Tourism Guide
Discover the harmonious blend of imperial grandeur and natural beauty in Beijing, where ancient gardens meet modern ecological parks
Duration of 4 Days
Best Time to Visit
April-May and September-October
Transportation
Subway, taxi, and tour buses
Language
Mandarin Chinese with English signs at major attractions
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Climate
Temperate continental with four distinct seasons
Highlights
This 4-day nature-focused itinerary showcases Beijing's stunning natural landscapes and traditional Chinese garden design. From imperial gardens to modern ecological parks, experience how Chinese culture has long celebrated the harmony between humanity and nature. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, tranquil lakes, and scenic mountains while learning about traditional Chinese philosophies of landscape design.
Itinerary
1Day 1 Imperial Gardens and Lakes
Distance：1.2 km
A pleasant walk through historic hutongs, passing by traditional courtyard houses and local shops
Duration: 15 minutes
TaxiQuick and convenient option, especially with luggage or during hot weather
Duration: 5 minutes
Jingshan Park Summit
13:00-15:00
No. 44 Jingshan West Street, Xicheng District, BeijingVisit Jingshan Park for panoramic views of the Forbidden City and Beijing skyline from its central hill, the highest point in central Beijing
Distance：2.5 km
Scenic walk through historic neighborhoods with views of traditional architecture
Duration: 30 minutes
TaxiDirect route through the city center, avoiding crowded streets
Duration: 10 minutes
Houhai Lake Stroll
16:00-18:00Houhai Lake, Xicheng District, BeijingExplore the classical gardens and traditional architecture surrounding Houhai Lake, enjoying the peaceful waterfront atmosphere
2Day 2 UNESCO Summer Palace
Distance：Within same complex
Kunming Lake is the central water feature within the Summer Palace complex, easily accessible on foot
Duration: 5-10 minutes
Scenic boat ride across the lake, offering beautiful views of the palace architecture
Duration: 15 minutes
Kunming Lake Boat Ride
13:30-15:00Summer Palace 19 Xinjian Gongmen Road Haidian District BeijingTake a traditional dragon boat ride across Kunming Lake to appreciate the gardens from the water perspective
Distance：Within same complex
Return walk through the palace grounds, exploring different sections of the UNESCO World Heritage site
Duration: 5-10 minutes
Long Corridor and Marble Boat
15:30-17:3019 Xinjiangongmen Road, Haidian District, BeijingWalk along the Long Corridor with its painted scenes and visit the Marble Boat, experiencing the imperial garden philosophy
3Day 3 Great Wall Nature Hike
Distance：Within same complex
Exploring different sections of the Mutianyu Great Wall, with cable car or chairlift options available for easier access
Duration: Varies by section
Cable car ride to access higher sections of the wall, offering panoramic views
Duration: 5 minutes
Great Wall Hiking
12:30-15:30Mutianyu Village, Bohai Town, Huairou District, BeijingHike along the wall sections with stunning mountain views and learn about the wall construction in harmony with nature
Distance：65 km
Direct route from the Great Wall back to the city, passing through suburban areas
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Take bus from Mutianyu to subway station, then subway to Olympic Park station
Duration: 2 hours
Olympic Forest Park
17:00-19:00Olympic Forest Park, Chaoyang District, BeijingReturn to city and visit Olympic Forest Park to see modern ecological design and urban green spaces
4Day 4 Botanical Gardens and Fragrant Hills
Distance：3 km
Pleasant walk through the scenic Western Hills area, connecting two beautiful natural attractions
Duration: 40 minutes
TaxiQuick transfer between the two parks, allowing more time for exploration
Duration: 10 minutes
Fragrant Hills Exploration
13:30-16:30Xiangshan Road, Haidian District, BeijingTravel to Fragrant Hills Park, famous for its maple trees and stunning autumn colors, with hiking trails and imperial relics
Distance：2 km
Leisurely walk through the park surroundings to reach the restaurant
Duration: 25 minutes
TaxiConvenient option after a day of walking in the parks
Duration: 5 minutes
Farewell Garden Dinner
18:30-20:30No. 23 Di'anmen Street, Dongcheng District, BeijingEnjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant with garden views, reflecting on Beijings natural and cultural heritage
Things to Do
- Hike along the Great Wall at Mutianyu section
- Boat ride on Kunming Lake in Summer Palace
- Explore the classical gardens of Beihai Park
- Visit Beijing Botanical Garden and its ancient temple
- Walk through Fragrant Hills Park during autumn foliage
- Experience traditional Chinese tea ceremony in a garden setting
- Photograph iconic landmarks with natural backdrops