Longqing Gorge

Located 90km (56 miles) northwest of Beijing, Longqing Gorge is in a canyon in Yanqing County. Rowing and hiking are popular activities in the summer, but the Gorge is famous for its Beijing Ice Lantern Festival. From mid-December to the end of January, the area is transformed into a winter wonderland. During the festival, huge lanterns are carved from ice and colored lights are placed within creating a glowing spectacle that is particularly stunning at night. Children and adults alike can also enjoy sliding down the ice slides in this magical environment.