"From Mulan Hunting Grounds to the Eight Outer Temples: The Multicultural Fusion of Chengde"

**Morning: Explore the World Heritage Site—Mountain Resort** 📍 **Mountain Resort (8:30-11:30)** - **Highlights**: China's largest existing imperial garden, blending the essence of northern and southern landscapes, showcasing the splendor of the Kangxi-Qianlong era. - **Recommended Route**: - **Palace Area**: Visit the Hall of Frugality and Harmony and the Hall of Mist and Rain to learn about Qing Dynasty imperial life. - **Lake Area**: Boat ride on Ruyi Lake (optional), and visit the Misty Rain Tower (filming location for *My Fair Princess*). - **Tips**: The resort is vast; consider taking the mountain shuttle (fee applies) for panoramic views of the Eight Outer Temples. **Noon: Savor Chengde's Local Delicacies** 🍽 **Recommended Restaurants**: - **Lao San Yang Tang**: Must-try lamb offal soup with baked buns, hearty and authentic. - **Qiao's Manchu Eight Bowls**: Experience traditional Manchu dishes like venison and steamed bowls. **Afternoon: Highlights of the Eight Outer Temples** 📍 **Potala Temple (Little Potala Palace) (13:00-14:30)** - **Highlights**: A Tibetan-style complex modeled after Lhasa's Potala Palace, with striking red-and-white architecture. Climb to the top for panoramic photos. 📍 **Xumifushou Temple (Panchen Lama's Palace) (14:40-15:30)** - **Highlights**: A blend of Han and Tibetan architecture, featuring a stunning glazed golden dragon roof. **Evening: Summit Views of Chengde** 📍 **Hammer Peak (Bangchui Mountain) (16:00-17:30)** - **Experience**: Take the cable car or hike to admire the giant stone pillar, perfect for sunset photography. **Night: Stroll Erxianju Pedestrian Street** 🌃 **Recommended Activities**: - Explore night markets for snacks (almond tea, Nansha cakes). - Shop for local specialties: chestnuts, mushrooms, and royal paper-cuttings. --- **📌 Practical Info** - **Transport**: Taxis between attractions cost ~10-20 RMB; Bus "Tour 1" connects major sites. - **Tickets**: Combo tickets for the Mountain Resort + Eight Outer Temples offer savings (book online in advance). - **Note**: Sun protection in summer, warm clothing in winter; wear comfortable shoes for mountain paths.