A Daily Dose of Sunshine in Beijing

Check out the best places to catch some sun this summer in Beijing.

Spring is in the air. You’re feeling adventurous. And why not? You’ve been cooped up all winter.  The time has arrived to get outside, to bathe in the warm breeze, to work on that sweet summer tan you’ve been lusting after since November; when it faded away along with the leaves and blue sky.

Beijing is as fine a place as any to bathe in the warm rays of the sun. While it may not be as close to the ocean as we would like, its sunny parks and waterways should be more than enough to quench the thirst of the adventurous sun-o-phile. 

Try a new destination. Catch a bus you’ve never ridden. Jump on and see where it goes. With any luck, you’ll arrive at one of these fine Beijing destinations.

Take a Long Stroll in Temple of Heaven Park (Tiantan Park):

At nearly 700 acres, the area surrounding the Temple of Heaven is the largest place of worship in China today. It was built in 1420 during the reign of the Ming Emperor Yongle to worship the god of heaven and pray for a good harvest. In short: the perfect place for a day of sun worshipping. 

This may be the best place in China for a long afternoon stroll on a sunny day. Be prepared, it’ll be a long walk, but rest assured there’ll be lots to amuse along the way. Locals do Tai Chi in the park (don’t be shy - go ahead and join them), practice their calligraphy on the grounds, play chess or cards and sing together from the small porches throughout the park.

Opening hours vary so check the site. At RMB ¥10, you can’t afford not to go. A “through ticket” costs a little more, but without one you can’t get into most of the buildings and will find yourself paying extra each time you want to visit a new part of the park. 

Need a shopping fix? Be sure to check out the sweet folk and craft store across the street from the main entrance. You’ll get your culture fix too - in 1998, Tiantan Park was deemed an official UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Jump on a Boat in the Grand Canal:

Did you know electric boats are available for rent in Beihai Park for just ¥80/hour? No boating experience necessary. Jump in and spend a lazy afternoon soaking up the sun’s rays from the middle of the lake. Watch the locals practice Tai Chi, calligraphy or dance in the park. Afterward, take a stroll to the Buddhist temple. 

Beijing is full of man-made lakes, rivers and canals, many of which have been renovated and opened to the public for boat tours and river cruising. Take a ride on the nine kilometre Changhe River (Royal River): cruise for 40 minutes up to Beijing Summer Palace and enjoy lunch at the Fresh Water Pearl Market.

Looking for a more active boat ride? Consider joining the Beijing Dragon Boating team. Too much? Head down to the boathouse on Houhai Xi'an (the western shore) and watch the team practice on Sundays from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. The Dragon Boat Festival on June 12, 2013 is another must-do, with or without the sun’s cooperation. Don’t miss this national holiday! 

Relax with Dignitaries at Beidaihe Beach:

Beidaihe Beach may not be in Beijing proper, but it’s the beach of choice for many of its residents and a favourite among Chinese dignitaries. (A good place to spot former leaders and government high-rollers!)

What’s more, this beach is one of nine hotspots in China considered to be the best places to watch the sunrise. The Yinjiao Pavilion on the northwest beach is a desirable viewing spot, though it’s almost as beautiful viewed from the window of a local train. (Hint: take the early morning train from Qinhuangdao to Beijing).

When you’ve finished your sun-gazing, strolled along the beach and taken a dip in the pristine blue waters of Beidaihe, take a short hike up Mount Lianfeng, which backs right onto the beach. Its lush green vegetation, mysterious caves and decorative pavilions make it a sure bet for a romantic date. 

The view from the Seaside Pavilion must not be missed. Admission fee at Beidaihe Beach is ¥30. 

Beijing is a great place to soak up the sun. Get out of the house. Sit on a patio. Share a picnic with a friend in the park. Ditch the car and ride a bike to work. Just don’t forget to wear sunscreen.