The Summer Palace is located northwest of the Forbidden City, between the Third and Fourth Ring Roads. Situated on Kunming Lake, the palace was built between 1749 and 1764 by Emperor Qianlong and remained an imperial residence until the death of Empress Dowager Cixi in 1908.
The palace and accompanying park is situated on 716 acres. The lake occupies the southern side and Longevity Hill stands at the north. Most of the buildings and attractions lie on the northern shore. Highlights include the Precious Clouds Pavilion, the Long Corridor, the Marble Boat, the Hall of Benevolent Longevity, the Hall of Jade Ripples, and the Seventeen Arch Bridge.