Escape Beijing! These 4 Lesser-Known Cities Reachable by 2-Hour High-Speed Train Are Perfect for a Weekend Getaway!

Tired of Beijing's concrete jungle and fast-paced life? Why not take a spontaneous weekend trip? These four lesser-known cities, just 2 hours away by high-speed train, offer stunning scenery with fewer crowds and great value, guaranteed to help you relax and recharge! 1. Tianjin: A Romantic Blend of East and West * Why Go: Closest to Beijing, just 30 minutes by high-speed train. Attractions like the Five Great Avenues and Italian Style Street exude exotic charm, perfect for photos. * Itinerary: * Day 1: Arrive in Tianjin by high-speed train in the morning, explore Five Great Avenues and Italian Style Street. In the afternoon, visit Ancient Culture Street for local snacks, and take a Haihe River cruise at night. * Day 2: Visit the Tianjin Eye and Porcelain House in the morning, check out Binhai New Area Library in the afternoon, and return to Beijing in the evening. * Food Recs: Jianbing guozi, Goubuli steamed buns, Ear-Hole Fried Cake, Guobacai. * Stay: Heping or Hexi District, close to attractions and convenient transportation. 2. Baoding: A Historic Capital Neighbor * Why Go: Just 1 hour by high-speed train, rich in historical sites and natural scenery, ideal for history buffs. * Itinerary: * Day 1: Arrive in Baoding by high-speed train in the morning, visit the Zhili Governor's Office and Ancient Lotus Pond. In the afternoon, explore the Baoding Military Academy Museum, and try donkey meat burgers at night. * Day 2: Take a boat tour of Baiyangdian Lake in the morning to enjoy wetland views, return to Beijing in the afternoon. * Food Recs: Donkey meat burgers, Beef Pancake, Baiyunzhang steamed buns. * Stay: Lianchi or Jingxiu District, close to attractions and convenient transportation. 3. Zhangjiakou: Gateway to the Grassland Sky Road * Why Go: 2 hours by high-speed train, cool and pleasant in summer, perfect for a summer retreat. Scenic spots like Grassland Sky Road and Chongli Ski Resort. * Itinerary: * Day 1: Arrive in Zhangjiakou by high-speed train in the morning, visit Dajingmen and Zhangjiakou Fort. In the afternoon, drive or bike along Grassland Sky Road, and stay overnight in Chongli. * Day 2: Try summer activities at Chongli Ski Resort in the morning, return to Beijing in the afternoon. * Food Recs: Youmian wowotou (oat flour nests), Roast whole lamb, Hand-grabbed meat. * Stay: Chongli District, close to the ski resort for easy access. 4. Chengde: Imperial Grandeur of the Mountain Resort * Why Go: 2 hours by high-speed train, home to the UNESCO-listed Mountain Resort and Eight Outer Temples. Cool in summer, ideal for a getaway. * Itinerary: * Day 1: Arrive in Chengde by high-speed train in the morning, visit the Mountain Resort. In the afternoon, explore the Eight Outer Temples, and try Manchu cuisine at night. * Day 2: Hike in Hammer Peak National Forest Park in the morning, return to Beijing in the afternoon. * Food Recs: Manchu Eight Bowls, Chengde jelly noodles, Nansha cake. * Stay: Shuangqiao District, close to attractions and convenient transportation. Tips: * Book high-speed train tickets and accommodations in advance, especially during holidays. * Choose destinations based on season: Zhangjiakou and Chengde in summer, Chongli for skiing in winter. * Sunscreen and mosquito repellent are a must, especially for grasslands and mountains. * Respect local customs and travel responsibly. This weekend, escape Beijing and enjoy a slower pace of life in these charming cities!