This Beijing Family Hikes series features kid-friendly hikes in rhythm with the seasons. Spring blooms and fall foliage, wild swims in summer and frozen rivers in winter – we handpick trails that celebrate seasonality and explore Beijing’s ecological and cultural heritage.

“Reading ten thousand books is not as useful as traveling ten thousand miles,” an old proverb goes. Indeed! I wrote earlier about the many benefits of hiking with kids along with tips provided by trusted guide Steven Zhang of Steven’s Hikes, who has trekked thousands of miles across China.

This spring, Steven has selected three trails in and around Beijing where early blooms meet echoes of imperial grandeur – perfect for sparking young imaginations. One is a perennial favorite within city limits; the other two venture further afield. Read on for highlights of each trail, plus ideas on upping the fun factor through scavenger hunts, storytelling, and more.

Give these a go, and if you’d like to share your family’s adventures, we’d love to see your notes and snaps! For information on guided tours, contact Steven on WeChat via the QR code below.Silver Mountain Pagoda Forest (Yínshān Tǎlín, 银山塔林)

Location: Changping District
Drive time: about 1.5 hours from Liangmaqiao, Beijing

Option A:

• Hiking distance: 9km
• Elevation gain: 500m
• Difficulty level: L3 (suitable for ages 10+)

Option B:

• Hiking distance: 4km
• Elevation gain: 300m
• Difficulty level: L2 (suitable for ages 7+)

Why Go?

From late March to early April, peach blossoms frame a postcard-pretty backdrop to Silver Mountain’s Fahua Temple ruins. A “pagoda forest” of seven pagoda towers dating back to the Jin dynasty gives kids a captivating glimpse into China’s rich Buddhist history. At its peak, this ancient monastic site housed over ten thousand monks!

Terrain: For a more challenging hike for teens, Steven recommends a longer “off-road” approach from the back of Yinshan (Option A), which follows a rugged, rocky path with sections of steeper gradients. For kids under 10, he suggests a shorter “out-and-back” route from the main gate (Option B) following a paved path. Both routes include climbing stairs to the top platform for a mountain panorama, while on the descent pathway, you’ll get a birds-eye view of the pagoda forest.

Fun Factor: The pagoda grounds’ open area is perfect for running around and turning cartwheels. Play an improvised scavenger hunt of who can find a secret cave with rock art? Which pagoda has elaborate relief carvings? Let kids explore like archaeologists in the ruins or channel their inner Indiana Jones on a temple trek.

Snacks: Enjoy ice cream (bīngqílín 冰淇淋) for the kids, cold beer (bīngpíjiǔ 冰啤酒) for the grown-ups, or a full local meal in the nearby village of Xiangtang.

Price: RMB 20 for adults and RMB 5 for children. Purchase at the ticket counter on-site or book one day in advance via WeChat.

Find it:
Yinshan Pagoda Forest Scenic Area
银山塔林风景区
Xihu Village, Xingshou Town, Changping District
昌平区兴寿镇西湖村
Opening hours: 8am-4pm
WeChat: 银山塔林

Qiyin Temple aka “Wild Forbidden City” (Yǎngshān Qíyīn Sì, 仰山棲隱寺)

Location: Mentougou District
Drive time: about 1 hour from Liangmaqiao
Hiking distance: 7km
Elevation gain: 400m
Difficulty level: L2 (suitable for ages 7+)

Why Go?

Imagine the Forbidden City swallowed by forest … in the Taihu Mountains. Over a thousand years old, Qiyin Temple was once a grand royal sanctuary. Destroyed in the Japanese invasion, the site feels frozen in time: Half-standing halls, crumbling stonework, and overgrown paths give it an air of mystery and melancholy, all the more evocative when cherry blossoms appear.

Terrain: While multiple trailheads lead to Qiyin, the child-friendliest route is to start and end at the village of Yingtaogou (樱桃沟). This roughly 7km loop meanders through rocky mountain paths and narrow dirt tracks, with modest elevation gain and a few steep sections. The route is mostly exposed with little shade, and dry bushes can be scratchy, so don long sleeves and long trousers. Watch out for trail forks and occasional loose gravel; good shoes and sun protection are a must. The abandoned temple sits at the midway point, an atmospheric pause in the heart of the hills.

Fun Factor: Bring along a printed photo of the temple from the 1920s and play “then and now” – what’s changed, what’s still there? It’s a low-key way to spark curiosity about history. In late May, pop into one of the cherry orchards on the trail, where, for a small fee, your hungry young hikers can pick and feast on cherries.

Snacks: Enjoy a panoramic picnic with views over the yellow-tiled roofs of the temples at the top of the hill. Yingtaogou village also has a restaurant.

Price: Free

Find it:
Yangshan Qiyin Zen Temple
仰山棲隱禪寺
50 meters north of Yingtaogou Folk Tourism Village, Mentougou District
门头沟区樱桃沟民俗旅游村北50米

Fragrant Hills (Xiangshan Gongyuan, 香山公园)

Location: Haidian District
Drive time: about 30 min from Liangmaqiao
Hiking distance: 4km
Elevation gain: 400m
Difficulty level: L1 (suitable for ages 5+)

Why go?  Xiangshan is a serene escape west of the Summer Palace and easily accessible via metro, just one stop past the National Botanical Gardens. True to its name, the spring air in this former imperial garden is sweet with plum blossoms, violet cress, and wildflowers, while towering evergreens provide welcome shade as the days warm up.

