Haidian Travel Guide
Haidian in northwest Beijing holds the Summer Palace, the remains of Yuanmingyuan, and clusters of universities, a district of gardens and learning.
Haidian Travel guide
Haidian is a district in the northwest of Beijing, spreading from the west to the north of the city center. Mountains run on in the west, while flat land continues east toward the center of the capital. Lakes and rivers are many, and the area has long been known as a belt blessed with water and green. It is one of the corners of the capital where nature is rich.
In the west of the district stands the Summer Palace, built as an imperial retreat. A garden that makes the most of a great lake and hill spreads out, with long corridors and bridges linking the waterside. Beside it lie the remains of Yuanmingyuan, where pond and rockwork keep the look of former days. Walking the gardens, one feels the history of the capital close at hand.
In the east of the district, universities and research institutes gather, giving the area the character of a place of learning. Bookshops and museums are many as well, and the air carries a touch of culture. The lakesides and tree-lined roads are places where residents enjoy walks. It is also a lively town where students and researchers cross paths.
To reach Haidian, one travels from central Beijing by subway or road. The imperial retreat and gardens can be visited as a day trip from the center of the capital as well. A day of a capital journey can be spent walking the gardens and touching history, then seeing the bustle of the learning town. If time allows, enjoy the view from the top of the hill as well.
Haidian Essential information
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn suit walking the gardens. In spring flowers bloom, and in autumn the trees take on color, bringing out the lake scenery. Summer is hot, and winter is dry and cold. Avoiding the crowded seasons and visiting early in the morning lets one walk in a settled way.
Weather and climate
Lying in the inland capital, the area has wide swings between warm and cold. Summers are hot with concentrated rain, and winters are dry and cold. Spring winds are strong, sometimes carrying dust. Autumn air is clear, and the garden scenery shows well. The gardens change with the season and can be enjoyed at leisure.
Getting there and around
To reach Haidian, one travels from central Beijing by subway or road. To the sights of the district, one walks from a subway station or uses local buses. The gardens are wide, so allowing time for the distance walked is best. Deciding which places to see first makes building the order of the route easier.
Travel tips
The gardens and parks are wide, so choose easy walking shoes. Summer sun is strong and winter turns cold, so prepare clothing for the season. When visiting facilities, follow the guidance. Do not forget to bring water as well.