Beijing Winter Travel Guide: Top 10 Spectacular Snow Scenery Spots and Practical Tips
The charm of winter travel in Beijing lies in the unique atmosphere the ancient capital reveals after a snowfall. As snowflakes drift down, this historic city sheds its usual bustle, unveiling a quiet and profound side.
For travelers seeking distinctive experiences, Beijing’s snowy attractions offer far more than just scenery—they provide an immersive winter adventure that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. From imperial ice rinks to the snow-draped Great Wall, each location tells a unique winter tale.
Below are our top ten must-visit winter destinations in Beijing, complete with comprehensive travel guides to help you plan your itinerary effortlessly.
Top 10 Beijing Winter Attractions
1. Shichahai Ice Rink
This classic spot embodies old Beijing’s winter traditions. Once a royal
“ice-skating” venue, today you can rent ice sleds and glide across the open ice while admiring the Bell and Drum Towers and ancient streetscapes—immersing yourself in authentic Beijing winter charm.
2. Beihai Park Ice Rink
Glide beneath the iconic White Pagoda to the familiar melody of
“Let Us Row the Boat Ashore”—a perfect way to immerse yourself in local life. This rink within the imperial gardens seamlessly blends historical scenery with winter fun.
3. Yuanmingyuan Joyful Snow Festival
Enjoy winter activities beside historical ruins for a uniquely contrasting experience. Featuring snow slides, snow tanks, and other attractions, it’s an ideal winter destination for family outings and parent-child activities in Beijing.
4. The Palace Museum
The Palace Museum, after snowfall, epitomizes Chinese aesthetic perfection. Snow-covered red walls and golden tiles evoke the serene, solemn beauty of traditional ink paintings. Important Note: Reservations with real-name registration are required 1-7 days prior via the official website. Winter sees fewer visitors, enhancing the viewing experience.
5. Temple of Heaven Park
The blue glazed tiles of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, framed by snow and clear skies, showcase the architectural grandeur and precision to their fullest. Strolling through the park after snowfall offers a serene and sacred atmosphere—an unmissable winter experience in Beijing.
6. Summer Palace
When Kunming Lake freezes over, it provides a unique vantage point to admire Wanshou Mountain and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge. The rime ice on the West Causeway resembles a painted scroll, making this a premier snowy Beijing spot for photography enthusiasts.
7. Mutianyu Great Wall
Snow-covered sections of the Great Wall amplify its majestic beauty with added ruggedness and solitude. Viewed from the cable car, the mountains are “dressed in silver,” with watchtowers winding along the horizon, creating a vast and magnificent panorama. Compared to other sections, this area sees fewer visitors, allowing for a more tranquil Beijing snow experience.
8. Gubei Water Town·Simatai Great Wall
The “Night Tour of the Great Wall” offers a distinctive experience. At dusk, ascend the softly illuminated Simatai Great Wall and gaze down upon the snow-covered ancient town below—an unforgettable scene and a highlight of immersive winter travel in Beijing.
9. National Stadium (Bird’s Nest) Winter Fun Festival
Experience diverse snow activities within the Olympic venue, blending modern sportsmanship with winter fun to energize your Beijing winter journey.
10. National Aquatics Center (Ice Cube)
Here, you can personally experience Olympic-standard curling rinks, gain deeper insights into Winter Olympic sports, and complete a unique Beijing winter adventure.
Practical Guide for Winter Travel in Beijing
Best Time to Visit
The optimal period for enjoying Beijing’s snowy landscapes is late December to February, with freshly fallen snow on clear days being particularly picturesque. Ice rinks typically operate from late December to early February; verify the latest information before traveling.
Transportation & Reservation Tips
Prioritize the subway for inner-city travel to avoid winter traffic congestion.
Essential attractions like the Forbidden City and National Museum require reservations through official channels; note that most close on Mondays.
For the Great Wall and suburban sites, consider tourist shuttle buses or private car rentals.
Equipment Protection Tips
Winter cold drains battery power rapidly. Prepare backup power sources or hand warmers for phones and cameras.
Before moving from cold outdoors to warm indoor spaces, seal electronic devices in plastic bags to prevent condensation damage.
This Beijing winter travel guide aims to help you efficiently plan your itinerary. Whether exploring historical sites or enjoying winter activities, Beijing’s winter offers a unique and memorable travel experience.
