Baodi

Spring and autumn are good times to visit Baodi, Tianjin, for wetland scenery and outdoor walks.

With ancient Liao-dynasty temples, the Chaobai River wetlands and a taste of local life east of Beijing, Baodi suits a weekend road trip or a short high-speed rail getaway.

• Chaobai River National Wetland Park: One of the larger river wetlands in northern China, this park covers 5,581 hectares and offers wide-open natural scenery. Cycle along the river or climb the birdwatching tower for views over the wetlands, then head to the embankment at dusk to watch the sunset over the Chaobai River. Admission is free throughout the park.

• Dajue Chan Temple: Founded during the Liao dynasty more than a thousand years ago, this is also one of northern China's larger centers of Guanyin worship. Its 32-meter-tall Guanyin statue is a striking sight, while the timber framework of the Arhat Hall showcases the skills of traditional builders.

• Guangji Temple: This historic temple site dates to the Liao dynasty, with upturned eaves and bracket sets lending it a dignified appearance. Although the original buildings were destroyed, the temple rebuilt on the same site retains a strong sense of history and a peaceful atmosphere.

• Liaofan Park: Built in memory of Yuan Liaofan, a Ming-dynasty magistrate of Baodi, this park combines cultural heritage with natural features. It has 262 mu of water and a stone pillar inscribed with “Pursuing Goodness Is Like Climbing.” The water and pavilions make a pleasant setting for a leisurely walk or a rest.

• Stone Sutra Pillar: Known locally as the “Little White Pagoda of Baodi,” this pillar dates to the Liao dynasty. It is the largest surviving stone sutra pillar in Tianjin and one of northern China's three major sutra pillars from the Liao and Song periods. Its carvings bear clear traces of its long history.
• Xiaoxinmatou Village: This village grew around an ancient ferry crossing used for grain transport for a thousand years and has the character of a northern waterside village. Broad rice fields lie near its entrance. Try catching fish by hand or fishing for crabs, or stay in a waterside guesthouse to enjoy a slower pace of rural life.

Classic One-Day Itinerary

• Morning (history and heritage): Drive from central Tianjin or Beijing, a journey of about 1–1.5 hours. On arrival in Baodi, start with a walk through Liaofan Park to learn about its traditions of kindness and integrity. Then walk to nearby Guangji Temple and the Stone Sutra Pillar to explore historic remains from the Liao dynasty.
• Lunch (local flavors): Choose a long-established restaurant in central Baodi. Try Chaobai River Lao Li Meat Pies or Ermei Flatbread Rolls with Hairtail for a taste of the region east of Beijing.

• Afternoon (fresh air in the wetlands): Head to Chaobai River National Wetland Park and rent a tandem bicycle to ride along the waterside wooden boardwalk, passing through reed beds along the way. At dusk, head to the embankment to watch the sunset over the Chaobai River.

• Evening (hot spring relaxation): If time allows, visit Jingbao Hot Spring Farm or Dijing Hot Spring City for a soak in selenium-rich hot spring water. Rest before heading home.

Recommended Local Food in Baodi

Beyond its sights, Baodi has plenty of dining options featuring the local flavors of the region east of Beijing. Consider the following places for your itinerary:

Transport and Accommodation Tips

• Driving: From central Tianjin, take the Jinji Expressway to central Baodi, a drive of about one hour. From Beijing, allow about 1.5 hours. Most attractions, including Chaobai River National Wetland Park and Liaofan Park, have free parking at their entrances, with EV charging facilities available.
• High-speed rail + taxi: Take a high-speed train from Tianjin Railway Station to Baodi South Railway Station, a journey of about 30–40 minutes. From there, take taxis to the attractions.
• Where to stay: For a two-day visit, consider a waterside guesthouse in Xiaoxinmatou Village, where you can enjoy early-morning mist over the river and views of the rice fields. Alternatively, choose a hot spring hotel in town for an evening soak.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Best seasons: Spring and autumn are well suited to visiting Baodi. In September and October, the reeds bloom in Chaobai River National Wetland Park and migratory birds are plentiful, making the scenery especially varied.
• Avoid peak dining hours: Long-established places such as Chaobai River Lao Li Meat Pies and Ermei Flatbread Rolls with Hairtail often have queues at mealtimes. Eat early or avoid the busiest hours.
• Opening information: Major attractions, including Chaobai River National Wetland Park, Liaofan Park and Xiaoxinmatou Village, are free to visit. Some memorial halls, such as the Liaofan Memorial Hall, may open only on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings. Confirm the exact hours before setting out.
• Cycling preparations: Rent bicycles early at the wetland park, as popular models may all be taken by the afternoon.