2025 Chengde Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Finally unlocked the 22℃ summer in Inner Mongolia with the kids🌿! Took the kids to Ulan Butong, and the whole trip was full of surprises—grasslands, forests, lakes, and starry skies all included. The kids had so much fun they didn’t want to go home. This truly is the ultimate grassland trip for kids～Sharing this super detailed guide for moms who want to go! Because with kids you can experience these...⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️ ✅ Zero-distance with reindeer: Visit the Ewenki tribe, touch reindeer velvet antlers, feed moss, like stepping into a fairy tale forest! ✅ Deep grassland fun: Horse riding + rafting + hiking + parent-child sports games, plus bonfire parties and stargazing classes at night🌌 ✅ Stunning self-drive routes: Cross the "Most Beautiful Roads in China"—Reha Line & Dada Line, covering entire birch forests and volcanic landscapes! ✅ World Heritage check-in: Yuan Shangdu Ruins Museum, where kids can learn history while playing📚 🚗 Daily itinerary sharing D1 Beijing - Chengde ▪️ Meet in Beijing, receive gear pack (super thoughtful! Includes sun hats and study manuals) ▪️ Night tour of the Mountain Resort, treasure hunt Qing Dynasty fossil floor tiles, kids become little archaeologists🔍 ▪️ Stay: Chengde Wanda Realm Hotel (five-star, amazing pool) D2 Saihanba - Ewenki Grassland ▪️ Learn the "Saihanba Spirit," get to know Korean pine in the forest classroom ▪️ Feed reindeer at the Ewenki tribe! The reindeer are very gentle and perfect for dreamy photos🦌 ▪️ Quiet grassland rafting, shallow and safe, even 3-year-olds can play～ ▪️ Stay: Hansulu Ranch Mongolian Yurt (with private bathroom! The Milky Way at night is stunning) D3 Ulan Butong Grassland Carnival ▪️ Wear Mongolian robes, learn Mongolian language, set up Mongolian yurts, immersive nomadic life experience ▪️ Parent-child horse riding (with 1-on-1 coach holding the reins), grassland sports games tug-of-war/football ▪️ Grassland afternoon tea + bonfire party at dusk, lively Andai dance🔥 D4 Reha Line - Dada Line Crossing ▪️ Business vehicle crossing two of the most beautiful roads! Encounter cattle and sheep herds + birch forests ▪️ Light hike at Huanggangliang, pick wildflowers to make specimens🌸 ▪️ Night astronomy class, use a telescope to find the Big Dipper🔭 D5 Dali Lake Volcano Adventure ▪️ Wake up at 5 AM to watch the grassland sunrise! Golden light illuminating the windmill group is breathtaking ▪️ DIY volcanic ash water painting, test lake water pH for science experiments🧪 ▪️ Stay at Duolun Hot Spring Hotel, soak to relieve fatigue♨️ D6 Yuan Shangdu Ruins - Return to Beijing ▪️ Visit the World Cultural Heritage site, kids love the interactive exhibition hall ▪️ Award study certificates, full ceremony feeling📜 💡 Practical Tips ▪️ Clothing: Summer clothes + sun protection during the day, thin down jacket needed for early morning and evening! ▪️ Transportation: Off-road vehicles/business vehicles throughout, child seats must be booked in advance ▪️ Cost: Our parent-child camp costs about 5,000 RMB per person (including accommodation + tickets + experiences) ▪️ Must bring: Windproof face mask, mosquito repellent, children’s telescope This trip completely changed my perception of the grasslands! It’s no longer "just sightseeing," but letting kids get hands-on and feel nature～Even the kids’ dad said it was more fulfilling than Sanya😂 [Charter tours] [Custom tours] [Private groups] all available~ How to get the same itinerary 👇👇Tap the bottom left of the screen [Chat with TA] to get the plan!

📍Location: Excellent location with super convenient transportation The hotel is located in Shuangqiao District, Chengde, only 2 km from the Mountain Resort, a few minutes away by taxi. It is next to Jinlong Shopping Plaza, providing a one-stop solution for dining, shopping and entertainment. It is also only 3.5 km from Chengde Station by car, about a 7-minute drive, which is a very convenient location for tourists. 🏨Hotel Environment: Simple yet stylish The hotel opened in 2024 with a modern wood-tone decor. As soon as you enter the lobby, you can smell a faint tea fragrance. There is also a book bar and rest tables, creating a great atmosphere. The corridors and public areas are clean and tidy, and the lighting is warm and inviting, making you feel relaxed. 🛏Room Amenities: Smart and thoughtful The rooms are spacious and bright with a reasonable layout. The bedding is soft and comfortable, ensuring a great night's sleep. The bathroom has a wet and dry separation design and is equipped with a smart toilet, which is great to use. The rooms have smart curtains, a 65-inch LCD TV, and complimentary bottled water and tea bags. The mini-fridge and sensor hair dryer are nice added touches. The only drawback is that the soundproofing in the rooms is average, and you can hear footsteps and conversations in the hallway. 🍱Dining Experience: Rich breakfast with quality online Breakfast is in the form of a buffet, with a wide variety of Chinese-style buns, fried bread sticks, and porridge, as well as Western-style bread, milk, and fruit. The hot and cold dishes are also tasty and can meet the needs of different people. The dining environment is clean and tidy, and the staff will promptly clear the tables. 💁Service Quality: Warm, attentive, and welcoming From check-in at the front desk to room service, the staff is very welcoming. Check-in is quick, and they will proactively introduce nearby attractions and food. Any requests, such as extra towels or a charger, can be quickly resolved, which is really thoughtful.

