Source: CCTV.com

08-20-2008 08:22

Special Report:   2008 Beijing Olympic Games

There are some things indispensable for visitors to Beijing, a trip to the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, a taste of roast Peking duck, a trek along an old alley Hutong.

But there's much to see away from the metropolitan core. As we find out, there are many choices around Beijing's outskirts.

Beijing's suburb(file photo)

About an hour's drive from downtown Beijing, one comes to the peaceful countryside. Longqing Gorge is honored as a smaller version of the famous Three Gorges in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River.

Beyond the clean air and beautiful scenery, there is the wonderful rural produce. You can stop and dig some fresh peanut if you like. But it's not easy.

Don't forget watermelon. It's considered the choice fruit for summer. Don't judge these by their size. Whether they grew up on vines or right on the ground, they are small. But they are very sweet and 100% organic. Fruit is good for the health. Out here there's as much variety as you can imagine, plenty of choices. Not a bad harvest for anyone!

Local farmers will prepare meals you never can find in the city. It's becoming more and more popular for city people to come to the countryside -- to try the genuine, unadorned, rustic cooking.

Had enough calories? Well you can work it off on a swing or you can just sit and enjoy the fresh air. Fishing's always a great way to unwind.

You can work off the stress of day to day living with some outdoor yoga exercises, or if you're looking for excitement, you can try go carting! All you need to do is put on a helmet, strap in and step on the gas.

There are lots of choices to play with family and friends. It's also a great way to make new friends.

There is a suburban ranch where you can relax for the evening and spend the night. There's much to learn about suburban Beijing, so check out some of these places.

 

Editor:Lu Jing