Beijing in the snow is one of China's most beautiful sights — the ancient palaces and hutongs transformed under a blanket of white. Here's where to enjoy the winter magic.
When snow falls on the Forbidden City's golden roofs and the grey walls of the hutongs, Beijing becomes a scene from a classical painting. Winter snowfalls are not frequent, but when they come, the city is breathtaking.
The Forbidden City is the iconic place to see Beijing snow — the red walls and gold roofs against the white. The contrast is stunning, and the palace is far less crowded on snowy weekdays. Book your ticket in advance.
Snow on the Great Wall is a once-in-a-lifetime sight. The wall winding over white ridges is majestic. Sections like Mutianyu and Jinshanling are beautiful in winter, with far fewer visitors.
The Summer Palace's frozen Kunming Lake, the Temple of Heaven's snowy cypresses, and the gardens of Beihai Park are all magical in snow. Winter activities include ice-skating on the frozen lakes.
The old alleyways of Beijing — with their grey tiled roofs and courtyard houses — are wonderfully atmospheric under snow. A rickshaw or walking tour through the snow-dusted hutongs is a memorable experience.
Beijing's winter is dry and cold (often below freezing). Dress in layers with a warm coat, hat, and gloves. Snow can make paths slippery — wear sturdy shoes. Clear winter days after a snowfall offer the best photography light.