"It's not that we can't afford a taxi, but Cityride offers better value for money!" This statement has resonated with many netizens on social media. While Citywalk is about exploring the city on foot, Cityride is a romantic adventure through the city on a bike. Whether it's Citywalk or Cityride, both are ways for people to reconnect with city life and interact more deeply with the urban environment.
As the weather warms up, the enthusiasm for Cityride in Beijing rises just as quickly. More and more people are cycling through the streets and alleys, amidst blossoming peach and willow trees, creating a vibrant and beautiful scene. Here are four Cityride routes to embark on an exhilarating cycling journey!
Route 1
Watch a sunset in Beijing
In the gentle spring breeze, how can you miss the sunset and evening glow? This route lets you feel the charm and style of Beijing while enjoying a visual feast during your ride.
Along the way, take a break at Wuyutai near Yonghe Temple, savor the sweet floral tea, and enjoy a refreshing ice cream. On Guozijian Street, the ancient architecture and solemn atmosphere will make you feel like you've traveled back to an old academic hall. Ride to Shichahai, an ancient lake in Beijing, rich with old Beijing charm. In the evening, standing by the lake, watching the sunset shimmer on the water, you can set aside the day's fatigue and enjoy a rare moment of tranquility and comfort.
Cycling route: Temple of Heaven - Dongsi Dajie(St) - Yonghe Temple - Drum Tower - Shichahai Sunset (Approx. 50 minutes of cycling)
Route 2
Ride Through Historical Residences in Hutongs
Escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the tranquility of a Hutong ride. This route offers a real taste of old Beijing life, filled with historical and cultural richness.
On March 27, 2024, the former residence of Mao Dun reopened with a new look. In 1974, Mr. Mao Dun moved to a small courtyard at No. 13, Rear Yuan'en Temple Hutong in Dongcheng District, Beijing. Continuing the ride, you'll pass by the former site of Peking University's Faculty of Arts and Mathematics, also the birthplace of the Chinese Communist Party, the Red Building of Peking University. Across from it is the century-old pharmacy "Changchuntang," which has a tea shop called "Shunshi Er Yin." It's a great place to take a break. You'll also see the former residences of Chen Duxiu and Cai Yuanpei as you pedal along, evoking memories of historical figures and events.
Cycling route: Mao Dun's Former Residence - Former Site of Franco-Chinese University - Red Building of Peking University - Rest (tea at "Shunshi Er Yin" across the street) - Pass by Imperial City Wall Relics Park - Chen Duxiu's Former Residence - Lao She Memorial Hall - Cai Yuanpei's Former Residence (Approx. 30 minutes of cycling)
Route 3
Cycling Along the Central Axis
Cycling in Beijing wouldn't be complete without exploring the Central Axis Scenic Belt. Early on, many vendors and folk artists used to do business and perform here, making it one of the most bustling commercial areas in Beijing - the Drum Tower Cultural Square. From here, set off to explore the charm of Beijing's iconic cultural heritage!
Beijing's spring scenery unfolds gently with traditional architecture, sunlight, breeze, peach blossoms, and river waters perfectly complementing each other. Ride past Shichahai, the former residence of Guo Moruo, and reach the Corner Tower of the Forbidden City. Take a break at a café, enjoy a cup of black coffee to stay healthy and alert, or savor a special spring-themed drink. Continue cycling past the elegant South Pool Art Museum, the Great Hall of the People on Chang'an Avenue, the old Lao She Teahouse outside Zhengyangmen, and Sanlihe Park. You can choose to stop and enjoy the spring scenery and urban vibe.
Cycling route: Gather at Drum Tower Cultural Square - Shichahai - Di'anmen - Forbidden City Corner Tower, rest at a café -Nanchizi Dajie(St) - Pass by Chang'an Jie（Avenue）- Great Hall of the People - Lao She Teahouse - Zhengyangmen - Sanlihe (near Sanlihe Park) - Yongdingmen - South Moat (Approx. 63 minutes of cycling)
Route 4
Blending Ancient Charm with Modern Appeal
This cycling route is like a time- traveling ribbon, connecting Beijing's ancient and modern, tranquil and bustling scenes. With just the right amount of sunshine and breeze, every second is a joy.
Starting from Yongdingmen Park, t where tall ginkgo trees look beautiful under the sunlight. Ride past the National Museum of Natural History and through Qianmen Street, where you can taste Zhang Yiyuan's jasmine tea, a nostalgic flavor for many generations of Beijingers. Not far away, the People's Coffee Shop, hailed by netizens as a café better suited for the Chinese palate, is worth a visit. As you cycle, soak in the artistic and ancient city ambiance. In about ten minutes, you'll reach Jingshan Park from where you can head to Nanluoguxiang. The hustle and bustle of people here reflect the vibrant city life.
Cycling route: Yongdingmen Park - National Museum of Natural History - Qianmen Dajie(St）- National Centre for the Performing Arts - Zhongshan Park - Jingshan Park - Nanluoguxiang – Gulouxi Dajie(St) (Approx. 60 minutes of cycling)
Spring is here, so during your free time, gather some friends and enjoy the ride in the breeze, finding joy and relaxation!
Do you already have a favorite cycling route? Share your thoughts in the comments section about "My Favorite Spring Scenery in Beijing" while cycling!
Friendly Reminder: Please pay attention to safety while cycling, wear a helmet, and plan your route in advance to avoid getting lost!
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