Beijing is a city of contrasts, blending ancient history with modern urban life. While it’s famous for its palaces, temples, and bustling streets, there’s another side of Beijing that’s equally captivating—its sunrise views. Watching the first rays of light over this ancient city is one of the most magical experiences you can have. Whether you’re a photographer, an early riser, or simply someone looking for a peaceful start to the day, Beijing offers plenty of perfect spots to watch the sunrise. In this article, we’ll take you through the best places to watch sunrise in Beijing, from famous landmarks to hidden gems.
1. Where to See Sunrise in Beijing
So, you’ve made it to Beijing, and you’re eager to experience the city in a whole new light. But, where to see sunrise in Beijing? Lucky for you, the city is home to several spots where the sunrise is absolutely stunning. From ancient temples to tranquil parks and scenic hills, there are sunrise spots in Beijing that cater to all types of travelers.
Whether you’re looking for a view of the Forbidden City at dawn or the serene beauty of the Great Wall bathed in early morning light, Beijing has it all. But, where should you start? Let’s dive into these Best Places to Watch Sunrise in Beijing.
2. The Best Sunrise Spot in Beijing: Wanchun Pavilion at Jingshan Park
If you want a sunrise that offers both history and natural beauty, Jingshan Park is the place to be. Located just north of the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park is one of the best places to watch sunrise in Beijing. It’s a peaceful park that sits atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Beijing’s cityscape. From the top of Wanchun Pavilion at the Jingshan Hill, you can see a full view of the Forbidden City and the whole city bathed in golden light as the sun rises over the horizon.
Jingshan Park isn’t just a great spot for sunrise, but also a fantastic location for photography. The combination of ancient architecture and the soft, early morning light makes for some beautiful photos. Be sure to arrive early to catch the best light and avoid the crowds. Plus, the park itself is full of charm, with ancient trees, winding paths, and traditional pavilions to explore.
3. Best Parks for Sunrise in Beijing
Beijing is known for its vast parks, and many of them are fantastic spots for catching the sunrise. These green spaces offer both beauty and tranquility, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Watch Sunrise at Bin Feng Bridge in the Summer Palace
Bin Feng Bridge (豳风桥), located along the western bank of Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace in Beijing, is one of the most picturesque spots to catch the sunrise. The West Causeway, built in the style of Hangzhou’s famed Su Causeway, stretches across the lake, offering six unique bridges and pavilions, each with its own charm. From north to south, you’ll pass through Jiehuchiao, Bin Feng Bridge, Yudai Bridge, Jingqiao Bridge, Lianqiao Bridge, and Liubiao Bridge.
The western end of the West Causeway, especially Bin Feng Bridge, is an excellent place to enjoy the early morning light. It’s considered one of the best spots to watch the sunrise in Beijing. It’s just a short 10-minute walk from the north entrance (Ru Yi Men), to Bin Feng Bridge.
No matter where you stand—on the bridge itself, beside the lake, or even under the archway—you’ll have perfect views of the rising sun. As the sun slowly rises from behind the trees on the far shore, the sky turns a brilliant golden hue. I captured the scene over the course of about 10 minutes, not wanting to miss a single second of this mesmerizing moment.
See Sunrise at Five-Dragon Pavilion, Beihai Park
The Five-Dragon Pavilion （五龙亭）in Beihai Park is one of the best spots in Beijing to catch the sunrise, and it’s especially perfect when you get up early to watch the first light of the day.
Five-Dragon Pavilion: This iconic pavilion is positioned just right for sunrise views. To get there, enter Beihai Park from the northern gate, walk along the northern shore, and head west. Keep walking until you reach the area around the Five-Dragon Pavilion, where you’ll find an ideal spot for photography.
It’s recommended to frame your photos with the Five-Dragon Pavilion in the foreground, and include iconic landmarks like the White Pagoda and the Wan Chun Pavilion in the distance. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of China Zun, Beijing’s tallest building, further off in the skyline. The view from here is breathtaking as the golden light of the sunrise spills over the water, illuminating these famous landmarks.
4. Watching Sunrise at Beijing’s Landmarks
When it comes to watching sunrise at Beijing’s landmarks, the options are endless. The city is dotted with iconic spots that are even more magical at dawn.
See Sunrise at the Northwest Turret of the Forbidden City
One of the best places to watch the sunrise in Beijing is the Northwest Turret of the Forbidden City (故宫西北角楼）. This spot is perfect for capturing the sunrise because the sun rises from behind the tower, creating a beautiful 3D effect as the light filters through the intricate structure.
When you’re there, experiment with different angles to get the most out of your shots. While the classic symmetrical view of the corner tower is always a favorite, you can also capture the Wan Chun Pavilion at Jingshan Park, China Zun, and other iconic landmarks in the distance. This spot offers a perfect combination of history, architecture, and natural beauty, making it a must-see for any sunrise enthusiast.
