The East Palace Gate (Donggongmen) is the main entrance to the Summer Palace. It has three doors, the one in the center being exclusively for the emperor and the empress, and the two side doors for nobles and ministers. The three characters, Yi He Yuan (Summer Palace), on the plaque of the gate, were written by Emperor Guangxu, the last but one emperor of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). This emperor is said to have worked at calligraphy specially so as to give a good account of himself in handwriting. The stone carving leading to the middle door has a design of two dragons, symbol of imperial dignity, playing with a ball.

In front of the East Palace Gate stands a tall Pailou, an arched gateway in ancient style. The words on it suggest that enchanting scenery will be revealed once visitors pass through it. With a history of over 200 years, the Pailou, decorated with 176 painted golden dragons and 36 golden phoenixes, fully demonstrates the magnificence of the imperial residence.