Fifteen kilometers from central Beijing is China's largest and best-preserved royal park. The Yiheyuan, or the Summer Palace, is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese gardening.

Around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, 3,000 man-made structures were built. The exquisite combination of natural and man-made landscapes reflects the philosophy of "The works of men should match the works of Heaven."

The Yiheyuan is the last lavish garden built by the Chinese imperial family. It was first constructed in 1750 with the original name of "Qingyi Garden" for the birthday ceremony of Emperor Qianlong’s mother.

But in later years, it became a witness to the China's "history of humiliation." The imperial garden was destroyed by foreign invaders and many treasures were looted.

Today, its beauty and history have made the Summer Palace one of the most popular attractions for tourists to Beijing.