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.
Our 6-year-old was happy to go on practically every course, but it was difficult for us parents to keep up. The courses over the water were the most daunting as I discovered that it was deceptively easy to lean too far and take an unwanted dip in the water. Best to be prepared and bring a change of clothes, or some water-resistant footwear and pants.
For those who are a little fainter of heart, Survival Island also offers more relaxing entertainment in the form of old farming tools and pottery classes. Try your hand at grinding corn into millet, or simply pick up an old-fashioned farming scythe in your hand for a fun photo.
When you’re ready to take a break, there’s an old-school canteen serving drinks and simple snacks. I would recommend that you pack a picnic lunch and make your way to the east of the park where there are wooden benches and picnic tables in the shade.
All in all, Survival Island will provide your family with great outdoor fun and physical challenges. Rest assured that everyone will be fast asleep on your three-hour ride back to the city. DiDis were readily available when we left from the park towards Beijing.
Adults pay RMB 120 for entry and access to all features in Survival Island, while students pay RMB 98 with proof of student identity.
Beijing Survival Island Practice Base 北京生存岛实践基地售票处, 6 Hong Luo Dong Lu, Huairou District, China 北京市怀柔区红螺东路6号
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Images: Dazhongdianping, Vivienne TsengRush
