Yanqi Lake, Beijing - a body of water with mountains in the background
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Yanqi Lake Beijing

4.7
·12 reviews·, China

A stunning resort complex featuring unique architecture, serene lake views, and world-class hotels, once a venue for APEC.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Yanqi Lake, Beijing - a body of water with mountains in the background

Yanqi Lake Beijing

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning resort complex featuring unique architecture, serene lake views, and world-class hotels, once a venue for APEC.

4.7
(12 reviews)

"Experience imperial elegance and modern luxury amidst breathtaking lakeside scenery."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Architecture

Don't miss the unique architectural designs, especially the Sunrise Kempinski Hotel. :camerawithflash:

🍂 Embrace Autumn Colors

Visit in October for stunning fall foliage around the lake. :fallen_leaf:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Yanqi Hotel & Island Pavilion

Yanqi Hotel & Island Pavilion

Yanqi Island

Experience imperial garden elegance meets modern luxury at this iconic APEC 2014 venue.

Sunrise Kempinski Hotel

Sunrise Kempinski Hotel

Lakeside

An architectural marvel shaped like a rising sun, offering spectacular lake views.

Yanqi Lake International Convention Center

Yanqi Lake International Convention Center

Yanqi Island

Witness a blend of Han and Tang architectural grace with modern grandeur, a hub for global events.

Qihu Hotel

Qihu Hotel

Lakeside

A serene lakeside base perfect for family getaways with modern amenities.

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Yanqi Lake is a popular spot, especially during peak seasons. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid larger crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons offer pleasant temperatures and softer light for photos. Check for local events or conferences that might impact accessibility or accommodation availability.

Navigating Yanqi Lake's Grandeur

Yanqi Lake is more than just a lake; it's a complex of hotels, convention centers, and scenic spots. Plan your itinerary to include specific areas like the Yanqi Hotel or Sunrise Kempinski. Transportation within the resort area might be necessary, so factor in potential shuttle services or walking distances.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Beautiful fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Late spring evenings
Why
Cooler temperatures, scenic views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Episode 2 of 6: Where diplomacy and design converge at Yanqi Lake. Yanqi Hotel and Yanqi Island Pavilion, the official venue for APEC 2014, combine imperial garden elegance with modern luxury. Stay in...
@visitbeijing
23.1K likes • 656.5K views

📸 Capture the Architecture

Don't miss the unique architectural designs, especially the Sunrise Kempinski Hotel. :camerawithflash:

🍂 Embrace Autumn Colors

Visit in October for stunning fall foliage around the lake. :fallen_leaf:

Episode 6 of 6: Comfort and convenience at Yanqi Lake. Qihu Hotel offers a serene lakeside base, ideal for family getaways. Modern amenities meet peaceful surroundings, keeping you close to Yanqi Lake...
@visitbeijing
22.4K likes • 936.9K views
Autumn is always my favorite season 🧡💛🤎 Shot at Yanqi Lake in October, 2023 📷 Nikon FE II 🎞️ Ektar 100 - - - - - - - - #fallvibes #fallcolors #yanqilake #instabeijing #suburb #lakelife #analogphotogra...
piapiakino
88 likes • 0 views

🏨 Explore Hotel Offerings

Each hotel offers a distinct experience, from luxury to family-friendly. :bed:

🏛️ Admire Convention Center Design

The convention center's blend of traditional and modern architecture is a must-see. :classical_building:

Episode 4 of 6: Cultural elegance meets global forums. Yanqi Lake International Convention & Exhibition Center mirrors Han and Tang architectural grace with modern grandeur. From international festiva...
@visitbeijing
17.8K likes • 378.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Architecture

Don't miss the unique architectural designs, especially the Sunrise Kempinski Hotel. :camerawithflash:

🍂 Embrace Autumn Colors

Visit in October for stunning fall foliage around the lake. :fallen_leaf:

🏨 Explore Hotel Offerings

Each hotel offers a distinct experience, from luxury to family-friendly. :bed:

🏛️ Admire Convention Center Design

The convention center's blend of traditional and modern architecture is a must-see. :classical_building:

🚗 Consider Transportation

The resort area is large; plan how you'll get between attractions. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(12 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the striking architecture, particularly the unique Sunrise Kempinski Hotel and the culturally inspired Yanqi Hotel. The serene lakeside setting and the blend of modern luxury with traditional design are major draws. Some find the resort area quite spread out, requiring planning for transportation between different venues.

