September 26, 2025

Where to Go in Beijing for the Holidays

The countdown to the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival has begun! 🎉 Not in the mood for long-distance travel? This Beijing holidays guide brings together short trips perfect for a weekend with friends. From cycling bases and hutong cafés to village markets, ancient trails, and even a Great Wall escape, these routes will refresh and recharge you during the autumn holidays.


🚴 Route 1: Shuiyuzui Village, Mentougou District

Route: Jingxi Ancient Road Scenic Area – Former Residence of Ma Zhiyuan – HiCafe – Boutique Homestay – Shenquan Gorge Scenic Area

  • Jingxi Ancient Road Scenic Area: A 2.1 km trail, 1.5–2 hours hike. Ticket: ¥27.
  • Former Residence of Ma Zhiyuan: Traditional courtyard home, includes noodles or milk tea. Ticket: ¥20.
  • HiCafe: A hidden coffee stop inside Dongma Shanjia Homestay.
  • Shenquan Gorge Scenic Area: Multiple hiking routes from 5–20 km. Ticket: ¥36, free parking.

🚗 Car: Navigate to Shuiyuzui Village (门头沟区水峪嘴村).

🚇 Public: Subway Line S1 → Shichang Station → Bus M22 → Shuiyuzuicun Stop.


🚲 Route 2: Xiayuan Village, Changping District

Route: Cycling Base – Cultural Square – Xinzhuang Markets – Specialty Lodging

  • Cycling Base: Rentals start from ¥300, including full gear. Beginner routes available.
  • Cultural Square: Graffiti walls + art studios — perfect for photo lovers.
  • Xinzhuang Markets: Coffee, pastries, handicrafts, and live concerts (16:00–18:30 during the holidays).

🚗 Car: Navigate to Xiayuan Village Committee (昌平区下苑村村委会).

🚇 Public: Subway Line 5 → Tiantongyuan Bei → Bus Chang 28 → Xiayuancun Stop.


🎨 Route 3: Banbidian Village, Daxing District

Route: Tuanhe Imperial Palace – Hongwen Boya Art Museum – Boutique Homestay – Yalugu Tropical Botanical Garden – Beijing Wildlife Park

  • Tuanhe Imperial Palace: Hosting an intangible cultural heritage fair Oct 1–6.
  • Hongwen Boya Art Museum: Try fragrance-making; reservations via WeChat.
  • Yalugu Tropical Botanical Garden: 3,000+ tropical species + dinosaur installations. Ticket: ¥99.
  • Beijing Wildlife Park: “Ordinary Workers” interactive theme with souvenir rewards.

🚗 Car: Navigate to Tuanhe Imperial Palace Relics Park.

🚇 Public: Subway Line 4 → Tiangongyuan → Bus Xing 28 → Banbidiancun Stop.


🏯 Route 4: Beigou Village, Huairou District

Route: Mutianyu Great Wall – Beigala Shuanrou – Boutique Lodging – Beigou Village Hiking Trail

  • Mutianyu Great Wall: Towers 1–20 open, moderate challenge for outdoor lovers.
  • Beigala Shuanrou: Copper-pot hotpot with mountain views.
  • Beigou Hiking Trail: Free entry, low difficulty, 2 km round trip.

🚗 Car: Navigate to Beigou Village Committee, Huairou. Free parking.


❓ Q&A: Beijing Holidays

Q: Where can I go cycling during the Beijing holidays?

A: Xiayuan Village’s cycling base is a top choice, offering routes for beginners and pros alike.

Q: Which hiking spot is beginner-friendly near Beijing?

A: Shuiyuzui’s Jingxi Ancient Road and Beigou Village’s hiking trail are both easy and scenic.

Q: Are there family-friendly activities?

A: Yes — Banbidian Village’s Tropical Botanical Garden and Beijing Wildlife Park are perfect for kids.


🌟 CTA: Ready to Go Beyond the Obvious?

This Beijing holidays guide is just the beginning! At Our Beijing, we bring you beyond the tourist facade into real adventures and local life. Join us for:

👉 Who’s on your list for the next Beijing holiday adventure?


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