As a travel enthusiast, I have found several great cities that are only 1 hour away from Beijing by high-speed rail. You can go there for a weekend getaway. Save this post now! 📍Tianjin 🌟Tianjin is full of European style and local flavor. It has a lot of delicious food and is the birthplace of crosstalk. You can listen to a crosstalk show and laugh away your troubles. 🗺️Travel guide: Day 1: Wudadao Cultural Tourism Zone - Xikai Church - Nanshi Food Street - Tianjin Eye In the morning, go to Wudadao and take a carriage tour (about CNY 80) to enjoy the architecture of different countries. Minyuan Square is a great place to take photos. Then go to Xikai Church to feel the sacredness and solemnity. At noon, go to Nanshi Food Street to try Goubuli buns, Jianbing, and other delicacies. In the evening, take the Tianjin Eye (about CNY 100) to enjoy the night view of the city. Day 2: Ancient Culture Street - Haihe River In the morning, go to Ancient Culture Street to buy some Yangliuqing New Year paintings, Niren Zhang, and other handicrafts. In the afternoon, take a walk along the Haihe River to see the Liberation Bridge and Jinwan Square. Enjoy the breeze and relax. 🌟Tips: Tianjin cuisine is sweet, so be careful when ordering. The Tianjin Eye is crowded, so buy tickets online in advance. 📍Langfang 🌟Langfang is close to Beijing. It has hot springs and ancient towns, where you can enjoy leisure time and relax. 🗺️Travel guide: Day 1: Shengfang Ancient Town - Huaxia Folk Collection Museum In the morning, go to Shengfang Ancient Town to stroll along the ancient streets and enjoy the scenery of the water town. No ticket is required. In the afternoon, go to the museum to enjoy various folk collections. The ticket is about CNY 40. Day 2: Langfang Mingtang Hot Spring Resort Relax in the hot spring. The ticket is about CNY 200. There are various hot spring pools to relieve your fatigue. 🌟Tips: Bring your own swimsuit and swimming cap for the hot spring. Protect the cultural relics when visiting the ancient town. 📍Zhuozhou 🌟Zhuozhou has a long history. There are many historical sites and film studios, where you can experience the past and present. 🗺️Travel guide: Day 1: Sanyi Palace - Zhuozhou Film Studio In the morning, visit Sanyi Palace (about CNY 20) to learn about the culture of the Three Kingdoms. In the afternoon, go to the film studio. If you are lucky, you can see a film crew shooting. The ticket is about CNY 50. Day 2: Yongji Bridge Visit this ancient stone bridge to feel the vicissitudes of history. Free admission. 🌟Tips: You can inquire about the shooting information of the film crew in advance. You may see a star. 📍Baoding 🌟Baoding has a rich culture. There are historical sites such as the Ancient Lotus Pond and the Zhili Governor's Office. The food is also very special. 🗺️Travel guide: Day 1: Ancient Lotus Pond - Zhili Governor's Office - Bell Tower Shopping Mall In the morning, visit the Ancient Lotus Pond (about CNY 30) to enjoy the beautiful garden. Then visit the Governor's Office (about CNY 30) to learn about history. Have lunch nearby and try donkey meat sandwiches. In the afternoon, go shopping at Bell Tower Shopping Mall. Day 2: Baishi Mountain Take a high-speed train to Laiyuan (a county under Baoding) and then transfer to Baishi Mountain (about CNY 135) to enjoy the magnificent scenery of the strange peaks and rocks. 🌟Tips: Bring warm clothes, water, and food to Baishi Mountain. The prices on the mountain are high. 📍Cangzhou 🌟Cangzhou is famous for martial arts. There are also historical sites such as the Iron Lion, where you can feel the unique cultural charm. 🗺️Travel guide: Day 1: Cangzhou Iron Lion - Cangzhou Museum In the morning, visit the Iron Lion (about CNY 20). In the afternoon, go to the museum to learn about the history and culture of Cangzhou. Free admission. Day 2: Wuqiao Acrobatics World Watch wonderful acrobatics shows. The ticket is about CNY 160. Feel the charm of folk art. 🌟Tips: Check the show time of Wuqiao Acrobatics World in advance and arrange your itinerary reasonably. 📍Tangshan 🌟Tangshan has earthquake sites and Nanhu Park, which witness the rebirth and beauty of the city. 🗺️Travel guide: Day 1: Tangshan Earthquake Memorial - Nanhu Park In the morning, visit the memorial. Free admission, but a ticket is required. Remember history. In the afternoon, take a walk or row a boat in Nanhu Park to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Some activities are charged. Day 2: Eastern Qing Tombs Take a bus from Tangshan to the Eastern Qing Tombs (about CNY 108) to explore the ancient imperial tombs. 🌟Tips: The Eastern Qing Tombs are far away, so plan your transportation in advance. 📍Chengde 🌟Chengde has the Mountain Resort and the Eight Outer Temples. The royal gardens and temple buildings are magnificent. 🗺️Travel guide: Day 1: Mountain Resort - Puning Temple In the morning, visit the Mountain Resort (about CNY 130). In the afternoon, go to Puning Temple (about CNY 80) to feel the royal style and Buddhist culture. Day 2: Sledgehammer Mountain Take a cable car to the mountain (about CNY 80) to enjoy the unique mountain scenery. 🌟Tips: The temperature difference between morning and evening in Chengde is large, so bring a thick coat. These 7 cities have their own characteristics. Plan your weekend now!

🌟Chengde, a place full of historical charm, is not only home to the Mountain Resort, but also a temple modeled after the Potala Palace in Tibet, also known as the "Little Potala Palace". - ⭐️Chengde 2-day itinerary ✅Attractions: Putuo Zongcheng Temple - Chengde Mountain Resort - Xumi Fushou Temple - Puning Temple - Pule Temple - Chengde Museum These attractions are not far from each other, and you can visit them all in a day and a half, with a focus on the Chengde Mountain Resort and Putuo Zongcheng Temple 🚄High-speed rail: Beijing - Chengde 1h 🚘Transportation: It takes 50 minutes to get to the attractions by taxi after getting off the train 🏨Accommodation: I stayed at the Chengde Puning Hotel, which is close to these attractions 🍚Dining: Pick Up the Golden Rice Bowl (Beixinglong Community West District Branch), this restaurant is right across from the museum, we went there three times, the food is good

Chengde Mountain Resort, the largest existing royal garden in China, was not only a summer retreat for Qing Dynasty emperors but also a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural essence. Here, mountains and waters intertwine, with pavilions and towers scattered throughout, creating an elegant landscape painting. Visitors can feel the grandeur of royalty while enjoying the tranquility and coolness of nature. The resort is cleverly divided into palace, lake, plain, and mountain areas, each with its unique charm. Strolling by the lake, the shimmering water reflects the surrounding peaks and ancient buildings, providing a sense of serenity. Boating on the lake, one can take in the distant mountains and nearby waters, feeling embraced by nature. The lake area of the resort, known as the "Little West Lake," seamlessly integrates exquisite pavilions and natural scenery, making every step poetic. The architectural design of the resort exudes royal grandeur and literary elegance. Whether it's the magnificent main palace or the serene courtyards, they all showcase the Qing emperors' refined lifestyle and reverence for nature. The most famous Yanbo Zhishuang Hall is not only a great place to cool off but also offers a panoramic view of the lake and mountains, achieving true harmony between man and nature. The mountain area behind the resort is even more picturesque, with rolling peaks and lush forests exuding a strong natural atmosphere. Climbing to the top, one can overlook the entire Chengde, with a vast and magnificent view that embodies the royal majesty and a broad vision of the world. The resort is beautiful in all seasons, especially cool and pleasant in summer, making it an ideal place to escape the heat. Whether wandering by the lake or strolling along mountain paths, every scene here relaxes the body and mind, immersing visitors in the tranquility of nature and the elegance of the royal garden. Chengde Mountain Resort is a perfect combination of history and nature. It allows us to experience the grandeur and poetry of the royal garden and feel the Qing emperors' longing for a peaceful life and natural beauty. For those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the coolness of nature, Chengde Mountain Resort is undoubtedly an ideal summer retreat.

Getting There - The best and easiest way is to go there by car / taxi. Tickets - For 80 yuans, you can get a ticket to Waiba temple (down the road and much smaller), and the Putuo Zongcheng temple (which is the one known as the Little Potala Palace). Attractions - so many things to see, but the Red Roof (if I’m not mistaken) was inspired in the Tibetan Potala Palace, so the architecture and the colors - maroon, white, yellow and green - really stand out when compared to other temples. Hotels - there are some hotels nearby, and I definitely recommend the Puning Mountain Resort Hotel if you want to stay at a place that has beautiful Chinese architecture. Food & Restaurants - When you go out from the temple complex, there are many shops selling noodles, almonds, and so on. Shopping - There are many shops inside the temple complex and outside selling fans, bracelets, and so on. #chengde #putuotemple

Getting There - fast train🚊 from Beijing takes 50 minutes, get off at railway station . Take bus number 69 get off near hoashanmiao stop. Attractions - summer mountain resort Hotels - chengde hotel. Holiday inn Food & Restaurants - big pizza. Dong lai shun hotpot Shopping - dragon mall

This hotel was recommended by a friend and it did not disappoint. We traveled to Chengde by train from Beijing and then took a taxi to the hotel. The staff were available on WeChat to answer any questions we had. Once we arrived we were show to our room which was across from the pool and deck. The view was perfect and the infinity pool cool and perfect for swimming and taking in the view. We ate all our meals at the hotel and the food was delicious. There were friendly dogs in the gardens. during the evening and on the weekends, the gardens filled up with visitors coming for a barbecue dinner, so grab a table early! After dinner we went for walks nearby. This was the perfect outdoor weekend getaway from Beijing. Super peaceful and delicious 😋 #weekendgetaway #gooutside #chengde #hebei

Now that there is a high speed train right from Beijing you can get to Chengde in about an hour making it a great day trip. I was supposed to go to Tibet earlier in the year and Covid put a stop to that. Chengde was a great alternative. I would suggest starting the day at some of the temples around town, there are a few large ones up on the hills. Then heading to town, there were a few flee markets where you can go shopping and get a few extremely heavy Buddhist statues (why I suggest doing it later in the day). Unfortunately we had plans of exploring the rest of town later on but rain clouds appeared out of nowhere so we called a didi to take us back to the train station.

