A Winter Tradition Lived Like a Local
What the Beijing Shichahai Ice Skating Experience Is
Ice skating at Shichahai is not an indoor sport or a staged attraction —
it is a seasonal winter tradition deeply rooted in everyday life in Beijing.
Each winter, when temperatures drop and the lakes freeze, Shichahai transforms into a large natural ice rink where locals come to skate, play, and enjoy the cold season outdoors. The sound of laughter, ice sleds, and bells fills the frozen lake, creating a lively winter scene unlike any other in the city.
This experience invites you to step into that tradition —
not as a spectator, but as a participant.
Why Choose Ice Skating at Shichahai in Winter?
Winter is one of the most underestimated seasons to experience Beijing.
Unlike monuments and museums that look the same year-round, Shichahai only becomes an ice rink for a short period each winter. Bare willow trees, frozen water, historic rooftops, and open winter skies create a scene that exists for just a few weeks.
By skating here, you can:
- Experience Beijing the way locals do in winter
- Enjoy a natural frozen lake, not an artificial indoor rink
- Take part in a long-standing seasonal tradition
- Discover a quieter, more intimate side of the city
For first-time visitors, this is a rare opportunity to understand Beijing beyond its landmarks.
Highlights of the Beijing Shichahai Ice Skating Experience
- Natural outdoor ice rink on a frozen lake
- Recreational ice activities suitable for beginners and families
- Ice sleds, Bobby sleds, and ice bicycles available on site
- Scenic winter views with the Drum Tower in the background
- Evening sessions with colorful lighting around the lake
- A lively yet relaxed atmosphere shared with local residents
How the Beijing Shichahai Ice Skating Experience Works
1. Meet & Orientation (10–15 minutes)
Meet at a designated location near Shichahai Qianhai. Your guide will explain the activity, basic safety notes, and help you choose suitable equipment based on comfort and experience level.
2. Ice Skating on the Frozen Lake (60–90 minutes)
Skate freely on the frozen lake at your own pace.
The current open area is the Shichahai Qianhai Ice Rink, covering approximately 35,000 square meters.
Available activities include:
- Ice sleds
- Bobby sleds
- Ice bicycles
These options make the experience especially accessible for beginners, children, and those new to ice activities.
3. Optional Warm-Up Break
After skating, you may take a short break nearby for hot drinks or snacks before continuing or ending the experience.
4. End of Experience
The experience concludes near Shichahai, with easy access to hutong walks, cafés, or nearby sightseeing areas.
Who the Beijing Shichahai Ice Skating Experience Is For
- Travelers visiting Beijing in winter
- First-time visitors seeking authentic local life
- Families, couples, and multi-generational groups
- Visitors who enjoy outdoor, seasonal experiences
Who This Experience May Not Suit
- Visitors traveling outside the winter season
- Travelers uncomfortable with cold weather
- Those who prefer indoor-only activities
Seasonal Availability & Ticket Information
Season: Winter only (typically January–February, weather dependent)
Official Opening Date: January 10
Current Open Area: Shichahai Qianhai Ice Rink only
(Houhai ice rink and training areas will open later, subject to ice conditions)
Operating Hours:
8:00 AM – 9:00 PM (night sessions available)
Ticket Price:
RMB 100 per person
- Unlimited time
- Unlimited use of ice sleds, ice bicycles, and Bobby sleds
- Same price on weekdays, weekends, and public holidays
- No advance reservation required — tickets can be purchased on site via QR code
What to Bring for the Beijing Shichahai Ice Skating Experience
We recommend bringing:
- Warm winter clothing (hat, gloves, scarf)
- Comfortable pants suitable for movement
- Warm socks
- A phone or camera (touchscreen-friendly gloves recommended)
All skating equipment is provided on site.
Crowds & Best Time to Visit
As this is a seasonal winter-only experience, the Shichahai ice rink can be busy, especially on weekends and Chinese public holidays. Short waiting times may occur during peak hours.
For a more relaxed experience, we recommend visiting on weekdays and avoiding major national holidays when possible.
That said, the rink is well equipped with a large number of ice facilities, so equipment availability is generally reliable even when the area is lively.
Safety & Winter Preparation
This is an outdoor ice activity on a frozen lake, so proper preparation is important. Please dress warmly, including gloves and hats.
As with any ice-based experience, occasional slips or falls may occur. We recommend moving carefully, especially for children and elderly participants, and following on-site safety guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
FAQ | Beijing Shichahai Ice Skating Experience
Do I need skating experience?
No. Ice sleds and ice bicycles are beginner-friendly and very popular with locals.
Is it safe?
Yes. The ice rink opens only when safety standards are met, and areas are managed seasonally.
Is this suitable for children or seniors?
Yes. Ice sleds make the experience accessible for a wide range of ages.
What if the weather changes?
The experience depends on temperature and ice conditions. Adjustments or rescheduling can be discussed if needed.
Winter at Shichahai, the Beijing Way
For many Beijingers, ice skating at Shichahai is a childhood memory.
Today, it remains one of the most loved winter activities among young locals — a place even public figures quietly return to each winter.
If you want more than sightseeing, this is a chance to experience a real seasonal tradition that connects generations in Beijing.
Inquire about the Beijing Shichahai Ice Skating Experience
Experience Beijing’s winter like a local
