Miyun 2-Day Travel Guide: Best Spring Weekend Getaway from Beijing

By Sherry Fei | March 2026

 

Looking for a refreshing escape from the city without traveling far? Just a short drive from Beijing, Miyun District offers the perfect blend of mountains, lakes, culture, and local cuisine.

Known as the “Pearl of the Yanshan Mountains,” Miyun is home to scenic landscapes, vineyards, historic landmarks, and charming villages. In just two days and one night, you can explore ancient towers, taste local specialties, visit a European-style winery, and stroll through a picturesque water town beneath the Great Wall.

Here’s a perfect spring weekend itinerary for Miyun.

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Day 1: Mountains, Wine & Scenic Valley Views

Morning: Yexian Pagoda Scenic Area

Start your Miyun adventure at Yexian Pagoda Scenic Area, located about 2 km northeast of Miyun town. Covering over 1,100 acres, this scenic park is surrounded by mountains and water, making it one of the classic landscapes of Miyun.

The highlight is the Yexian Pagoda, an elegant octagonal tower about 8 meters tall with intricate brick carvings and traditional architectural details.

But there’s much more to explore inside the park:

• Wanfodian Hall, one of the largest temple halls in China
• A giant golden statue of Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy)
• Scenic sites like Sanxian Cave, Reclining Buddha, and Fuxi Square

For adventure lovers, don’t miss the mountain coaster ride. The 2-kilometer track winds through the hills like a dragon, letting you race down at speeds up to 25 km/h while enjoying panoramic mountain views.

It’s the perfect way to start a fun and energizing day.

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Lunch: Miyun Fish Street or Local Farm Cuisine

Miyun is famous for dishes made with fish from Miyun Reservoir, the largest reservoir in northern China.

1. Miyun Fish Street:

With over 30 restaurants, this lively food street is the best place to try the famous “Whole Fish Banquet.”

Creative chefs use every part of the fish—from the fillet to the skin—to create a variety of flavorful dishes. Miyun even hosts an annual Fish King Food Festival, attracting food lovers from across Beijing.

2. Miyun Impression Eco Restaurant:

If you prefer authentic countryside flavors, this restaurant specializes in locally sourced ingredients from different Miyun villages.

One must-try dish is the fresh handmade vermicelli, prepared using a traditional technique by a local heritage craftsman.

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Afternoon: Chateau Changyu Afip Global & Sunlight Valley

1. Chateau Changyu Afip Global

After lunch, head to the romantic Chateau Changyu Afip Global, a European-style winery located in Jugezhuang Town.

The estate covers more than 1,500 acres, combining vineyards, wine production, exhibitions, and tourism.

Highlights include:

• Gothic-style castle architecture
• Wine cellars filled with oak barrels
• A wine museum showcasing Chinese winemaking history
• Wine tasting experiences

Walking through the vineyard lawns and castle courtyards feels like stepping into a European countryside film set.

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2. Sunlight Valley

Next, visit Sunlight Valley, one of Beijing’s newest scenic hotspots.

This valley retreat combines nature, outdoor activities, and relaxation across a vast mountain landscape.

The biggest highlight is the 180° panoramic viewing platform, offering breathtaking views over Miyun Reservoir. At sunset, the mountains, lake, and glowing sky create a stunning photo opportunity.

Activities here include:

• Mountain coaster rides
• Horseback riding
• Kids’ outdoor playgrounds
• Scenic hiking areas

Whether you’re traveling with friends or family, there’s plenty to enjoy.

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Dinner Options

1. Beimujiayu Halal Food Street

Not far from Sunlight Valley, this village is known for its traditional halal cuisine.

Popular dishes include:

• Braised beef
• Steamed lamb
• Halal “Eight Bowls” traditional dishes
• Miyun reservoir fish
• Beef pancakes

The flavors are rich but not greasy—perfect after a day of exploring.

2. CR MixC Mall Miyun

Prefer something more modern? Head to CR MixC Mall, a large shopping center with 70+ restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines—from Chinese classics to international favorites.

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Where to Stay

1. Laoyouji Garden Homestay

Built from a century-old traditional house, this charming countryside homestay blends rustic architecture with modern comfort.

Highlights:

• Flower-filled courtyard
• 16 American country–style rooms
• Café and bar area
• Family-friendly spaces

It’s a peaceful place to relax and reconnect with nature.

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2. Impression Yunxi Boutique Homestay

Located near the south bank of Miyun Reservoir, this upscale homestay sits in a village known for its exceptionally fresh air and high oxygen levels.

Features include:

• Private courtyard villas
• Smart meeting facilities
• Personalized butler service

It’s ideal for travelers seeking a luxury countryside retreat.

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3. Gubei Water Town Grand Hotel

If you prefer to stay closer to the Great Wall, the Gubei Water Grand Town Hotel is a great option.

The hotel is built along the mountains and is the only hotel in the area with its own parking lot, making it convenient for self-driving visitors.

Its unique concept as a “Great Wall Beacon Tower Theme Hotel” combines historical inspiration with modern comfort.

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Day 2: Explore Gubei Water Town & the Simatai Great Wall

After a restful night, start your second day at one of Beijing’s most famous cultural destinations.

Gubei Water Town

Located beside Yuanyang Lake Reservoir, Gubei Water Town is a picturesque resort town covering 9 square kilometers.

The town features beautifully reconstructed Ming and Qing dynasty-style architecture, with stone streets, canals, courtyards, and cultural workshops.

Walking through the town feels like stepping into a northern Chinese version of a historic water village.

You’ll find:

• Folk art performances
• Traditional craft workshops
• Boutique shops
• Tea houses and restaurants

Every corner offers something worth exploring.

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Simatai Great Wall

Behind the town rises the dramatic Simatai Great Wall, one of the best-preserved sections of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall.

It is famous for five key characteristics:

• Steep
• Dense watchtowers
• Well-preserved structures
• Ingenious design
• Complete defensive system

Many historians consider it one of the most spectacular sections of the entire Great Wall.

Standing on the wall and looking out over the mountains is an unforgettable experience.

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Special Spring Promotion (Women’s Day Offer)

From March 8 to March 22, 2026, all female visitors worldwide can enjoy free admission to both Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall.

This limited-time offer invites women to celebrate spring while experiencing one of Beijing’s most beautiful destinations.

For more information about the promotion, please click here.

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Must-Try Snacks in Gubei Water Town

After exploring the town and the Great Wall, take a break and try some popular local snacks:

• Meigan Vegetable Pancake – crispy flatbread filled with savory preserved vegetables
• Roasted Sweet Potato – warm, soft, and naturally sweet
• Bridgehead Rice Cake – a traditional snack with red bean filling
• Shredded Radish Pastry – crispy outside, fragrant inside
• Fried Tofu Pockets – crunchy tofu served with savory sauce
• Roasted Snow Pear – slow-baked pear dessert served warm

For a full meal, try Gubei Roast Duck, cooked over fruitwood charcoal for a crispy skin and tender meat.

Source: 小红书@大兰子

A Relaxing Beijing Weekend Escape

From ancient pagodas and vineyards to scenic valleys and the Great Wall, Miyun offers one of the most diverse countryside experiences near Beijing.

In just two days, you can enjoy:

• Historic landmarks
• Stunning natural scenery
• Authentic local cuisine
• Boutique countryside stays
• One of the most beautiful sections of the Great Wall

If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway from Beijing, Miyun is the perfect destination.

Pack your bags, leave the city behind, and discover a refreshing side of Beijing you may not expect.