Beijing Cycling: Top 3 Routes and Biking Tips

Beijing used to be called the "Kingdom of Bicycles." Back in the 1980s, the streets were filled with cyclists. It felt like everyone was riding together. I was one of those riders. My parents got me my first bike when I was 14. It helped me get to school and back home easily.

Even today, biking is special to me. With all the cars, subways, and electric scooters around, riding a bike feels like a small act of freedom. When I bike, I can discover hidden gems.

I love the peaceful banks of Houhai Lake, the creative vibe of the 798 District, and the central axis of Beijing. Every ride is an adventure. It's like traveling through time, where the past and present meet on two wheels.

Here are three of my favorite bike routes. Each one shows a different side of Beijing. From royal history to revolutionary spirit, these paths reveal the many layers of this amazing city.

David Hao

20+ Years as a Local Guide in Beijing

Hello, I'm David. Born and raised in Beijing, I'm passionate about sharing the city's vibrant history, culture, and hidden gems. From the Forbidden City to lively Hutongs, I bring Beijing's stories to life with engaging narratives and insider insights. Whether you're into history, food, or adventure, Beijing has something special for you.

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• 1. Along the Beijing Central Axis
• 2. Along the Changan Avenue
• 3. Along the Revolutionary History of 'Youthful China'
• Best Times for Cycling

1. Along the Beijing Central Axis: A Journey Through the UNESCO World Heritage Sites

• Itinerary: From Yongding Gate to the Bell and Drum Towers
• Distance: 7.8 km
• Duration: Around 2 hours
• Difficulty: moderate. There's a non-motorized lane throughout the route.

This route shows off Beijing's rich history and modern life. You'll see 700 years of history along the way. Plus, you can enjoy new tourism services. It's perfect for history lovers and tech-savvy travelers!

You'll start at Yongding Gate, one of the old gates from the Yuan dynasty. Even though it's a replica, it shows you what the city used to look like.

Yongding Gate

Next, you'll head to Tianqiao, or the Heavenly Bridge. This small bridge was important for emperors who crossed it on their way to the Temple of Heaven.

Temple of Heaven

After that, you'll arrive at Qianmen, the Great Front Gate of Beijing, right in front of Tian'anmen Square. Then, you can explore Qianmen Shopping Street, the most famous place for vintage shopping. I still remember when my parents took me to Qianmen Shopping Street when I was a boy. There were so many foods and snacks to try.

Qianmen Shopping Street

Next, you'll go to Jingshan Park, a nice hill behind the Forbidden City. I still remember the first time I was on top of the hill in Jingshan Park, where I had a stunning bird's-eye view of the Forbidden City. It takes 10-15 minutes to reach the top.

View of the Forbidden City from Jingshan Park

Finally, you'll finish at the Drum Tower and Bell Tower. Before you get there, you can enjoy the lively street filled with restaurants and shops where you can grab a bite or taste some local treats.

During my childhood, my classmates and I usually hung out on Drum and Bell Tower Avenue in winter, and we would buy Tanghulu (sugar-coated hawthorn kebabs) together.

If you want to embark on a cycling tour in Beijing, feel free to contact us to make an itinerary for you.

2. Along the Changan Avenue: China's No. 1 Street

• Itinerary: From Fuxingmen (West) to Jianguomen (East)
• Distance: 6.6 km (one way)
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours (including stops)
• Difficulty: Moderate. The separated bike path makes it extremely easy and comfortable to ride a bicycle along this route.
• Best Time to Ride: Early morning or late afternoon/evening to avoid heavy traffic.

Changan Avenue is not just a road; it's where Chinese military parades happen during important anniversaries. It runs straight from west to east. As a local, I have traveled this street many times by bus, car, bike, and on foot, and I always feel proud. Changan Avenue shows China's greatness, peace, and prosperity.

Chang'an Avenue and Monument to the People's Heroes

On your ride, you will see both modern and old buildings. The avenue connects shopping areas and government buildings, so it's easy to shop or eat along the way in places like Xidan, Wangfujing, or Dongdan.

Start your journey at Fuxingmen (West), the western end of Changan Avenue. This area is busy with shops and transport, so take a moment to look at the modern buildings and the old city walls nearby.

Fuxingmen

As you cycle east, you will pass through Xidan, a lively shopping district. If you like books or souvenirs, stop by the Xidan Books Building.

Xidan

Next, you will see Zhongnanhai, where the Chinese Communist Party and the State Council are located. You can't go inside, as it is an important political place. You can also ride past Tian'anmen Square without a reservation.

Zhongnanhai

Then, you will reach Wangfujing shopping street, one of Beijing's most famous shopping spots, full of nice malls and restaurants.

Wangfujing shopping street

After that, you will come to Dongdan, another shopping area like Xidan. You will also see the Beijing Railway Station, the oldest station built after 1949, and the China Customs Head Office.

Finally, your ride ends at Jianguomen (East).

3. Along the Revolutionary History of 'Youthful China': Tracing the Age of Awakening

• Itinerary: From Peking University to the Luxun Museum
• Distance: 8.9 km (one way)
• Time: Approximately 2 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

This route links important sites from early Chinese Communist history. You will see the Former Residence of Li Dazhao, who co-founded the CCP, and the Red Building of Peking University, which is known as a cradle of the May Fourth Movement.

This ride combines leisure with education, showing how Beijing helped shape modern China. It is perfect for history lovers and students.

As you cycle from one site to another, you will also pass through Beijing's hutongs, the ancient alleyways filled with courtyards.

Hutong

Courtyard

You will start at the Red Building of Peking University.

Next, you can visit the original site of the "New Youth" magazine, which played a big role in modern Chinese thought.

Then, you can see the Former Residence of Chen Duxiu, where you can learn about the founder of the "New Youth" magazine.

After that, you will reach the Former Residence of Li Dazhao, another key figure in the history of the CCP.

Finally, don't miss the Luxun Museum. Luxun, born in 1881, is one of the most important Chinese writers of the 20th century. He is often called the father of modern Chinese literature and was a key figure in the May Fourth Movement, which aimed to modernize China and promote science, democracy, and critical thinking.

Best Times for Cycling in Beijing

The best times for cycling in Beijing are from March to May and from September to October, as it can be too hot in summer and too cold and windy in winter.

Click Best time to visit Beijing for more weather information.

Cycling in Beijing with China Highlights

Beijing is a living museum, and it's waiting for you! Explore this amazing city at a relaxed pace. Whether you rent a bike or hop on a shared bike, China Highlights is excited to help you have a fantastic cycling adventure. Contact us to plan your perfect trip in Beijing or even all over China. Let's make unforgettable memories together.