Have You Tried Beijing's Suburban Lines Before?

Suburban Adventure: Meet the Line That Will Take You From Changping to Miyun!

Irene Li, Associate Editor | Oct 2, 2021 11:30 am | Add a comment | 690 reads

When you hear people talking about catching the subway, it's usually thought of as a means to get from point A to point B within the city. But did you know Beijing also boasts a subway line that can take you to the northern suburbs?

The suburban line, also called the S5 Line, has been in operation since 2017. Stretching from Beijing Bei in Xicheng to Gubeikou in the town of Miyun, the line spans a total length of 144.8 km, with 7 stations. It can take you to a number of interesting areas–from the ancient Ming Tombs in Changping to the spectacular gorges of Qinglongxia, the Black Dragon Pond, and Wuzhen-style architecture in Gubei Water Town. If you're not one for driving or catching a cab to get to these places, there's no better way to see these vast 'burbs than by taking the S5.

If you're looking for a quick getaway this National Holiday but don't want to venture too far outside Beijing, then this is the guide for you!

How do you take the subway?

If you take Subway Line 2 or line 4, you can get off at Xizhimen and use Exit A1 or A2. (Use exit E2 or F1 if you are coming from Subway Line 13). Once exited, there will be clear, blue signs that will direct your way to BeijingBei Station.

You can scan your ticket through the 亿通行 Yitongxing app, the same app you use for your daily subway rides.

How much does it cost to get a ride?

The entire trip, spanning Beijing Bei to Gubeikou, costs RMB 12. A ticket from Beijingbei to Yanqihu, the line's halfway point, is only RMB 9.

What are some of the places worth visiting?

I definitely recommend Yanqihu, which once hosted an APEC meeting in 2014. Hit up the walking trails and watch as wild geese fly across the lake, headed south before winter hits. It’s quite a stunning view. My favorite thing is to have a little picnic on the lawn by the lake. You can go with a group of friends and play games while listening to geese honking away.

I was only a 10-years-old when I first visited Heilongtan, but I have fond memories of the place. If you like hiking while surrounded by rocky, jagged mountains and deep, cool ponds, this is a spot you won't want to miss!

For stunning evening or nighttime views in an ancient town but can't quite make it to Wuzhen, Gubei Watertown is your best bet as a replacement. The town has a wide array of restaurants to enjoy all kinds of eats – from mom-and-pop places dishing out beef stew to classic steak houses – it has everything to fill up a hungry belly. Also, be sure to hit up a spot called Hilltop Church, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of of the entire town.