Getting There - The fast train from Beijing takes 1 hour. Attractions - Peace, quiet, nature, walks, village life Hotels - Sunshine Keep Hotel #beautifulhotel#naturalwonders#summervacation

Super cool city, nice breeze , many exiting street food with good taste.. colorful buildings and nice scenic spots

When I went to Chengde it started raining, but it did int stop us from enjoying the beautiful architecture of the city. There are many historical landmarks to see and the place is really pretty #china #happynewyear #unforgettableexperiences #instagramworthydestinations #happynewyear

Step into the Qing Dynasty emperor's "air-conditioned room"! Chengde Mountain Resort—the largest existing royal garden in the world, featuring the "mountain and water air conditioning system" personally designed by Kangxi and Qianlong emperors. The average summer temperature is 23°C, so cool even the emperor didn’t want to return to the palace! 🛬【Itinerary】 Day 1: Arrive in Chengde Afternoon: Visit Chengde Museum (free! Reserve in advance) to learn the past and present of the Mountain Resort Evening: Climb Qingshui Peak to watch the sunset, the giant Bangchui Mountain offers breathtaking views Day 2: Core tour of the Mountain Resort Morning: Explore the palace area, see the Nanmu Hall Danbo Jingcheng Hall + Empress Dowager Cixi’s bedroom Yanbo Zhishuang Hall Afternoon: Take a painted boat cruise on the lake to Yan Yu Tower (filming location of "Princess Pearl"!) and Jinshan Pavilion Day 3: In-depth Mountain Resort tour All day: Take the electric cart around the mountain area (a must!) to view the Outer Eight Temples from afar, and photograph the Ermadao City Wall for a panoramic view of the Little Potala Palace Day 4: Highlights of the Outer Eight Temples Morning: Putuo Zongcheng Temple (Little Potala Palace) for stunning shots of the red and white palaces Afternoon: Visit Puning Temple to see the world’s tallest wooden Buddha and listen to monks chanting Day 5: Return trip + shopping Morning market for almonds/chestnuts, then get souvenirs at Jinlong Shopping Plaza ⛺【Must-visit Attractions】 ✅ Danbo Jingcheng Hall: Built entirely of nanmu wood, temperature drops 5°C upon entering! ✅ Ermadao City Wall: Best photo spot in the resort, capturing the entire Outer Eight Temples in one frame ✅ Putuo Zongcheng Temple: Tibetan-style architecture with red walls and golden roofs, feel like you’re in Tibet 🍩【Must-try Foods】 🔥 Gaidarou (Sliced Meat): Imperial chef’s secret recipe! Bamboo shoot strips stir-fried with paper-thin meat slices, crispy and not greasy 🔥 Nansha Cake: Qianlong’s imperial tribute, filled with rock sugar and candied red and green strips, sweeter than first love 🔥 Wantuo: Chengde’s cold buckwheat noodles, topped with sesame sauce and garlic juice, super refreshing 🔥 Roasted Venison: Specialty from the royal hunting grounds, full of wild flavor (choose reputable shops) 🏨【Accommodation Tips】 🏯 Top recommendation inside the resort: Qiwanglou Hotel (lake view from the window), but hard to book in peak season 🏨 Best value options: Mountain Resort Hotel (right at the scenic area entrance) or Dynasty International Hotel (10-minute walk) 🚌【Transportation Tips】 🚄 Major transport: Beijing → Chengde high-speed train in 1 hour (20+ trains daily) 🚕 City transport: Taxi between attractions starts at 10 yuan, bus "Tour 1" connects main spots �【Tips】 ❶ Mountain Resort ticket 130 yuan, combo tickets are more cost-effective (includes 3 Outer Eight Temples for 260 yuan) ❷ The mountain area is huge! The 50 yuan electric cart is a must; walking will make you question your life choices ❸ Arrive right at 7 AM opening to capture stunning empty shots of the resort ❹ For authentic snacks, go to Erxianju Food Street, avoid restaurants at the scenic area entrance ❺ Bring a jacket! Big temperature difference between morning and night, and always carry an umbrella (frequent showers) 🌟 Experience the grandeur of the Kang-Qian era in five days, tour the palaces by day and sleep under a quilt at night—this is the true imperial summer retreat! Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism Chengde Museum

