Beijing-day-trips

Discover the Best Day Trips from Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. While there’s plenty to explore within the city limits, there are also numerous exciting day trip options that offer a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Here are some of the best day trips from Beijing:

1. The Great Wall of China at Mutianyu

  • Distance: 70 km (43 miles), 1.5 hours by car
  • Why go: Less crowded than Badaling, Mutianyu offers a more serene and scenic experience of the Great Wall.
  • What to do: Hike the wall, take in the stunning views, and enjoy a picnic lunch.

2. The Ming Tombs

  • Distance: 40 km (25 miles), 1 hour by car
  • Why go: Explore the final resting place of 13 Ming dynasty emperors and marvel at the impressive architecture.
  • What to do: Visit the Sacred Way, the Changling Tomb, and the Dingling Tomb.

3. The Summer Palace

  • Distance: 15 km (9 miles), 30 minutes by car
  • Why go: Escape the city heat and enjoy a relaxing day in this beautiful imperial garden.
  • What to do: Stroll around Kunming Lake, visit the Longevity Hill, and take a boat ride.

4. Chengde

  • Distance: 230 km (143 miles), 3 hours by car or train
  • Why go: Discover the former summer resort of Chinese emperors, featuring stunning palaces and temples.
  • What to do: Visit the Mountain Resort, the Putuo Zongcheng Temple, and enjoy a traditional lunch.

5. The Eastern Qing Tombs

  • Distance: 120 km (75 miles), 2 hours by car
  • Why go: Explore the impressive mausoleums of five Qing dynasty emperors in a peaceful rural setting.
  • What to do: Visit the Xiaoling Tomb, the Jingling Tomb, and enjoy a picnic lunch.

6. The Huangyaguan Great Wall

  • Distance: 60 km (37 miles), 1 hour by car
  • Why go: Experience a less touristy section of the Great Wall with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • What to do: Hike the wall, take in the scenery, and enjoy a local lunch.

7. The Ancient City of Pingyao

  • Distance: 400 km (250 miles), 4 hours by car or train
  • Why go: Step back in time and explore one of China’s best-preserved ancient cities.
  • What to do: Walk along the city walls, visit the Rishengchang Draft Bank, and try local snacks.

8. The Jiufotang Wild Goose Nature Reserve

  • Distance: 120 km (75 miles), 2 hours by car
  • Why go: Escape the city and connect with nature in this beautiful wetland reserve.
  • What to do: Take a boat ride, spot migratory birds, and enjoy a picnic lunch.

These day trips from Beijing offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that’s sure to leave you enriched and refreshed. So why not get out of the city and explore what lies beyond?