Terrain: “Choose your own adventure” among a network of footpaths, from gentle paved steps to steeper, wooded detours. Go up one way and down another, letting kids lead the route (the park is well-signposted). The final ascent gets steeper and less shaded, but the top deck rewards hikers with a pavilion teahouse and sweeping views over Beijing. Dance a summit jig and see who can spot landmarks like the Summer Palace’s vast lake or CBD’s iconic skyline.

Fun Factor: Don’t miss Temple of Azure Clouds (Bìyún Sì, 碧云寺) located at the park’s eastern end, which houses a dizzying 512 Bodhisattva statues! Local lore says to pick a number, then count off the statues – whichever you land on is your protector. A plaque reveals their special powers, and for a few kuai, you can take home a protective amulet card as a souvenir.

Snacks: The Commerce Street along the south gate has a mix of teashops and street food, or get quirky ice creams and chocolates at a Russophile convenience store.

Price:
RMB 10 for adults and RMB 5 for children.

Find it:
40 Maimaijie, Haidian District
北京市海淀区买卖街40号
Metro: Fragrant Hills Station (香山站) on the Xijiao Line
Opening hours: 6am-6.30pm last entry

Images: Uyanga Jaeckels, Tara Fegelein, Steven’s Hikes

There’s something about trekking through nature that shifts the way we connect with our children. Escaping the everyday—schools, screens, the busyness of Beijing’s speedy pace—to immerse in forests and mountains, it feels like time slows down and space opens up to be more mindful of our surroundings. Breathing in green scents, crossing a cool stream, spotting a salamander, wondering what a tree species might be – hiking heightens our physical sensations and sense of wonder, and invites a new flow to conversations.

On top of promoting wellness and family bonding, hiking is time in nature’s classroom. Children develop resilience by learning how to persevere through challenges encountered along the way. How to deal with a flash rainshower? A stumble, cut knee, bug bite? Hangry parents? Their confidence grows when they are able to calmly handle unexpected situations, reach a summit, or complete a long trail. Finally, spending time with flora and fauna strengthens their appreciation for biodiversity and ecological stewardship.

So that’s the case for upping your family’s hiking game from occasional leisure to essential monthly ritual. But, how can you coax your little one into falling in love with conquering mountains from drama-prone preschoolers to too-cool teens? We ask Steven Zhang of Steven’s Hikes, who has 20 years of experience hiking around Beijing and across China, for his tips on turning ‘Are we there yet?’ into ‘Let’s summit!’

How to Choose Trails – According to Steven:

Start Small and Local. Nearby trails like Fragrant Hills or the National Botanical Gardens offer short, familiar routes that build confidence and enthusiasm to take on more challenging routes.

Match to Ability Level. As you build up to longer trails, opt for routes that match your child’s stamina. Consider distance, elevation gain, terrain, and total duration against her ability, pace, and attention span. Steven classifies five difficulty levels (L1-L5, see his QR code at the end of the article). A simpler rule to adapt for ability and age:

• Under 10: Flat, shaded trails, some moderate inclines, with interactive elements.
• Over 10: Introduce steeper inclines, longer distances, and set goals for summits.

Favor Trails with Kid Appeal. Some trails are built with learning stations or play areas along the way. Others may feature waterfalls and stream crossings, or cultural draws like temples and ruins. Trails along larger lakes and rivers invite a dip in the water in summer, even a rest area for a scenic picnic goes a long way in appealing to young hikers.

Get the kids involved in the preparation process.

Involve Kids in Planning. Look up the route on an online map together, let them pack the backpack, and choose snacks. This involvement increases their enthusiasm.

Gear Up Appropriately. Invest in a lightweight backpack, sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, and a first-aid kit. Local brands

Long is Better Than Short. Many go hiking in shorts and tanks during summer, but Steven recommends light, breathable long-sleeve shirts and long pants to guard against the sun and scratches. Use a variety of outer layers, such as rain jackets, windbreakers, or fleece jackets, depending on the season. Protective headwear is also essential, even in cooler months, to protect the face and eyes.

Pack Light and Smart. Plenty of water, snacks, head coverings, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray (summer), a first-aid kit (or at least plasters), a spare pair of socks if there are water crossings, and for good measure, more snacks.

What about when you’re on the trail?

Mindset is Everything. A successful hike has as much to do with the right gear as it does the right attitude. Patience, humor, and curiosity. Gently remind kids (and yourself) to take a breath when frustration hits.

Safety First. Teach basic safety rules—staying on the path, recognizing trail markers, and what to do if separated.

Respect Nature. Instill a leave-no-trace ethic and model care for the environment.

Give Kids a Role: Whether it’s trail navigator, photographer, or sunscreen monitor, small responsibilities increase engagement and confidence.

Relaxed Pace. Frequent snack and view breaks are a must, especially for under-10s. It’s a cliché, but so true: The journey is the destination.