🌿 Recommended Cool-Down Spots for July-August: In-Depth Guide to 4 Refreshing Cities 1. Guizhou · Liupanshui | 19°C Natural Cool City, Where Summer Chill Meets Local Life 🌡️ Climate Advantage: Average summer temperature of 19°C, the only city in China named after its climate, air conditioning is just for show! Occasional showers in July and August, bring a light jacket and a folding umbrella. 🚄 Transportation Guide: - From Changsha: High-speed train direct to Liupanshui East Station, about 4 hours; 10-minute taxi ride to downtown. - Local Transport: Extensive bus coverage, taxi or electric scooter rental recommended. 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions: 1. Wumeng Grassland - Horseback riding among wind turbines, camping at night to watch the Milky Way (visible to the naked eye in July-August!), bring warm clothes for the big temperature difference at the summit. 2. Yushe National Forest Park - Ride the forest train through the dawn redwood forest, end at a family-friendly grass sledding area, hike to breathe fresh air. 3. Shuicheng Ancient Town - Stroll on bluestone paths, visit the Third Front Construction Museum, enjoy Shuicheng lamb rice noodles and Shuicheng baked pot at Erqi Road snack street in the evening. 🍜 Food Map: - Signature Breakfast: Lamb rice noodles (recommended "Xiangjia Lamb Rice Noodles"), steamed cakes. - Night Market Must-Try: Grilled tofu cubes (dip in dry seasoning), silk rolls, ice jelly. - Restaurant Recommendations: "Panzhou Shifu" for sour soup fish, "Western Cabin" for barbecue (must-order secret beef skewers). 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations: - High-End: Panzhou International Garden Hotel, 10-minute walk to Minghu Wetland Park. - Cost-Effective: Liangdu Impression Hotel, convenient dining nearby. ⚠️ Notes: - Strong UV rays on the plateau, use SPF50+ sunscreen and wear a hat. - Wumeng Grassland is at 2800 meters altitude, avoid strenuous exercise, oxygen bottles available for purchase in the park. 2. Hubei · Enshi | 22°C Karst Secret Realm, Hiking and Canyon Wonders 🌡️ Climate Advantage: Average summer temperature 22°C, canyon streams naturally cool the air, occasional heavy rain in July-August, monitor weather alerts. 🚄 Transportation Guide: - From Changsha: High-speed train to Chongqing North Station (about 4 hours), transfer to Enshi Station (2 hours), total about 6 hours. - Local Transport: Charter or carpool. 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions: 1. Enshi Grand Canyon - Take the ground cable car to Yunlong Rift to see waterfalls, walk the cliffside plank road at Qixingzhai (not for those afraid of heights), sightseeing elevator available for those with less stamina. 2. Pingshan Canyon - Arrive at the dock before 8 AM, take the "Spaceship" boat for floating photos, water is cold inside the canyon, wear non-slip shoes. 3. Tenglong Cave - Asia’s largest karst cave, constant 12°C inside, wear a jacket in summer, enjoy laser shows and Tujia ethnic song and dance performances. 🍜 Food Map: - Specialty Dishes: Hezha (tofu dregs stewed with cured meat), Zhangguan Hezha, baked potatoes. - Night Market Recommendation: Daughter City Night Market (evening hand-waving dance performances), try "Old Zhou Cured Meat Restaurant" for cured pork rib hotpot. 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations: - High-End: Hualong City Ramada Hotel, 10 minutes by car to Daughter City. - Cost-Effective: Guesthouses inside the Grand Canyon scenic area (e.g., "Xia Gu Xuan Hotel"), convenient for next-day tours. ⚠️ Notes: - Wear non-slip shoes for canyon hiking, recommended to join a group or travel with companions. - Some routes may close after heavy rain, check park notices before traveling. 3. Yunnan · Dali | 25°C Between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, Artistic and Ethnic Charm 🌡️ Climate Advantage: Average summer temperature 20-25°C, breezes from Erhai Lake disperse the heat, Torch Festival (July 18-19) is lively and festive. 🚄 Transportation Guide: - From Changsha: High-speed train to Kunming Station (about 6 hours), transfer to Dali Station (2 hours), total about 8 hours. - Local Transport: Rent electric scooters or bicycles to circle Erhai Lake, recommended section "Caicun-Panxi." 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions: 1. Erhai Ecological Corridor - Rent an electric scooter to ride, visit the popular S-shaped bend (less crowded at 7 AM), stop at "Fushi Café" seaside terrace for afternoon tea. 2. Xizhou Ancient Town - Take photos in rice fields (most beautiful early July with yellow and green), try Bai ethnic tie-dye, eat freshly baked crispy popo cakes. 3. Cangshan Light Hiking - Take the Gantong Cableway to Qingbixi, walk the wooden plank trail for 1 hour to see the Three-Tier Waterfall, for the fit, challenge the Ximatan Cableway (panoramic view of Erhai Lake). 🍜 Food Map: - Specialty Snacks: Grilled milk fan, rice noodles, carved plum wine. - Restaurant Recommendations: "Shijing Private Kitchen" for sour and spicy fish, "Duan Gongzi" for steam pot chicken. - Night Market Recommendation: San Yue Street Night Market (open Fridays), shop for handicrafts and snacks. 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations: - High-End: Dali Yuyue Designer Hotel, right by Erhai Lake. - Cost-Effective: Inns around the Old Town. ⚠️ Notes: - Accommodation is tight during the Torch Festival, book at least 1 month in advance. - No external vehicles allowed on Erhai Ecological Corridor, rent bikes within the scenic area. 4. Hebei · Chengde | 23°C Imperial Summer Resort, Blend of History and Nature 🌡️ Climate Advantage: Average summer temperature 23°C, the water system design of the Mountain Resort makes it feel 5°C cooler than the city, bring a jacket for mornings and evenings. 🚄 Transportation Guide: - From Changsha: High-speed train to Beijing Chaoyang Station (about 6 hours), transfer to Chengde South Station (1.5 hours), total about 7.5 hours. - Local Transport: Taxi or bus (Mountain Resort and Outer Temples are concentrated in the city). 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions: 1. Mountain Resort - Three must-dos: Take a lake cruise to see the reflection of Jinshan Pavilion, visit the museum to see Kangxi’s ice appraisal, afternoon tea with "Qianlong Covered Bowl Ice." 2. Qingshui Peak - 10-minute cable car ride up, take photos of the "Bat Hammer Mountain" wonder from the summit viewing platform, pass the famous Toad Rock on the way down. 3. Shuangta Mountain Night Tour - Lights on after 7:30 PM, two stone pagodas appear to float in the air, shadow puppet shows performed at the foot of the mountain. 🍜 Food Map: - Specialty Dishes: Qianlong cabbage (sweet with sesame sauce), Nansha cake (crispy mung bean filling), almond tea. - Restaurant Recommendations: "Qiao Family Manchu Eight Bowls" for venison shumai, "Lao Bian Dumpling House" for steamed dumplings. - Night Market Recommendation: Erxianju Night Market (must-try grilled cold noodles and fried steamed cakes). 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations: - High-End: Jiahe International Hotel, 5-minute walk to Mountain Resort. - Cost-Effective: Chengde Yun She Inn, perfect for a slow-paced experience. ⚠️ Notes: - Lots of walking inside the Mountain Resort, wear comfortable sports shoes. - From July 21, seniors over 60 enter free with ID. 🌟 Summary: Highlights and Travel Tips for the 4 Cities - Best for Families: Liupanshui (grassland camping), Chengde (Mountain Resort + family activities). - For Artistic Youth: Dali (Erhai cycling + tie-dye experience). - Outdoor Enthusiasts: Enshi (canyon hiking). - History and Culture Lovers: Chengde (imperial gardens). 🚩 Travel Tips: 1. July-August is peak season, book tickets and accommodation 7-15 days in advance. 2. Monitor destination weather; Enshi and Liupanshui are rainy, bring rain gear; Dali and Chengde have strong UV, prepare sunscreen. 3. From Changsha, high-speed trains reach Liupanshui and Guiyang; flights available to Enshi and Dali. Escape the 35°C+ heat and retreat to a cool 22°C town for a refreshing summer getaway for body and soul!

#chinatravel Chengde Mountain Resort was the Qing dynasty’s summer palace, sprawling over 5.6 km² of imperial palaces, gardens, lakes, and forests ∼225 km northeast of Beijing. Built between 1703 and 1792, it served emperors like Kangxi and Qianlong. Its 72 scenic spots replicate landscapes from across China, combining palace architecture and natural terrain in a single site . Alongside the resort are the Eight Outer Temples—including Puning Temple with the world’s tallest wooden Bodhisattva statue—creating a harmonious blend of political history and religious devotion.

