A refreshing summer escape in Beijing: Liangma River

As summer temperatures rise in Beijing, the Liangma River is a popular retreat for residents and visitors seeking outdoor recreation and relief from the heat, with activities ranging from swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking to leisurely strolling along the waterfront.

Stretching nearly two kilometers from the Yansha Bridge to the Shuidui Lake in Chaoyang Park, the Liangma River International Waterfront has transformed into one of Beijing's most sought-after leisure destinations. Thanks to years of water-quality improvement and riverside redevelopment, the area now combines ecological beauty with a wide range of recreational activities.

Among the most popular summer attractions are paddleboarding and kayaking. With its clean water, spacious channel and convenient location, the river has earned the nickname "Beijing's Seine."

As night falls, the riverfront comes alive with dazzling lights reflected on the water. International restaurants, cafes and boutique shops line the banks, creating a lively blend of urban sophistication and everyday charm. People gather to dine, relax and socialize, while others fish, paddle along the river or even bring their pets aboard paddleboards. The open and welcoming waterfront environment has added a new dimension to Beijing's summer lifestyle.

Historically, the area was home to an imperial horse ranch during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), where royal horses were washed and rested along the riverbanks. In 1982, Beijing launched a comprehensive restoration project to improve urban drainage and water quality, marking the beginning of the river's transformation.

In 2025, the Liangma River project was added to the list of exemplary Happy Rivers and Lakes by the Ministry of Water Resources, becoming the first river in Beijing to receive national recognition.

Today, it serves as a thriving waterfront economic corridor that integrates recreation, dining, shopping, cultural experiences and sports activities. The project has become a model for using river revitalization to drive broader urban renewal and improve public spaces.