The 3rd China (Beijing) Leisure Conference – A one-day tour of Pinggu District in Beijing
By She Jingwei

The 3rd China (Beijing) Leisure Conference will be held in Pinggu on October 25. Pinggu, located on the outskirts of Beijing, has a lot to offer. As the conference draws near, CGTN Travel will take you on a one-day tour of Pinggu District to enjoy the beautiful autumn views and escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. The following are some of the best tourist attractions in Pinggu for your one-day trip. 

Shilinxia Scenic Area

For those who really want a quick getaway from the busy life in Beijing, the Shilinxia Scenic Area in Pinggu District is a good choice. Known for its picturesque scenery of rocks, gorges, mountains and forests, the Shilinxia Scenic Area, located 100 kilometers away from downtown Beijing, is one of the popular tourist attractions in Pinggu.

Shilinxia Scenic Area. /VCG Photo

Shilinxia Scenic Area. /VCG Photo

When making a trip to the Shilinxia Scenic Area in Pinggu District in Beijing, you can't miss the thrilling glass sightseeing platform.  Also known as "Flying UFO," the glass platform opened to the public in 2016. Hanging about 32.8 meters out from the cliff, 11 meters longer than the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk inside the Grand Canyon National Park in the U.S., this platform is definitely a must-see tourist attraction. Walking on the glass platform is like strolling in the air. 

The glass sightseeing platform in the Shilinxia Scenic Area, Pinggu District, Beijing. /VCG Photo

The glass sightseeing platform in the Shilinxia Scenic Area, Pinggu District, Beijing. /VCG Photo

Travel tips 

The entrance fee for the Shilinxia Scenic Area: 58 yuan (8.2 U.S. dollars) for adults; Children under 1.2 meters are free of charge.

Opening hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (closed in winter) 

Transportation: Visitors can take bus No. 852 from Dongzhimen Transport Hub, get off at the Pinggu Bus Terminal and then walk to the destination. 

Attention: People who have acrophobia are not advised to visit the glass platform.

Jingdong Grand Canyon

Lying about 85 kilometers from downtown Beijing, the Jingdong Grand Canyon is famous for its steep mountains and deep valleys. With green hills and clear water around, visitors could appreciate the stunning landscape of the canyon and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. 

The Plank Roads at Jingdong Grand Canyon. /VCG Photo

The Plank Roads at Jingdong Grand Canyon. /VCG Photo

What worth mentioning is that the Plank Roads that link cliffs at the scenic area are held up by steel cables, which means walking on them would be a thrill for many. If you love adventure, then this entertainment item is the perfect option. 

Visitors can also go rafting on the river at the Jingdong Grand Canyon. /VCG Photo

Visitors can also go rafting on the river at the Jingdong Grand Canyon. /VCG Photo

A lot of water sports are also available for visitors to the scenic area. You can try rafting or bumper boats if you have enough time. 

Travel tips 

The entrance fee: 68 yuan (9.6 U.S. dollars)

Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. 

Transportation: Visitors could take bus No.852 from the Pinggu Bus Station, get off at Pinggu Xiaofangdui Station, transfer to bus line Ping 12 and then get off at Grand Canyon Station. 

(Cover photo designed by Qu Bo)