Introduction Located in beautiful countryside within reach of Beijing’s public transport network, the Pool and Mulberry Tree Temple makes a lovely escape from downtown Beijing. It sits on the famous Western Hills, but away from the main tourist hubs – the perfect peaceful day trip. It is also one of the most historically important Read more…
Introduction This quiet temple in the Changping district of Beijing is well worth the long journey from town. After passing through the usual grand temple entrance, you’ll find yourself on a serene path stretching towards the distant mountains, with small temple buildings, walkways and pagodas on each side. At the end of the path sits a beautiful pond surrounded by Read more…
Introduction This huge mountain park, located at the foot of Beijing’s Western Mountains (Xishan), is full of temples, pagodas and even a small teahouse – the perfect place to spend a day exploring Chinese history and culture. Most temples are still active, and so you may spot Buddhist monks and worshipers praying or making offerings. This Read more…
Introduction En route from Beijing to Badaling Great Wall are the Ming Tombs, making them an easy stop-off. There are 13 tombs in total spread over a large area, of which three (Changling, Dingling, Zhaoling) are open to the public. The details Sacred Way Visitors to each tomb first walk along the Sacred Read more…
Introduction This highly restored section of the Great Wall is sometimes frequented by local tour groups, probably due to its close proximity to Beijing and beautiful scenery, including a small reservoir crossing. However, few make it over the hill so escaping any crowds is not impossible. As one of Beijing’s most important Read more…
Introduction A great option for those wanting to avoid the tourist crowds, Mutianyu has been more sympathetically restored than Badaling yet is still reachable by public transport. The wall weaves gently along the hills through green trees and beautiful scenery. You can choose either the manageable half-hour hike up to Read more…
Introduction The best preserved (or perhaps most rebuilt, depending on your point of view…) section of the wall, Badaling is particularly popular with local tour groups. Although it can be very busy at weekends and national holidays, it is a good option for first-time DIY travellers due to the convenient Read more…