Spot Birds, Bugs, Plants: Play a scavenger hunt to see who will find the first lizard, centipede, or (whatever bird is local to the area – look it up!). Curious by nature and closer to the ground, kids often notice what adults miss. The excellent Seek by iNaturalist app IDs trees, flowers, and insects – it’s free and works offline.

Make It a Story. Weave in local legends, myths, or made-up tales about the landscape. It’s a great way to fuel imaginations and hold attention.

Practice Mindfulness. Teach children to observe, listen, and connect with their surroundings. Slow down and simply BE.

Expect the Unexpected. Be ready to adjust. Pack rain gear and keep an open mind if plans need to shift.

High-five the wins! Victory dance at the summit, finishing a loop, and even mark smaller wins along the way. Positive reinforcement builds motivation and resilience.

End on a High Note. Develop a ritual for rewarding your conclusion of the hike. For example, Steven likes to end hikes with a local village meal.

Reflect Together. On the ride home, talk about what everyone enjoyed or learned. Post-hike chats help reinforce positive experiences.

Share with Jingkids! Tongue in cheek… but seriously, we’d love to learn from your adventures to inspire us and fellow readers…

And that’s your trail toolkit! Ready to put it to use? Coming up next, Steven takes us on three spring hikes where ancient pagodas, forgotten temples, and imperial gardens await. Let the adventure begin.

For more information on classifying hiking levels and group hiking tours, contact Steven at:Images: Tara Fegelein

Staying in Beijing for the May Day holiday but itching to get out and about? Here are some fun day trip recommendations for the whole family to enjoy the wonderful weather this weekend (*fingers crossed).

Longqing Gorge 

Even if you’ve been here in winter for the Ice Lanterns, you’ll definitely want to revisit Longqing Gorge in the warmer months because it is an entirely different landscape. Gone are the desolate arid mountains and frozen lake. In their place cascading green hills and an emerald river transport you to a little slice of nature’s paradise!

There’s some hiking involved to get to some scenic spots, but even for little ones it’s nothing that a little perserverance, plus lots of patience and snacks, won’t overcome. As a reward, you can enjoy a cable car ride, ferry boat ride and a slide for life! And don’t forget to queue up for the fun toboggan ride that goes around the mountain and over the lake!

PRO TIP: Dogs are welcome here, though there are a few escalators and the floor of the ferry is metal which was scorching hot in summer for their paws! I had to carry my pooch in my lap on the ferry, which drew some stares.

Longqingxia Scenic Area
Guchengcun, Jiuxianzhen, Yanqing district

Beijing Back Garden 北京后花园

Forgive its poorly translated name but this massive park in west Beijing has been on my radar for some time because of the huge outdoor rainbow slide that’s on my Beijing bucket list!

There are also playgrounds with mildly inclined climbing walls for kids, little pools with fish and boating activities, and plenty of hiking and nature exploration. Bring a picnic mat and picnic basket if you want more than just Chinese hot dogs and instant noodles.

Beijing Back Garden
Yangfangzhen, Changping district

Survival Island

Less than 60km north of Beijing lies an unassuming park with a more intimidating name – Survival Island. Aside from offering scenic walks, the park features a 15m-tall rock wall and a series of Ninja Warrior-esque obstacle courses over land and water. Kids above 1m are welcome to try any of them, but be warned, there is no lifeguard on duty to fish you out from the murky water if you fall in, nor any ranger to rescue you should you wish to give up halfway through the rope bridge.

For the full review of Survival Island, read our previous post here!

Beijing Survival Island Practice Base 北京生存岛实践基地售票处, 6 Hong Luo Dong Lu, Huairou District, Beijing 北京市怀柔区红螺东路6号 

What are you doing this May Day holiday? Share with us your discoveries of family-friendly places in Beijing in the comments below!

Images: Vivienne Tseng-Rush, courtesy of vendors

Yay, it’s finally Friday. The clock inches forward, and you prepare to bolt from the office as soon as it hits 5pm. Then you realize that nothing special is planned for the weekend. Nothing special means another Saturday trying to put up with your kid’s tantrums and figuring out where to go with the whole family squabbling. Suddenly, the weekend doesn’t seem that magical anymore, and your head’s already began throbbing from thinking about it. Don’t fret, the travel guru is here! Read on, and you’ll fix up your weekends in no time!

十渡野三坡漂流 White-Water Rafting

Address: Sandu Village, Zhangfang Town, Fangshan District
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 8am-4pm
Approx. Price: RMB 50

Although this is not the Colorado Falls, white-water rafting in the outskirts of Beijing is . This team sport can help your family bond for hours. It gives everyone a chance to learn more about their strengths and weaknesses, and your kids can learn about working in a team. Without modern-day distractions like smartphones, you can have much more outdoor bonding fun while overcoming the rapids. So, store away those devices this weekend, book a trip, and prepare to get wet. Word of advice: remember to bring an extra change of clothing because you do not want to walk around afterwards soaking wet.

