A seven-day respite from hustle and bustle

Recommended itinerary for Chengde

Day 1: Jinshanling section of Great Wall

It runs 10.5 kilometers and has been called the most magnificent part of the Great Wall north of Beijing. The Wangjinglou Tower offers a bird's-eye view.

Day 2: Summer Mountain Resort of Emperor Kangxi

What is said to be the world's biggest royal garden has resplendent palaces, exquisitely carved pavilions and red and green glazed tiles tucked away among lush plants. It was built in 1703 and covers 5.64 million square meters, twice the size of the Summer Palace in Beijing. Temples featuring Mongolian and Tibetan elements stand tall in the northeastern part of the resort.

Day 3: Qijia hot spring resort

A cool summer makes hot springs a good choice for many visitors. The resort offers various hot springs, located in forests.

Day 4-5: Mulan Paddock

You can see and buy many local wines and specialties at a local wine culture museum. The Saihanba national forest park includes grasslands, lakes and wetlands. Rows of giant wind power machines can be seen at Hongsongwa Pasture.

Day 6-7: Fengning Bashang

The Datan grassland is the closest of its kind to Beijing. Dahan Palace and the Baiyun Ancient Cave are among the highlights. The grassland looks its best in July and August when campfire parties, ethnic songs and dances, and archery events are staged in many local holiday resorts. Roasted whole lamb and milky tea are served.