Tour Overview (Tour Code – BSE05)
Take a high-speed train to Chengde, the summer retreat of Qing Dynasty emperors, and explore this city rich in history and culture. On the first day, visit the Putuo Zongcheng Temple, known as the “Little Potala Palace,” to admire its grand scale and impressive architecture.
After lunch, tour the Mountain Resort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its expansive gardens and palatial buildings.
On the second day, visit the Puning Temple, one of the most significant temples among the Outer Temples. In the afternoon, explore the Xumi Fushou Temple before returning to Beijing by high-speed train.
Itinerary
Day 1: Beijing to Chengde
Morning
Departure:
Time: 08:00 AM
Depart from Beijing by high-speed train to Chengde. The journey takes just 1 hour, providing a quick and comfortable travel experience.
Arrival in Chengde:
Time: 09:00 AM
Upon arrival in Chengde, your English-speaking guide will greet you and take you to the Putuo Zongcheng Temple.
Morning
Visit to Putuo Zongcheng Temple:
Time: 09:30 AM – 11:30 AM
The Putuo Zongcheng Temple, also known as the “Little Potala Palace,” is modeled after Tibet’s Potala Palace. It is the largest and most complete temple among the Outer Temples, with grand halls and intricate architectural details. Your guide will explain the temple’s historical significance and its cultural connections to Tibetan Buddhism.
Midday
Chinese Lunch:
Time: 12:00 PM – 01:00 PM
Enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the regional flavors of Chengde.
Afternoon
Visit to the Mountain Resort:
Time: 01:30 PM – 04:30 PM
After lunch, explore the Mountain Resort, also known as the “Chengde Summer Palace.” This vast imperial garden served as a retreat for Qing emperors. The resort combines natural landscapes with exquisite architecture, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of China.
Evening
Check-in at Chengde Hotel:
Time: 05:00 PM
Check in at a comfortable 4-star hotel in Chengde, where you can relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Dinner:
Time: 06:30 PM
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, offering more opportunities to taste Chengde’s traditional dishes.
Day 2: Chengde to Beijing
Morning
Visit to Puning Temple:
Time: 09:00 AM – 11:30 AM
After breakfast, visit Puning Temple, also known as the “Big Buddha Temple.” Built in 1759, it is one of the most important temples among the Outer Temples. The temple houses a colossal wooden statue of the Thousand-Armed Guanyin, standing at 22.28 meters tall, making it the largest wooden statue of its kind in the world.
Midday
Chinese Lunch:
Time: 12:00 PM – 01:30 PM
Enjoy a leisurely lunch, sampling more of Chengde’s local cuisine before continuing your tour.
Afternoon
Visit to Xumi Fushou Temple:
Time: 02:00 PM – 03:30 PM
Visit Xumi Fushou Temple, also known as the Panchen Lama’s Palace. Built to welcome the 6th Panchen Lama, this temple features a blend of Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles. The main hall, Miaogao Zhuangyan Hall, is particularly notable for its golden fish-scale tiles, which were a lavish display of wealth and reverence.
Afternoon
Return to Beijing:
Departure Time: 04:30 PM
Arrival in Beijing: 05:30 PM
Board the high-speed train back to Beijing, concluding your enriching two-day tour of Chengde.
Travel Tips
- Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.
- Photography: The Mountain Resort and Outer Temples offer excellent photo opportunities, so be sure to bring your camera or smartphone.
- Currency: It’s advisable to carry some cash (CNY) for small purchases and tips.
- Language: Although your guide will provide commentary in English, learning a few basic Chinese phrases can enhance your travel experience.
Travel Inquiry
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Bob,
we are pleased to arrange your Beijing – Chengde 3-day tour as follows:
Beijing to Chengde: 2 Nights and 3 Days Itinerary:
Day 1: Beijing – Chengde by train
Morning: Take a train from Beijing to Chengde (guests book their own tickets). The guide and driver will provide a private pick-up service at the station.
Lunch (included): Enjoy a simple meal.
Afternoon: Visit the Mountain Resort (Bishu Shanzhuang). It is recommended to purchase tickets for the mountain and plain area carts to explore this grand garden more comprehensively.
Dinner (included): Suggested: Enjoy authentic Chengde cuisine at the Xianghexing Scissor Noodle Branch on Nanyingzi Street.
Accommodation: (Self-arranged by guests)
Day 2: Cultural Exploration of Chengde’s Outer Eight Temples
Morning: Visit the Putuo Zongcheng Temple and Puning Temple. These temples are known for their unique architectural styles and deep cultural significance, providing a sense of history and the power of faith.
Lunch (included): Enjoy a simple meal.
Afternoon: Visit Chengde Museum and Puning Temple to learn about the history and culture of Chengde and admire the world’s largest existing gilt wood carving of the Thousand-Armed, Thousand-Eyed Guanyin.
Dinner: Taste Chengde’s special snacks, such as lamb soup and hot pot, and experience authentic Chengde flavors.
Accommodation: (Self-arranged by guests)
Day 3: Chengde to Beijing (Afternoon Train)
Morning: Visit Anyuan Temple and Pule Temple. These temples combine Tibetan and Han architectural styles, providing a deep appreciation of Chengde’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
Lunch: Enjoy a simple local meal and experience the local customs.
Afternoon: Take the train back to Beijing (guests book their own tickets).
Note: In the evening, Chengde offers a live-action performance called “The Kangxi Ceremony of the Prosperous Dynasty.”