Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Dongyue Temple

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: A Day at Dongyue Temple, Beijing

Morning Arrival

Start your day early at Dongyue Temple, located in the Chaoyang District of Beijing. Easily accessible by public transport, families can take the subway to Dongsi Shitiao Station on Line 2 and enjoy a short 10-minute walk to the temple. This ensures you arrive just in time for opening at 9:00 AM.

Explore the Temple

Dongyue Temple, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history dedicated to the Taoist god of Mount Tai. The entrance fee is quite reasonable, making it a budget-friendly excursion. As you step inside, you"re greeted by rows of statues representing the Taoist pantheon, an engaging way for kids to learn about Chinese spiritual beliefs and mythology. Each statue has a unique story that captures the imagination.

Attend a Taoist Ceremony

Check the schedule upon arrival and try to catch a traditional Taoist ceremony. These rituals, filled with music and vibrant costumes, are a fantastic way to immerse your family in the local culture. The temple"s serene atmosphere also offers a peaceful break from the bustling city.

Interactive Activities

Participate in a guided tour specifically designed for families, which often includes activities like paper-cutting or incense making. These hands-on experiences are not only fun but also educational, providing a deeper understanding of Taoist traditions.

Picnic and Gardens

For lunch, enjoy a picnic in the temple"s courtyard or visit a nearby local restaurant to sample some Beijing specialties. After lunch, stroll through the beautifully maintained gardens within the temple grounds. The gardens are a perfect spot for children to explore and for adults to relax.

Departure

Wrap up your visit by 4:00 PM, leaving you plenty of time to reflect on the day’s adventure as you head back to your accommodation or continue exploring other parts of Beijing.

This family-friendly itinerary to Dongyue Temple offers a blend of cultural enrichment, educational activities, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable day for both children and adults.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

798 Art District

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for 798 Art District, Beijing

Morning: Arrival & Exploration

Start your adventure in the 798 Art District by arriving early to beat the crowds. Easily accessible by taxi or bus (get off at Dashanzi Lukou Dong station), this former industrial area, now a thriving artistic hub, offers a fascinating mix of old factory architecture and contemporary art. Wander through the labyrinth of galleries like Ullens Center for Contemporary Art (UCCA) that showcases cutting-edge exhibitions. It"s not just for art buffs—kids will love the interactive installations and colorful art pieces.

Midday: Lunch & Leisure

Grab lunch at one of the family-friendly cafes in the district, such as Timezone 8, which offers a variety of Western and Asian dishes. Post-lunch, check out some boutique shops selling unique art and crafts perfect for souvenirs.

Afternoon: Educational Workshops & More Art

In the afternoon, engage in a family workshop at 798 Children"s Art Theatre. These activities are designed to inspire young minds through art, making it a perfect spot for children to unleash their creativity while adults enjoy some intricate artworks nearby. Many galleries, like Faurschou Foundation, offer educational programs that delve into the stories behind the exhibits, ideal for school-aged children.

Late Afternoon: Sculpture Parks & Relaxation

Before you leave, don’t miss the chance to stroll through the sculpture parks dotted throughout the district. These areas offer a great backdrop for family photos and a chance for kids to run around and play.

Interesting Fact

The “798” in the district"s name comes from the original name of the electronics factory complex built in the 1950s, reflecting its industrial past.

Ending your day in this artistic enclave provides a rich blend of education, culture, and fun, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Great Wall of China

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure at the Great Wall of China, one of the world"s most iconic wonders! Begin your journey at the Mutianyu section, renowned for its stunning scenery and family-friendly amenities. Located just 70 km northeast of Beijing, it"s easily accessible by bus or car. Here, you can take a cable car up to the Wall, a fun ride that saves energy and offers fabulous views, especially appealing for little legs.

Mutianyu is less crowded than the popular Badaling section, allowing for a more relaxed experience. The area is beautifully restored, with guardrails and smoother walking surfaces, making it safer for children. Engage your kids with tales of the Wall"s history, explaining how it was built over 2,300 years ago to protect ancient Chinese states from invasions. Look for watchtowers where soldiers used to keep guard – great spots for panoramic family photos!