Best Sunrise Spots at the Temple of Heaven
When it comes to watching the sunrise at the Temple of Heaven, the best spots are the East and West Side Halls near the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests (天坛公园的祈年殿东/西配殿). These locations are perfect for early morning photography—the light is soft and gentle, and the clean background helps you capture stunning sunrise photos without distractions.
Another great option is the Temple of Heaven’s Hanging Sun, which happens on the spring and autumn equinoxes (春分和秋分). During these times, the light at sunrise is especially beautiful. The ideal spot for capturing this unique phenomenon is located about 1 kilometer east of the Tiantan Park Subway Station. Walk along Tiyu Road and the best photography location will be on the first pedestrian overpass. Here, you’ll get an excellent angle of the sun rising behind the temple, making for a truly magical shot.
Whether you’re a photographer or just a nature lover, the sunrise at the Temple of Heaven is a must-see experience in Beijing.
5. Beijing Outdoor Sunrise Experiences
For those who love outdoor activities, Beijing offers several outdoor sunrise experiences that combine adventure with stunning views.
View Sunrise at Ghost Laughing Stone, Xishan
The Ghost Laughing Stone in Beijing’s Xishan (西山鬼笑石) is an incredible spot to watch the sunrise. Located in the Xishan National Forest Park, this giant rock stands at an elevation of 473 meters. From here, you get sweeping views of the entire city of Beijing, and the sunrise from this vantage point is absolutely breathtaking.
The Ghost Laughing Stone is a prominent rock that juts out from the landscape. From its peak, you can look down on Beijing and see landmarks like the Beijing TV Tower, the Summer Palace, and the Xiangshan Botanical Garden and the whole city. The view of the sun rising over the city’s skyline is a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban wonder.
It’s best to drive or hire a car to get to the Ghost Laughing Stone. Though there are hiking routes, driving is much more convenient. You can navigate to the Back Mountain Parking Lot, where you’ll find public parking along the way. Both parking areas charge by the visit, so make sure to have some cash on hand.
See Sunrise at the Zhaojiawa Viewing Platform
The Zhaojiawa Viewing Platform （赵家洼观景台）in Beijing’s Mentougou District is a hidden gem that offers some of the best sunrise views in the area. Located in Zhaojiawa Village, Longquan Town, it’s just a 30-minute drive from downtown Beijing—making it an easy escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The platform sits high on the mountainside, offering expansive views of Beijing. From here, you can spot some of the city’s most iconic landmarks along the central axis, like Xichang’an Street, the Shougang Bridge, the CCTV Tower, and China Zun. If you look further north, you can see the Pangu Plaza and the Water Cube. Closer to the platform, you’ll also get a great view of Mentougou District and the Yongding Tower. It’s a great spot to take in both the natural beauty of the area and the urban landscape in one sweeping glance.
The sunrise here is absolutely mesmerizing. On a clear day, the sun rises over the mountains, casting a beautiful golden light across the valley below. The scenery is peaceful and the colors of the sky make it feel like you’ve stepped into a painting.
6. Sunrise Near the Great Wall
No trip to Beijing is complete without a visit to the Great Wall, and there’s no better way to experience it than during sunrise. Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall, is an incredible sunrise spot. The wall winds its way through the mountains, offering a scenic and dramatic view of the sunrise as the sun casts long shadows across the ancient stone.
To catch the best sunrise near the Great Wall, it’s recommended to get there early before the crowds arrive. If you’re up for it, a sunrise hike along the wall will allow you to experience the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy the beauty of the wall in the soft, morning light.
Additionally, Simatai Great Wall is another excellent spot to watch sunrise near the Great Wall. This section is less crowded, and the view of the sun rising over the mountainous landscape is nothing short of spectacular.
7. Tips for Watching Sunrise in Beijing
Going to these Best Places to Watch Sunrise in Beijing is all about preparation. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Arrive early: The earlier, the better. Sunrise times vary depending on the season, but it’s always a good idea to arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise to find a good spot and set up for photos.
- Check the weather: Clear skies make for the best sunrises, so be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out.
- Dress warmly: Beijing mornings can be chilly, especially in the winter months, so be sure to wear layers to stay comfortable.
- Bring your camera: The sunrise in Beijing can be absolutely breathtaking, so don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the moment.
- Be mindful of local customs: If you’re visiting temples or parks, be respectful of the local customs. Early mornings are peaceful times for locals, so be quiet and mindful of your surroundings.
Beijing is a city full of surprises, and watching the sunrise is one of the best ways to experience its beauty. Whether you’re looking for a historic spot like the Forbidden City or a peaceful park like Beihai, there’s something for everyone. From the top of Jingshan Park to the Great Wall’s mountain vistas, the best places to watch sunrise in Beijing will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
So, next time you’re in Beijing, wake up early and explore these sunrise spots. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to start your day with a peaceful moment, Beijing’s sunrise locations offer stunning views that you won’t forget.
