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Summer Palace

What is the difference between an entry ticket and the combined ticket for the summer palace? Should i buy the combined one or just the entry ticket will suffice? Thank you

The Summer Palace in Beijing has different ticketing options, and understanding the difference between a standard entry ticket and a combined ticket will help you decide what to purchase.

Here’s the breakdown:

  • Entry Ticket: This grants access to the main grounds of the Summer Palace, including areas such as the Longevity Hill and the Kunming Lake surroundings. It allows you to walk around the park, see the main pavilions, gardens, and enjoy the scenic views. This ticket is suitable if you are mainly interested in a general visit and strolling through the palace grounds.
  • Combined Ticket (also called “Full Ticket” or “Comprehensive Ticket”): In addition to the main park areas, this ticket includes access to specific paid attractions inside the Summer Palace, such as:
  • Long Corridor sections with special exhibition areas.
  • Marble Boat interior (if open for visiting).
  • Boat ride on Kunming Lake (sometimes optional or seasonal).
  • Other internal museums or exhibitions that require a separate fee.

Which one to buy depends on your plan and time:

  • If you have limited time and just want to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and see the main sights, the standard entry ticket is sufficient.
  • If you want a more immersive experience, explore the interior attractions, or take a boat ride, the combined ticket provides access to all these areas and avoids paying additional fees separately inside the park.

Additional tips:

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
  • Check the Summer Palace website or at the ticket office for seasonal variations of the combined ticket, as some attractions may be closed for maintenance.
  • The combined ticket is generally more economical than paying individually for all internal attractions.

In summary, for most first-time visitors or those with limited time, the entry ticket is enough. If you want a deeper experience and plan to explore all the special areas, the combined ticket is recommended.

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Kunming
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Beijing
Summer Palace

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