The seaside resort of Beidaihe is renowned as a summer retreat of China’s Communist Party as well as a birding haven. Located 300kms east of Beijing, it is surrounded by beautiful mountainous scenery.
Beidaihe extends 10kms from east to west, with soft yellow sand beaches that stretch some 100 meters to the shallow water. The most convenient of the three beaches is Middle Beach, while West Beach is somewhat quieter. There are still not many Western tourists and you can easily find a serene spot for yourself.
A major attraction in Beidaihe is the Yingjiaoting or Eagle Horn Pavilion set on a huge 20-meter high rocky outcrop towering above the sea. Also known as Pigeon’s Nest, this is a famous place to watch the sunrise. Other interesting draws are Tiger Rock Park which features numerous vast rocks resembling a herd of tigers, and the lovely Lotus Stone Park at the foot of twin-peak Lianfeng Hill.
Getting There & Away
Beidaihe is best reached by train from Beijing, the journey taking 5 hours. Further trains are available from Shenyang (5 hours), Tianjin (4 hours), Shanhaiguan (1 hour) and Qinhuangdao (30 minutes). Minibuses connect Beidahe, Shanhaiguan and Qinhuangdao. Public bus number 5 links Beidaihe Railway Station with Middle Beach, while buses 3 and 4 run from Beidaihe to Shanhaiguan stopping at Qinhuangdao en route. The nearest airport is in Baotou, 45 minutes away.
Things to Do
Beidaihe Attractions
- 1 - Yingjiaoting
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Placed on an enormous 20-meter high rock, the eagle horn
Pavilion is a fabulous spot for watching the sunrise.