Spanning from late November to February, Beijing transforms into a snowy paradise, offering visitors a multitude of mesmerizing snowscapes and winter activities to indulge in.
Delve into the top 12 snowy attractions in Beijing, which include iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, the tranquil Longqing Gorge, the majestic Forbidden City, and the thrill-filled Nanshan Ski Resort.
1. The Great Wall — Majestic Snow-Clad Views
The Great Wall snakes along mountain ridges, unveiling the most spectacular snow vistas in Beijing. Blankets of snow and frost add a serene beauty to the historical structure. The wilder sections, such as Gubeikou and Jiankou, boast particularly stunning snowy scenes.
Families with children may prefer the more accessible Badaling or Mutianyu sections. Mutianyu provides a less crowded experience and authentic atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for a winter visit.
2. Longqing Gorge — Splendid Ice Festival
In the Yanqing district, home to a section of the historic Great Wall, lies Longqing Gorge, often likened to the Li River for its picturesque scenery. During winter, the gorge hosts an impressive Ice and Snow Festival from January 15th to late February. Witness ice sculptures that twinkle against the snowy backdrop—a delightful spectacle for families.
3. Taoyuan Xiangu — Adventure in Ice and Snow
Located within a pristine ecological area, Taoyuan Xiangu ('Fairy Valley') is an idyllic day trip destination from Beijing. It beckons with sparkling ice waterfalls and frosty caves. Offering Beijing's premier ice climbing experience, the valley caters to those seeking an adventurous escapade amidst its frozen grandeur.
4. The Forbidden City — Snow-Capped Imperial Grandeur
Visiting the Forbidden City post-snowfall is a tranquil experience, as its vast courtyards and ancient structures stand out majestically against the white snow. The contrast of red walls and glazed tiles against the purity of the snow forms stunning imagery fit for emperors.
5. Jingshan Park — Elevated Views of an Icy Forbidden City
Perched atop an artificial hill, Jingshan Park offers a panoramic view of the Forbidden City beneath. Winter blankets this vantage point in snow, presenting a unique opportunity to see the historic palace from an eagle's perspective.
6. The Summer Palace — A Royal Garden in Winter Garb
The largest traditional Chinese garden, The Summer Palace, dons a beautiful snowy garb in winter. Its scenic West Bank and the frozen Kunming Lake under a soft winter sun create a scene of ethereal beauty, not to be missed.
7. Houhai — A Winter Playground on Ice
The frozen surfaces of Houhai Lake, surrounded by ancient buildings, transform into lively natural skating rinks in the winter. It's a festive spot for locals and visitors alike to skate and play on the ice.
8. The Southeast Corner Watchtower — A Glimpse into the Past
The Southeast Corner Watchtower, a remnant of the Ming Dynasty, stands proudly as an emblem of historical Beijing. In winter, the snow-covered structure offers picturesque views from atop the ancient city wall.
9. Beijing Snow World Ski Resort — A Winter Sports Paradise
As the nearest ski resort to Beijing, Snow World Ski Resort offers trails for beginners and families, with a variety of winter sports activities, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to introduce their children to the joy of winter sports.
10. Nanshan Ski Resort — The Premier Skiing Destination
Nanshan Ski Resort is the go-to place for ski enthusiasts, boasting an extensive range of trails for all skill levels and a family-friendly atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for enjoying both skiing and picturesque snowy landscapes.
11. Badaling Ski Resort — Skiing with a View of the Great Wall
Located merely 2 kilometers from the famous Badaling Great Wall, the Badaling Ski Resort lets visitors combine a historical tour with the fun of winter sports, ready to cater to both skiers and non-skiers alike.
12. Huaibei International Ski Resort — Skiing Amidst the Great Wall
Unique in its setting, Huaibei Ski Resort is enveloped by sections of the Great Wall, offering the chance to ski with an incredible historical backdrop. Winter at Huaibei isn’t just about skiing; visitors can also indulge in snowmobiling, horse-drawn sled rides, and tranquil snow views.
To create lasting winter memories in Beijing, the city offers a range of experiences that blend the grandeur of its imperial past with the thrill of modern winter sports.
