Exploring the vast array of things to do in Beijing, from walking the ancient halls of the Forbidden City to wandering through the tranquil pathways of the Summer Palace, can be a profound experience. However, day trips from Beijing offer an extension of this adventure, allowing travelers to discover the Great Wall’s winding paths, the sacred Ming Tombs, and the serene beauty of the surrounding countryside.
Venturing beyond the capital, the extensive list of things to do in China unfolds, revealing the historic city of Tianjin with its European-inspired architecture and the majestic mountains of Zhangjiakou, a testament to the country’s natural and cultural diversity. These excursions from Beijing not only enhance your appreciation for China’s rich heritage but also its modern achievements and natural wonders.
Choosing where to stay in Beijing is crucial for those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s historic charm while being within reach of its modern marvels and nearby escapes. The right accommodation balances convenience with comfort, providing a restful haven after a day of exploration and a strategic starting point for both city adventures and day trips into the heart of China.
Discover Best Day Trips from Beijing, China
1. The Great Wall at Mutianyu, China
Mutianyu offers a less crowded but equally magnificent experience of the Great Wall, known for its beautiful scenery and well-preserved watchtowers. The section has a cable car and a fun toboggan ride for the descent.
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Well-preserved watchtowers, cable car, toboggan ride
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Entrance to the Wall: $6
- Cable Car: $15 (round trip)
- Toboggan Ride: $10
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Watchtowers, mountain views, scenic trails
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the wall in quieter conditions.
2. Tianjin, China
Tianjin, a coastal metropolis, is known for its unique blend of modern skyscrapers and European colonial architecture. The city’s highlights include the Five Great Avenues area and the Tianjin Eye Ferris wheel.
Distance: Approximately 130 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by high-speed train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Five Great Avenues, Tianjin Eye Ferris wheel, European colonial architecture
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Tianjin Eye: $10
- Porcelain House: $8
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Haihe River, Italian Style Town, Tianjin Ancient Culture Street
Travel Tip: Try the local Goubuli Baozi (stuffed steamed buns), a famous Tianjin delicacy.
3. Chengde, China
Chengde, home to the famous Mountain Resort and its Outlying Temples, was a summer retreat for Qing Dynasty emperors. The resort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a fine example of Chinese palatial architecture.
Distance: Approximately 230 km
Travel Time: About 3 to 4 hours by car or bus
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Mountain Resort, Outlying Temples, Qing Dynasty architecture
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Mountain Resort: $10
- Puning Temple: $6
- Putuo Zongcheng Temple: $8
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Imperial gardens, temples, lake views
Travel Tip: Spend time exploring the vast gardens and temples within the Mountain Resort for a peaceful experience.
4. Cuandixia Village, China
Cuandixia, an ancient Ming Dynasty village nestled in the mountains, is renowned for its well-preserved courtyards and traditional architecture. It’s a perfect spot for photography and experiencing rural life.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: Around 2 to 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ming Dynasty courtyards, traditional architecture, rural life
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Village Entrance: $3
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Traditional courtyards, mountain views, ancient paths
Travel Tip: Stay overnight in one of the traditional courtyard homes to fully immerse yourself in the village’s tranquil atmosphere.
5. Longqing Gorge, China
Longqing Gorge offers stunning natural scenery with its clear waters, towering cliffs, and numerous outdoor activities like boat rides and bungee jumping. It’s often referred to as the “Mini Three Gorges.”
Distance: Approximately 85 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Clear waters, towering cliffs, outdoor activities
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn (Winter for Ice Lantern Festival)
Entrance Fees:
- Gorge Entrance: $10
- Boat Ride: $5
- Ice Lantern Festival: $15
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Gorge views, ice sculptures (in winter), natural landscapes
Travel Tip: Visit during the Ice Lantern Festival in winter for a magical experience of illuminated ice sculptures.
6. Pingyao, China
Pingyao, a well-preserved ancient walled city, gives a glimpse into China’s rich history with its traditional architecture and ancient streets. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers attractions like the Rishengchang Exchange Shop and the Ancient City Wall.
Distance: Approximately 500 km
Travel Time: About 4 hours by high-speed train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Ancient walled city, traditional architecture, historic sites
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Ancient City Wall: $10
- Rishengchang Exchange Shop: $5
- Shuanglin Temple: $5
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Ancient streets, city walls, historic buildings
Travel Tip: Consider staying overnight to experience the charming atmosphere of the city after the day-trippers have left.
7. The Eastern Qing Tombs, China
The Eastern Qing Tombs, an impressive imperial mausoleum complex, is one of the two main burial sites of the Qing dynasty emperors. The site is less visited but offers a serene and contemplative experience.
Distance: Approximately 125 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Imperial mausoleum complex, Qing Dynasty architecture, serene surroundings
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Tombs Entrance: $10
Budget: Approximately $30-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Sacred Way, tomb complexes, ancient structures
Travel Tip: Hire a local guide at the site to understand the rich history and significance of the tombs.
8. Baiyangdian Lake, China
Baiyangdian Lake, the largest freshwater lake in northern China, is famous for its scenic beauty and a network of waterways. Visitors can enjoy boat trips, explore the lake’s islands, and experience local fishing culture.
Distance: Approximately 150 km
Travel Time: About 2 to 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Freshwater lake, boat trips, local fishing culture
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Boat Trip: $5
- Scenic Area Entrance: $3
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lake views, waterway networks, islands
Travel Tip: Try the local fish-based cuisine, and consider an overnight stay in a traditional stilt house on the water for a unique experience.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Beijing, China
What are the best day trips from Beijing?
Top day trips from Beijing include the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu or Jinshanling, the Ming Tombs, the Summer Palace, and the ancient city of Tianjin.
Is a visit to the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu worth it?
Absolutely! The Great Wall at Mutianyu offers a less crowded experience compared to Badaling, with restored sections of the wall and stunning natural scenery. Cable cars and a toboggan ride add to the adventure.
Can I explore the Ming Tombs on a day trip?
Yes, the Ming Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are an accessible day trip from Beijing. They offer a fascinating insight into the burial customs and architecture of Ming Dynasty emperors.
What makes the Summer Palace a must-visit destination?
The Summer Palace is an exquisite example of Chinese landscape garden design. Its harmonious blend of natural beauty, architectural genius, and historical significance makes it a must-visit destination.
What can I see in Tianjin on a day trip from Beijing?
Tianjin, easily reachable by high-speed train, is known for its colonial architecture, the ancient Culture Street, the picturesque Haihe River, and the unique Tianjin Eye, a giant ferris wheel built over a bridge.
Is there a panda tour available near Beijing?
While Beijing itself does not have panda tours, the Beijing Zoo offers the opportunity to see giant pandas. For a more immersive experience, consider a longer trip to Chengdu, the home of the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base.
Can I visit the ancient village of Cuandixia?
Yes, Cuandixia, located about 90 kilometers from Beijing, is an ancient village dating back over 400 years. It’s known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty houses and serene rural landscapes.
Are there any traditional Chinese tea ceremonies available as day trips from Beijing?
While traditional tea ceremonies are more commonly found within the city, many day trips can include a visit to tea houses or cultural centers where you can experience a traditional Chinese tea ceremony.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/beijing-l186?activity_type=dayTrip
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