Frozen serenity: Discover the Thrill of Ice Floating Near Beijing
The search for ice floating near Beijing is over. This once-exclusive winter activity, famous in places like Xinjiang, has now arrived in the capital’s backyard. Imagine floating peacefully on a crystal-clear, frozen lake, perfectly warm and dry inside a special suit, with a 180-degree view of the winter sky above. It’s an unforgettable sensory experience, and with professional organizers providing all the gear and safety support, it’s an adventure anyone can enjoy.
🌟 Why Try Ice Floating?
This isn’t just another winter sport; it’s a sensory reset. Here’s what makes it special:
Unmatched Perspective & Peace: Floating on your back offers a 180-degree view of the sky, surrounding mountains, and ice patterns—a profoundly calming experience away from city noise.
Zero Skills Required: You don’t need to know how to swim. The specialized “dry suit” keeps you perfectly buoyant and completely dry, making it accessible to almost anyone.
Incredible Photo Ops: The vibrant color of your suit against the stark white and blue of the ice creates stunning, unique photos and videos that are guaranteed to impress.
A True Novelty: It’s a fresh, conversation-starting activity that breaks the routine of typical Beijing winter outings like skiing or visiting ice festivals.
📍 Where to Find Ice Floating Near Beijing
Professional clubs organize sessions at several scenic locations, each with its own charm:
Location
Scenery & Vibe
Travel Time from Beijing
Guanting Reservoir
Expansive views, often with wind turbines and natural ice cracks/bubbles on the surface.
~2 hours by car
Yudu Mountain / Wangyou Lake
Mountain-framed, serene setting with very clear ice. The area is also an ice source for the Longqing Gorge Festival.
~1.5-2 hours by car
Important Note: Participation is only possible through licensed outdoor clubs. Never attempt to access frozen lakes on your own, as ice conditions can be unpredictable and extremely dangerous without professional oversight.
📝 What You Need to Know Before You Go
Activity Basics:
Price Range: Typically between ¥158 – ¥258, depending on the club and package.
What’s Included: Rental of the professional dry suit, guidance from a certified coach, lifeguard supervision, and basic photography service.
Height Requirement: Most operators require participants to be between 150cm and 190cm tall for proper suit fit.
Combo Activities: Some clubs offer “ice floating +” packages, like adding ice kayaking for a more action-packed day.
Safety & Preparation is Key:
The Suit is Everything: The key is the “dry floating suit.” It’s waterproof, insulated, and has a built-in back buoyancy aid to keep your head above water. You wear your own thermal base layers underneath.
Listen to Your Coach: They will guide you on how to safely enter/exit the water and how to float properly. The floating session itself usually lasts 20-30 minutes.
What to Wear/Bring: Wear moisture-wicking thermal underwear (avoid cotton), thick socks, and it’s advisable to wear water-resistant hiking pants (防泼水冲锋裤) over your thermals for extra warmth and protection before/after the float. Remove all sharp objects from your pockets.
Find a Reputable Organizer:Use Xiaohongshu (小红书) to search for recent activity posts, reviews, and videos. Look for hashtags like #北京冰湖漂浮 or #冰镇小龙虾. This platform is excellent for finding real user experiences, comparing different clubs, and contacting organizers directly. Always confirm the club has proper permits and buys specialized outdoor insurance for participants.
✨ Beyond Floating: More Frozen Adventures
If ice floating sparks your love for winter landscapes, Beijing’s outskirts offer other breathtaking frozen adventures:
Frozen Waterfall Sightseeing: Witness the powerful beauty of waterfalls transformed into magnificent ice sculptures. For a complete winter mountain day trip that includes this spectacle, explore our article: Your Ultimate Winter Mountain Adventure in Beijing: Yudu Mountain.
❄️ Pro Tips for the Best Experience
Book Ahead: Weekends fill up quickly. Aim to reserve your spot 3-5 days in advance.
Mind the Weather: A clear, sunny day provides the best light for photos and a more comfortable overall experience.
Embrace the Moment: The initial sensation on the water is unique, but relax and trust your suit. Let yourself fully unwind and enjoy the rare feeling of weightless stillness.
Ready to experience this ice floating near Beijing for yourself? Grab your camera, bundle up, and get ready to float into one of Beijing’s most peaceful winter adventures.
Want to explore more of Beijing’s unique seasonal experiences with a trusted local guide? 👉 Let Our Beijing help you plan your next unforgettable adventure. From conquering the rugged Huanghua Wild Great Wall to immersing in our authentic Hutong experiences, we ensure you experience Beijing’s extraordinary side.