拒马乐园 JuMa Park

Address: Jiudu Village, Shidu Town, Fangshan District
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 8am-6pm, stop entry at 5pm
Approx. Price: Free

Ready for some thrilling outdoor fun? Then this park is made for you. Don’t be fooled by its dull name because this park has it all. The most famous one is the Canyon Flying Man, where you fly off a canyon on an enormous zip line. They also have bungee jumping that goes as high as 48 meters! Talk about adrenaline. Other awesome attractions are cable cars, rock climbing, and even a haunted house! A jam-packed day for all members of the family. While the bigger kids can go all out, the younger kids can enjoy the safer slides. Just remember to bring extra cash since some attractions do require fees.

幸福草莓园草莓采摘 Strawberry Picking

Address: No. 78-81 Planting Greenhouse in North Tugou of Future Science and Technology City
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 8am-4pm
Approx. Price: RMB 171
Phone Number: 185 0059 3598 / 183 0139 2448

Strawberries! The smell of summer and everyone’s favorite fruit. Why not skip the supermarket this time and head straight for a strawberry greenhouse? Taste the fresh red juice right off the vines as a perfect start to summer. And there’s a variety of strawberries to choose from. Go all out for the 1.5kg package or pick 500g worth of the fiery red fruit. Whichever you choose, there’s fun for everyone. The friendly guides there will show you around and take you to greenhouses that cultivate various breeds. So, get out your wellies and be prepared for some down-to-earth harvesting for the weekend! Best of all? Your kids can munch on the already picked strawberries if they’re hungry.

北京凤凰岭 Feng Huang Ling

Address: 19 Fenghuangling Road, Sujiatuo Town, Haidian District
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 7am-5.30pm
Approx. Price: RMB 25

Feng Huang Ling, home to the famous Ling Long Tower and Long Quan Temple. One of the most traditional scenic parks located just outside the main city. If you’re down for some Beijing culture and history, take everyone on a scenic hike in the parks. The twisty paths with the blue skies and surrounding greenery will take your breath away. For those kids who say history is boring, drag them along, and the beauty of this park will make them take back their words for sure. Just make sure to bring some sandwiches and fruits since you may be wandering inside this park for quite a long time!

孤山寨风景区 Gu Mountain Scenic Park

Address: Qidu Village South, Shidu Scenic Area, Fangshan District
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 8am-5pm, entry stops at 4pm
Approx. Price: RMB 50

Trekking under the forget-me-not blue sky with rays of sunlight shining down on you makes for a perfect weekend. This scenic park offers even more than that too – with gushing waterfalls, gorgeous mountains reaching towards the sky, and peach blossom flowers. Every corner is filled with nature as soon as you step through the gate. You can even rent horses and ride on them from one scenic spot to the next. The light hiking is suitable for young kids as well, so why not take the whole family there for a day in nature? You’ll be surprised to see what the Beijing outskirts can offer.

KEEP READING: This Weekend’s Top Family Events (Jul 3-4)

Images: Pexels

This article appeared in the jingkids 2021 May issue

Enjoy the best that Beijing has to offer to families this weekend. As always, click the link in the event title or scan the QR codes for further details and ticketing info.

Friday, Dec 18

Christmas Market at China World Mall

One more place where you can find some handicrafts and perhaps fancier items for those colleagues on your shopping list. And if you don’t get anything you need at the market, they have all those great shops year round!

10am-6pm, 1F 5Lmeet @ Chinaworld – PICK½EAT

Saturday, Dec 19

The Beijing Pizza Cup

Come decide Beijing’s Best Pizza at the Beijinger’s 2020 Pizza Cup Final Four Taste-Off in the cozy confines of Boxing Cat Brewery on Dec 19! We’ll have five sessions, each limited to 100 participants. At the event, you will be served pizza from all Final Four contestants, drink beer and make merry – but this is key: only those present who have tasted all four can choose the ultimate champion for 2020. But scan that QR code and book your table now, because it’s selling fast!

Two-hour slots 11am-10pm, RMB 100-150/seat

Carols for a Cause

It’s a full day of festive fun for a great cause, starting with cookie decorating and games, Santa photo booth, self-defense for kids by Krav Maga Global, then both the MCF Kids Choir and International adult choir. Join anytime for yet another way to help the Migrant Children’s Foundation.

12-6pm, Jin Shang building No. 20, Xinyuanli West Rd Chaoyang, free entry.

A Very Jolly Christmas Market at Culture Yard

Culture Yard reminds you that it’s the last weekend before Christmas day, and their assortment of vendors looks truly unique: handmade stamps by the Teibido Studio, Handmade by Daria, Jules Brochenin, Comptoirs de France, Fentong, The Beijing Experience, Kashmir Heritage Crafts, Charluminous Puzzle and Art, and so much more.

11am-6pm, Culture Yard, Beixinqiao, from Beixinqiao exit C (facing Grandma’s Kitchen), turn left and continue straight for 5 minutes until you see our courtyard on your right, free entry

Sunday, Dec 20

Rumble in the Jumble Winter Solstice Bazaar

Rumble returns with “a hutong holiday market of epic proportions,” where you can enjoy all the wonderful handmade gifts you’ve come to expect from the Rumble in the Jumble vendors, including delicious treats from El Nido this time!

12-6pm. El Nido @ The Other Place, #1 Langjia Hutong, in Gulou.

