The 2026 BOB Beijing MC Marathon will kick off on April 19.
This year's marathon course has undergone a major upgrade, with both the start and finish lines located at the Tongzhou Campus of Renmin University of China. The course now extends eastward, connecting Tongzhou District with the three northern counties of Langfang, Hebei Province (Sanhe, Dachang and Xianghe).
The 42.195-kilometer-long course runs along the northern section of the Grand Canal, passing by key urban landmarks such as the Central Green Forest Park, the Grand Canal Forest Park, the Beijing Performing Arts Center, the Beijing Library, and the Grand Canal Museum of Beijing.
After the race, begin your exploration of these gorgeous attractions for a wonderful day!
Central Green Forest Park
The park boasts China's first four-star fitness trail certified by the Chinese Athletics Association, stretching about 5.5 kilometers in total.
The park's boardwalk along the old canal is a perfect spot for bird watching, while the cherry blossom courtyard makes for a perfect backdrop for shooting traditional-style photos. It is also a top destination for flower viewing and spring outings, with crabapple and late cherry blossoms in full bloom.
When you need a break from walking, think about an in-depth exploration of culture and technologies at the three major cultural facilities in the Beijing Municipal Administrative Center (BMC) — the Beijing Performing Arts Center, the Beijing Library, and the Grand Canal Museum of Beijing.
You can watch wonderful exhibitions at the Grand Canal Museum of Beijing, check out cutting-edge technologies at the Metaverse Experience Hall of the Beijing Library, or enjoy a high-quality performance at the Beijing Performing Arts Center.
Apailang Creativity Land
If you are traveling with children, this place is perfect for unlocking boundless imagination through play.
Liu Cixin's Universe-Themed Sci-Fi Comic Exploration Center
This is Beijing's first immersive experience hub dedicated to the comics based on Liu Cixin's universe-themed sci-fi works.
It integrates top Chinese sci-fi literary works with cutting-edge technologies and immersive environments, offering a brand-new journey for sci-fi enthusiasts.
Caoyun Wharf
The wharf, located on the southern section of the Beijing Grand Canal Cultural Scenic Area, is known as the "top wharf of the Grand Canal".
Near the wharf, the Stone Cultural Relics Exhibition Area presents more than 20 artifacts, including precious stone inscriptions from the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1911) dynasties and the Republic of China period (1912–1949). These artifacts serve as valuable physical evidence for decoding the historical heritage of the Tongzhou section of the Grand Canal.
Yuedao Wenying Viewing Platform
Take a boat from Caoyun Wharf to Liuyin Wharf, and enjoy the spring scenery along the banks. Then, go to the Yuedao Wenying Viewing Platform for a panoramic view of the canal.
Wanli International Commercial and Entertainment Complex
A new popular attraction in the BMC, this shopping complex is a trendy meeting place for young people, brimming with both everyday charm and a stylish vibe. In addition to premium goods and delicious food, exciting events are held here from time to time.
Dachang Movie Town
Located on the banks of the beautiful Chaobai River, this national 3A-level tourist attraction features distinct British-style buildings, perfect for taking stunning photos.
Dachang Cycling Town
This boasts a 19.5-kilometer-long greenway that winds through an amazing forest and across rivers. Offering picturesque landscapes, it's ideal for cycling enthusiasts.
Jiuzhou Eden
With gorgeous flowers and tropical plants, it's a perfect place for leisure and study tours. Bamboo rafts and bumper boats are also available. It's an excellent place for children to learn about nature.
Chaobai River Cherry Blossom Park
As temperatures continue to rise, the cherry blossoms in this park have reached their peak bloom.
While enjoying the flowers, don't forget to taste authentic local delicacies. Dachang's beef slices, steamed Badawan (literally "eight big bowls"), and sesame cakes with a crispy outside and soft inside are all time-honored flavors loved by the locals.
(Source: Beijing Tongzhou Fabu)
