Hi-tech, traditional charms enthrall

Another 40-minute drive away from Badaling, the annual Longqing Gorge Ice Lantern Festival is every bit as exciting at night as the Great Wall. The hundreds of figures carved from snow and bathed in colorful lights, as well as the thousands of ice lanterns in various shapes and sizes, create a fantasy land amid stunning natural rock formations at the geological park. This year's event will last until late February, and at 500,000 square meters, is much larger than in previous years. Enjoyable sports, like a tug-of-war, as well as gourmet food and folk performances, will be staged for visitors to experience winter's charm.

For more of a Yanqing lifestyle vibe, visitors can continue on to the Yeyahu National Wetland Park where 10 winter fun activities are available, including snowmobiles, as well as hotpot in tents and making tea by the fire.