Paddle power: 4 great spots to go boating (that are not Houhai)

Posted 2021-04-01 TimeOutFamily

When the ice melts and the temperature climbs it is time to rent a boat and float about on one of Beijing’s many waterways. Shichahai’s lakes may be the most famous spots to paddle but read on for Time Out Beijing Family’s tips on alternative ways to spend a family day on the water. 

Shunyi Olympic Rowing and Canoeing Park 

It is a decade this year since the Summer Olympic Games transformed Beijing and left the city with some incredible sporting venues. The Shunyi-based lake that hosted rowing, canoeing and open water swimming is now a popular spot for sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding and wakeboarding. This is a more expensive proposition than an hour in a duck boat on Houhai but it delivers a genuine escape from Beijing’s grimy grind and a shot of adventure to keep big kids interested. If you sign up for a season, and add in some sailing lessons, the whole family will end up with a new skill to boot. 19 Baima Lu, Mapo village, Shunyi district. (6940 2662) Wakeboarding from 300RMB for two hours. 

LongQing Gorge

Winter at LongQing may be all about the ice sculptures, but once spring hits it is once again time to take that crazy dragon escalator to one of the loveliest boating experiences on offer around Beijing. For first-timers, prepare to be blown away by this beautiful boat ride with karst peaks covered in emerald green trees towering above and jewel-coloured water below. There are ample opportunities for hiking at LongQing, but if you want more time on the water you can rent a paddle boat or kayak to explore some of the smaller waterways at your own pace. Gucheng village, Yanqing County. (6919 1020; www. bjlongqingxia.com.cn) From 40RMB entry and small boat rides from 50 RMB per person. 

Hanshiqiao Wetland Nature Reserve

This beautiful natural wetland is only about 30 minutes from the Beijing Capital Airport but a world away from Beijing’s urban sprawl. Raised wooden walkways skirt the area’s lakes, perfect for walkers and bicycle riders. But why not rent a boat and get out on the water to see the birdlife up close. Migratory birds reach the wetlands between March and April each year making spring a great time to make the trip. Haishiqiao Village, Yangzhen area, Shunyi district. (6141 1200)

Yuyuantan Park (Jade Lake Park) to The Summer Palace

Catch a boat from the pier at the park’s south entrance. Once you are on the water you are experiencing Beijing’s longest canal tour: a 26 kilometre trip along the Yulong line from the park to Longtan Lake. But your floating options don’t have to end there. Rent a boat to steer around the park’s lakes or float inside a giant plastic bubble. Xisanhuan Bei Lu, Haidian district (8865 3806). Tickets from RMB40. ■

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