Things To Do
in Chengde
Chengde is a city located in northern China's Hebei province, known for its historical significance and cultural heritage. It is famous for the Chengde Mountain Resort, a vast imperial palace complex that served as the summer residence of the Qing emperors. Visitors can explore ancient temples, lush gardens, and beautiful pavilions within the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Chengde is also surrounded by scenic mountains, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and nature exploration.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Chengde Mountain Resorts, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the gardens and lakes while enjoying the scenic views.
After lunch, head to the Putuo Zongcheng Temple, a stunning Tibetan-style Buddhist temple. Explore the architecture and learn about its history.
Wrap up your day at the local market where you can sample street food and shop for souvenirs. Enjoy a relaxing evening in one of the nearby parks.
Begin your morning with a hike at the nearby Chao Qing Mountain. The trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Summer Resort Secret Garden. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful arrangements of flora.
End the day with a traditional Chinese hot pot dinner. Share the experience with friends and savor the flavors of Chengde.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites such as the Mountain Resort
- Beautiful natural scenery and landscapes, including mountains and gardens
- Less crowded compared to major cities like Beijing and Shanghai
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring nature
- Home to several ethnic minority groups, enhancing cultural diversity
- Limited English proficiency among locals may pose communication challenges
- Transportation options can be less convenient compared to larger cities
- Commercial development may not be as advanced, leading to fewer shopping and dining options
- Seasonal weather extremes, such as hot summers and cold winters
- Lack of major international airports, which can affect travel accessibility
Best Activities in Chengde
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the largest imperial garden in China, featuring beautiful landscapes, lakes, and historic architecture.
Enjoy scenic hiking trails alongside the Wulie River, with opportunities to see local wildlife and stunning natural viewpoints.
Explore the unique temples outside the city that offer insights into Chinese Buddhism and Tibetan culture set in picturesque surroundings.
Rent a bike and ride through Chengde's beautiful parks and countryside, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views.
Pack a picnic and relax in one of Chengde's many gardens, perfect for enjoying nature and a peaceful atmosphere.
Take a trip to the nearby sections of the Great Wall and capture stunning photographs of this historic monument against the backdrop of nature.
Experience Chengde's culture by participating in local outdoor festivals and events, showcasing traditional music, food, and crafts.
Experience an adrenaline rush by rafting on the Wulie River, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and serene nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Chengde with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Chengde
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its grand architecture and the impressive statue of Avalokitesvara, Puning Temple offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is an ideal spot for photography.
This vast imperial garden features beautiful manicured landscapes, traditional pavilions, and hills that provide picturesque views, especially during sunrise or sunset.
This famous screen wall is adorned with dragon sculptures that offer a unique backdrop for photos and a cultural insight into the region's history and art.
This temple, modeled after the Potala Palace in Lhasa, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and gardens, making it a perfect place for capturing stunning images.
The scenic river area provides beautiful natural vistas, especially during the early morning mist or late afternoon light, ideal for landscape photography.
Offering panoramic views of the Chengde area, Wuling Mountain is perfect for hikers and photographers looking to capture the vast beauty of the region.
Famous for its scenic overlook, Baren Mountain provides sweeping views of the Chengde landscape, making it a favored spot for both tourists and photographers.
Food in Chengde
Chengde Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich and spicy hot pot dish featuring tender lamb slices, tofu, and an array of fresh vegetables, best enjoyed at Lao Bian Jiao Hot Pot Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked deer meat in a savory sauce, often found at Xiangcao Xiangcao Restaurant, renowned for its game meat dishes.
Freshwater shrimp stir-fried with garlic, chili, and Sichuan peppercorns, a specialty at Shui Yun Jian Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Chengde better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling night market offers a wide array of local street food, including grilled lamb skewers, fried buns, and jianbing (savory Chinese crepes).
Located next to Wulie River, this street food paradise features stalls selling assorted snacks such as stinky tofu, spicy rabbit heads, and sesame pancakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Chengde, it's customary to greet them with a nod or a slight bow. A handshake is common, but ensure it's gentle. Saying 'Ni hao' (hello) in Mandarin is also a polite way to start a conversation.
