Beijing Day Trips That Are Not The Great Wall

I love to travel. Any time a friend asks me to pack a bag and hop on a plane, train, or automobile, my response is “When do we leave?” But much like Dorothy, I often find myself exploring areas well outside my own backyard, which is a shame because we live in one of the most interesting cities in the world! When I arrived in Beijing, I had a list as long as my arm, of places to go and things to see. But as so often happens, daily life (not to mention Covid) have gotten in the way of truly making the most of this amazing city. So, this summer I am going to try and cross off a few of the day trips that I keep putting on the backburner. I invite you to grab the kids, pack a picnic, and join me!

The Tanzhe Temple: Less than an hour’s drive into the western hills of Beijing sits Tanzhe Temple. This Buddhist structure was one of the most important spiritual sites in China. The compound, nestled snugly in the mountains, boasts a hall of heroes, an imperial residence, and the stone dais that Kublai Kahn’s daughter did penance on every day for her father’s sins.

Marco Polo Bridge: This one won’t even take a full day to explore because it’s right inside the city! Fengtai district boasts the famous Marco Polo Bridge. Constructed in 1189, this bridge was specifically mentioned in the Venetian explorer’s accounts thanks to its incredible architecture. It also happens to be the historic site of a 1937 battle against Japan. Spend the morning walking the famous site with a friend and then grab lunch at your favorite local spot.

Zhoukoudian Historic Site: If you or your little one is interested in fossils, then you’re in luck! Smithsonian Magazine recognizes China as having more prehistoric fossils than any other country in the world and the Zhoukoudian Peking Man Museum (a world heritage site) is less than an hour’s drive southwest of Beijing. Local farmers originally thought they had stumbled upon dragon bones. However, excellent excavation and preservation efforts by the government led to the discovery of a treasure trove of dinosaur and human fossils including the first completely preserved skull of Homo Erectus.

Ming Dynasty Tombs: Drive north for about an hour to Changping District and you can spend the day exploring the Tombs of ancient royalty. Marble archways, excavated courtyards, and refurbished pavilions are all nestled in a picturesque valley. A walk in the fresh air surrounded by history? I’m in!