Things To Do
in Chaoyang

Chaoyang is a vibrant district in Beijing, known for its mix of modernity and tradition. It is home to a plethora of embassies, high-end shopping centers, and cultural landmarks. The area boasts beautiful parks and is a hub for arts and entertainment, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.

With its diverse culinary scene and bustling nightlife, Chaoyang is a place that never sleeps.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cultural Gems
morning
:

Start your day at the 798 Art District, a contemporary art hub filled with galleries, shops, and cafés.

afternoon
:

Visit the Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest) and take a stroll through the surrounding Olympic Park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local hot pot restaurant and then relax at Sanlitun, a popular nightlife area with bars and clubs.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Begin with a leisurely walk in Chaoyang Park, one of Beijing's largest parks, featuring beautiful landscapes and lakes.

afternoon
:

Head to the China National Film Museum to explore the history of Chinese cinema.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy fusion restaurant, followed by a visit to a rooftop bar for stunning city views.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$3
☕️Coffee$4
🍺Beer$5
🍽️Dinner for Two$30
🚕Taxi Ride$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences with art and history.
  • Diverse culinary scene catering to various tastes.
  • Vibrant nightlife with numerous entertainment options.
  • Traffic congestion can be challenging.
  • Language barrier may complicate communication.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other parts of China.
  • "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
  • "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里? (Qǐngwèn cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "我不懂 (Wǒ bù dǒng)" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱? (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much is it?

Places to Visit in Chaoyang

Visit one of these nice places.

798 Art District

This area is filled with vibrant street art, unique sculptures, and contemporary galleries, making it a perfect spot for artistic photography.

Beijing National Stadium

The iconic Bird’s Nest stadium provides a stunning backdrop, especially when illuminated at night.

Chaoyang Park

With its picturesque landscapes, lakes, and modern sculptures, this park is ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chaoyang

Chaoyang offers a dynamic culinary landscape where traditional Chinese cuisine meets international flavors. From street food stalls to upscale dining, there's something for every palate.

Chaoyang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Peking Duck

A famous Beijing dish, known for its crispy skin and tender meat, usually served with pancakes and hoisin sauce.

Must-Try!

Jiaozi (Dumplings)

These dumplings are a popular Chinese dish, often filled with meat and vegetables, and served boiled or fried.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wangfujing Snack Street

A vibrant street market known for its variety of street food, including skewered meats, pancakes, and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chaoyang experiences a continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and are generally considered the best times to visit. Rainfall is more common in summer, so visitors should be prepared for occasional showers during that season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is fundamental in Chinese culture; always greet older individuals first.

Bargaining in Markets

Bargaining is common in markets; start with a lower price and negotiate respectfully.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it’s polite to wait for the host to start eating and to share dishes family-style.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chaoyang is relatively safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuables openly and be cautious when using ATMs. In case of emergencies, the local police can be reached by dialing 110.

Tipping in Chaoyang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in China but is increasingly accepted in tourist areas. A small tip for exceptional service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, though cash is still accepted in many places.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring (March to May) sees mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during peak heat hours.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) offers cool temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for sightseeing.

Winter

Winter (December to February) is cold, often with snow, so dress warmly and enjoy seasonal festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Chaoyang at Night

Chaoyang's nightlife is lively and diverse, featuring everything from upscale bars and nightclubs to casual pubs. Sanlitun is the epicenter of nightlife, offering a variety of venues catering to different tastes. Expect to find international DJs, live music, and themed parties. Karaoke bars are also popular, providing a fun atmosphere for friends to gather and sing. Many places stay open late into the night, ensuring entertainment for night owls.

Hiking in Chaoyang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fragrant Hills Park

Fragrant Hills Park offers beautiful hiking trails that wind through lush greenery and provide stunning views, especially during autumn.

Badaling Great Wall

Located a bit further out, the Badaling section of the Great Wall offers accessible hiking trails with breathtaking scenery.

Airports

How to reach Chaoyang by plane.

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

Located approximately 25 km from Chaoyang, PEK is the main international airport serving Beijing, with numerous domestic and international flights daily.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chaoyang is fairly walkable, especially in areas like Sanlitun and the 798 Art District where pedestrian paths are well-maintained. However, some areas may require navigating busy streets and traffic. Public parks, like Chaoyang Park, offer pleasant walking paths and green spaces for leisurely strolls. Overall, a combination of walking and public transport is recommended for exploring the district.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Expats

Chaoyang is home to a significant expatriate community, drawn by the availability of international schools, businesses, and amenities.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals reside in Chaoyang, attracted by its vibrant lifestyle, job opportunities, and social scene.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is immensely popular in Chaoyang, with many local courts available for residents and visitors to play.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is a favored sport among locals, often played in parks and community centers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chaoyang can be heavy, especially during rush hours. The district is well-connected by public transportation, including buses and subways, making it easier to navigate the city. The subway system is efficient, and using apps for ride-hailing services is common. However, be prepared for potential delays during peak times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chaoyang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it’s advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's best to research restaurants that cater to specific dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Chaoyang is of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available. Major hospitals like Beijing United Family Hospital offer services in English and cater to expatriates. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and visitors should be aware of the nearest healthcare facilities in case of emergencies.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide