For those seeking a fulfilling weekend adventure in Beijing, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Starting with a serene morning at Beihai Park, you’ll explore scenic spots and hidden gems before moving on to the architectural splendor of Xishiku Church. A quick visit to the charming Zhengyang Bookstore provides a glimpse into Beijing’s literary past, while a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant energizes you for the final leg of the journey – a comprehensive exploration of the magnificent Summer Palace.
This city walk route is a bit of a workout, requiring some walking and a metro ride, but it’s packed with activities and sights that will keep your day fully occupied.
Route: Beihai Park ➡️ Xishiku Church ➡️ Zhengyang Bookstore ➡️ Summer Palace
First Stop: Beihai Park
Arrive at Beihai Park around 9 AM (enter through the North Gate). Start by getting in line for a pedal boat; tickets go on sale at 9 AM, but people start lining up as early as 8:50. After boating, follow the route towards the West Gate to see attractions such as Jingxinzhai, Xitian Fanjing, the Nine-Dragon Wall, Kuaixuetang, the Iron Shadow Wall, Chanfu Temple, the ruins of Wanfu Tower, and Xiaoxitian before exiting through the West Gate. Ticket: 5 RMB (Free with a park pass)
Second Stop: Beihai Park ➡️ Xishiku Church
From Beihai Park’s West Gate, it’s about a 900-meter walk to Xishiku Church. No reservations are needed, and entry is free. The church is especially beautiful with magnolia trees that bloom in both white and red on either side of the main path. Note that you cannot enter the church wearing slippers or short skirts, and hats must be removed inside. Silence is requested.
Third Stop: Xishiku Church ➡️ Zhengyang Bookstore
Xishiku Church is approximately 800 meters from Zhengyang Bookstore, which is said to be the only bookstore in Beijing housed in a Yuan Dynasty building. Inside, you can find the famous Wansong Laoren Pagoda. The bookstore is small, and you can explore it in about ten minutes.
Fourth Stop: Lunch at Qiangzai Guangdong Cuisine
After visiting the bookstore, it will be around noon, and you can easily find a restaurant nearby, just across the street. To your surprise, the food might turn out to be exceptionally good. The owner is very friendly, and recommended dishes include roast goose, dry-fried beef noodles, and salt-and-pepper shrimp.
Fifth Stop: Qiangzai Guangdong Cuisine ➡️ Summer Palace (45-minute subway journey)
We entered the Summer Palace through the North Palace Gate and followed the route along Suzhou Street (where you can take a boat ride), the Tower of Buddhist Incense, Wenchang Pavilion, Zhichun Pavilion, the Bronze Ox, and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge before exiting through the New Palace Gate. The Summer Palace is vast, and walking through it is quite tiring. If your main goal is to visit the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, it’s recommended to enter through the New Palace Gate. Ticket: 30 RMB Combined Ticket: 60 RMB (Not recommended unless you have plenty of time, as it’s difficult to see everything).