Things To Do In Beijing In February: Guide For Travellers

February is a good time to explore Beijing, especially for those looking for fewer crowds and local festivals. The best things to do in Beijing in February include walking through famous sites like the Forbidden City, visiting the Great Wall, and enjoying the Lantern Festival. With cold, dry weather and average temperatures between -5°C and 5°C, seeing a different side of the city is a chance. From winter snacks on food streets to frozen lakes in city parks, Beijing offers a calm and slower travel experience in February, giving visitors time to enjoy its history, food, and traditions.

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do In Beijing In February

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Beijing in February for your next visit to China:

1. Explore The Forbidden City

An image of the Forbidden City's Meridian Gate, one of the top things to do in Beijing in February.

Photo: Chicocvenancio / Wikimedia Commons

The Forbidden City is one of Beijing’s greatest historical sites, once home to emperors and their courts. February means fewer crowds, making it easier to take in the scale of this walled compound. Its courtyards, halls, and palaces tell stories of dynasties and power. It’s a masterclass in imperial architecture with a layout based on traditional cosmology. Visitors can explore the Palace Museum and see centuries-old artefacts. It’s one of the top things to do in Beijing in February for anyone curious about China’s imperial past.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Timings: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: 4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng District

2. Walk Along The Mutianyu Great Wall

A section of the Mutianyu Great Wall, a highlight among great things to do in Beijing in February.

Photo: Velatrix / Wikimedia Commons

The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is well-preserved and offers sweeping views, with fewer visitors in February. Snow occasionally settles on the wall, giving it a striking look. This section is less commercial than others and has both stairs and cable car options. You can walk between towers and get a feel for the immense scale of this ancient defence system. Ideal for history fans and walkers, it’s one of the great things to do in Beijing in February that combines culture, exercise, and fresh mountain air.

Ideal Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Location: Huairou District, 70 km from central Beijing

3. Visit The Temple Of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven's Hall of Prayer is one of the things to see in Beijing in February.

Photo: Shujianyang / Wikimedia Commons

The Temple of Heaven is a sacred site emperors use to pray for good harvests. Set in a large park, the main hall’s circular structure symbolises harmony between earth and heaven. It’s less busy in February, and locals often gather in the surrounding areas for tai chi, dancing, or card games. The grounds are vast, and the architecture is detailed and symbolic. Visiting here offers insight into ancient rituals, making it one of the most important things to see in Beijing in February for those interested in culture.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Location: Tiantan E Rd, Dongcheng District

4. Watch A Chinese New Year Performance

Beijing marketplace during Chinese New Year, one of the top things to do in Beijing in February.

Photo: ahisgett / Wikimedia Commons

February often coincides with Chinese New Year, a time full of celebration. Theatres across Beijing stage special shows during the season, from traditional Beijing opera to acrobatics and puppet theatre. The costumes are elaborate, and the stories are rooted in legend and folklore. Attending one of these performances offers a deep cultural experience and a festive atmosphere. The whole city lights up with decorations and events, and this is definitely among the most popular things to do in Beijing in February if you want to experience the season’s spirit.

Ideal Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
Timings: Varies by venue
Location: Major theatres like Liyuan or Chang’an Grand Theatre

5. Enjoy Winter Sports At Olympic Park

Image of the Beijing Olympic Park, skiing here is one of the best things to do in Beijing in February.

Photo: Leiem / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Beijing’s Olympic Park has continued to thrive post-2022, with winter sports facilities drawing crowds each season. In February, snow machines keep conditions right for skiing, sledging, and skating. There are areas for beginners as well as those who are more experienced. Families and solo travellers can rent gear and spend hours on the slopes. The site is modern, easy to navigate, and well-run. As one of the seasonal things to do in Beijing in February, it adds a sporty option to the city’s largely cultural offerings.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 4 hours
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Location: 1 National Stadium S Rd, Chaoyang District

6. Wander Through Lama Temple

Visiting the main courtyard of Lama Temple is one of the great things to do in Beijing in February.

Photo: Gary Todd / Wikimedia Commons

The Lama Temple is Beijing’s most important Tibetan Buddhist temple. You’ll smell incense as soon as you approach, and inside, the halls are filled with carvings, golden statues, and monks chanting. The tallest statue, an 18-metre Maitreya Buddha carved from sandalwood, is a highlight. February brings a calmness to the temple grounds, with fewer tourists and a slower pace. Visiting here is peaceful and grounding, and it’s a strong choice for those considering what to do in Beijing in February to reflect and observe local spiritual life.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Location: 12 Yonghegong St, Dongcheng District

7. Try Winter Street Food At Wangfujing

Tourist shops on busy streets in Wangfujing are among the best things to do in Beijing in February.

Photo: Nggsc / Wikimedia Commons

Street food in Beijing hits differently in winter. Steam and smoke rise from carts offering everything from grilled lamb skewers to candied fruit on sticks. At Wangfujing, you can wander narrow lanes filled with sizzling snacks and bold aromas. Local favourites include dumplings, sticky rice cakes, and hot sweet potatoes. There are deep-fried insects and unusual meats for those with an adventurous side. Sampling these foods is one of the best things to do in Beijing in February, especially when you’re after warmth, flavour, and something a bit different.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Location: Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng District

8. Visit The National Museum of China

Image of The National Museum of China; visiting it is one of the things to do in Beijing in February.

Photo: Ohm Raumzeit / Wikimedia Commons

When the cold sets in, Beijing’s massive National Museum offers hours of indoor exploration. The museum’s layout is expansive and clear and covers everything from early tools to revolutionary history. You’ll find rotating exhibits and permanent installations, many with English descriptions. It’s easy to spend half a day here without feeling rushed. Entry is free, but ID is required. If you’re after deep history or modern Chinese perspectives, this is one of the more intellectually satisfying things to do in Beijing in February.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Location: East side of Tiananmen Square

9. Ice Skate At Houhai Lake

Image of the Houhai Lake colourfully lit, a seasonal favourite among top things to do in Beijing in February.

Photo: Morio / Wikimedia Commons

In winter, Houhai Lake freezes over and transforms into a large public skating area. Locals and tourists rent skates, sledges, or ice bikes for an afternoon on the ice. Historic hutongs surround the setting, and the vibe is laid-back. Roasted chestnuts, hot tea, and winter snacks are sold nearby, adding to the charm. It’s an old Beijing tradition still enjoyed today and one of the most fun and social top things to do in Beijing in February that gives a glimpse into the city’s seasonal habits.

Ideal Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM
Location: Shichahai area, Xicheng District

10. Walk Through The 798 Art Zone

Art galleries at 798 Art Zone showing popular things to do in Beijing in February for art lovers.

Photo: The Erica Chang / Wikimedia Commons

798 Art Zone is a district of old factories converted into art spaces, galleries, and cafés. It’s where Beijing’s creative energy lives. February’s quietness allows for slower exploration, with many indoor exhibits still running. Expect a mix of photography, installation art, and independent shops. The graffiti-covered walls and raw industrial setting offer something different from historical sites. For those looking for contemporary culture, it’s one of the most popular things to do in Beijing in February, and it balances edge and expression.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Location: 2 Jiuxianqiao Rd, Chaoyang District

Exploring the best things to do in Beijing in February gives travellers a quieter way to enjoy the city. With cold but dry days, walking around, trying warm local dishes, and visiting museums or temples is easy. It’s also a great time for cultural events like the Lantern Festival. Book your trip with TripXL and enjoy the city’s winter charm without the crowds at your own pace.

Cover Photo: Magda Ehlers / Pexels

Uncover Seasonal Things To Do In Beijing In February For Your Winter Adventures