Kids Club Early Christmas Hike and Gingerbread Baking

The group meets up and takes a lovely walk between two villages, which involves mostly flat land and one big hill. Smaller children may need to be carried. After the walk, you’ll take a bus into a larger village to relax with hot drinks and making gingerbread cookies.

www.beijinghikers.com, info@beijinghikers.com,+86 10 6432-2876, ¥390 / ¥350 members / ¥260 for kids 7–12 / ¥200 for kids 4–6

Festive Christmas Carols for a Cause

We all love the Zarah brunch, and now you get to add Yorkshire Pudding, German Lebkuchen, freshly baked Christmas Cookies, roasted candied almonds, and even more. Plus you just add a wee bit more to get free flow drinks for three hours.

12-3pm, Reservation highly recommended!, 186 10 8403 9807, info@cafezarah.com, Prices range from RMB 98 (6-12 years) – RMB 298

Need to keep the kids occupied over winter? Take look at these Beijing Camps for Dec 2020 – Jan 2021

Images: Courtesy of the event organizers, Pexels

As both the weather gets better and restrictions start to loosen in Beijing, people are feeling the itch to venture out of their homes and get a fresh breath of air in the beautiful hiking spots scattered around the outskirts of Beijing.

Unfortunately, there is still a lot of confusion regarding government policies about social gatherings and there is still the looming fear of COVID-19 itself. On top of that, resources to find out more information about which hiking spots are available, or even which one is the best to explore during this time, may be limited.

Huijie Sun and her daughter Hayley

Luckily, there are many hiking experts around Beijing and we managed to speak with Huijie Sun, a Beijing mom of a 3-year-old daughter and organizer of Beijing Hikers, a group that specializes in family hikes all around Beijing.

Sun filled us in on what it’s like to explore the natural and historical beauty of Beijing’s hiking locations.

We’ve seen more families going on hikes as the situation and weather get better now. How do you usually prepare before a hike in the current situation?

We check in with park management and local contacts before going for a hike to find out if they have any restrictions or requirements, like having to wear masks, and we let the hikers know about it in advance so they can get ready. We usually do all this anyway, but we’re doing it more often right now because the situation has been changing quite a lot.

For our own hikes we added extra Coronavirus-specific precautions to our regular safety guidelines. These precautions are published on our website for people to go over before booking a hike. For example, the number of hikers is limited so there’s enough space between people on the bus, we ask people to sanitize hands and wear masks before boarding the bus, and the buses are disinfected twice a day. You can see all the info here.

Huijie’s husband Hayden, with their daughter

For hiking with kids, is there anything specific to be taken care of? Any tips?

Kids must wear a mask as well, just like the adults. Parents should bring extra sanitizer, wet wipes, or 75% ethyl alcohol and disinfect their hands more often than usual. Bring an extra mask for your kids when you go out, because most kids don’t enjoy wearing a mask and they will take it off or throw it away when they feel hot or uncomfortable.

Can you list the top three things to be careful during a hike, based on your hiking tours during COVID-19?

1. Keep 1 to 1.5 meter distance between you and others while you hike in a public park, especially when there are more people around.
2. Bring warm clothes to the hike, because you don’t want to catch a cold right now.
3. Bring your own food and snacks, because most places to buy food are still closed.

Do you have places (open to the public now) to recommend for hiking these days?

Beijing Xishan Forest Park (西山森林公园), Phoenix Ridge Scenic Spot (凤凰岭风景区), and Huanghuachuang Water Great Wall Scenic Area in Huairou District (黄花城水长城).

Photos: Courtesy of Huijie Sun 

Do you have an upcoming family-friendly event that you want to be included in our listings? Maximize the reach of your event and promote it on beijingkids’ social platforms!

Let us know by leaving your message in the comments section below or by emailing us at webeditor@beijing-kids.com. Follow us on WeChat (ID: beijing-kids) or join our family events WeChat group by sending us your WeChat QR code. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned. For more events that may not be included in this list, please check our Events page. 

If you are planning on staying in Beijing over National Week (October 1 – 7), life may feel like it is going to shut down. Between road closures, extra security, and everyone’s usual hangouts closed for the holiday, it may seem like the perfect time to curl up at home and sleep the week away. For those of us with kids or a restless spirit though, this may not be as peaceful as it sounds. Never fear! Beijingkids is here to give you some alternatives to sitting around watching TV for Golden Week.

Survival Camp Level 2, Sept 30 – Oct 4 

Ages 7 – 14. Registration is still open to join this exciting survival camp. If you have already done some survival or adventure activities with Imagine, then this camp is what you need to take your survival skills to the next level. The camp teaches all kinds of advanced survival skills. Spend two days in the forest in Huairou, followed by a three day overnight trip to Baihe, Miyun. This is for kids who want to step out of their comfort zones and test themselves while taking their survival education further. Go to the beijingkids blog for more information and how to register.

RMB 950. 8am – 5.45pm. Huairou and Baihe.

Explore western China with Beijing Hikers, Oct 1 – 7

Ages 6+. Beijing Hikers is offering two exciting trips to explore western China. Journey to the West, along the Silk Road: Korla to Kashgar and Journey From the West: Urumqi to Jiayuguan. These two adventures will cover more than one thousand kilometers by jeep with lots of opportunities to get out and explore on foot. See Xinjiang Province, and the most and least traveled portions of the Silk Road. See famous landforms, ancient cities, grasslands and deserts and get a taste of the rich Muslim culture in western China.

