Chengde is a city brimming with rich historical culture and stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for a summer trip. With its vast Mountain Resort—twice the size of the Summer Palace—and a replica of Tibet's Potala Palace, Chengde offers something for both history lovers and nature explorers. Whether you're interested in culture or seeking tranquility, Chengde will meet your needs.

Day 1:

Upon arrival in Chengde, head straight to the Chengde Mountain Resort. This former royal retreat is much larger than the Summer Palace in Beijing. Enter through the main gate, and the first thing you'll encounter is the Mountain Resort Museum. This was the place where the Qing Dynasty's imperial court would gather for their summer meetings. The main hall, built with golden silk nanmu wood, exudes a faint, pleasant aroma, reminiscent of power and grandeur.

After exploring the palace area, you can choose one of the available touring routes. We recommend the mountain area, as it offers the best scenic views. This route stops at three key points: The first stop gives a panoramic view of Chengde's cityscape; the second stop offers a stunning view of the Little Potala Palace; The third stop takes you to a famous spot where the elderly Kangxi Emperor once carved a path through the mountain.

Once you've descended, head to the Yanyulou Building to visit Xiaoyanzi's Study, and take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside towards the exit. At the exit, you can sample almond tea, a traditional delicacy that will surely delight your taste buds.

Day 2:

Start your day by visiting the Chengde Museum. It's recommended to book tickets in advance through the "Holiday Diary" WeChat official account. The museum offers a deep dive into Chengde's rich historical and cultural heritage, with exhibits on the Qing Dynasty's Eight Banner System and much more.

After visiting the museum, you can head to Puning Temple. This temple is a unique blend of Han and Tibetan architectural styles and is an important cultural heritage site in Chengde. Here, you will find the world's largest hand-holding Guanyin statue, an awe-inspiring sight that attracts visitors from all over the world.

In the afternoon, you can visit Putuo Zongcheng Temple, also known as the "Little Potala Palace" due to its resemblance to Tibet's Potala Palace. You can enter through the right-side gate and explore the temple at your own pace. This Tibetan Buddhist temple offers a peaceful atmosphere, and if you'd like to make a wish, you can raise a prayer flag on the white platform. After climbing up to the red platform, you'll be rewarded with a view of the temple's golden roof. Many beautiful photos can be taken here.

You can also visit the museum located inside the Wanhuazhen*area, which is next to the Little Potala Palace. This museum is free to enter and offers valuable insights into the history and culture of Chengde. If you enjoy photography, there's a great spot for a photo op: once inside the temple, follow the wooden staircase to the second floor, where you'll find a window that's perfect for capturing beautiful shots.

In addition, Chengde has many other attractions worth exploring, such as Shuangta Mountain and Mulan Paddock. Whether you're a history and culture enthusiast or someone who loves to explore nature, Chengde has something for everyone.

As for accommodation, it's best to stay near the Chengde Railway Station or close to the Summer Mountain Resort, which will make it easy to visit the various attractions. If you prefer a more peaceful experience, you can choose to stay in a countryside guesthouse and enjoy local life. Either way, you're guaranteed to have a wonderful trip in Chengde.

All in all, Chengde is a fantastic destination for a short getaway. With its rich history and beautiful natural scenery, there's so much to explore. If you're planning a two-day-and-one-night trip, we recommend following this itinerary to get the most out of your visit. Don't forget to try local specialties like almond tea, Chengde chicken, and tofu pudding during your stay! If you have any other questions or need further travel tips, feel free to leave a comment below!