of the Summer Palace

When visiting the Summer Palace, climbing Longevity Hill is a must for many tourists. Not only is it the highest point in the park⛰️, but it also holds irreplaceable value in terms of scenic views, historical significance, and overall experience. Panoramic Views: A Glimpse of Garden Design Mastery Standing at 108 meters above sea level, the summit of Longevity Hill, whether at the Tower of Buddhist Incense or the Sea of Wisdom, offers a breathtaking view of the entire Summer Palace👀: the shimmering waters of Kunming Lake🌊, the harmonious interplay of the Seventeen-Arch Bridge and the Six Bridges of the Western Causeway; the majestic palace buildings within the East Palace Gate🏯; and the serene Suzhou Street and Four Great Continents behind the hill. This vantage point vividly showcases the "mountains embracing water" design philosophy and embodies the essence of imperial gardens, "crafted by man, yet appearing as if born of nature." Connecting Landmarks: Tracing Historical Threads The climb links several key historical sites: the Tower of Buddhist Incense, which witnessed the transitions from Emperor Qianlong's birthday celebrations to Emperor Guangxu's reconstruction efforts; the Hall of Dispelling Clouds, symbolizing Empress Dowager Cixi's power👑; and the Long Corridor, adorned with thousands of paintings that carry rich cultural symbolism🖼️. The hill itself preserves relics from Qianlong's era and modern imprints, offering insights into the transformation of the garden from a royal retreat to a public park. Ingenious Design: Appreciating Landscaping Artistry Throughout the ascent, the techniques of "borrowed scenery" and "framed views" are evident everywhere: small features like the Bronze Ox and the Pavilion of the Fragrance of Buddha harmonize with the surrounding landscape🐂. From the summit, one can also take in views of the Western Hills and the Jade Spring Hill Pagoda beyond the garden, showcasing the pinnacle of "internal and external integration" in garden design. This creates a dynamic experience of "changing scenery with every step"🎑. Escape the Crowds: Relish Tranquility Compared to the crowded lakeside and Long Corridor, the climbing paths on Longevity Hill (such as the back mountain trail) are much quieter🌿. Each season offers its own charm: spring blossoms🌸, autumn foliage🍁, summer shade, and winter snow-covered pines❄️. Visitors can also enjoy the intricate glazed carvings and Buddhist statues in buildings like the Sea of Wisdom. In summary, climbing Longevity Hill allows visitors to appreciate the natural beauty, historical depth, and landscaping ingenuity of the Summer Palace from every angle, making it an essential experience to truly grasp the soul of this imperial garden.