China's 15th National Games are in full swing, igniting the passion of all sports fans. As winter progresses, how about fitting in a weekend getaway to relive the Olympic spirit? You can enjoy delicious food and natural beauty, and explore ancient towns while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of the Winter Olympics.
Day 1: Yanqing Olympic Zone — Yudu Mountain Scenic Area
Yanqing Olympic Zone
The Yanqing Olympic Zone houses Olympic venues such as the National Alpine Ski Center ("Snow Flying Swallow"), the National Sliding Center ("Snow Dragon"), and the Yanqing Winter Olympic Village.
Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the Winter Olympic culture, explore the Olympic venues, learn about the history of winter sports, and visit Olympic-level facilities like the tracks of "Snow Flying Swallow" and "Snow Dragon".
Snow has recently begun to fall in the Yanqing Olympic Zone, heralding the arrival of the 2025-2026 snow season. The ski resort is expected to open in mid-to-late November. Get ready to swish across the pistes!
Yudu Mountain Scenic Area
Yudu Mountain is known for its dense forests, fresh air, and rustic landscape. Now, in mid-November, the autumn ambiance still lingers here.
There are multiple ways to tour Yudu Mountain. Bring children or furry friends to play on the grass and enjoy close contact with nature, or take a stroll in the wild to appreciate the wide variety of greenery.
After a day in the fresh air, you're surely in need of some refreshment. Yanqing's delicacies, such as He's Braised Pork Face (贺氏酱猪脸), Liugou Tofu Banquet (柳沟豆腐宴), and Braised Pork with Chestnuts (板栗红烧肉), await foodies.
Day 2: Beijing Shi Yuan International Tourism Resort — Yongning Ancient Town
Beijing Shi Yuan International Tourism Resort
The Beijing Expo Park (Beijing Shi Yuan International Tourism Resort) is the site of the International Horticultural Exhibition 2019 (also known as "Expo 2019"). It is a comprehensive holiday destination that combines ecological preserves, cultural activities, and trendy events.
Stock photos
The park has preserved iconic structures such as the China Pavilion, the International Pavilion, and Yongning Pavilion, seamlessly blending cultural landmarks with natural settings like Tiantian Hill and Guirui Lake.
Stock photos
Yongning Ancient Town
Stock photo
Yongning Ancient Town embodies the most authentic charm of Beijing's suburbs. Yongning Market, which originated in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and flourished in the late 19th century and the early 20th century, remains vibrant today. It boasts a dazzling array of handicrafts and tasty local snacks that captivate visitors. When exploring the market's culinary offerings, be sure not to miss the huoshao (baked wheat cake) and tofu.
Spend this weekend in Beijing's Yanqing to enjoy a delightful two-day, one-night getaway.
(Source: Official WeChat account of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism)