Don"t miss the opportunity for some exhilarating fun on the Mutianyu toboggan ride. Suitable for both kids and adults, this unique slide lets you whizz down from the Wall to the valley below, creating unforgettable memories.

Wrap up your visit with a meal at one of the local restaurants near the Wall, offering delicious Chinese dishes that cater to various tastes. For a special treat, try some local specialties like dumplings or Beijing roast duck.

Tips:

- Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunblock and hats to protect against the sun.

- Early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid the crowds and the heat.

- Always keep an eye on children, as some areas of the Wall have steep steps and uneven surfaces.

This well-planned visit to the Great Wall at Mutianyu will ensure a magical and educational day out for the whole family, combining history, culture, and adventure!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market), Beijing

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure early by heading to Pearl Market, easily accessible via the Beijing Subway. Take Line 5 to Tiantandongmen Station, exit from Gate A, and you"ll find yourself just a short walk from the market. This location is not only convenient but also adjacent to the majestic Temple of Heaven, perfect for a combined day trip.

Exploring Pearl Market

As you enter, begin on the lower floors which are filled with a variety of goods such as clothes, electronics, and toys that can keep the kids entertained. Intriguing fact: despite its name, the Pearl Market is renowned for more than just pearls!

Lunch Break

Around noon, take a break at one of the nearby local eateries within the market or step outside to enjoy some Beijing street food. A popular choice is the Chinese stuffed pancakes, known locally as "jianbing," which are both delicious and quick to eat.

Afternoon – Pearl and Souvenir Shopping

Post-lunch, head to the upper floors where the real treasure lies. The market is famous for its pearls and semi-precious stones. Engage with friendly vendors who often tell stories about the origins of these gems. Here’s your chance to pick up some unique souvenirs and gifts.

Educational Experience

Don"t miss the opportunity to educate your kids on how to distinguish between real and fake pearls – many vendors will be happy to demonstrate the techniques.

Evening Stroll at the Temple of Heaven

Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll around the Temple of Heaven Park, just a few minutes’ walk from the market. It"s a great way to digest the day"s experiences while admiring ancient Chinese architecture.

With a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural exploration, Pearl Market offers a full, enriching day out for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mutianyu Great Wall

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Mutianyu Great Wall

Morning: Departure & Arrival

Begin your adventure early by taking a private tour van from Beijing, which is about a 1.5-hour drive. This allows your family the comfort and flexibility to travel at your own pace. Upon arrival, fuel up with some local snacks at the vendors near the parking area — try some jianbing (a traditional Chinese crepe) for an authentic taste!

Mid-Morning: Ascend the Wall

Head to the shuttle bus that will take you to the main entry point of the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. For a fun and easy ascent, take the cable car up to Watchtower 14, where you can start your exploration. This section is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and relatively fewer crowds, making it ideal for families.

Lunch on the Wall

Pack a picnic to enjoy an unforgettable lunch with panoramic views of the lush mountains. There’s plenty of space near the watchtowers to find a quiet spot.

Afternoon: Explore & Slide Down

After lunch, explore the well-preserved watchtowers and the stunning architecture of the wall, strolling towards Watchtower 20, known for its beautiful views. Engage the kids with tales of the wall"s history — did you know it was primarily built using local materials like granite during the Ming dynasty?

Finish your visit with a thrilling toboggan ride down from Watchtower 6. It’s a fun and exciting way to end your Great Wall adventure and is sure to be a hit with the kids!

Late Afternoon: Return to Beijing

As the day winds down, catch the shuttle bus back to the parking lot and drive back to Beijing. You’ll return full of unforgettable memories and stories to tell about one of the world"s most iconic landmarks.

This family-friendly itinerary to Mutianyu ensures a blend of adventure, education, and relaxation, perfect for making lasting memories!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.