Yanqi

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Yanqi's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival at Yanqi Lake
morning
:

Check into a lakeside resort overlooking the water and indulge in a freshly brewed tea while strolling along the shoreline.

afternoon
:

Take an orientation walk through Yanqi Lake Park, admire the lotus blooms, and sample local street snacks by the water’s edge.

evening
:

Enjoy a lakeside dinner at the resort restaurant, watch the sun dip below the hills, and unwind by a cozy bonfire under the stars.

day 2
Mutianyu Great Wall Exploration
morning
:

Depart early for the Mutianyu section and ride the cable car up to the fortifications, breathing in crisp mountain air.

afternoon
:

Hike along restored wall segments, explore hidden watchtowers, and pause for a picnic with sweeping valley views.

evening
:

Return to the resort for a soothing spa soak, indulge in a traditional foot massage, and savor a light dinner.

day 3
Water Adventures on Yanqi Lake
morning
:

Take a stand-up paddleboard lesson to glide across the calm lake surface with expert guidance.

afternoon
:

Launch into a kayaking expedition around secluded coves, or hop on a speedboat for a thrilling circuit.

evening
:

Embark on a sunset cruise complete with live folk music, sampling regional grilled fish and refreshing beverages.

day 4
Hongluo Temple and Surrounding Peaks
morning
:

Hike the ridge trail up to Hongluo Temple, arriving in time for the serene morning chant ceremony.

afternoon
:

Roam the temple grounds to visit ancient ginkgo trees, ornate pavilions, and the Guanyin Hall.

evening
:

Descend to a rustic mountain teahouse for an aromatic tea ceremony and watch the sky fill with stars.

day 5
Huairou Village Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit a nearby farmhouse to learn traditional paper-cutting techniques from local artisans.

afternoon
:

Join villagers in tending organic vegetable plots and harvesting seasonal produce.

evening
:

Gather at a family homestay for a communal dinner, swapping stories and local legends by lantern light.

day 6
Panoramic Mountain Photography
morning
:

Catch the sunrise atop Jiuduhe Ridge for mist-shrouded peak photography and golden light.

afternoon
:

Attend a workshop with a professional photographer to refine composition and editing skills.

evening
:

Share favorite shots over an al fresco dinner, illuminated by gentle lanterns and night’s embrace.

day 7
Glass-Bottomed Boat Scenic Cruise
morning
:

Step onto a glass-bottomed boat to observe underwater flora and fish in crystal-clear waters.

afternoon
:

Anchor at a small island for a riverside picnic, then set off on a guided birdwatching walk.

evening
:

Return on a twilight cruise with soft lights, indulging in tea and local pastries as the lake glitters.

day 8
Excursion to the Forbidden City
morning
:

Catch a high-speed train to Beijing, then tour Tiananmen Square en route to the Forbidden City.

afternoon
:

Explore grand halls, secret inner courtyards, and the imperial garden with a knowledgeable guide.

evening
:

Dine in a classic hutong alley on handmade dumplings before heading back to Yanqi by evening train.

day 9
Relaxation and Wellness at the Resort
morning
:

Begin with a lakeside sunrise yoga session on the dew-kissed lawn, followed by a nourishing herbal breakfast.

afternoon
:

Indulge in a series of spa treatments inspired by traditional Chinese medicine and aromatic baths.

evening
:

Join a guided meditation session by the water’s edge while sipping warm jasmine tea under the moon.

day 10
Cultural Workshops and Farewell Feast
morning
:

Learn the art of calligraphy and traditional landscape painting from esteemed local masters.

afternoon
:

Participate in a workshop on folk drumming or classical dance within a cozy studio setting.

evening
:

Celebrate with a festive farewell banquet featuring North China specialties, sharing memories around a lakeside campfire.

Discover Yanqi

Read more in our Yanqi 2025 Travel Guide.

Yanqi Travel Guide