Kunming Lake, Reservoir at Summer Palace, Beijing, China
The lake covers approximately 2.2 square kilometers and takes up three quarters of the Summer Palace, with an average depth of about 1.5 meters. The water is bordered by gentle banks that connect pavilions, bridges, and manicured gardens throughout the grounds.
In 1291, engineer Guo Shoujing transformed this waterway into a reservoir for the Yuan Dynasty capital. The water was later integrated into imperial gardens and has remained a central feature of the landscape design ever since.
The lake was designed following Chinese garden principles, with three islands representing different architectural traditions that work together to create harmony.
Visitors can explore the water with boat tours or walk along the eastern and western dams, which offer viewing points. Most walking paths pass by temples and garden areas, providing various spots to rest and take in the surroundings.
During dredging work in 1990, workers discovered approximately 205 Japanese bombs from World War II beneath the water surface. This quiet discovery remains a reminder of the site's lesser-known history during the wartime period.
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