RMB 15,220 – 19,150, all inclusive trip. Click here for more information on Korla to Kashgar, for more information on Urumqi to Jiayuguan click here.

Chongqing, Chengdu, Xi’an – 3 Must-Go Cities Tour, Oct 1 – 7 

If you love big, exciting and new cities then join Cultural Exchange Trips (CET) for this three cities tour. Spend seven days exploring these famous and beautiful cities. You’ll visit Chongqing, the largest inland municipality in China; see Chengdu where the biggest panda research center in the world can be found; and last visit Xian, the capital of 13 ancient Chinese dynasties. This tour will include pandas, the Leshan Giant Buddha, Mahjong, Sichuan hotpot, and the Terracotta Warriors.

RMB 4,585, fee includes everything except entrance fee tickets to all places. Meeting point at Beijing West Railway Station. Click here for more information.

Golden Week Specials at Jen Beijing Hotel, Oct 2 – 5

If leaving Beijing isn’t in your plans but you still want to relax, consider staying at Hotel Jen Beijing for a few days and enjoy their daily lineup of family-friendly activities, dining specials, live music and craft beers. For this week the standard room price includes all activities at Trainyard, a breakfast buffet, and dinner at San Wu Tang.

All ages. Work out with your family at Trainyard yoga. This workout is a great opportunity to show children that exercise should a part of your daily life. Bond through a fun and exciting yoga workout and Zumba!
Class is included in stay. 10.30am-11.30am. Trainyard. (8647 1050) . 

Ages 3 – 12. Another exciting option is Kids Boxing at Trainyard Boxing Area.  Famous boxing coaches Jerson and Lando will teach your children the basics of this exciting, fun, and tough sport. Parents are welcome to accompany their kids.
Included in stay. 10-11am. Trainyard Boxing Area (8647 1050). 

All ages. After your kiddos are tired from the exercise classes, come and quench your thirst with Beersmith’s delicious selection of craft beers. If you want to try all of the beer, order a flight and enjoy this craft beer and food pairing package. Order two paddles of eight different beers and soak it up with grilled pork sausage, mashed potatoes, burger with fries, salad and calamari. If the food isn’t enough for you,The Nightshift will be performing live each night during Golden Week.
RMB 388/two people, one kid per paying adult enjoys a free meal. All day. Beersmith. 

All ages. Still hungry? Great, because San Wu Tang also has specials this week. Enjoy the famous Sichuan dish Fuqi feipian or sliced beef and offal in chili sauce included in their Family Sharing Package. In this package enjoy  the regular buffet, and some special holiday dishes like steak rolls, seafood, and chocolate lava cake.
RMB 268 (online purchase) RMB 298.

Price varies. Hotel Jen Beijing. (6505 2277) 

China Puppet Art Theater “The Red Army’s Battle Steeds” (Puppet Show), Oct 2 – 3 

Ages 3+. The China Puppet Art Theater was founded in 1955, and has continued through the years to tell stories about China through this traditional Chinese art. The theater is devoted to combining unique Chinese national arts and fairy tales into its performances. This production tells the story of a battle horse named Yidianhong, who is left  by the commander of the Red Army with a small squadron for the wounded to ride. Heizi, a Red Army soldier in the squadron, bonds with the horse after the horse saves Heizi in a battle. Learn what happens next in this harrowing story at the National Centre for the Performing Arts. Click here for more information and tickets.

RMB 180 – 300. Shows start at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. National Centre for the Performing Arts.

Tengger Desert Lakes, Inner Mongolia (4 Days), Oct 2 – 5

Age 7+. On this four-day expedition you’ll experience life in the desert, with two days of hiking and one night of camping in the Tengger Desert region of the Alashan Plateau, adjacent to the huge Gobi Desert. Visit desert lakes and oases, traveling through the dunes by foot, by jeep, and by camel! On the last day of the trip, visit the Western Xia Imperial Tombs, taking a look at the distinctive pyramid-shaped burial mounds. This is an all-inclusive trip. To see if this trip is right for your family, click here.

RMB 6,850 (ages 7-11), 7,090 (12-17), 8,800 (adults). Requires reservation. (info@beijinghikers.com / 6432 2876)

Guilin: Li River, Yangshou, Longji Rice Terraces, Oct 2 – 5

All ages are welcome, but check to make sure this trip is right for your family. Visit one of the most beautiful places in China with CET. Guilin is known for mountains, rice terraces, the Li River, and much more. Highlights include visiting the Mahai Village, the rice terraces, bamboo rafting, hiking, and karst formations. Click here for more information.

RMB 895 – 1,845, children under 3 are free. Trip arrives and leaves from the Guilin train station or airport. 

Atelier Art School October Holiday Workshops, Oct 2 – 6 

Atelier Art School is offering three workshops for kids and adults this Golden Week. A Journey into Abstract Art, A Creative Approach to Painting and finally, a Drawing and Painting Class. Visit here for more information on any of these workshops. Register by emailing contact@atelier.cn.com or shunyi@atelier.cn.com (132 4018 4908) or wechat: ateliershunyi.

