[Photo by Yu Chenxing]
A gentle breeze blows as spring is in full swing. Along the Kunyu River, a vintage-style boat glides slowly through the water. Let's take this "Imperial River Cruise" and embark on a sightseeing journey this spring!
Yuyuantan Park
The first stop along the Kunyu River is Yuyuantan Park, where the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
[Photos by Luo Yuhan]
Zizhuyuan Park
Cruising downstream, the boat docks at the Ziyuwan Pier. The "Imperial River Café" (皇家御河咖啡) here has become a popular destination for young visitors, while Youxian Shanguan (友贤山馆, an architectural complex) inside the park offers visitors a peaceful retreat.
Wanshou Temple (Beijing Art Museum)
As the boat arrives at Wanshou Temple (Beijing Art Museum), visitors are greeted by several ancient magnolia trees in their peak bloom. After appreciating the blossoms, visitors can also purchase magnolia-themed creative souvenirs.
Summer Palace
The journey ends at the South Ruyi Gate (南如意门) of the Summer Palace, where the peach blossoms along the west embankment complement the glow of the setting sun to form a breathtaking scene.
Operating Information of Imperial River Cruise
Full Route Operating Period
March 15 to late October / early November
Beijing Zoo Pier
· Ticket Prices:
o Full-price ticket (for visitors over 1.4-meter tall): CNY 120/person
o Child ticket (for minors under 1.2 to 1.4-meter tall): CNY 60/person
· Operating Hours:
10:30 – 15:30, with one boat departing per hour
Ziyuwan Pier
· Ticket Prices:
o Full-price ticket (for visitors over 1.4-meter tall): CNY 100/person
o Child ticket (for minors under 1.2 to 1.4-meter tall): CNY 50/person
· Operating Hours:
10:00 – 16:00, with one boat departing per hour
Service Hotline: 010-88511997
(Notice: The actual operating hours are subject to daily updates.)
How to Buy Tickets
· Offline: Tickets are available at the Beijing Zoo Pier (Haidian District), the Ziyuwan Pier (inside Zizhuyuan Park), and the South Ruyi Gate Pier in the Summer Palace
· Online: Tickets can be purchased via Douyin, Meituan, and the "Yunhe Changda" (运河畅达) WeChat account
Notice: Tickets should be booked in advance to enter the Beijing Zoo or the Summer Palace.
(Source: Official Beijing Daily account of Haidian District)
