Hebei Chengde

1.Mountain Resort

Mountain Resort in Chengde-one of China's most stunning imperial gardens and a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush forests,this vast summer retreat was built between 1703 and 1792 during the Qing Dynasty as an escape for emperors from Beijing's scorching heat.Covering over 5.6 square kilometers,it's twice the size of Beijing's Summer Palace and blends majestic palaces,serene lakes,and sweeping grasslands with surrounding temples.

Step into the "Garden of All Gardens," where emperors once hosted diplomatic meetings and leisurely pursuits.The resort's design reflects harmony between man and nature,with scenic spots like Lake District mirroring Jiangnan's water towns,Plain District evoking Mongolian grasslands,and Mountain Area offering breathtaking hiking trails.Don't miss the Misty Rain Tower-a poetic lakeside pavilion inspired by Hangzhou's West Lake.

Beyond its beauty,the resort whispers tales of history.Emperor Kangxi and Qianlong frequented here,governing the empire while enjoying hunts and cultural gatherings.Nearby,the grand Eight Outer Temples showcase Tibetan,Mongolian,and Han architectural fusion,symbolizing unity among China's ethnic groups.

2.Kangxi Grand Ceremony

Kangxi Grand Ceremony is breathtaking open-air show is set against the stunning backdrop of Chengde's mountains,where history comes alive under the stars.As the first large-scale real-scene cultural performance in northern China,it vividly recreates the grandeur of Emperor Kangxi's reign-the golden age of the Qing Dynasty.

Imagine this:a 10,000-square-meter stage,hundreds of performers,dazzling lights,and a royal story that will leave you in awe!Through mesmerizing music,dynamic choreography,and cutting-edge stage effects,the show takes you on a journey through Kangxi's life-from his childhood struggles to his military triumphs,cultural achievements,and visionary leadership.You'll see thrilling battle scenes,elegant court dances,and even a dramatic reenactment of the emperor's historic hunting expeditions in Chengde.

What makes this show truly unique?It's performed right where history happened!The stage is designed to integrate with the natural landscape,blending mountains,forests,and water into the storytelling.Watch as torchlights illuminate the night,warhorses gallop across the field,and imperial ceremonies unfold with majestic splendor.

This isn't just a performance-it's an immersive experience.Feel the energy of the Qing Dynasty's most legendary ruler and understand why Chengde was the heart of his empire.Whether you're a history lover or simply seeking unforgettable entertainment,The Imperial Epic will leave you spellbound.

3.Putuo Zongcheng Temple

Putuo Zongcheng Temple-Chengde's very own "Little Potala Palace"!

This architectural masterpiece,built between 1767 and 1771 under Emperor Qianlong's order,is one of the most breathtaking sights in Chengde.Modeled after Lhasa's iconic Potala Palace,it stands as a symbol of unity between the Qing Dynasty and Tibet's Buddhist culture.With its golden roofs,red-and-white walls,and grand terraces,you'll feel like you've stepped straight into the heart of Tibet!

As we explore,notice how the temple blends Han and Tibetan styles-a true imperial marvel.The complex stretches across 220,000 square meters,featuring sweeping staircases,intricate murals,and sacred prayer halls.The Red Palace,its central structure,houses stunning Buddhist statues and scriptures,while the Golden Roof Pavilion glitters under the sun with its gilded copper tiles-don't forget your camera!

But this temple isn't just about beauty-it's steeped in history.Emperor Qianlong constructed it to honor his mother's birthday and to welcome Tibetan envoys,strengthening ties with Mongolia and Tibet.Climb to the top terrace for a panoramic view of Chengde's mountains and the distant Eight Outer Temples-it's easy to see why this was called the "Second Potala."

4.Puning Temple

Puning Temple,also known as the "Temple of Universal Peace," is a magnificent blend of Han Chinese and Tibetan Buddhist architecture.Built in 1755 under Emperor Qianlong's reign,this UNESCO World Heritage Site commemorates the Qing Dynasty's victory over Mongol rebellions and symbolizes unity among different ethnic groups.

As you enter,you'll be awed by the grand Mahayana Hall,housing a stunning 22.28-meter-tall wooden statue of the Thousand-Armed Guanyin (Avalokiteshvara)-one of the tallest of its kind in the world!The temple's layout mirrors Tibet's Samye Monastery,with a unique fusion of vibrant Tibetan colors and elegant Han-style roofs.Don't miss the intricate murals and golden Buddha statues that whisper tales of ancient devotion.

Unlike many historical sites,Puning Temple remains an active place of worship.Monks chant sutras,incense curls through the air,and pilgrims spin prayer wheels-a truly immersive cultural experience.The surrounding Eight Outer Temples and Chengde's mountain vistas add to its spiritual charm.

5.Jinshanling Great Wall

Jinshanling Great Wall in Chengde!Stretching majestically across rolling mountains,this section of the Great Wall is renowned for its well-preserved architecture,stunning scenery,and fewer crowds,offering you an authentic and immersive experience.

Built during the Ming Dynasty in the 16th century under the supervision of General Qi Jiguang,Jinshanling showcases brilliant military design with its watchtowers,battlements,and strategic passes.Unlike the heavily restored sections near Beijing,here you'll witness the Wall's original charm-partly rugged and wild,partly restored,blending history with natural beauty.

