Audience: General; Grades: All; Subject: World cultures. (2019) This magnificent palace, standing 300 miles from the capital of China, was the barometer of the nation's state of affairs and its ruler. Seeking a place to unwind from the troubles of his postion, an emperor decided to erect this mammoth palace to serve as his summer retreat. Nestled in between the mountains of Hebei Province, Chengde became no mere imperial retreat; the emperor used this palace and its hunting grounds to train his soldiers, assess his officials, examine his political affairs and forge new ties with old enemies.