"Great place, friendly and profesional staff, good choice for stay here.!!"

Marjan Bozovic

"Nice place"

Stephen Ng

"Ten years later, Mutianyu was revisited. It has a stronger commercial atmosphere and more projects than before. I went there on a rainy day and met many foreigners on the way. I felt an inexplicable sense of pride in my heart.
Thanks to the blessing of the rainy day, the Great Wall is filled with fairy spirit. Because there are few people, it’s a great experience.
Not bad, but it’s a pity that I didn’t get to sit on the slide that Chengba wanted so much. I’ll try it again in the future if I have the chance.
repair"

MrJ在新加坡

What People Like

Unique architecture
Lakeside serenity
Imperial design elements

What People Dislike

Sprawling resort layout

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Yanqi Lake is located northeast of Beijing. You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service, which is the most convenient but can be pricier. Public transport options include taking a subway to a station like Huoying and then a bus or taxi to Yanqi Lake. Some visitors opt for organized tours that include transportation. Reddit

Yes, it is accessible by public transport, though it requires transfers. You can take the subway and then connect to local buses. However, for ease and speed, especially if you have luggage or are short on time, a taxi or private car is often recommended. Reddit

The Yanqi Lake resort area is quite spread out. While walking is possible between some points, especially on Yanqi Island, you might need to rely on hotel shuttles, taxis, or even rent bicycles if available to cover longer distances between hotels and attractions. Reddit

Travel time can vary significantly depending on traffic and your mode of transport. By car, it can take anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours. Public transport will likely take longer, potentially 2 hours or more. Reddit

Yes, the hotels and convention centers within the Yanqi Lake resort area typically offer parking facilities for guests and visitors. If you are driving, inquire about parking availability and any associated fees upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yanqi Lake itself is a scenic area, and access to the lakefront promenade is generally free. However, entry to specific hotels, convention centers, or attractions within the resort might require tickets or be exclusive to guests. TikTok+1

The general scenic area is usually accessible throughout the day. Specific venues like hotels and convention centers have their own operating hours, which can vary. It's best to check the official websites or contact the venues directly for precise timings. TikTok

Access to the public areas of Yanqi Lake is typically free. However, if you plan to visit specific facilities like the Yanqi Hotel or attend an event at the Convention Center, there might be associated costs or booking requirements. TikTok

Yes, major hotels like Sunrise Kempinski and Yanqi Hotel can be booked online through their official websites or popular travel booking platforms. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons. TikTok

The Yanqi Lake International Convention & Exhibition Center, which hosted APEC, is a functional venue. While you can admire its architecture from the outside and potentially visit public areas, access to specific conference rooms or restricted zones may not be possible for general visitors. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The Sunrise Kempinski Hotel, with its unique 'rising sun' design, is a prime photography spot. The Yanqi Hotel and Convention Center on Yanqi Island also offer stunning architectural shots. The lake itself provides beautiful scenic backdrops, especially during sunrise or sunset. TikTok+1

Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of Yanqi Lake and for personal use at the hotels and convention centers. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits. Always be mindful of private areas and respect any signage. Instagram

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the lake and architecture. Late afternoons and evenings provide beautiful golden hour light and potential sunset views. Autumn, as seen in user photos, offers vibrant colors. Instagram

Due to its proximity to sensitive areas and its role as a venue for international events, drone usage at Yanqi Lake is likely restricted or prohibited. It's crucial to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone. Reddit

Yanqi Lake is excellent for architectural photography, landscape shots, and capturing the grandeur of event venues. It's also a beautiful setting for portrait photography, especially during the autumn season with its colorful foliage. Instagram

