From getting close to nature to emerging sports that have been gaining popularity recently, new leisure activities help people escape the stresses of everyday life. In early September, the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism and local services platform Meituan jointly launched a list of the 10 trendiest recreational activities in Beijing in 2022. Let's check out the list.
1. Skiing
The Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games held in late February 2022 spurred a snow sports boom in China and people's passion for skiing remains insatiable even after the Games. Many flock to ski resorts in Beijing's suburbs, such as Nanshan Ski Resort, Yuyang Ski Resort and Huaibei Ski Resort, to experience the adrenaline rush.
2. Camping
Tent camps, bonfires parties and exquisite food - the most popular activity this summer has probably been camping. The Beijing Expo Park, where the International Horticultural Exhibition took place in 2019, has become a popular camping resort. The park launched a camping festival on July 16, providing more than 1,000 camping spots for as many as 3,300 visitors.
3. Frisbee
Frisbee has become the most fashionable hobby and social currency of the moment. It has simple rules: It's generally non-contact, requires little equipment, is inexpensive, doesn't have any limits on numbers or gender, and allows people to exercise, socialize and try something new.
4. Cycling
This year has witnessed a growing number of cyclists taking to the road in Beijing. At night, one can see flocks of road bikes speeding past the landmark Tian'anmen Square on Beijing's Chang'an Avenue. The Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism will launch 21 cycling routes for cycling enthusiasts by the end of this year.
5. Stand-up paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding is seeing a surge in popularity as the newest and hottest outdoor sport in Beijing. This rapidly growing water sport involves standing on a paddleboard and using a paddle to move across the water. The sport was first introduced to China in 2009 and has been gaining popularity in recent years.
6. Hiking
Hiking is one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities for people in Beijing, allowing them to get into nature and explore hidden corners of the city.
7. Craft beer
Craft beer venues have been popping up all over Beijing in recent years. Craft beer represents the idea of returning to nature and tradition and opposing excessive commercialization. Sitting in a quiet courtyard with a locally brewed beer is always an enjoyable experience, whatever the season.
8. Trampolining
Trampoline parks are not just playgrounds for children. Serving as a great stress reliever and a way of working out, trampolining is a fun and exciting activity.
9. Murder mystery games
"Jubensha," a role-playing murder mystery game, has risen in popularity in China over the past few years, particularly among young people. These role-playing murder mysteries attract players with their complex plots and immersive and interactive experiences, providing entertainment and opportunities for socializing.
10. Afternoon tea
Afternoon tea may sound like the domain of royalty, but it can actually be enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Savouring exquisite tea, as well as freshly baked pastries, helps people unwind and is increasingly regarded as a healthy option for those seeking social interaction.
