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4 Essential Holiday Destinations in Beijing

Insider TipsBeijing
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Updated Apr 28, 2026
By ChinaTravelVIP  
Escape the heat of summer and take refuge in the cool oasis of Beijing, this ancient capital. Sail through the lake among the reflections of pagodas or climb mountains and forests: you will find a refreshing natural freshness.
While vibrant, summers in Beijing can be sometimes suffocating. Fortunately, the city and its surroundings hide several oases of freshness. You can stroll through ancient imperial gardens or take a boat ride along a quiet lake. For a more authentic experience, head to an open forest and breathe fresh air. Even more recommended is the old city wall, nestled in the mountains on the outskirts. Standing high on the wall, contemplating the horizon, the mountain breeze on his face instantly dissipated the heat of summer. If you want to discover the secret summer retreats of the Pekingese, do not miss these places: they will make your summer truly unique.

Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is the best-preserved imperial garden in China, and offers a glimpse of the pinnacle art of Chinese imperial gardens. Walking along the 728-meter-long Long Corridor, you will marvel at the tens of thousands of exquisite Suzhou-style paintings; climbing the Buddhist Incense Tower will give you a panoramic view of the sparkling Kunming Lake; and the Stone Boat on the shore of the lake, a "waterproof boat" carved into huge stones, serves as the perfect backdrop for photographs. It is a model of the perfect integration between the natural landscape and the artificial setting, where each brick and tile tells a story of the summer memories of the Qing dynasty imperial family.

Beihai Park

For an unforgettable summer afternoon in Beijing, head to Beihai Park. Rent a pedal boat and sail quietly along the lake, feeling the fresh breeze. Once on land, explore the centuries-old trees of Qionghua Island, contemplating the White Pagoda and the surrounding lake and mountains. Don’t forget to make a stop at Fangshan Restaurant to relax and order an imperial pea flour cake: its delicate, fresh and sweet aroma will instantly revitalize you. There is no hustle and bustle here, just the serene freshness of a real garden.

Olympic Forest Park

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and its heat, consider visiting the Olympic Forest Park, known as Beijing's "green lung". This vast oasis, spanning 680 acres, is even larger than New York’s Central Park. In summer, you can run or bike along the trails by crystal-clear streams and admire the blooming lotus flowers and reeds in the wetlands. Even better, the main hill, "Yangshan", offers a magnificent viewpoint to the north of the city. From the top, you have the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of the lush vegetation, as well as distant views of the Bird's Nest, the Water Cube and the city skyline. Season after season, it remains one of locals’ favorite places to run, picnic and breathe fresh air.

Great Wall of Mutianyu

If you want to contemplate the most beautiful facet of the Great Wall, the Mutianyu stretch is a must visit. With a vegetation coverage of over 96%, it is known as "the most beautiful stretch of the Great Wall". Compared to other stretches, Mutianyu is quieter and more pleasant, lush and green in summer, with the Great Wall resembling a dragon snaking through a green ocean. In addition, it features unique design wings and watchtowers, which combine defensive and aesthetic value. Whether you’re easily climbing the cable car or taking a quiet stroll between the watchtowers, you’ll experience a unique blend of grandeur and serenity amidst the fusion of nature and history.

End

From the fresh breeze and crystal clear waters of the imperial gardens to the pure air of the city’s green lungs and the sharp peaks of the Great Wall, summers in Beijing are far more enjoyable than you imagine. Each summer retreat offers a quiet corner away from the scorching sun. We hope this refreshing guide will help you discover a different summer in Beijing. Don’t forget your sunglasses and sunscreen, and confidently leave your air-conditioned room to enjoy the beauty of summer!

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