Yanqing

Yanqing is widely recognized as Beijing’s “Summer Capital.” It is much cooler than the urban area in summer, and it offers not only awe-inspiring Great Wall scenery, but also picturesque mountains and waters, plus authentic suburban Beijing cuisine. Here is a detailed 2-day, 1-night Yanqing travel guide, covering classic routes, family-friendly activities, and tips for avoiding common pitfalls—you can follow it directly!

Classic 2-Day Itinerary

• Day 1 (Culture and Nature): In the morning, head to Badaling Great Wall and experience the grandeur behind the saying “He who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true man.” In the afternoon, visit Beijing Expo Park to admire iconic buildings such as the China Pavilion and International Pavilion. In spring there are seas of flowers, and in summer there are light shows. Stay overnight in Yanqing’s urban area and try local specialties such as iron-pot stew or farmhouse dishes.

• Day 2 (Mountains, Water, and an Ancient Town): In the morning, visit Longqing Gorge and take a boat ride through the canyon to experience the beauty of the “Little Li River.” In the afternoon, stroll around Yongning Ancient Town, catch a lively rural market, and taste authentic Yanqing huoshao and Yongning tofu before returning at a relaxed pace.

Family-Friendly Leisure 2-Day Trip

• Day 1: In the morning, visit Yongning Ancient Town for breakfast. In the afternoon, head to Yanqing Olympic Resort to try activities such as the alpine coaster, cable car, and rainbow slide. In the evening, have iron-pot stew at the resort or nearby.

• Day 2: In the morning, go to Yudu Mountain Scenic Area. Set up a tent and have a picnic on the alpine meadow, and let the children catch fish and play by the lake. Return at a relaxed pace in the afternoon.

Must-Visit Attractions

• Badaling Great Wall: The most classic section of the Great Wall. It is recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds. You can take a cable car or slide car up and down. On the north route, go to North Tower 7 and then climb to the highest point at North Tower 8.

• Longqing Gorge: Known as the “Little Li River,” with the boat ride as the core experience. Along the way, you will pass sights such as Fengguan Island and Shipingfeng. It is cool and refreshing in summer, while in winter it hosts the Ice Lantern Art Festival.

• Beijing Expo Park: The site of the 2019 International Horticultural Exhibition. The China Pavilion and International Pavilion are beautifully designed, making it suitable for taking photos and walking with children. The park is large, so you can rent an electric cart.

• Yongning Ancient Town: An ancient town from the Ming dynasty, with Yuhuang Pavilion as its landmark. A large market is held on the 3rd, 6th, and 9th days of the lunar calendar. Be sure to try the local specialty huoshao stuffed with all kinds of fillings and Yongning tofu.

• Yudu Mountain: A place where alpine meadows and lakes coexist. It is one of Beijing’s largest natural camping areas. Wangyou Lake and Heyi Waterfall have a primitive, rustic beauty.

• Yeyahu Wetland Park: A paradise for migratory birds, with vast reeds and wooden boardwalks. It is great for taking wilderness-style photos, and you can rent a bicycle to ride around the lake.

Local Food Recommendations

• Yanqing Huoshao: Tender inside and crispy outside. Recommended spots include “Hongshenghao” or “Lao Wang Huoshao” in Yongning Ancient Town, where huoshao can be filled with all kinds of ingredients.

• Liugou Tofu Feast: A traditional brazier hot pot paired with various kinds of tofu. It includes both meat and vegetables, rich but not greasy, at around 50 yuan per person. No. 69 Liugou Village is recommended.

• Yongning Tofu: Originating in the Han dynasty, it was once a tribute item for the imperial court. It is made using “sour slurry” as a coagulant and has a delicate, smooth texture.

• Li Ji Fried Rice Cake: An old Yanqing flavor dating back to the 1950s. It is crispy on the outside, tender inside, sweet, fragrant, and refreshing.

• Iron-Pot Stewed Fish: If you visit Yanqing in summer, you must eat fish. The iron-pot stewed fish near Yongning is quite good.

Accommodation Recommendations

• Beijing Jinyu Badaling Crowne Plaza Hotel: Located beside the Guishui River, with hot springs, outdoor activities, and handicraft classes. Suitable for families with children.

• Hyatt Place Beijing Shiyuan: Connected to iQIYI Qibabu Park, with family-friendly touches everywhere. It offers good value and is suitable for families with younger children.

• Club Med Yanqing Resort: A high-end resort brand located within Songshan Nature Reserve, offering abundant indoor and outdoor sports, plus shows and parties in the evening.

• Boutique Homestays: Such as Yueli · Rancang Homestay (wabi-sabi-style design, with private hot-spring baths) and Xiaocang Farm (family rooms, including buffet breakfast).

Transportation Guide

• High-Speed Rail: The most convenient option. Depart from Qinghe Station or Beijing North Railway Station and arrive at Yanqing Station in about 1 hour. After leaving the station, take a bus or taxi to the various scenic areas.
• Self-Driving: Take the Beijing–Tibet Expressway (G6) or Jingli Expressway. It takes about 1.5–2 hours from the urban area. On weekends, it is recommended to set off early to avoid traffic jams.
• Bus: Take Bus 919 from Deshengmen to Yanqing’s urban area, then transfer to a Y-series bus, such as Y40 to Longqing Gorge or Y21 to Badaling.

Practical Tips

• Sun Protection and Warmth: Yanqing is cool in the mornings and evenings, but it can still be very hot when the sun is out, so be sure to use sun protection. It is windy in the mountains, so bringing a light jacket is recommended.
• Ticket Reservations: Popular attractions such as Badaling Great Wall and Winter Olympics venues require advance reservations. Rooms are in short supply on weekends and holidays, so booking accommodation in advance is recommended.
• Boat Schedule: Longqing Gorge boat rides operate in summer and autumn; in winter, the highlight is the ice lanterns. Be sure to confirm opening times before you go.
• Market Days: Yongning’s large market is held on the 3rd, 6th, and 9th days of the lunar calendar. The earlier you go, the better, as some specialty snacks may sell out.