🍽️ 🏨 Accommodation & Dining

The prominent hotels include the luxurious Yanqi Hotel, the architecturally striking Sunrise Kempinski Hotel, and the family-friendly Qihu Hotel. Each offers a different ambiance and set of amenities. TikTok+2

Yes, the hotels at Yanqi Lake offer a range of dining experiences, from fine dining to casual eateries. You can expect international cuisine and local Chinese dishes. Some restaurants provide scenic views of the lake. TikTok

Yes, Yanqi Lake can be a good option for families, especially with hotels like Qihu Hotel catering to families. The resort offers a relaxed environment with beautiful scenery, and some hotels may have family-friendly facilities. TikTok

The Yanqi Hotel is known for its blend of traditional Chinese imperial garden elegance and modern luxury. It was a key venue for the 2014 APEC summit and offers a sophisticated stay. TikTok

Yes, you can visit the public areas of Yanqi Lake without staying at a hotel. However, to experience the full offerings of the resort, including its unique hotels and dining, booking a stay or visiting specific venues is recommended. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yanqi Lake offers a serene environment that can be enjoyable for families. The Qihu Hotel is specifically mentioned as a good option for family getaways, suggesting it provides amenities and a comfortable atmosphere for children. TikTok While the resort is known for its grand hotels and convention centers, the natural beauty of the lake provides a pleasant backdrop for family outings. Consider visiting during warmer months for outdoor enjoyment. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Yanqi Lake is a paradise for photographers, boasting unique architectural landmarks and scenic beauty. The Sunrise Kempinski Hotel and the Yanqi Hotel are prime subjects, offering striking modern and traditional designs respectively. TikTok+1 The International Convention Center also presents impressive visual elements. TikTok Visiting during autumn is highly recommended for the vibrant foliage that enhances landscape shots. Instagram Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best lighting conditions for capturing the grandeur and tranquility of the area.

✈️ Business & Event Travelers

Yanqi Lake is a premier destination for international events, most notably hosting the APEC China 2014 summit. The Yanqi Lake International Convention & Exhibition Center is a state-of-the-art facility designed to accommodate large-scale global forums, blending cultural aesthetics with modern functionality. TikTok+1 The associated hotels, such as the Yanqi Hotel and Sunrise Kempinski Hotel, provide luxurious accommodation and services tailored for business travelers, ensuring a comfortable and productive stay. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvels of Yanqi Lake

Yanqi Lake is a showcase of impressive architectural design, blending traditional Chinese aesthetics with contemporary grandeur. The Sunrise Kempinski Hotel is a standout, famously shaped like a rising sun, symbolizing prosperity and elegance. Its unique form offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape, making it a photographer's dream. TikTok

The Yanqi Hotel and the Yanqi Lake International Convention & Exhibition Center on Yanqi Island are equally remarkable. These structures draw inspiration from Han and Tang dynasty architecture, incorporating elements like sweeping roofs and intricate detailing, all while housing modern facilities for global events. The design aims to evoke a sense of imperial garden elegance, creating a visually stunning environment. TikTok+2

These architectural highlights are not just visually appealing but also reflect the significance of Yanqi Lake as a venue for international diplomacy and high-profile events, such as the 2014 APEC summit. Visitors often remark on the scale and beauty of these buildings, appreciating the thoughtful integration of cultural heritage with modern functionality. TikTok+1

Experiencing Yanqi Lake's Serenity and Recreation

Beyond its architectural wonders, Yanqi Lake offers a tranquil escape with opportunities for recreation. The lake itself provides a serene backdrop, perfect for leisurely strolls or simply enjoying the natural beauty. Visitors often praise the peaceful atmosphere, a welcome contrast to the bustling city of Beijing. Instagram

For families, the Qihu Hotel is highlighted as a great base, offering a comfortable and convenient stay with modern amenities. While specific recreational activities aren't detailed in the provided content, the lakeside setting suggests potential for activities like boating or enjoying the surrounding park areas, especially during pleasant weather. TikTok

The autumn season is particularly recommended for its visual appeal, with vibrant fall colors transforming the landscape into a picturesque scene. This makes Yanqi Lake an attractive destination for those seeking natural beauty and a relaxing getaway from urban life. Instagram

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