National Day Golden Week Travel Guide

Take the high-speed train to Chengde (1.5 hours from Beijing, second-class seats starting at 90 RMB), check in at the World Cultural Heritage site the Mountain Resort (ticket 130 RMB) — the largest imperial garden in China, where the scenery of lakes and mountains hides the Thirty-Six Views of Kangxi. In the evening, stroll through Puning Temple (ticket 50 RMB), see the majestic golden statue of the Thousand-Hand Guanyin, and experience the solemnity of Tibetan Buddhism. Stay at a hot spring hotel in Chengde (including oxygen room + hot spring bath, two nights 1000 RMB) to relieve travel fatigue. Day 2: Drive to Jinshanling Great Wall (ticket 60 RMB, 2.5-hour drive), less crowded and wilder than Badaling, with autumn foliage in full color, watchtowers scattered like a dragon’s spine soaring across the sky, a paradise for photographers 📸! Hike the highlight section (from Xiaojinshan Tower to Zhuanduo Pass), climb high and enjoy the refreshing views. In the afternoon, arrive at the eastern section of Zhangbei Grassland Sky Road (free!), drive through the cloud road, where wind turbines, meadows, and wildflowers weave a Nordic painting. Early morning options include horseback riding to experience the grassland vibe (100 RMB/person), or visit Nuanquan Ancient Town (ticket 100 RMB including the Tree Flower performance), watch the intangible cultural heritage “Fire Tree Silver Flower” — molten iron splashing sparks on the wall, a spectacle as stunning as Game of Thrones! Return in the afternoon, stop by Huailai Guanting Reservoir for bird watching and rest, ending a pleasant trip. Transportation (high-speed train + car rental + fuel) about 800 RMB + accommodation 1000 RMB + meals 600 RMB + tickets and experiences ≈ 3800 RMB ✨Tips: Large temperature difference on the grassland, bring a windbreaker! It’s recommended to visit Jinshanling early to avoid crowds! The Tree Flower show is performed once every night, don’t miss it! The distant land of Hebei unlocks imperial charm, the majestic Great Wall, and autumn grassland scenery, offering excellent value for money!