During meals, wait for the host to start eating before you begin. It's polite to try a bit of every dish offered to you, and don’t stick your chopsticks upright in your rice as it resembles incense sticks used for funerals.
In Chinese culture, elders are highly respected. Always show deference to older individuals by giving them priority in conversations and public spaces. Address them with appropriate titles and speak in a respectful tone.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Chengde with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Chengde
Ensure a smooth experience
In Chengde, China, tipping is not a common practice and is often not expected in most service situations. In restaurants, the service charge is usually included in the bill, and leaving small change may be appreciated but not required. In more upscale establishments or tourist-oriented areas, however, a small tip can be welcomed by the staff. Overall, tipping culture is not as ingrained as in some Western countries.
Payment practices in Chengde generally involve cash and mobile payment methods. Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are increasingly popular, especially among younger people and in urban areas. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops or markets. In terms of currency, the Chinese Yuan (CNY) is used for all transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Chengde.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a wonderful time to visit Chengde as the trees and flowers begin to bloom. You can expect mild weather with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's beautiful gardens and parks.
Summer (June to August) can be hot in Chengde, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). However, this season is also vibrant, with lush greenery and plenty of festivals and events. Expect occasional rain, so it's wise to carry an umbrella.
Autumn (September to November) is arguably the best time to visit Chengde. The weather is cool and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The foliage changes colors, making the landscape stunningly beautiful and perfect for photography.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold in Chengde, with temperatures dropping below 0°C (32°F). Snow can occasionally cover the region, creating a picturesque winter landscape. This season is less crowded, allowing for a quieter experience, especially at the historical sites.
Chengde at Night
Hiking in Chengde
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic mountain area offering a variety of trails with beautiful views and rich biodiversity.
A national park featuring dense forests, diverse wildlife, and hiking paths that range from moderate to challenging.
Famous for its stunning landscapes and historical sites, this mountain offers several hiking routes for all skill levels.
Part of the Great Wall of China, offering a unique hiking experience with panoramic views and ancient architecture.
A unique hiking area known for its dramatic rock formations and mysterious legends, providing a thrilling experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Chengde through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Chengde by plane.
Located approximately 180 kilometers from Chengde, PEK is one of the busiest airports in China and offers numerous international flights.
Opened in 2019, PKX is about 200 kilometers from Chengde and serves as a major hub for international and domestic flights.
Located around 300 kilometers from Chengde, TSN provides a range of international services and is a key airport for the Tianjin region.
Approximately 160 kilometers from Chengde, SJW offers domestic and some international flights, serving Hebei Province.
Situated about 180 kilometers from Chengde, BPE primarily serves domestic flights but has seasonal international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Chengde, making up the majority of the population.
An ethnic minority group historically significant in the region, known for their unique culture and language.
Another ethnic minority group present in Chengde, they have a distinct cultural heritage that contributes to the region's diversity.
A small but notable minority group in Chengde, often associated with local Tibetan Buddhist practices.
Muslim ethnic group that adds to the cultural mosaic of Chengde with their own traditions.
The Soul of Chengde
Discover the essence of Chengde through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a widely popular sport among the youth and is played in schools and public courts across Chengde.
Soccer enjoys a strong following, with local clubs and school teams regularly participating in competitions.
Table tennis is a commonly played sport in Chengde, appreciated for its accessibility and competitive opportunities.
Badminton is popular for both recreational and competitive play, with many facilities available for players.
Various forms of martial arts are practiced in Chengde, reflecting both traditional Chinese culture and modern sports.
Running is a popular activity among residents, with parks and trails available for jogging and fitness events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chengde.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Chengde cuisine is meat-centric, some restaurants like Vegetarian Delight offer a variety of meat-free dishes prepared with fresh produce and tofu.
Vegan options are available at certain Buddhist vegetarian restaurants such as Jixiangge, where flavorful plant-based dishes are meticulously prepared.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can enjoy rice-based dishes and noodles, and may find gluten-free options at international restaurants and upscale hotels in Chengde.