A Journey into Abstract Art:  Ages 5+. During this workshop, students will learn about the different artistic movements and artists that composed constructivism. Students will explore artists like Malevich, Lissitzky, and Popova and the various artistic styles they inspired. Experiment with painting, sculpturing, collage, graphical art, architecture, and fashion design.
RMB 2,000-2,500. Classes are from 10am–noon for children 5–8 years old and 1-3.30pm for children 9+. Sanlitun and Shunyi Campus. 

A Creative Approach to Painting: 13+ including adults. At this workshop students will learn how to look at a subject, learn where and how to start, become familiar with lighting and shadows, and discuss the subtleties of color.
RMB 2500. 1pm – 3.30pm. Atelier Sunlitun Campus.

Drawing and Painting Workshop: Join this workshop to work on your drawing and painting skills. Discover drawing in pencil and charcoal, introduce colors to your drawings with pastels, and learn to use watercolor paints to add beauty to your work. In this class learn to draw a figure in pencil and charcoal and use pastels and watercolor to paint a still life of food or flowers.
RMB 1800. 1pm – 3.30pm Atelier Shunyi Campus. 

Teatro alla Scala “Le Corsaire”, Oct 4

All ages. In 1498, Habsburg Emperor Maximilian I moved his court to Vienna, and the Vienna Boys Choir was born. Over the centuries, the Viennese Court attracted great musicians like Isaac, de Monte, Fux, Caldara, Gluck, Salieri, Mozart, and Bruckner; Joseph Haydn, Michael Haydn, and Franz Schubert were themselves choirboys. Until 1918, the boys sang exclusively for the court. In the 1920s, the choir was reestablished as a private organization. Since 1926, the Vienna Boys Choir has sung 1000 tours in 97 different countries.

RMB 280 – 1080. 7.30pm. National Centre for the Performing Arts. 

China Puppet Art Theatre “Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea” (Puppet Show), Oct 4, 5, 6

All ages. China Puppet Art Theater has always sought to innovate in this traditional storytelling method. It is devoted to telling the stories of China, and integrating unique Chinese national arts and fairy tales into the performances. The theater has produced many popular works, especially for children. They have performed many fairytales surrounding the story of the Monkey King and the Journey to the West. Click here for more information and to buy tickets.

RMB 180 – 300. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Ticket required. National Centre for the Performing Arts.

Studio Ghibli Symphony Concert, Oct 5

Kids Club: The Silver Pagodas, Oct 6 

Ages 5-12. This easy kid-orientated hike will take you through the countryside for a picnic by the 600-year-old Silver Pagodas, then spend the afternoon relaxing in the sun with an optional climb up to Silver Mountain. Join Beijing Hikers for this fun and relaxing day exploring Beijing’s beautiful countryside. Click here to learn more.

RMB 150 – 360. 8am. Pick up areas are Liangmaqiao subway and Lido Metropark Hotel Starbucks. 

Photos: courtesy of event coordinators

It’s a big, wide, beautiful world out there and sometimes we get so bogged down in school, work, and screens that we forget to take a moment and reflect on the natural wonders of which we are a part. And what better way to appreciate the vastness of this planet we call home, than to step out of the comforts of our modern day conveniences and rough it for a couple nights in the great outdoors?

Imagine trekking out into the wilderness, using nothing but your wits and a few primitive tools to survive for five days, all while learning more about yourself, building your character, and making new friends along the way.

As part of their Survival Camp for Level 2 explorers, Imagine China will be leading a group of truly intrepid youngsters on two day-long trips through the forests of Huairou, followed by a three-night camping adventure complete with rivers and cave exploration in the mountains of Miyun.

From Sep 30 to Oct 4, the group will learn invaluable lessons in trap making, advanced fire making, hiding and tracking, raft building, navigation techniques, and advanced shelter building. The excursions are open to kids aged 7-14, and cost RMB 950 per day, with a three day minimum. The price includes activities and instruction from English-speaking outdoor sports instructors, equipment for all the activities, an outdoor sports insurance package, transport fees, and breakfast, lunch, and dinner on select days. There are three daily drop-off and pick-up points located throughout the city.

According to Adina Mahalli, a mental health expert and family care professional, “Camping is generally used to help children build up their self-worth. Learning survival and life skills like pitching a tent, starting a fire, and cooking a meal are all activities to help increase one’s self-confidence. Confident children are more likely to be successful in the future.”

So while many of us would be hard-pressed to find ourselves stuck in the middle of nowhere anytime soon, Imagine China’s Survival Camp will provide kids with a unique opportunity to learn skills that push them out of their comfort zones and promote creative problem solving with limited resources, all of which will come in handy whether they’re in a city or the remote back country.

More information, including registration, can be found here.

Photos: Imagine China, Simpleasthatblog.com

Golden Week is coming up, and it’s the perfect opportunity to get out of Beijing and into the mountains (or deserts!) Escape crowds, closed restaurants, and the sadness of slow or no waimai by finding your peace in nature. Here are some family-friendly adventures to help you see parts of China you’ve never imagined and avoid the big shutdown during the October festivities.