As you hike along its winding path,you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of lush valleys and distant peaks.Don't miss iconic spots like the "General Tower" or the "Sister Towers",each telling tales of ancient defenders.Whether you're a history lover,photographer,or adventurer,Jinshanling promises an unforgettable journey through time.

6.Mulan Weichang

Mulan Weichang,the legendary imperial hunting grounds of the Qing Dynasty!Located in Chengde,this breathtaking region is a stunning blend of rolling grasslands,dense forests,crystal-clear lakes,and roaming wildlife.Once the exclusive retreat for emperors like Kangxi and Qianlong,today it welcomes travelers like you to experience its timeless beauty.

Spanning over 10,000 square kilometers,Mulan Weichang is often called the "Green Pearl of North China." Here,you can gallop on horseback across endless meadows,just like the Manchu emperors did centuries ago,or hike through golden birch forests that glow in autumn.Don't miss the Saihanba National Forest Park,China's largest man-made woodland,or the sparkling Moon Lake,where the sky and water merge into one.

Whether you visit in summer for its cool breezes and wildflowers,or in winter for snow-covered plains perfect for skiing,Mulan Weichang offers a peaceful escape from city life.So breathe in the fresh air,listen to the whispers of history,and let nature's magic surround you.

7.Qingchui Peak National Forest Park

Qingchui Peak National Forest Park,Dominated by the legendary "Hammer Rock",a towering 59-meter stone pillar that resembles a giant Buddhist pestle,this park is a breathtaking blend of geology,history,and untouched wilderness.

As we explore,you'll discover why this place was sacred to Qing Dynasty emperors,who built the nearby Chengde Mountain Resort as their summer retreat.The park's lush forests,winding trails,and panoramic viewpoints offer a peaceful escape,with every step revealing stunning vistas of Chengde's valleys and distant temples.

Don't miss the Pule Temple,nestled at the base of the peak,where emperors once prayed for good fortune.And if you're feeling adventurous,hike up to the "Monkey Rock" for a thrilling close-up view of Hammer Rock-it's said touching it brings luck!

Whether you're a nature lover,a photography enthusiast,or a history buff,Qingchui Peak promises an unforgettable journey.So,let's breathe in the fresh mountain air and uncover the secrets of this ancient landscape together!

8.Xumifushou Temple

Xumifushou Temple,one of Chengde's "Eight Outer Temples" and a UNESCO World Heritage Site!Built in 1780 under Emperor Qianlong's orders,this architectural gem was created to honor the 6th Panchen Lama's historic visit,blending Han,Tibetan,and Mongolian styles into one breathtaking complex.

As we explore,you'll be dazzled by the temple's golden roofs,intricate murals,and symbolic Tibetan Buddhist designs.The centerpiece?The Great Red Terrace,crowned with a golden pavilion that shimmers like a celestial palace.Inside,ancient scriptures and sacred artifacts whisper tales of imperial diplomacy and spiritual devotion.

Fun fact:This temple earned its nickname "Little Potala" for its resemblance to Lhasa's Potala Palace-but with a unique Qing Dynasty twist!

Whether you're drawn to history,spirituality,or stunning photography,Xumifushou Temple offers a peaceful retreat into China's multicultural past.So,let's walk in the footsteps of emperors and lamas together-who knows what wisdom we might discover?

9.Fengning Bashang Grasslands

Fengning Bashang Grasslands,Just a few hours from Chengde,this vast,rolling paradise is where the Great Plains meet the Mongolian Plateau,creating a landscape so beautiful,it's often called "Heaven on Earth".

Imagine endless green meadows dotted with wildflowers,crystal-clear lakes reflecting the sky,and herds of horses galloping freely under wide-open skies.This is the land where ancient emperors once hunted,nomads roamed,and today,travelers like you come to reconnect with nature.

Whether you visit in summer for horseback riding and bonfires under the stars,or in autumn when golden grasslands stretch as far as the eye can see,Bashang's beauty changes with the seasons-but its magic never fades.Don't miss the Sunset over Lightning Lake or a stay in a traditional Mongolian yurt for the full nomadic experience!

10.Moon Lake Scenic Area

Moon Lake Scenic Area in Weichang Bashang's Yudaokou Ranch!Nestled within what was once the Qing Dynasty emperors' exclusive hunting grounds,this pristine alpine lake reflects the sky like a giant mirror,earning its poetic name.

As we walk along the wooden boardwalks,you'll understand why Emperor Kangxi chose this very spot for his summer retreat.The landscape unfolds like a living painting-emerald grasslands stretching to distant pine forests,wildflowers dancing in the breeze,and if we're lucky,maybe even spotting some wild deer or swans gliding across the crystal-clear waters.

Fun fact:On still mornings,the lake's surface becomes so perfectly calm that it creates an incredible mirror image of the surrounding scenery-a photographer's dream come true!The nearby Saihanba Forest adds to the magic with its endless sea of larch trees that turn golden in autumn.

Whether you choose to hike the surrounding trails,horseback ride like the ancient emperors,or simply relax by the lakeshore,Moon Lake offers a peaceful escape into nature's masterpiece.