Another help me with my Beijing trip - Foodies, NYE Jan 2026

Question

Its been about 15 years since last in Beijing, go to Guangzhou for work a fair bit. We are flying in/out of Thailand, arriving Beijing 26th December, yes I know its cold and windy :)

Two adults, two kids 14 & 18.

Around 7 days.

Need some suggestions, staying around 7 or 8 days, want to do a day or overnighter to Xian in the trip.

We are foodies, even the kids, we try anything but we like good local food, we like history, we like small boutique accommodation or even home stay, we don't like big flash hotels and basic is ok with us as long as it has character and warm . We prefer small restaurants, street food over bigger restaurants full of tourists. We will be in China for new year, we do like night life or at least something a bit exiting.

Looking for recommendations on the following if anyone can help.

What part of the great wall is suitable to see that time of the year.

What is the park that all the parents go to match mate the children and what day.

Recommendation on accommodation, something old and boutique or home stay.

Any not so common places to eat or get a beer

Things to do on new years eve, something lively.

Thanks in advance.

Answer

Visiting Beijing in late December and over New Year can be cold but also very atmospheric, especially with fewer crowds at popular sites. Here’s a detailed guide tailored for a foodie family with a taste for history, boutique accommodation, and lively experiences.

1. Great Wall suitable for winter:

Mutianyu: Well-maintained, less steep than Badaling, and often less crowded. Cable car access makes it easier in cold weather.
Jinshanling: Offers more rugged, picturesque scenery; ideal if you want a more adventurous walk, but prepare for cold and wind.
Badaling can be crowded, especially with tourists, so it’s less recommended if you prefer quieter experiences.

2. Day or overnight trip to Xi’an:

Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an (~4.5–5 hours one way) if you want a day trip, but it will be a long day.
Overnight in Xi’an allows you to explore the Terracotta Warriors without rushing and enjoy Xi’an’s food scene, especially the Muslim Quarter street food.
Book tickets 1–2 months in advance for better seats on high-speed trains.

3. Boutique accommodation or home-stays in Beijing:

Hutongs near Houhai, Nanluoguxiang, or Dongcheng District: Small guesthouses or boutique hotels with character, traditional courtyard architecture.
Examples include The Orchid Hotel, Gray Garden, or various renovated courtyard homes available on local booking sites.
These options give you warm and cozy stays with easy access to street food and historic areas.

4. Food and drink recommendations:

Street food: Wangfujing Snack Street, Ghost Street (Gui Jie) for Beijing-style grilled skewers and local specialties.
Hidden gems: Old Beijing noodle shops, jianbing (savory crepes), baozi shops, and traditional dumpling restaurants in hutongs.
Beer / casual nightlife: Slow Boat Brewery, Great Leap Brewing, or Hutong bars near Houhai for craft beer and lively atmosphere.

5. Parks for local cultural experience:

Ritan Park, Chaoyang Park, or Temple of Heaven Park: Popular with locals for tai chi, dancing, and social meet-ups.
Some parks are known for parents or grandparents bringing children for socializing; mornings (around 7–9 am) are the most active times.

6. New Year’s Eve activities:

Houhai bars often have lively celebrations with music and drinks.
Sanlitun is another area with bars and nightlife for expats and locals.
Some cultural venues or hotels may host family-friendly countdown events; check local listings closer to December.

7. Other sightseeing & experiences:

Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Lama Temple, and 798 Art District for a mix of history and contemporary culture.
Consider a rickshaw tour through the hutongs for a more intimate experience of old Beijing.

Tips:

Dress warmly: layers, hats, gloves, and insulated shoes for walking in cold wind.
Use DiDi for convenient transport; taxis are plentiful but rides may be longer during cold/windy days.
Book high-speed train tickets and some boutique stays in advance, especially over New Year.

This plan balances historical sightseeing, foodie experiences, and unique local activities while keeping your family warm and entertained.