Create meetup in Beijingchevron_right
Select a place on the map to change the location.
I want to meet
Verified required?
want to meet at fmd_good City Market
want to meet at fmd_good Market Square
want to meet at fmd_good Central Park
explore Beijing Guides
bar_chart Trends in Beijing
Beijing National Day School's Secret?
I've poked around that campus a few times for events, and the old courtyard near the gymnasium is what people usually mean. It's not exactly hidden, but it's tucked behind the main teaching block and most visitors don't wander back there. It's still accessible during the day if you're with the conference group, just walk past the basketball courts toward the older red-brick buildings. Security might give you a look if you're alone, but it's worth a quiet peek between sessions.
yeah that courtyard's real, more of a memorial garden vibe now though. used to be a thing during the cultural revolution but they cleaned it up years ago. probably unlocked during conference hours but i'd go with a group, security's nosy there
Honestly, I've never heard of a hidden courtyard at Beijing National Day School. Most schools in @Beijing are pretty tightly controlled these days, security's usually pretty intense. Your best bet is probably just to ask someone at the school's reception or administration, they might know something, or at least point you in the right direction. Good luck with your conference! Hope it goes well.
best photo spots in beijing?
olympic forest park is slept on fr. the linden trees along the main axis go gold in late october and the bird's nest reflection in the lake at sunrise is nuts, barely anyone there on weekdays. also check out 798 art district on a weekday morning, the old factory pipes and graffiti make great contrast shots. tbh bring a wider lens than u think you need, everything in beijing is bigger than it looks in photos
everyone goes for the big landmarks but honestly the best shots i got were from the overpasses on the 3rd ring road at dusk, just traffic light trails with CCTV tower lit up in the background. also guomao at blue hour from the silk street footbridge, the CBD towers all glassy & orange, tripod helps cuz u need a slow shutter. one thing nobody mentions, air quality totally changes your photos so check the AQI app the night before, a clear day after rain is worth waiting for
For sunrise the Temple of Heaven east gate area is underrated, locals doing tai chi around 5:30am with the morning fog, way better than fighting crowds at Tiananmen. For sunset honestly just walk along the canal near Shichahai, the reflections off the water with the Drum Tower behind are hard to beat. Bring a tripod if you can, the good light only lasts like 20 mins this time of year.
load 1 more reply