If you're looking for a summer road trip that combines cool escapes with adventurous exploration, these destinations and itineraries are perfect for you. Most are located in high-altitude or densely forested areas with average summer temperatures between 18–25°C (64–77°F), offering picturesque landscapes and refreshing comfort—ideal for July and August travels. --- 🌄 **1. Western Cool Retreats (High-Altitude Scenery + Tibetan Culture)** 1. **Gannan Loop (Lanzhou—Labrang Monastery—Zagana—Langmusi)** - **Temperature**: 10–20°C (50–68°F) in summer, pleasantly cool - **Highlights**: - **Zagana**: A mist-shrouded stone village with panoramic views from Duri Viewing Platform; July brings vibrant rapeseed flower fields. - **Labrang Monastery**: Home to the world’s longest prayer wheel corridor (1,700+ wheels), showcasing Tibetan Buddhist solemnity. - **Langmusi Town**: Straddling Gansu and Sichuan, this "Little Switzerland of the East" features ethereal stupas and prayer flags at dawn. - **Best for**: Travelers who love culture-nature blends and prefer altitudes under 3,000m (to avoid altitude sickness). 2. **Western Sichuan Grand Loop (Chengdu—Siguniang Mountain—Daocheng Yading)** - **Temperature**: Daocheng Yading averages 10°C (50°F) in July—pack a light down jacket. - **Highlights**: - **Daocheng Yading**: Mystical hues of Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake mirror snow-capped peaks during the rainy season. - **Xinduqiao**: A photographer’s paradise with alpine meadows and golden morning light. - **Note**: Higher landslide risks in July; carry a satellite phone and emergency supplies. --- 🏞️ **2. Northwest Cool Corridor (Grasslands + Danxia + Silk Road Culture)** 1. **Linxia’s Taizi Mountain Route (Exclusive for Jinan Residents)** - **Temperature**: Average 22°C (72°F); Jinan citizens enjoy free entry to all A-level scenic spots (valid until end of 2025). - **Highlights**: - **Zhuzigou**: Horseback riding through grasslands and riverside BBQ camping. - **Starry Cloud Homestay**: At 2,400m altitude, stargaze from futuristic pods with Milky Way views. - **Itinerary**: 3 days, 2 nights; ideal for family trips. 2. **Qilian Highway No. 9 (Qinghai’s Qilian County)** - **Temperature**: Around 20°C (68°F) with refreshing plateau breezes. - **Highlights**: - **Zhuoer Mountain**: Striking red Danxia landscapes contrast with emerald grasslands, framed by snow-capped Niuxin Mountain. - **Amdo Dongsuo Camp**: Pitch tents by forest streams under starry skies. - **Unique appeal**: Connects snow peaks, canyons, and ancient towns for off-the-beaten-path explorers. --- 🌲 **3. Northeast Forest Escapes (Woodlands + Grasslands + Wetlands)** 1. **Ulan Butong Grassland Route (Zibo—Chengde—Ulan Butong)** - **Temperature**: 10°C cooler than North China Plains; ~25°C (77°F) on grasslands. - **Highlights**: - **Chengde Mountain Resort**: Imperial gardens blending lakes and Qing-era architecture. - **Ulan Butong**: Post-rain vistas of dark green grasslands under dramatic clouds—perfect for drone shots. - **Tip**: 9-day, 2,000km route suited for multi-generational families. 2. **Greater Khingan’s Tahe Route (G331 Highway)** - **Temperature**: Average 22°C (72°F), cooler in forests. - **Highlights**: - **Guqigu Wetland Park**: Drive through primeval forests spotting reindeer herds. - **Forest Concerts**: Summer events featuring Oroqen ethnic culture. - **Facilities**: Campsites and supply stations along the way; ideal for RV trips. --- 🏔️ **4. Southern Mountain Retreats (Fujian & Shaanxi Hidden Gems)** 1. **Jiupengxi, Zhangping (Fujian)** - **Temperature**: 19°C (66°F), 3–5°C cooler than urban areas. - **Highlights**: - Boat through 14km of waterborne forests; stroll wooden trails along streams. - Pair with **Longxiao Rock Rafting**: 7km route with 18 thrilling drops for a cooling adrenaline rush. - **Access**: 2.5-hour drive from Xiamen. 2. **Guanshan Grassland, Longxian (Shaanxi)** - **Temperature**: Peaks at 20°C (68°F); evenings require a jacket. - **Highlights**: - Northwest China’s only alpine grassland, with 350,000 acres of pastures dotted with livestock. - **Longmen Cave**: Cliffside plank paths lead to a gravity-defying Taoist temple. - **Route**: 3-hour drive from Xi’an; recommended as a 2-day trip. --- ⚠️ **Self-Driving Tips** - **High-altitude areas** (Gannan, W. Sichuan): Carry oxygen, warm layers, and monitor weather shifts. - **Mountain roads** (G318, Taizi Mountain): Check conditions; avoid night drives and rainy seasons. - **Gear up**: Emergency car kit, sun protection, and camping gear (for grasslands/forests). Each route offers unique charms—whether you seek Tibetan mystique, grassland freedom, or forest serenity. Check real-time weather and road updates to ensure a cool, smooth journey 🚗💨.

【Highlights】Cruising China's Route 66 + Stunning Bashang Grassland Views + Family Fun Time👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 💡Perfect for: Two families with kids (Ages 10-15 will love it!) ⏰Duration: Flexible 4-7 days (4-day basic itinerary, extendable for deeper experience) 📍Departure: Shijiazhuang 🚗Transport: Self-drive recommended (SUV preferred, sedans with high clearance acceptable) ----------------------------- 🌈【Itinerary】Ultra-detailed route & activities👇 🚗Day1: Shijiazhuang → East Entrance of Grassland Sky Road (Huapi Ridge) → Overnight in Zhangbei/Guyuan ▫️Depart at 7:00 sharp! Navigate to "Grassland Sky Road (Huapi Ridge Entrance)" ▫️Healing scenery along the way🌿Must-visit spots: ✅Great Rivers & Mountains Viewing Platform: Panoramic views are unbeatable! ✅Yanpian Mountain: Unique rock formations for kids to explore🔍 ✅Potala Viewing Platform: Terraced grasslands perfect for photos📸 ▫️Dinner recommendation: Youmian Wowo + Bashang roasted potatoes, absolutely delicious😋 🌊Day2: Lightning Lake → Fengning Bashang Datan Town ▫️Morning: Stroll around Lightning Lake, full of frontier water town charm💧 ▫️Afternoon: Head to Datan Town, breathtaking pasture views en route ▫️Evening: Must-try hand-grabbed mutton! Drink three bowls of milk tea🥤 🏇Day3: Bashang Peak Time! ✔️Horse riding: Professional ranches ensure safety (kids can ride with adults) ✔️Carnival amusement park: Grass sliding/karting so fun you won't want to leave🎢 ✔️Willow Valley Forest Park: Sunset views with magical filters🌅 ✔️Bonfire party + whole roasted lamb: Ultimate grassland night atmosphere🔥 🚙Day4: Return home happily with dairy products and beef jerky~ ----------------------------- 🌟【Extension Options】More days = more fun! ➕Chengde Mountain Resort: Imperial garden + Tibetan Buddhist holy site ➕Ulan Butong Grassland: Filming location of "My Fair Princess" ➕Nomadic family experience: Milking cows/making milk curd - super fun! ----------------------------- 💯【Family Essentials】Ultra-practical! 👗Clothing: Sun protection jacket + sunglasses + hat (UV rays are intense!) 💊Medicine: Cold medicine + mosquito repellent + band-aids 🚗Vehicle: Spare tire + jack (few rescue points along Sky Road) ----------------------------- 💰【Budget Guide】Reference for 4 adults & 2 kids (5 days): ▪️Transport: ¥1500-1800 ▪️Accommodation: ¥2000-3500 ▪️Tickets & activities: ¥1200-2000 ▪️Total budget: ¥8000-12000 (adjustable) ----------------------------- 🎉The grassland breeze is ready to embrace you~ Bookmark this guide and start your family's grassland adventure!

#chinatravel Just visited the Chengde Mountain Resort, also known as "Chengde Ligon" or "Rehe Xinggong." This incredible Qing Dynasty summer palace is truly a marvel! It's the largest existing royal garden in the world and one of China's Four Great Gardens! 🌿 China's Four Great Gardens: For those wondering, these four classical gardens were among the first batch of national key cultural heritage sites announced by the State Council in 1961: Humble Administrator's Garden (Suzhou) Summer Palace (Beijing) Chengde Mountain Resort (Chengde) Lingering Garden (Suzhou) 🎟️ Tickets & Entry: You can buy tickets online! Search for the official WeChat account "避暑山庄及周围寺庙" (Chengde Mountain Resort and Surrounding Temples). Adult Ticket: ¥130 Student Ticket: ¥65 Mountain Ring Shuttle: ¥60/person (optional) Plain Area Ferry Ticket: (optional) You can also purchase tickets directly at the scenic area windows. Remember to bring your ID! You'll need to swipe it for entry. 🗺️ Our Recommended Tour Order: Enter through Lizheng Gate to explore the Palace Area. Move on to the Mountain Area. Continue through the Plain Area and Lake Area. Exit via Chengguan Gate. Important Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes! There's a lot of walking involved. It's NOT cool right now. Be prepared for the heat and do your sunscreen routine thoroughly! ☀️ Honestly, it was crowded, hot, and tiring, so the overall experience was just okay for us. #Chengde #MountainResort #SummerPalace #HebeiTravel #ChinaGardens

