August 22, 2025

Beijing Weekend Guide: Adventure & Chill


Local hidden gems and relaxing escapes curated by Our Beijing. Looking to escape the crowds and discover something truly local this weekend? Our Beijing’s adventure and chill guide is your passport to off-the-beaten-path plans in Beijing — from forest trails in the western suburbs to a quiet café tucked inside the city’s Opera Museum. Whether you’re craving a half-day nature fix or a slow coffee in an unexpected corner, we’ve got something for both the adventurer and the chiller in you.


Check out our previous Adventure & Chill guide for more hidden trails and cozy cafés. 


👟 Adventurer’s Pick: Badachu 八大处

Known as the “Eight Great Sites” for its cluster of Buddhist temples and nunneries, Badachu offers an easy, rewarding climb with a dose of history—and one of the fastest toboggan rides in Beijing for a fun descent.

📍 Location & How to Get There

  • Subway: Line 6 → Xihuangcun Station, then a short taxi to the South Gate.
  • Taxi address (中文): 北京市八大处公园-南门

💥 What Makes It Special

  • Temple-dotted hillsides with a genuine “outside the city” feel.
  • Fresh spring water roughly one hour up—bring an empty bottle.
  • The trail continues beyond the first peak if you want to go longer.
  • Toboggan back down—fast, safe, and very fun.

🥾 Difficulty, Time & Distance

  • Hike duration: ~40 minutes to the top (no breaks); 1–3 hours with stops.
  • Trail: Steady incline, some uneven terrain; beginner-friendly.

🌄 Pro Tips

  • Start early to beat heat and crowds.
  • Wear sturdy shoes; it’s not a flat stroll.
  • Going deeper on the back trail? Bring snacks—and a headlamp if you’re unsure of timing.

Our Beijing Insider: Want a worry-free nature day with fellow explorers (and snacks)? Join our curated Wild Wall & Mountain hikes—route, timing, and logistics handled for you. Learn more.


☕ Chiller’s Pick: 点绛唇 (Dian Jiang Chun Café)

Hidden inside the Opera Museum near Hufangqiao, this café is a calm, culture-rich corner. Step past the traditional opera exhibits and you’ll find warm wood interiors, opera-inspired details, the scent of fresh bakes, and quietly focused regulars. It’s one of those hidden cultural gems in Beijing that even locals are surprised to discover.

📍 Address: 虎坊路 3 号(虎坊桥地铁站 C 东南口步行约 230 米)

🌿 Vibe

  • A cozy caffeine oasis tucked within a museum campus — quiet, unhurried, and full of character.
  • Opera touches mix with modern coffeehouse design, giving the space a cultured but casual feel.
  • Many guests come here with laptops or books, making it a favorite for slow afternoons.

☕ What to Try

  • Iced Dirty for hot days — creamy and bold with a double shot kick.
  • Vienna-style Coffee — double espresso topped with whipped cream, a nostalgic treat.
  • House-made Soufflé — warm, airy, and perfectly risen (vanilla or chocolate).

💡 Our Beijing Insider Tip

This spot is not just for coffee breaks — it’s where Our Beijing team member Sherry, often work on blog drafts. The calm atmosphere makes it ideal for both inspiration and focus. Stop by for a quiet recharge, or bring your journal and join the café’s gentle rhythm of concentration.oft window light.


📸 Capture Your Adventure and Chill Moments

Send us your best shots to be featured on WeChat Moments (ourbeijing) or Instagram (@our_beijing).

Remember: leave nothing but footprints. Take everything home with you, recycle, and re-use.


Q&A: Plan Your Best Beijing Weekend

Do I need a car to reach Badachu?

Not necessarily—take Line 6 to Xihuangcun and taxi to the South Gate. Trails/signage can be confusing, so consider an Our Beijing guided day: we handle routes, timing, and the best spring-water refill spots.

Is the café in the Opera Museum public?

Yes. You don’t need a museum ticket for the café. It’s a local favorite for quiet work time, specialty coffee, and a break from downtown buzz.

Can I do both in one day?

Technically yes—Badachu in the morning and the café in late afternoon—but it’s a long cross-city day. For a smoother experience, join an Our Beijing curated plan; we’ll design a hike + chill combo that fits your pace.

🎒 Ready to Explore with Our Beijing?

Book a Hutong Bike Tour, Foodie Night Tour, or ask for a custom itinerary. We’ll handle the logistics—so you can just explore, unwind, and enjoy the city like a local.


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