Winter Wonders in Beijing: Culture, History and Nature

12 Dec, 2025

Explore Beijing's rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and natural beauty with a budget-friendly approach. Delve into the city's history, enjoy scenic walks, and savor local cuisine.


Events & Festivities


Entertainment Tours in Beijing – Winter Cultural Tourism Routes in Fangshan District

This themed event offers curated winter cultural tourism routes in Fangshan, featuring scenic and historical sites, local lodging, dining, and shopping.

Dates: 2024-12-07 – 2025-02-28

Venue: Fangshan District

Location: Fangshan District, Beijing

Price: Varies


Yanqi Lake Spring Festival Music and Lantern Festival

A temple fair-style festival featuring music performances, lantern displays, performing arts, cultural showcases, and local food.

Dates: 2024-12-28 – 2025-03-09

Venue: Wenyu River Park

Location: Near Yanqi Lake, Beijing

Price: Varies


Day 1: Arrival and Historical Exploration

Morning

Start your day by visiting the Forbidden City, a symbol of imperial China with its grand palaces and ancient architecture. Take your time exploring the Palace Museum, where you can learn about the history of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Enjoy the tranquil gardens and marvel at the intricate details of the buildings.

Afternoon

Head to Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest public squares, and witness the grandeur of this historic site. Visit the National Museum of China, located nearby, to delve deeper into China's extensive history and culture through its vast collection of artifacts.

Evening

Stroll through Wangfujing Street, a bustling pedestrian street known for shopping and local snacks. Enjoy an authentic street food experience by trying delicacies such as jianbing (Chinese crepes) or tanghulu (candied hawthorn sticks) from the various food stalls.

Where to have lunch?

Restaurant Address Price Contact

Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut
109 Xi Dan Bei Da Jie, 西单 Xi Cheng Qu
Web

010 6618 2210

Furong Wushuang
Furong Wushuang
CN 北京市 西城区 金融大街 9 丙9号1层威斯汀酒店
010 6600 8832
🍽️
Prego
Fuchengmen, Xicheng District
010 6629 7815
🍽️
Saizeriya Italian Restaurant
Xi Cheng Qu, Xi Dan Bei Da Jie, 130号华威大厦8层

Where to have dinner?

Photo Restaurant Address Price Contact

Xinjiang Flavor Yidecun Stretched Noodle Restaurant
Xinjiang Flavor Yidecun Stretched Noodle Restaurant
7 Wang Fu Jing Xi Jie, Wangfujing, Dong Cheng Qu

Beijing Dawanju Restaurant
Beijing Dawanju Restaurant
11 Dong Hua Men Da Jie, Dong Cheng Qu
010 6525 0986

TRB Hutong
TRB Hutong
Beijing# 23 Shatan North Street
Web

010 8400 2232

Liu's Family And Restaurant
Liu's Family And Restaurant
8 Mei Shu Guan Dong Jie, Dong Cheng Qu
€€ 010 6400 5912


Day 2: Cultural Immersion in Beijing

Cultural Immersion in Beijing

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed annual ceremonies of prayer to heaven. Stroll through the expansive park and observe locals practicing Tai Chi.

Afternoon

Make your way to the Summer Palace, a beautiful imperial garden and palace complex. Walk along the scenic pathways, explore the ornate pavilions, and enjoy views of Kunming Lake. Consider taking a boat ride for a unique perspective of the area.

Evening

Spend your evening in the Houhai area, known for its picturesque lakes and vibrant nightlife. Take a leisurely walk around the lakes, enjoy live music performances, and savor some local snacks from the street vendors.

Where to have lunch?

Restaurant Address Price Contact

Xiyuanju
Xiyuanju
91 Mei Shi Jie, Xi Cheng Qu

天坛餐厅
天坛餐厅
VCJ4+J26, Dong Cheng Qu

Taotaoju Restaurant
Taotaoju Restaurant
V9HW+H75 Suguo Convenience Store, Yong Ding Men Nei Da Jie, Xi Cheng Qu
010 6301 2396

Siji Mingfu Roasted Duck Restaurant Dashanlan Branch
Siji Mingfu Roasted Duck Restaurant Dashanlan Branch
CN 北京市 西城区 前门大栅栏 18 18号1796商场2层
010 6301 5912

Where to have dinner?