This temple blew me away. Perched right beside the Chengde Mountain Resort, Putuo Zongcheng Temple is massive, serene, and just incredibly impressive. I didn’t expect it to feel so grand—it’s modeled after the Potala Palace in Lhasa, and you can definitely see the resemblance as soon as you catch sight of its red walls and golden rooftops rising above the trees. I spent about two hours walking around the temple complex, and honestly, I could’ve stayed longer. The main building, Wanfaguiyi Hall, sits atop this huge white platform and is crowned with shimmering golden tiles. The structure feels both powerful and peaceful. It was quiet when we arrived in the morning—just the occasional chime of a bell and the soft shuffle of other visitors. What I loved most was the fusion of styles. You see Tibetan elements like the multi-tiered roofs and bright red walls, but there’s also that unmistakable Qing dynasty symmetry and order. It’s beautiful without being overwhelming, and the air up there feels a little cooler, calmer—like you’re just outside the chaos of daily life. There are smaller halls and pagodas scattered around the main complex, and the views over Chengde from the upper terraces were spectacular. Don’t skip the climb—it’s worth it. Also, bring good walking shoes. Lots of stairs, uneven paths, and sun if you’re here in summer. Tickets were about ¥60–¥80 depending on the season. You can bundle it with other temples nearby like Puning Temple, and there are electric shuttle options if you’re not up for walking the whole way. This place isn’t as packed as Beijing’s big-name spots, which made it even more special. Peaceful, majestic, and a real window into Qing imperial Buddhism. Easily one of the highlights of my Chengde trip. #summervacay #china #chengde #chengdetrip #putuozongcheng #littlepotala #buddhisttemple #imperialchina #culturalheritage #unesco #travelmoments

Spending a day at the Chengde Mountain Resort felt like stepping into the Qing emperor’s private world—peaceful, vast, and surprisingly low-key considering its historical importance. It’s a few hours out of Beijing by car or train, but absolutely worth the journey if you want to experience a different side of China’s imperial past. The resort itself isn’t a single palace—it’s more like a city-sized retreat, with pavilions, lakes, temples, and gardens spread across hills and plains. I loved walking along the lakeside paths with willow trees swaying in the breeze and distant pagodas peeking out between hills. Everything here was designed for relaxation, and it really comes through in the layout and scenery. Highlights for me were the main palace area, which had a modest elegance (not as extravagant as the Forbidden City, but still regal), and the famous 72 scenic spots dotted around the grounds, like hidden viewing pavilions and curved bridges. There’s also a section where you can see replicas of Tibetan-style temples—reminding you how multicultural the Qing court was. It’s a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. And be prepared—this place is huge. You probably won’t see it all in a day unless you rent a buggy or hop on the shuttle bus. I only scratched the surface, but it was still incredibly peaceful and refreshing. If you’re into history, gardens, or just want a breath of fresh air away from the city chaos, Chengde Mountain Resort is a beautiful place to recharge and reconnect with a slower, imperial rhythm. #summervacay #china #chengde #chengdetrip #mountainresort #chinesegardens #imperialchina #unescoheritage #historicretreat #qingdynasty #hiddenescape

Chengde Travel Guide: The Imperial Summer Retreat with Scenic Northern Frontier Landscapes I. Must-Visit Attractions The Mountain Resort and its Outlying Temples (UNESCO World Heritage Site) The Mountain Resort: China's largest surviving imperial garden, divided into palace, lake, plain, and mountain areas, combining the essence of northern and southern Chinese gardens. Recommended visit duration: half to full day. Mountain shuttle available for touring hilly areas. The Eight Outer Temples: A group of Tibetan Buddhist temples surrounding the Mountain Resort, blending Han and Tibetan architectural styles. The Putuo Zongcheng Temple (Little Potala Palace) and Xumi Fushou Temple (Panchen Lama's Palace) are most spectacular. Recommend visiting 2-3 temples. Hammer Rock Peak National Forest Park: Famous for unique Danxia landforms, featuring lifelike natural scenery including Hammer Rock, Toad Stone, and Twin Pagoda Hills. Take the cable car for panoramic city views. Puning Temple: The only active lamasery among the Eight Outer Temples, with a magnificent 22-meter tall Thousand-Armed Guanyin statue. Jinshanling Great Wall: About 1.5 hours from downtown, this is one of the most spectacular sections of the Great Wall, known for its steepness and ideal for hiking enthusiasts. II. Food Recommendations Local Specialties: Manchu Eight Bowls: Traditional Chengde banquet featuring eight dishes including braised pork and pot-stewed meat. Pingquan Mutton Soup: Flavorful broth with tender mutton, best served with baked wheat cakes. Lüdagunr: Chengde specialty snack - glutinous rice rolls with sweet red bean paste. Buckwheat Noodles: Local staple made from buckwheat with chewy texture. Food Streets: Erxianju Commercial Street: Concentration of authentic Chengde restaurants and snack stalls. Jinlong Tourism Plaza: Integrated commercial center with dining, shopping and entertainment. III. Budget Accommodations Chengde Mountain Resort International Youth Hostel: Prime location near the resort, budget-friendly for backpackers. Home Inn (Chengde Huoshenmiao Branch): Clean rooms with good service and value. 7 Days Inn (Chengde Downtown): Convenient location with nearby dining/shopping options. IV. Itinerary Suggestions Day Trip: Mountain Resort + 1-2 Outer Temples 2-Day Trip: D1: Mountain Resort + Puning Temple D2: Hammer Rock Peak + Erxianju Street 3-Day Trip: D1: Mountain Resort + Putuo Zongcheng Temple D2: Hammer Rock Peak + Xumi Fushou Temple D3: Jinshanling Great Wall V. Travel Tips Best Season: May-October for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Transport: Downtown attractions are walkable or accessible by bus. Charter cars or day tours available for Jinshanling. Tickets: Mountain Resort and Outer Temples have expensive admission - book online or get combo tickets in advance. Note: Wear comfortable shoes for the vast resort area. Some temples require stair climbing - pace yourself. VI. Nearby Attractions Saihanba National Forest Park: About 3 hours away, China's largest man-made forest with stunning autumn views. Mulan Hunting Ground: Former Qing imperial hunting grounds with beautiful grasslands offering horseback riding and archery.

