Top spots

Editor's note: A snow-covered Beijing can look totally different from the modern metropolis that it is and more like an ancient, charming city in a classical Chinese ink painting. The Chinese capital faces cold and dry winters from November to February, during which Beijingers turn to ice skating and skiing to keep away the chills. Ice skating at Shichahai is an especially memorable part of the local experience and tourists are similarly thrilled by it. Beijing is also rich in geothermal resources, making it an ideal destination for those in search of a blissful spa treatment to relieve them from the stress of everyday life. Here are some of these winter offerings:

1. Shichahai Skating Rink

Located northwest of the Forbidden City, Shichahai is a popular spot in Beijing and consists of three lakes. Its skating rink was built in 1952 and is considered the largest outdoor natural rink of its kind. Tourists can bring their own skates or rent them on site, which also hosts ice hockey games. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Beijing food in the area after their skating sessions. Opening hours depend on weather conditions.