Sometimes when visiting a large and very busy and populated city like Beijing can take its toll on you. A retreat to nature is exactly what the doctor ordered. Head outside Beijing for a much-needed return to nature and wildlife. Away from the pollution, noise and bustle of city life. Even on a short vacation to Beijing, the city can seem like it sprawls endlessly, a view from outside is exactly what is needed for perspective and to get a bit of fresh air.
There are several scenic spots around Beijing that are essentially protected nature and wildlife zones. While this doesn't always (or even usually) mean that the place has evolved naturally, it does offer greenery and fresh air. The Shi Du Scenic Spot is one such, extremely beautiful, return to nature not far from Beijing.
Tian Chi Canyon, outside the city, is a beautiful spot with spelunking, relaxing views of several lakes and an area surrounded in trees and wildlife. The canyon is impressive in its depth and the massive lake gives the canyon's depth a bit of perspective.
For more water-based nature head to Black Dragon Pool where a string of gorgeous lakes offer one of the most relaxing scenes near Beijing. Or, head to the Rear Lakes, which are in the middle of the city but still offer a bit of a return to nature.
If you are up for a trek, the Ye San Po reserve offers cliffs, caves and sandalwood trees that are over 1,000 years old! The Ban Bi Dian Forest Park is another great place for tree lovers and admirers of nature.
If you don't want to head into the wild alone, chat with the Beijing Hikers, a group dedicated to exploring the surrounding areas on food, the way mother nature intended us to see the planet!
Shi Du Town
Fangshan District
Out-of-town activity area...
Tian Chi Xia Gu, Huai Rou City
Huai Rou County
Features beautiful lake scenery, leisure caves and rock-climbing...
Northwest of Mi Yun Reservoir
Miyun
Series of scenic river pools...
Banbi Dian
DaXing County
The park is famous for its rurality...
Ye San Pi Nature Reserve
feng tai qu hua xiang si he zhuang
The most natural Nature...
Fangshan District
One of the top eight suburban attractions of Beijing...
North of Miyun Reservoir
Miyun County
Natural water spectacular...
Shandongzhuang Town
Pinggu County
Beautiful gorges and scenic spots...
Xinhualian Ligang Building 2, Suite 601 No. 26 Jiuxianqiao Zhong Lu Chaoyang District
Suite 1907 Building 107
Taking a hike, Beijing-style...
Di'anmenwai Dajie
Three Lakes...