Beijing has entered winter. How far can the first snow be? As the temperature drops suddenly, apart from waiting for the first snow, take note of these little winter activities. Experience the small but certain moments of happiness in life. In the fullness of winter rituals, spend a warm winter. Here are 10 tips to get it just right.

1. Enjoy a Snowfall 

Winter is a season full of poetry, waiting for a snowfall to arrive and feeling the surprises that winter brings.

After the snow in Beijing, the major scenic spots are breathtakingly beautiful. The Forbidden City in the snow, with its red walls and white snow, enhances the majestic and solemn royal atmosphere. The three mountains and five gardens after the snowfall exude endless elegance, harmony, and charm, representing a history carved in time. The Great Wall, covered in white snow, truly embodies the grandeur and magnificence of "the mountains dance like silver serpents, the plains race like waxen elephants." ...

Aside from admiring the snow, seeking out plum blossoms amidst the frost is another refined winter pastime. Visitors bring their cameras closer to the delicate branches, capturing this breathtaking beauty in still frames. A faint fragrance drifts on the wind, gently soothing the soul and leaving a lasting impression.

2. Treat Yourself to Tanghulu

Winter in Beijing wouldn’t be complete without a stick of tanghulu. The bright red hawthorn berries, coated in a glistening sugar glaze, look irresistibly festive and glossy. With each bite, you’ll savor the perfect balance of sweet and sour—crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Beyond the classic tanghulu, there are now varieties featuring green grapes, strawberries, Chinese yam beans, figs, and starfruit. There’s even a unique handworked wurum tanghulu! Even traditional hawthorn skewers have seen creative upgrades. Have you ever tried a one-meter-long tanghulu stick? At Nanluogu Xiang, you can find this supersized treat, made from 32 hawthorn berries. Walking down the street with such a towering skewer, shimmering like golden fruit under the sunlight, is not just a delicious experience but also a head-turning spectacle!

Moreover, the tanghulu in the North are truly icy! When you take a bite, the inside is like crushed ice, giving it a delightful crunch. Come and give it a try!

3. Visit the Pandas at Beijing Zoo 

Recently, Beijing Zoo shared the latest update on its giant panda "Ya Ya." Her face is gradually becoming more round, and she even made it to the trending list on Weibo!

In winter, head to Beijing Zoo with your friends to see the pandas and experience carefree joy. Some netizens have commented, "Wasn't it said that Ya Ya was getting old? How does she look like a baby again?" Visitors can also stop by the Panda Café on the second floor of the Giant Panda House at Beijing Zoo, where they can enjoy a delicate panda-themed afternoon tea.

4. Enjoy Roasted Sweet Potatoes

One day, as you're walking down the street, you catch the sweet scent of caramelized goodness. Looking up, you realize it's the roasted sweet potatoes by the roadside. And that's when you know—winter has truly arrived in Beijing.

Roasted sweet potatoes are the "god" of winter warmth. Freshly baked, they steam with heat. Holding one in your hand or tucking it under your coat instantly chases away much of the winter chill.

Eagerly peel away the charred skin to reveal the caramelized inside. With each bite of the soft, sweet roasted sweet potato, its tenderness and sweetness bring an overwhelming sense of happiness, warming both your hands and heart.

Just like tanghulu, roasted sweet potatoes have also seen creative twists. Now, you can try exciting combinations like roasted sweet potato with taro balls and mochi, or roasted sweet potato with shredded meat and cheese!

Can these new varieties of roasted sweet potatoes capture your heart?

5. Watch a Sunrise or Sunset

On a winter morning, when the weather is clear, enjoy the vibrant sunrise illuminating Beijing. The soft colors and magnificent scene feel like the work of nature’s finest artist, personally adding delicate touches to the sky.

In Beijing, waiting for a sunrise or sunset is a truly enchanting experience. With the sky filled with morning hues and the evening sunset casting a magical glow, the world feels full of romance.

6. Ride an Ice Cart

Every winter, the Kunming Lake Ice Rink at the Summer Palace comes alive with colorful ice carts, rekindling childhood memories for old Beijingers. These fun rides attract many visitors, eager to join in the playful winter tradition.  

The Kunming Lake Ice Rink is the largest natural ice rink in Beijing, with a capacity to accommodate up to 5,000 people playing on the ice at the same time. Last winter, a spontaneous "Snake" formation created by visitors frequently made its way to the trending list on social media.

This year, what new fun activities will be available? Once the ice rink opens, gather your friends and unlock the joy of ice skating in the royal gardens!

7. Attend a Concert

In winter, attending a concert allows you to get up close and personal with your idols. Sing along loudly and immerse yourself in the power of music, releasing your inner passion and freedom through the songs. It's amazing to see so many people coming together, united by their love for music.

On the quiet winter days, why not attend an exciting, high-energy concert to ignite your passion and vitality for life? December brings fresh concerts to Beijing—come see if your favorite artist is performing!

8. Grab Some Candied Chestnuts

Beijing is located on the North China Plain, surrounded by mountains to the west, north, and east. The mountainous areas around the city are known for their abundant chestnuts, perfect for candied roasting. The small oil chestnuts from Huairou are especially famous for their sweet and sticky taste.

After winter sets in, Beijing's nut and roasted snack shops introduce fresh batches of roasted chestnuts. The warm, fragrant aroma of the roasted chestnuts fills the air, enticing passersby from miles around.

Grab a paper bag of freshly roasted chestnuts, hold it in your hands, and carefully peel off the shell. Gently place the golden chestnut flesh in your mouth, and the soft, sweet flavor immediately fills your senses, bringing a wave of warmth and happiness.

9. Enjoy Copper Pot Hotpot

As the weather turns cold, it's the perfect time to indulge in a copper pot hotpot. Thin slices of beef and lamb cooked in the bubbling copper pot are great for winter nourishment. A few bites, and your winter happiness instantly skyrockets.

The traditional copper pot hotpot of old Beijing has a simple broth—just a cup of clear water with a few slices of ginger and scallions. Even after the meat is cooked, the broth remains pure and clear, preserving its delicate flavor.

The clear broth base places even more emphasis on the freshness of the meat. Freshly sliced beef and lamb are tender, perfectly arranged on the plate. After a quick dip in the broth, the rich, flavorful fat melts just right. Dipped in sesame sauce and condiments, each bite is a burst of unforgettable taste, leaving a lingering, savory fragrance on your palate.

10. Welcome the New Year 2025

In Beijing, there are many wonderful places to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. You can enjoy the night views along bustling streets, shop at festive markets, or gather with family to enjoy a cozy tea session by the stove, fully immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere.

Of course, no celebration is complete without a cultural feast. A New Year's Eve performance can instantly elevate the sense of ceremony, perfectly capturing the spirit of bidding farewell to the old and welcoming the new.

Welcoming the New Year, everyone has their own way of celebrating. No matter how you prepare, it's important to include some ways that bring you joy and happiness.

Translator: BAI Jing

Reviewer: WANG Yu