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling 3-day journey through Chengde, Xilingol League, and Chifeng? Experience the excitement of grass skiing, horseback riding across the grasslands, and the fun of archery. Don’t miss the breathtaking equestrian performances, and even try your hand at grassland golf! In the evening, enjoy the grand spectacle of the Kangxi Dynasty Show and immerse yourself in the rich history. 🚩 Itinerary D1: Fengning Bashang Grassland Grass Skiing Experience – Drive Along Baili Sky Road – Explore Luanhe River Source National Forest Park – Leisure at Duolun Lake Scenic Area 🌿 Enjoy the fun of grass skiing at Fengning Bashang Grassland, drive through the magnificent Baili Sky Road, explore the refreshing Luanhe River Source National Forest Park, and relax by the serene beauty of Duolun Lake. D2: Horseback Riding at Princess Lake Grassland Resort – Experience Grassland Charm at Ulan Butong Tourist Area – Visit Ulan Butong Film Base – Capture Photos at the European-Style Scenic Area – Breathe Fresh Air at Saihanba National Forest Park – Evening Performance of "The Grand Dynasty: Kangxi Show" 🐎 Ride horses at Princess Lake Grassland Resort, immerse yourself in the vastness of Ulan Butong Tourist Area, visit the film base, admire the European-style scenery, breathe in the fresh air of Saihanba, and be captivated by the Kangxi Show. D3: Relax at the Mountain Resort – Hike the Jinshanling Great Wall 🏯 Enjoy a cool summer day at the Mountain Resort, then head to the Jinshanling Great Wall for a hike, experiencing the grandeur of history and nature. 🔚 Return: Conclude your delightful Chengde-Xilingol League-Chifeng trip and head home with unforgettable memories. -------------------- Must-Visit Attractions: 🌟 Baili Sky Road: A winding road resembling a soaring dragon, with vibrant and colorful scenery along the way, like an unrolled primitive painting waiting to be explored. 🌳 Ulan Butong Tourist Area: A treasure trove of nature, featuring vast grasslands, dense forests, and clear lakes—a one-stop destination to experience the beauty of nature! 🎭 "The Grand Dynasty: Kangxi Show": A stunning live performance that takes you back to the Qing Dynasty, showcasing the splendor and charm of royal culture. 🏯 Mountain Resort: A masterpiece of Qing Dynasty architecture and garden design, where every step reveals a new scene, offering a glimpse into the summer retreat of ancient royalty. -------------------- Tips: 🎉 Immerse yourself in local culture by experiencing Chengde paper-cutting and shadow puppetry, and feel the unique cultural vibe! 🍜 Don’t miss Chengde’s specialties like "Donkey Rolling" and roasted whole lamb—culinary delights you must try! ✈️ Upon arriving at Chengde Airport, you can conveniently reach the city center by bus or taxi. 🐎 In Xilingol League, enjoy horseback riding across the grasslands and feel the grandeur and freedom of nature! 📸 In Chifeng during autumn, the golden wheat fields make for perfect photo backdrops, so don’t forget your camera! 🏨 When booking hotels, it’s recommended to choose locations near the city center or scenic spots for easier travel. -------------------- Chengde-Xilingol League-Chifeng offers endless scenic beauty. Book a private tour on Ctrip now to enjoy a journey filled with quality and freedom. Come and experience it for yourself!

🏖 Chengde ✅ Attractions: Mountain Resort (UNESCO World Heritage) Puning Temple (One of the Eight Outer Temples) Putuo Zongcheng Temple (Mini Potala Palace) Qingchui Peak National Forest Park 🗓 Itinerary: 2D1N Trip: D1: Morning at Mountain Resort, afternoon at Eight Outer Temples D2: Qingchui Peak National Forest Park 💒 Hotels: Chengde Mountain Resort Hotel (near Mountain Resort) Chengde Yunshan Hotel (downtown location) 🍜 Food: Chengde Donkey Rolls Bashang Roasted Whole Lamb Chengde Almond Tea Pingquan Mutton Soup 🏖 Jizhou ✅ Attractions: Panshan Scenic Area (First Mountain East of Beijing) Dule Temple (Millennium-old Buddhist Temple) Huangyaguan Great Wall Jizhou Karst Cave 🗓 Itinerary: 2D1N Trip: D1: Morning at Dule Temple, afternoon hike at Panshan D2: Huangyaguan Great Wall 💒 Hotels: Panshan Hotel Jizhou Yuyang Hotel 🍜 Food: Jizhou Baked Cake Panshan Persimmons Jizhou Tofu Huangyaguan Farmhouse Feast 🏖 Zunhua ✅ Attractions: Eastern Qing Tombs (UNESCO World Heritage) Tangquan Hot Spring Resort Fenghuangling Scenic Area Ancient Ginkgo Garden of Chanlin Temple 🗓 Itinerary: 1-2 Day Trip: D1: Eastern Qing Tombs + Tangquan Hot Spring D2: Fenghuangling Scenic Area 💒 Hotels: Zunhua International Hotel B&Bs within Eastern Qing Tombs Scenic Area 🍜 Food: Zunhua Chestnuts Imperial Banquet of Eastern Qing Tombs Tangquan Fish Feast Zunhua Donkey Meat Burger 🏖 Qinhuangdao ✅ Attractions: Shanhaiguan Ancient City (First Pass Under Heaven) Beidaihe Beach Dove Nest Park Laolongtou Scenic Area 🗓 Itinerary: 3D2N Trip: D1: Shanhaiguan Ancient City + Laolongtou D2: Beidaihe Beach + Dove Nest Park D3: Optional visit to Nandaihe or Golden Coast 💒 Hotels: Beidaihe Beach Hotels Shanhaiguan Ancient City Inns 🍜 Food: Qinhuangdao Seafood (Mantis Shrimp, Crab) Shanhaiguan Hun Pot Sitiao Baozi (Steamed Buns) Beidaihe Grilled Prawns 🗓 Combined Itinerary: 5-7 Day Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei East Route: D1: Beijing → Jizhou (Panshan, Dule Temple) D2: Jizhou → Zunhua (Eastern Qing Tombs) D3: Zunhua → Chengde (Mountain Resort) D4: Chengde (Eight Outer Temples) D5: Chengde → Qinhuangdao (Shanhaiguan) D6: Qinhuangdao (Beidaihe) D7: Return 🚘 Transportation: Self-driving recommended Alternative: High-speed rail + local car rental 👍 Best Season: May-October for optimal travel July-August for beach retreat September-October for autumn colors 📌 Tips: Plan routes in advance due to long distances Some attractions require reservations (e.g. Mountain Resort, Eastern Qing Tombs) Sun protection at coastal cities

🛕 Head over to Puning Temple (or Big Buddha Temple) if you’re in Chengde! It is only a 10 minute drive away from the Shuangqiao Qu (~10 yuan for a taxi). 📍 Address: No.1, Puning Road, Shuangqiao Chengde Hebei China 💵 Ticket Prices Full price ticket: 60 yuan Half price ticket: 30 yuan 🪷 Puning Temple is a Tibetan Buddhist temple with beautiful architecture which was built in the 1700s. Inside, there is an almost 30 metre tall statue of the thousand armed and eyed Guanyin.

☀️ Add this to your Chengde itinerary! Chengde Imperial Summer Villa is worth spending a day exploring. It includes the Bishu Villa Museum where you can see just how emperors that visited the area during summer used to live. 💵 Ticket Prices Full price: 130 yuan Half price: 65 yuan Note: there are sightseeing busses within the scenic area that you can pay an additional fee for. 🌳 Within the scenic area, there are lakes in which you can rent boats to ride as well as grasslands full of greenery. There are many pavilions to sit and enjoy the views from. Most of the area is flat and easy to get around, but there are also optional hills to climb where you get amazing views of the city and mountains.

📌 This is my top recommended activity for your next visit to Chengde! Here’s a suggested route to take. 📍Address: Lamasicun Pule Road Beiduan Qingchuifeng National Forest Park Inner (West Side), Shuangqiao Chengde Hebei China 🎟️ Get a taxi to the Qingchuifeng National Forest Park Tourist Center. Here buy tickets for to enter the park, as well as a one-way ticket for the ropeway. (There is the option to get a round trip ticket for the ropeway). 💵 Ticket Prices Full price ticket for entry: 25 yuan Half price ticket for entry: 12 yuan One-way ticket for ropeway: 50 yuan Round trip ticket for ropeway: 80 yuan Note: there is a more expensive entrance fee if you want access to the temples within the park. 🚠 We then took the ropeway up the hill (~20 minutes). From here, make your way up to the Sledge-hammer peak, going past the Baoshan temple. Some people head back and take the ropeway back down, but you can continue on along the path to walk back down to the bottom of the hill. ⛰️ There is only one path that is easy to follow and takes you past sights such as the Frog Crag. There are a number of pavilions to sit and rest in on the way, as well as toilet facilities. In total, the walk lasts around an hour and a half to get back to the car park.

