Welcome to the Summer Palace...
This is where the Emperors used to go for summer vacation, etc.
This is where the Emperors used to go for summer vacation, etc.
It is equipped with the usual lion/dragon sculptures throughout.
Traditional Chinese architecture is abundant.
One of the coolest things that you don't find else where is the painted windows along the corridors.
Lots of fun doorways for pictures.
More windows.
Some even look out upon Kunming Lake- one of the bigger lakes in Beijing.
They come in all shapes and sizes.
Some entry ways are locked.
There are many lake front walkways.
This is my summer palace buddy.
The Emperor wasn't shy about bold colors in his decor.
The lake is complete with lots of bridges some crossing over on to islands.
More lake side property.
A smaller bridge surrounded by lily pads.
Intricately painted ceilings.
Red and gold roof tops.
Towers and pagodas are scattered around the property.
This one is a Buddhist temple.
It towers above the Long Corridor.
We were not alone at the palace!
More lions.
Roof tops were surrounded with the classic set of porcelain guards.
The paint job is very elaborate.
Lots of detailing everywhere.
The Long Corridor stretches a long way from the main palace along the lake edge.
Fragrance Hills and a pagoda in the distance.
A little girl with her traditional Manchu hat souvenir on.
Circle doorways but no hobbits.
A tower along the corridor.
Looking out at the lake.
You can take a dragon boat out on the water.
This boat is completely made of marble- it's not going anywhere.
Bamboo- this says 'Be safe my family and friends.'
Lots of lily pads and flowers.
Fancy gateways you can walk under.
More tall bridges.
No feet on the grass!
The place is really huge.
Hello! We only walked about a fourth of it!
Taking a seat on the bridge to check out my surroundings.
We have made some progress around the lake!
This bridge was the end of the tour for us.
