3 day itinerary for Northern China

Itinerary

Northern China is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty, and I’m excited to help you craft an ideal 3-day itinerary. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Beijing - The Heart of History

Morning: The Great Wall of China (Mutianyu Section)

• Start your day early and head to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. It’s less crowded than Badaling and offers stunning views. You can hike up or take a cable car for a more leisurely ascent. Don’t forget your camera; the scenery is breathtaking!

Lunch: Local Cuisine

• After your hike, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant. Try some local specialties like Peking duck or dumplings. Yum!

Afternoon: The Forbidden City

• Head back to Beijing and visit the Forbidden City. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a sprawling palace complex that was home to Chinese emperors for centuries. Take your time wandering through the halls and gardens, soaking in the rich history.

Evening: Tiananmen Square

• As the sun sets, stroll over to Tiananmen Square. It’s a significant historical site and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding buildings lit up at night. If you’re up for it, you can catch the flag-lowering ceremony.

## Day 2: Beijing to Chengde - Nature and History Combined

Morning: Travel to Chengde

• After breakfast, take a train or drive to Chengde (about 2-3 hours). This city is known for its stunning natural landscapes and historical sites.

Lunch: Local Delicacies

• Once you arrive, grab lunch at a local restaurant. Chengde is known for its unique Manchu cuisine, so be sure to try some!

Afternoon: Chengde Mountain Resort

• Spend your afternoon exploring the Chengde Mountain Resort, a vast imperial garden and palace complex. It’s surrounded by beautiful mountains and lakes, making it a perfect blend of nature and history. Don’t miss the beautiful temples and the stunning views!

Evening: Puning Temple

• Visit the Puning Temple, known for its impressive wooden statue of Avalokiteshvara. The temple is beautifully set against the backdrop of the mountains, especially at sunset.

## Day 3: Zhangjiakou - Nature’s Playground

Morning: Travel to Zhangjiakou

• After breakfast, head to Zhangjiakou (about 2-3 hours from Chengde). This area is known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.

Lunch: Scenic Picnic

• Pack a picnic lunch or find a local eatery to enjoy a meal with a view. The fresh air and beautiful surroundings will make it even more enjoyable!

Afternoon: Bashang Grassland

• Spend your afternoon at the Bashang Grassland. It’s a beautiful area with rolling hills and vast open spaces. You can hike, bike, or simply relax and take in the scenery. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of local wildlife!

Evening: Return to Beijing

• Head back to Beijing in the evening. If you have time, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on your adventures over the past few days.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the weather and pack accordingly, especially for outdoor activities.
• Consider booking tickets for popular attractions in advance to avoid long lines.
• Don’t forget to try local snacks and street food along the way!

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 3 days in Northern China! Enjoy your trip, and feel free to ask if you have any more questions or need further assistance! 🌏✈️