Beijing Winter Travel Guide: 7 Must-See Ice Falls & Practical Tips
When visiting Beijing in winter, besides exploring the Forbidden City and hiking the Great Wall, there’s an unmissable natural wonder taking place in the mountain valleys of the suburbs—the ice falls.
As the cold weather gradually freezes mountain streams and waterfalls, it forms these icicle pillars and frozen curtains, resembling solidified waves. They display a dreamy bluish-white hue, shimmering in the sunlight, making them the most awe-inspiring and “healing” winter scenery around Beijing.
This guide compiles the 7 most worthwhile icefalls to see around Beijing, each with its own unique features. Whether you want to take photos, experience winter fun, or simply stroll through tranquil valleys, you can find an option that suits you.
Table of Contents
Quick Overview & Selection Guide for the 7 Ice Falls
To help you quickly understand, the table below summarizes the core features and practical information of each icefall for easy comparison:
| Ice Fall Name | District | Core Highlights & Experience | Opening Hours | Opening Hours |
| Jingdong Grand Canyon Ice Fall | Pinggu District | Light & Art Festival: Integrated light shows, ice sculpture mazes, ice brick roses, concerts. The most diverse experience. | 7:30-17:00 | 010-60968317 |
| Taoyuan Xiangu Ice Fall | Miyun District | Ice Climbing Destination & Primitive Landscape: 66-meter giant waterfall, visible blue bubble ice. Suitable for professional ice climbing and general sightseeing. | 8:30-17:00 | 010-61025309 |
| Water Great Wall Ice Fall | Huairou District | Blending with the Ancient Great Wall: The icefall and the historic Water Great Wall complement each other, creating a unique landscape. | 8:30-16:30 | 010-61651111 |
| Huyu Ice Fall | Changping District | Classic Crystal Curtain Landscape: Layered icicles. On clear afternoons, you can witness the “Tiger Valley Golden Glow” spectacle. | 8:00-17:00 | 010-69771720 |
| Shenquanxia Ice Fall | Mentougou District | Natural Ice Sculpture Gallery: Canyon boardwalk hiking, up-close viewing of various ice curtains like the Four-Step Waterfall.天然冰雕画廊：沿着峡谷木栈道徒步旅行，近距离观赏各种冰幕，如四级瀑布。 | 8:00-17:00 | 010-61884638 |
| Yunpubu Valley Ice Fall | Yanqing District | Natural Ice Sculpture Gallery: Canyon boardwalk hiking, up-close viewing of various ice curtains like the Four-Step Waterfall.天然冰雕画廊：沿着峡谷木栈道徒步旅行，近距离观赏各种冰幕，如四级瀑布。 | 9:00-17:00 | 13716329241 |
| Yudushan Ice Fall | Yanqing District | Poetic Winter Serenity: Trees draped in ice, tinkling sounds in the wind, gentle streams. A serene environment. | 9:00-16:30 | 010-69190280 |
How to Choose the Right Ice Fall for You?
Based on your interests and travel style, you can refer to the following suggestions:
- If you seek the most diverse and fun experience, Jingdong Grand Canyon is the top choice. Its “Ice Fall Art Festival” is more than just viewing ice; it’s like a winter wonderland with lights, music, and various interactive activities, perfect for families or visitors who enjoy lively atmospheres. The event usually lasts until early March.
- If you are a photography or hiking enthusiast, the Water Great Wall and Shenquanxia are the best choices. The Water Great Wall offers the unique opportunity to photograph ice falls alongside the ancient Great Wall. Shenquanxia features well-developed hiking boardwalks, allowing you to venture deep into the canyon and appreciate the details of the ice falls from multiple angles.
- If you want to try professional ice climbing or see the most spectacular ice wall, then Taoyuan Xiangu is the recognized destination. The awe-inspiring 66-meter giant ice fall is also a gathering spot for ice climbing enthusiasts.
- If you want a relatively convenient and classic option, the Huyu Ice Fall in Changping is one of the earlier developed sites with classic scenery, making it a relatively closer choice to the city center.
- If you enjoy exploring natural wonders and prefer tranquility, both Yunpubu Valley and Yudushan in Yanqing offer a more primitive natural ambiance. Yunpubu Valley’s “living water ice fall” is very unique, while Yudushan is exceptionally peaceful, filled with the poetic feel of winter forests.
General Practical Tips
1. Best Viewing Period: The optimal time to view ice falls is from late December to February of the following year. January is usually when the ice is thickest, and the formations are at their best.
2. Clothing and Gear:
- Clothing: Mountain temperatures are much lower than in the city. It’s essential to use the “layering method.” Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a middle layer like fleece or down for warmth, and an outer windproof and waterproof shell.
- Footwear: This is crucial! You must wear hiking boots or snow boots with excellent anti-slip properties. The ground around ice falls is extremely slippery, making ordinary sports shoes very dangerous.
- Accessories: Gloves, hats, and scarves are essential. Consider wearing sunglasses to prevent snow glare.
3. Safety First:
Always stay within the safe areas designated by the scenic spot. Do not climb undeveloped ice formations, as collapses are very likely.
Be mindful of overhead ice when viewing.
Mobile phone signals may be weak in some icefall areas, so it’s advisable to travel with companions.
4. Confirm Before Your Trip: Before setting out, it’s best to call the scenic spot using the numbers provided above to confirm opening hours and the condition of the ice falls. In case of severe weather (like strong winds or blizzards), spots may close temporarily.
In the winter suburbs of Beijing, these blue ice falls are quietly awaiting visitors. They reveal another agile and magical side of the city beyond its steadfast and ancient demeanor. Planning a trip to see the ice falls will reward you with unique memories, as if stepping into a frozen fairyland.
