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The Chaobai River, one of the five major rivers in China's Haihe River system, runs through Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei Province. Its upper reaches are divided into two tributaries, the Chaohe River and the Baihe River. After flowing into the Miyun Reservoir, the two rivers merge at Hecao Village in Miyun County to become the Chaobai River. It is one of Beijing's key water sources.
The Chaobai River boasts beautiful natural scenery, breathtaking views, and abundant water resources. The tourist area offers a variety of water recreational facilities, including kayaking, boating, and motorboats. The Shunyi section, in particular, was transformed into a water sports venue for the Beijing Olympics. The Chaobai River Tourist Area is known as the "Little Beidaihe." The banks of the Chaobai River are ideal for spring outings and autumn picnics, offering endless scenic views.
North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Best time to visit in spring and autumn
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours
free
All day
The Chaobai River is an important tributary of the Hai River system in northern China, historically serving as a source of water for agriculture and local communities. It also plays a key ecological role, supporting diverse wildlife and maintaining the region's natural balance.
The Chaobai River flows through the northeastern suburbs of Beijing. Visitors can reach nearby areas via taxi or bus from central Beijing. Some parts of the river are accessible by car or bicycle, while walking along designated trails is recommended for shorter scenic routes.
The river itself is open year-round. The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are most vibrant. Early mornings and late afternoons provide ideal light for photography and a quieter experience.
Most parts of Chaobai River are free to access. Certain managed recreational areas, fishing zones, or boating services may charge a small fee, typically payable onsite.
For general river access, no booking is required. If planning to use boating or guided fishing services, it is recommended to book a day or two in advance, especially on weekends or holidays.
Spending 2–4 hours allows you to enjoy key scenic sections. For fishing, boating, or a longer cycling route, a half-day or full-day visit is ideal.
Guided tours are limited but can be arranged through local travel agencies in Chinese. No standardized audio guides are available.
Start at a main access point near a parking area, walk or cycle along the river trail, stop at fishing or picnic spots, visit nearby villages, and return along a parallel route to experience different views.
Night visits along the river are possible but not officially organized. There are no light shows or special tours.
Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded. Weekends and public holidays may see more visitors, especially at popular scenic spots.
Riverside paths are mostly flat and accessible for elderly and children. Some natural trails may be uneven, making access difficult for wheelchair users without assistance.
Cash is recommended for small local services like fishing or snack stalls. Major nearby commercial areas may accept mobile payments.
Restaurants and cafes are mostly located in nearby villages, offering local cuisine. Few commercial options exist along the river itself.
Some local eateries may provide vegetarian options. Halal food may be available in nearby towns but is limited along the river.
Small guesthouses and countryside inns are available near the river in surrounding towns. For more amenities, stay in central Beijing and travel to the river for a day trip.
Limited souvenir options along the river. Nearby villages may offer handmade crafts, local snacks, or fishing-related items.
Taxi or private car is most convenient. Cycling or walking can connect to nearby scenic spots or villages. Public buses may be available to return to central Beijing.
