Monday, September 24, 2001 – Beijing

One of the more interesting sights at the Summer Palace was The Marble Boat. Built with huge stones, the body of this boat is 36 meters long with two tiers. Although made of wood, the superstructure is painted white, looking like a marble boat. Hence the name Marble Boat. The ground was paved with colored bricks and the windows are inlaid with multi-colored glass. A huge mirror was set on each tier, reflecting the waves in the lake. Sitting in front of the mirror, one feels that he is floating on the water.

The boat has a marvelous drainage system. Four dragon heads serve as the route way for the rainwater. When it rains, the rains water pour out from the mouths of these dragon heads into the lake, forming unique scenery in this garden.

This boat used to be the place for Empress Dowager Cixi to enjoy the lake scenery.

Here Sue poses with the Marble Boat in the background.