Fascinating cave dwellings pockmark the mountains, shedding light on historic people in a region now known for its ski resorts and access to the Great Wall.
As one of the best places to visit the Great Wall of China, Yanqing is a popular destination, with many exceptional attractions. This large district provides several points of access to the wall, as well as varied activities, including skiing and hiking. Enter the district’s many museums to trace the history of this district just outside Beijing.
Marvel at the sheer size of the Great Wall of China Juyongguan. As you walk along it, admire views of the surrounding green mountains. Climb to the Cloud Platform, adorned with sculptures, and inspect the gate that was Beijing’s northern entrance.
Learn about the construction of the ramparts in The Great Wall Museum of China, whose exhibition halls provide information about the defensive fortifications. For a more tranquil and less crowded experience, travel east to the Great Wall at Shixia Pass.
Head to Badaling for its range of natural treasures. Meander along the scenic trails of the Badaling National Forest Park and marvel at the colorful reds and yellows of the autumn foliage. See giraffes, monkeys and pandas in the drive-through terrain of the Beijing Badaling Wildlife World. In winter, rush down the snowy peaks of the Badaling Ski Resort. Another winter sports option is the Shijinglong Ski Area.
In the northwestern part of the district is the Wild Duck Lake Wetland Nature Reserve. Rent a boat to take out on the water and inspect the wild chrysanthemum, purple aster and brown typha ear or cattail flowers. The region is also known for the Guyaju Ruins cave dwellings.
The vast district of Yanqing is just north of central Beijing. Drive north from the Downtown Beijing zone for 50 miles (80 kilometers) to get here in about 90 minutes. Among the surrounding districts of interest are the Shuhuashan Scenic Area, the Labagoumen Primeval Forest Scenic Area and the Laoxiangfeng Scenic Area.