I'll be spending over a week in Beijing next month. We're planning on trips to the Great Wall and the Summer Palace, but I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions for a one to two day side trip from Beijing. Thanks in advance for any advice! <BR>

wellcome to xi'an--hometown of qin terracotta figures.

Hi Cara, <BR> <BR>A trip to Chengde would definitely be worthwhile. It is northeast of Beijing and it takes about 3+ hours to get there. The mountain resort of the Qin and Ming empires is located there. It's huge and beautiful. Also, there are several temples, including Dali Lama and Panchen Lama, and a restaurant in the Qi Wang Lo Guest House that is one of the best in China.

I agree with Michael (above) -- Chengde would be the perfect place to go.

Chengde will also be my first choice. Tianjin will be my second.