Subashi Ancient Ruins

First up! Journey to the West, along the Silk Road: Korla to Kashgar. This seven-day adventure brought to you by Beijing Hikers will cover more than one thousand kilometers and take you to west China by jeep through the vast empty areas of Xinjiang Province. This trip goes through some of the most remote parts of the ancient Silk Road, so you can imagine what it was like for travelers going by camel or on foot. Visit the Baicheng Landforms, the ancient city of Subashi, and the Daksiliya Grand Canyon, and see a part of China unlike any other. During this trip, you will stay in local hotels at night.

Baicheng landforms

Second option is another seven day Silk Road trip. Journey From the West, Urumqi to Jiayuguan. This trip explores the northern part of the Silk Road, a more well-traveled portion than the Korla to Kashgar trip. Enjoy hikes and walks as the scenery changes from grassland to desert. Visit the beautiful and stark Nanshan Grasslands, and the ruins of Jiaohe, an ancient city sacked by Genghis Khan in the 13th century. In Dunhuang, see the Magao Grottoes and Crescent Lake. Visit the fortress at Jianyuguan, which marked the western end of the Ming Dynasty’s Great Wall. This trip will give you a taste of the rich Muslim culture alive in western China.

Crescent Lake, Dunhuang

The details for the Silk Road trips: Suitable for children 6+. October 1-7. RMB 19,150 (members get a discount), RMB 15,220 for ages 6-11, RMB 15,670 for ages 12-17. This is an all-inclusive trip; the fee includes plane tickets, guides, hotel stays, food, and drinks. Click here for more information on Korla to Kashgar, for more information on Urumqi to Jiayuguan click here. There is a lot of driving on these two Silk Road trips, broken up by hikes and sightseeing. If you don’t like long drives, you may want to consider another option.

Chongqing at night

If you’re looking for a more urban experience, you can join Cultural Exchange Trips (CET) for their Chongqing, Chengdu, Xian – 3 Most-Go Cities Tour, and spend seven days exploring these three famous Chinese cities.  You’ll visit Chongqing, the largest inland municipality in China; see Chengdu where the biggest panda research center in the world can be found; and last visit Xian, the capital of 13 ancient Chinese dynasties. This tour will include pandas, the Leshan Giant Buddha, Mahjong, Sichuan hotpot, and the Terracotta Warriors.

Pandas at the Breeding Center in Chengdu

The details: October 1 – 7. RMB 4,585 with discounts available for groups, fee includes round-trip transportation by high-speed train, hotel, meals, and an English-speaking guide. Fee does not include entrance fees to all places.  Meet at Beijing West railway station.  Click here for more information.

Tengger Desert dunes in Inner Mongolia

If you have less time during Golden Week, but still want to get away for a few days, consider a 4-day trip to Tengger Desert Lakes in Inner Mongolia instead. This trip from Beijing Hikers travels through the desert by foot, jeep, and camel. Spend one night camping in the desert, and visit an oasis. This trip is relatively easy with climbs up sand dunes and some short desert hiking, it is recommended for ages 7+. Tengger Desert is very special, with a long history and a lot of cultural diversity. It is located in the northernmost part of Inner Mongolia.

Riding Camels through the Tengger Desert

The Details: October 2 – 5. RMB 8,800 (members get a discount), Kids ages 7-11 RMB 6,850, kids ages 12-17 RMB 7,090. The price includes flights, transportation, hotel stays, food, drinks, and a guide. Click here to learn more.

Longji Rice Terraces 

Or you can visit one of the most beautiful places in China with CET, on their four day Guilin: Li River, Yangshou, Longji Highlight Tour. This area is known for its mountains, rice terraces, and the Li River which snakes its way like a ribbon through some of the greenest scenery on the planet. Highlights include staying in the Mahai Village in the Longji Rice Terraces, going bamboo rafting along the Li River, and a hike through karst formations in the ten-mile gallery.

The details: All ages are welcome to come on this trip, but check with the organizer to see if it is right for your family. October 2 – 5. This trip arrives and leaves from Guilin train station or airport, you are responsible for getting to and from Guilin. The trip fee includes bus, accommodation, meals, ticket fees, guides, and insurance. RMB 1,845 for adults. Children under 1.2m are RMB 895, children under 3 are free. Click here for more information.

The Silver Pagodas stand on the site of a Tang Dynasty temple

Only have one day to spend sightseeing in nature? We have you covered. Kids Club: The Silver Pagodas will take an easy walk through the countryside for a picnic by the 600-year-old Silver Pagodas. After seeing the Pagodas, spend the afternoon relaxing in the sun with an optional climb up to Silver Mountain. Join Beijing Hikers for this fun and relaxing day exploring China’s beautiful countryside.

View from Silver Mountain

The details: This trip is recommended for ages 5–12. RMB 360 for adults, RMB 180 for kids 6–12 and RMB 150 for ages 3–5. The hike is 2–3 hours over 4–6km. The trip leaves on October 6. Pick up areas are Liangmaqiao subway area at 8am and Lido Metropark Hotel Starbucks at 8.30am. Click here to learn more.

If none of these trips spark your interest visit Beijinghikers.com or CET’s WeChat: CultureExchangeTrip for many more options to get outdoors, learn something, and have fun!

Photos: Beijinghikers.com, CETtrips Beijing