Photo Restaurant Address Price Contact

Zengshengkui Snack Bar
Zengshengkui Snack Bar
26 Da Fo Si Dong Jie, Dong Cheng Qu

TRB Hutong
TRB Hutong
Beijing# 23 Shatan North Street
Web

010 8400 2232

Manmanxiang Xinjiang Flavor Lanzhou Noodles Home Cooking
Manmanxiang Xinjiang Flavor Lanzhou Noodles Home Cooking
34 Da Fo Si Dong Jie, Dong Cheng Qu

Liu's Family And Restaurant
Liu's Family And Restaurant
8 Mei Shu Guan Dong Jie, Dong Cheng Qu
€€ 010 6400 5912


Day 3: Nature and Scenic Walks

Nature and Scenic Walks

Morning

Travel to the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu, a well-preserved section of the wall offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a hike along the wall and take in the breathtaking landscape. Don't forget to bring your camera for some memorable photos.

Afternoon

After returning to the city, unwind at Jingshan Park, located just north of the Forbidden City. Climb to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of Beijing and the Forbidden City, perfect for capturing the sunset.

Evening

Visit the Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest, and take an evening walk around the Olympic Park. The stadium is beautifully illuminated at night, offering a striking visual experience.

Where to have lunch?

Restaurant Address Price Contact

Mubus Family
Mubus Family
Huai Rou Qu, 摹田峪旅游线
🍽️
双源汇饭店
CHG4+GV2, Huai Rou Qu
010 6963 1995
🍽️
劳模山庄
San Du He Xiang, 北京近郊红鳟鱼一条沟雁栖环岛左转(莲花池村南)
010 6162 9376

小园
小园
Huai Rou Qu, 慕田峪村12号
010 6162 6506

Where to have dinner?

Photo Restaurant Address Price Contact

Linglong Restaurant
Linglong Restaurant
Chao Yang Qu, Guo Jia Ti Yu Chang Bei Lu, 科荟路33号奥林匹克森林公园内玲珑塔服务中心1层
🍽️
BLT American Western Rest.
Chao Yang Qu, Bei Chen Xi Lu, A-3号层303
010 6480 5251

Dingyue Roasted Duck Restaurant
Dingyue Roasted Duck Restaurant
11 Hu Jing Dong Lu, 11, Chao Yang Qu
010 6480 5883

Chuanjiao Seafood Self-Service (Asian Sports Village Store)
Chuanjiao Seafood Self-Service (Asian Sports Village Store)
Chao Yang Qu, 214, 2层 Beijing Kaiyi Hotel, 华美达大酒店
010 6333 3368


Day 4: Exploring Fangshan District

Exploring Fangshan District

Morning

Join the Entertainment Tours in Beijing and explore the 'Warm Winter Cozy Tour' in Fangshan District. Visit scenic spots like Shidu, known as the 'Guilin of the North,' and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Afternoon

Continue your journey on the 'Ancient Charm with Passion Tour,' where you can explore historical sites such as Yunju Temple. Discover the ancient Buddhist carvings and architecture that define this cultural treasure.

Evening

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local family-run restaurant, where you can taste authentic dishes and experience the warmth of Chinese hospitality.

Where to have lunch?

Restaurant Address Price Contact
🍽️
Renyuanhou Restaurant
PX9H+P26, Yan Fang Lu, Fang Shan Qu

Night Market Barbecue
Night Market Barbecue
PX6M+FJF, Fang Shan Bei Da Jie, Fang Shan Qu
🍽️
Duofuju Hot Pot Meat Restaurant
3 Yan Fang Lu, Fang Shan Qu
010 8133 2019
🍽️
Yaoyiguo Lamb Spine Hot Pot
PXCC+X3G, Yan Fang Lu, Fang Shan Qu

Where to have dinner?

Photo Restaurant Address Price Contact
🍽️
Renyuanhou Restaurant
PX9H+P26, Yan Fang Lu, Fang Shan Qu

Night Market Barbecue
Night Market Barbecue
PX6M+FJF, Fang Shan Bei Da Jie, Fang Shan Qu
🍽️
Duofuju Hot Pot Meat Restaurant
3 Yan Fang Lu, Fang Shan Qu
010 8133 2019
🍽️
Yaoyiguo Lamb Spine Hot Pot
PXCC+X3G, Yan Fang Lu, Fang Shan Qu


Day 5: Art and Modern Beijing

Art and Modern Beijing

Morning

Explore the 798 Art District, a contemporary art zone that offers a glimpse into China's vibrant art scene. Wander through the galleries, studios, and outdoor installations, and appreciate the creativity on display.