#chinatravel Iconic Icon — The Chapel of Sound (Chengde) The Chapel of Sound is an iconic open-air concert hall and cultural landmark near Chengde, Hebei Province, China. Designed by OPEN Architecture, it is famous for its striking cave-like structure made entirely of layered concrete and local stone that looks like a giant rock formation sitting in the valley. Inspired by natural canyons and ancient caves, the Chapel of Sound blends perfectly into its mountainous surroundings near the Great Wall. It’s both a concert hall and a peaceful lookout — visitors can listen to music inside its raw, sculptural interior, or just hear the wind, rain, and birdsong echoing through the hollow “cave.” When there’s no performance, the Chapel becomes a place for quiet reflection and enjoying nature’s own soundscape. Its poetic design connects architecture, nature, and music all in one place.

Escape the 40℃ heat, unlock the ultimate cool trip across grasslands, volcanoes, and deserts for just over 2,000 RMB per person 🚗 Trip Overview Route: Beijing → Huitengxile Grassland → Ulanhada Volcano → Xilin Gol Grassland → Xiwuzhumuqin Banner 99 Highway → Keshiketeng Banner → Chengde → Beijing (no backtracking) Duration: 9 days 8 nights Best Season: June to August (lush green grass, average daily temperature 20℃) Cost Reference: Fuel + tolls ≈ 1200 RMB per person, accommodation ≈ 1500 RMB (mainly guesthouses), tickets ≈ 500 RMB 📍 Daily Itinerary Details Day 1: Beijing → Huitengxile Grassland (stay at Huanghuagou) - Highlights: - Huitengxile Wind Farm: Free! Giant wind turbines blending with the grassland, cinematic vibes maxed out📸. - Huanghuagou Scenic Area: Cable car crossing the canyon (ticket 120 RMB), wait for the grassland sunset in the evening. - Accommodation: Saishang Mingzhu Hotel (modernized Mongolian yurt rooms, private bathroom, window view of wind turbines) - Tips: Direct via Jingzang Expressway, 5-hour drive; must-try dinner: hand-pulled lamb + fried millet milk tea! Day 2: Huiteng → Ulanhada Volcano (stay at the foot of the volcano) - Must-do activities: - Volcano No. 5: 20-minute climb to the top, 360° view of the “Mars-like terrain.” - Volcano No. 6: Rent a spacesuit for photos (80 RMB/hour), dark volcanic rocks look super sci-fi🪐. - Nighttime bonus: Camp at the crater to watch the Milky Way (clear Milky Way visible in summer). - Accommodation: Muye Starry Sky Guesthouse (volcano view room, breakfast included, owner provides star photography tutorial) Day 3: Volcano → Xilin Gol League (stay in Xilinhot) - Surprises along the way: - Xizhang Expressway: Cross the Hunshandake Sandland, encounter the rare spectacle of dunes and lakes intertwined. - Beizi Temple: One of Inner Mongolia’s four major Tibetan Buddhist temples, stunning red walls and golden roofs (free). - Food: Saiyid Mongolian Restaurant (60 RMB per person): hand-pulled lamb dipped in wild chive flower sauce, milk-cheese stir-fried millet! - Accommodation: Qingfeng Guesthouse (quiet courtyard in the city, 10-minute walk to Beizi Temple) Day 4: Xilinhot → Xiwuzhumuqin Banner 99 Highway (stay in Xiwuzhumuqin Banner) - Legendary route: - 99 Highway: 60 km grassland sky road, herds of cattle and sheep + winding river = real-life Windows desktop. - Banlashan Viewing Platform: Free! From the top, the grassland spreads like a green carpet to the horizon (perfect for drone shots✈️). - Accommodation: Haitang Guesthouse (farmhouse courtyard with shared rooms, 80 RMB per person for 4-person room, bedding smells of sunshine☀️) Day 5: Xiwuzhumuqin Banner → Keshiketeng Banner (stay in Jingpeng Town) - Must-visit combo: - Ashatu Stone Forest: Glacial relic stone formations (ticket 160 RMB), hiking boardwalk feels like entering a Game of Thrones scene⚔️. - Huanggangliang Reservoir: Hidden free secret spot! Walk the wooden plank road to meet forests and wildflower seas. - Warning: Food inside the Stone Forest scenic area is expensive, bring your own snacks! Day 6: Keshiketeng Banner → Chengde Mountain Resort → Beijing - Return highlights: - Chengde Mountain Resort: Quick 3-hour visit (ticket 130 RMB), Yanyu Tower recreates the filming location of "My Fair Princess" Shufangzhai. - Dinner bonus: Chengde’s “Old Three Lamb Soup” with baked flatbread (lamb offal soup 15 RMB, unlimited refills!). - Arrival time: Chengde → Beijing about 3 hours, recommended to arrive before 9 PM to avoid Beijing traffic jams. 💡 Practical Tips Collection Transportation and Money-saving Tips 1. Car Rental Guide: - Pick up an SUV in Beijing (Tank 300 about 300 RMB/day), high chassis suits grassland roads. - One-way drop-off fee ≈ 800 RMB, or choose to return in Chengde and take high-speed train back to Beijing (time-saving and convenient). 2. Fuel Tip: Gas stations are scarce north of Xilinhot, fill up whenever fuel is half tank or less⛽️! Accommodation Golden Rules - Grassland guesthouses: Book 1 month in advance! Peak season (July-August) Mongolian yurts triple in price, choose near scenic spots balancing convenience and cost-effectiveness. - Avoid pitfalls: Be cautious choosing yurts deep in the grassland (inconvenient toilets/mosquitoes), prioritize rooms with private bathrooms and stable hot water. Food Recommendations ✅ Must-eat: - Xilinhot: Saihan Mongolian Restaurant (milk tofu pancake + sand onion buns) - Xiwuzhumuqin Banner: Freshly cooked hand-pulled lamb at herders’ homes (about 80 RMB per jin, dip in salt to enjoy original flavor)❌ Avoid: “High-priced whole roasted lamb” at scenic entrances (better to book with herders for freshly slaughtered small lamb, about 120 RMB per person, more authentic) Packing List - Temperature warrior: Windbreaker (10℃ mornings and evenings), sun hat + arm sleeves (UV rays peak at noon). - Life-saving essentials: Mosquito repellent (mosquitoes dense in July), offline maps (grasslands often have no signal). 💰 Expense Breakdown Item Cost (per person) Money-saving tips Car rental + fuel 1200 RMB Share SUV with 4 people, split fuel cost Accommodation 1500 RMB Mix of guesthouses + budget hotels Tickets 500 RMB Must-visit volcano/stone forest, others choose free viewing platforms Food 800 RMB Eat more at herders’ homes + supermarket supplies Total 4000 RMB Off-season can be reduced to 3000 RMB Real Experience: - The wind turbine array at Huiteng Grassland is more photogenic than expected, wearing spacesuits at the volcano is cheesy but really fun! - Xiwuzhumuqin Banner 99 Highway is the MVP of the whole trip, every frame looks like a National Geographic shot📸. - Starting from Beijing avoids the crowds on Zhangbei Grassland Sky Road, enjoy the wild beauty of Xilin Gol, worth every drop of fuel! Route advantage: avoids peak season crowds in Hulunbuir, cost-effective, perfect for first-time grassland self-driving beginners～ This summer, step on the gas and escape the sauna heat, the grassland breeze will blow away all your worries🌿✨