Romantic and Free! Where to Spend New Year's Eve in Beijing

As New Year's Eve approaches, still deciding where to go? Why not head to Miyun, on the outskirts of Beijing, for a New Year getaway filled with ritual, romance, and winter charm?

Route 1: Gubei WTown → Gubei Roast Duck → Duanjia Hotel → In The Cloud Coffee / Nalanxuan Restaurant → Simatai Great Wall (Night Tour) → Yu She Hot Spring Hotel / Watertown Hotel

Gubei WTown

From December 1 to 31, the scenic area offers free admission with advance reservation. Simply book in advance via its official WeChat account to enjoy barrier-free access to this fairy-tale town at the foot of the Great Wall.
On December 31, climb the Great Wall to watch the sunset and bid farewell to the old year, receive blessing tags, enjoy a Great Wall-themed tea break, and join in dragon dance activities. On January 1, 2026, greet the new year by watching the sunrise on the Great Wall. At Riyue Island Square, you can also write down your wishes and release wish lanterns.

That evening, a limited-edition drone light show will illuminate the sky, counting down to welcome 2026.

The Great Wall Ice and Snow Festival kicks off on December 30, featuring an ice-play zone where visitors can fully enjoy winter fun and the thrill of ice drifting.

Winter performances in the water town have also fully returned. Intangible cultural heritage masters present the "Fenghuo Meteor" show, while dragon and lion dances showcase the charm of traditional Chinese culture. Each performance is well worth stopping for.

Gubei Roast Duck

If you enjoy being close to nature, head to the open-air hot spring pools at Duanjia Hotel. Immerse yourself in the rich history of traditional northern Chinese residences.
The outdoor pools frame a stunning nighttime view of the Great Wall. For those sensitive to the cold, indoor pools are also available. After the hot spring, relax with a cozy ''tea by the fire'' experience.

In the afternoon, head to In The Cloud Coffee in the town. Order a warm latte or a signature floral tea and enjoy a slow, peaceful break.

In the evening, dine at Nalanxuan Restaurant and savor the unique Manchu cuisine, including the signature dish known as the "Eight Great Bowls".

The highlight of the trip is the night tour of the Simatai Great Wall. Climb the wall to admire the illuminated scenery, wander the streets below, and as the five bells ring, watch the Great Wall light up section by section.

Route 2: Huayuan Village, Xinchengzi Town → Miyun Fish Street → Sunshine Valley → Nanshan Resort

To catch the first sunrise of 2026, head to Huayuan Village, located at the easternmost point of Beijing in Xinchengzi Town, Miyun.

If you want to capture the freshness of winter in one bite, a trip to Miyun Fish Street by the Miyun Reservoir is a must. Renowned as a paradise for fish lovers, every restaurant here specializes in reservoir fish dishes.

Sunshine Valley

Later, continue to Sunshine Valley, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the Miyun Reservoir and Yanshan Mountains from the 180-degree viewing platform, and experience the unique mountaintop ''tea by the fire".

Nanshan Resort

If time allows, you can also go to Nanshan Resort for skiing fun. The resort has 30 beginner, intermediate, and advanced ski trails, as well as special venues like a snow park. Professional ski instructors are available to provide guidance.

Business Hours:
Day Session: 9:00–17:00
Night Session: 18:30–22:00 (Night session closed on Chinese New Year's Eve and the first day of the Chinese New Year)

(Source: Official WeChat account of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism)
Source: BeijingService