Afternoon

Visit the Capital Museum, which houses an impressive collection of cultural and historical artifacts. Spend time exploring the diverse exhibits that highlight Beijing's rich history and cultural heritage.

Evening

Head to Sanlitun, a lively area known for its nightlife and international dining options. Enjoy a relaxing evening with a variety of cuisine choices and perhaps catch a live music performance or two.

Where to have lunch?

Restaurant Address Price Contact

Dadong (Eastern Financial Store)
Dadong (Eastern Financial Store)
CN 北京市 朝阳区 丽都花园路 5 5号东方金融中心3层
010 6437 9799

Shanque Restaurant Bar
Shanque Restaurant Bar
4, Chao Yang Qu, Jiu Xian Qiao Lu, 4号CN 北京市798艺术区
185 1588 4798
🍽️
Mua Restaurant
CN 北京市 朝阳区 798 艺术区D01爱马思艺术中心二层
138 1127 4121

Annie's Italian Restaurant
Annie's Italian Restaurant
XFGP+82V, Jiang Tai Lu, Chao Yang Qu
010 6434 6041

Where to have dinner?

Photo Restaurant Address Price Contact

Yiku Bottega Jinshang Branch
Yiku Bottega Jinshang Branch
Jinshangyuan, 1层20 Xin Yuan Xi Li, 20, Chao Yang Qu
010 6411 0980

Xiting Xiuse Turkish Feast
Xiting Xiuse Turkish Feast
大厦 SHANG, Xin Dong Lu, 115号CN 北京市 朝阳区1层
010 6468 8321

Annie's Cafe
Annie's Cafe
丙2-1 Gong Ren Ti Yu Chang Dong Lu, 使馆区 Chao Yang Qu
010 8587 1469

Tavola Italian Dining
Tavola Italian Dining
Chao Yang Qu, Dong Fang Dong Lu, 19号
Web

010 8532 5068


Day 6: Cultural Farewell

Cultural Farewell

Morning

Spend your last morning visiting the Lama Temple, a renowned Tibetan Buddhist temple known for its stunning architecture and spiritual atmosphere. Take time to explore the various halls and learn about the temple's history.

Afternoon

Visit the nearby Confucius Temple and Imperial College, where you can gain insights into the teachings of Confucius and the history of education in China. The serene environment offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

Evening

Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner in the Dongcheng District, enjoying traditional Beijing cuisine. Reflect on your memorable experiences and prepare for your departure.

Where to have lunch?

Restaurant Address Price Contact

Sanxiongdi Beiping Meat In Hot Pot
Sanxiongdi Beiping Meat In Hot Pot
Dong Cheng Qu, Gui Jie, 5号-6

Huda Restaurant Beijing No.3
Huda Restaurant Beijing No.3
284 Gui Jie, Dong Cheng Qu
010 6400 3188

Huaiyangfu
Huaiyangfu
198 An Wai Da Jie, 蒋宅口 Dong Cheng Qu
Web

010 6426 5858

Dongcheng Furong Restaurant
Dongcheng Furong Restaurant
Dong Cheng Qu, Bao Chao Hu Tong, 安定门
010 6400 6681

Where to have dinner?

Photo Restaurant Address Price Contact

Xinjiang Flavor Yidecun Stretched Noodle Restaurant
Xinjiang Flavor Yidecun Stretched Noodle Restaurant
7 Wang Fu Jing Xi Jie, Wangfujing, Dong Cheng Qu

Beijing Dawanju Restaurant
Beijing Dawanju Restaurant
11 Dong Hua Men Da Jie, Dong Cheng Qu
010 6525 0986

TRB Hutong
TRB Hutong
Beijing# 23 Shatan North Street
Web

010 8400 2232

Liu's Family And Restaurant
Liu's Family And Restaurant
8 Mei Shu Guan Dong Jie, Dong Cheng Qu
€€ 010 6400 5912


Total cost estimation (without hotels and flights)

Under $1000


Helpful tips

  • Check the weather forecast and dress warmly as Beijing can be quite cold in December.

  • Purchase tickets online in advance for popular attractions to avoid long queues.

  • Use public transportation such as the subway to save on travel costs within the city.

  • Take advantage of free walking tours to learn more about Beijing's history and culture.

  • No verified events found for these dates; consider checking the city's official events calendar closer to your trip.