Skip to content
Ruqin China Travel Ruqin China Travel

China Travel Guides & Curated Tours — by Ruqin

  • Home
  • Destination Guides
  • Great Wall Guide
  • China Tours
    • Best Great Wall Tours
    • Best Beijing Tours
    • Best Shanghai Tours
    • Best Xi’an Tours
    • Best Guilin Tours
    • Best Harbin Tours
    • Best Chengdu Tours
    • Best Zhangjiajie Tours
  • Tourist Scams
  • Accessible China
  • Ruqin’s Notes
  • Forum

Search China Travel Guides and Curated Tours

Beijing Side Trips Travel Guide

While Beijing itself is filled with history, culture, and iconic landmarks, the surrounding areas offer a wealth of fascinating places that are perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. From the ancient grandeur of the Eastern Qing Tombs and Western Qing Tombs, to the stunning Yungang Grottoes in Datong, or the well-preserved ancient city of Pingyao, there’s no shortage of incredible sights just a short trip from the capital.

For those interested in imperial history, the Mountain Resort in Chengde offers a peaceful escape, while Tianjin, with its blend of European-style architecture and modern Chinese flair, offers a charming contrast to Beijing’s traditional sites. Whether you’re looking for ancient tombs, Buddhist grottoes, scenic temples, or historical towns, these nearby destinations are packed with culture and beauty.

With convenient transportation options like high-speed trains, buses, and self-driving routes, these side trips make it easy to explore more of China beyond the capital. In this section, we’ll guide you through some of the best side trips from Beijing, helping you plan your next adventure just outside the city!

Home » China Destination Guides » Beijing Travel Guide » Beijing Side Trips Travel Guide
Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple day trip from Beijing by high-speed train
Posted inBeijing Side Trips Travel Guide Beijing Travel Guide China Destination Guides

How to Get to Shaolin Temple from Beijing: Your Ultimate Guide

This guide covers everything you need to know about Beijing to Shaolin Temple transportation options, including travel times, costs, and tips to make your journey smooth and hassle-
Posted by Ruqin China Travel March 3, 2025
Best Beijing Tours
Best Xi'an Tours
Best Shanghai Tours
Best Shanghai Tours
More from Ruqin China Travel
Best Datong Tours

How to Get from Beijing to Datong: Map, Train, Flight and Bus

Tiananmen Square - Beijing Private tour

Free Things to Do in Beijing at Night: A Local’s Evening Guide

How to spend a perfect weekend in Beijing

How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Beijing: Itinerary and Tips

What to Wear in Beijing in September: Your Complete Guide

Beijing Bird Nest Stadium and Water Tube Travel Guide

How to Visit Beijing in 3 Days: A Guide for First-Time Visitors

The Great Wall of China

How to Plan a Trip to Beijing: All You Need to Know

Jingshan Park Autumn Leaves

Jingshan Park Autumn Leaves: Fall Foliage Map & Photo Spots

Temple of Heaven Autumn Photography

Temple of Heaven Autumn Photography: Best Fall Colors Spots

Forbidden City Autumn Photography

Forbidden City Autumn Photography: Best Fall Color Photo Spots

Best time to visit Summer Palace

Summer Palace Fall Colors: Best Photo Spots for Autumn Foliage

Best Route to Visit Forbidden City

Best Route to Visit Forbidden City: 3 Walking Routes & Maps

Visit Beijing hutong

How to Visit Beijing on a Budget: Smart Local Travel Tips

What Budget for Beijing trip

What Budget Should I Allow for Beijing?

Beihai Park Autumn Leaves

Beihai Park Autumn Leaves: Fall Foliage Map & Photo Spots

Jingling Tomb

Jingling Tomb Beijing: Ming Tomb Tickets, Travel Tips and Guide

Beijing Gubeikou Great Wall in November

Beijing in November: Wear, Weather, What to See & Travel Tips

summer palace

How many entrances and exits to the Summer Palace?

Beijing best ride-hailing app

Best Ride-Hailing Apps in Beijing: A Guide for Tourists

Beijing in January

Beijing in January : Wear, Weather, What to See & Travel Tips

Children's Day June 1

Beijing in June: Wear, Weather, What to See & Travel Tips

Carefully Selected China Tours — Recommended by Ruqin

View Recommended Tours
About Us
Contact Us
China Survival Guide
China Trip Planner
China Destinations
China Travel Updates
China Road Trips
China Great Wall
Accessible China
Ruqin Photo Walks
China Cultural Insights
China Tourist Scams

Ruqin’s Notes
Best China Tours
China Travel Forum
Advertising Opportunities
Affiliate Disclaimer
儒琴中国行
Copyright 2026 — 《儒琴中国行》 Ruqin China Travel. All rights reserved
Scroll to Top