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Summer Palace -- Hall of Jade Ripples (Yulantang) :




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Hall of Jade RipplesThis hall in "sanheyuan" style (main hall in the middle, secondary structures on two sides), first built in the 15th year of the Reign of Emperor Qianlong (1711-1799) for his dealing with state affairs, was burned in 1860 and rebuilt in 1892. It is notable for its seclusion and harmonious arrangement. After the failure of the Reform Movement in 1898, Emperor Guangxu , who advocated the reform, was under house arrest here. The name came from a verse of Lu Ji in Jin Dynasty (265-316) "Jade spring with rippling water."

The Reform Movement in 1898, also known as the "Hundred Days Reform," lasting 103 days, aimed at reforming the outdated feudal system and creating a new edict. Because of sharp disagreements between Guangxu's and Empress Dowager Cixi's parties, the movement failed. Emperor Guangxu was house arrested in the Hall of Jade Ripples, his six associate reformists beheaded. Once Cixi had controlled the Emperor's action and assigned eunuchs as his servants, the Hall of Jade Ripples once again became a hall for scheduled events.

The chamber in the east of the hall was Emperor Guangxu's day room, the opposite one, his bedchamber. The desk for Guangxu was rosewood framed and agalwood centered, with exquisite carving. The surrounding screen was composed of two layers of glass painted with both traditional Chinese and Western landscapes.


Scenic spots in Summer Palace                Back            Next





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Last updated: May 9, 2008


Summer Palace Attractions :

Court Area
East Palace Gate
Hall of Benevolence and Longevity
Hall of Virtue and Harmony
Hall of Jade Ripples
Yiyun House
Hall of Joyful Longevity
Long Gallery

Front-Hill Area
Hall of Dispelling Clouds
Tower of Buddhist Incense
Hall of the Sea of Wisdom

Front-Lake Area
Western Bank
Seventeen-Arch Bridge
Nanhu Island
Bronze Ox
Marble Boat

Rear-Hill and Back-Lake Area
Back Lake
Garden of Harmonious Interests
Suzhou Market Street