For some quiet fun

Visitors take photos on the drawbridge of the Florentia Village in Wuqing, Tianjin.

Hop on the bullet train from Beijing South Railway Station and within 20 minutes, you will be transported to another world - tranquil yet exciting. 

Tired of the crowds in Beijing? Get on a bullet train to a place that reminds one of a quiet farming town and a romantic Italian riverside county.

Wuqing, a 20-minute train ride from Beijing and 10-minute ride from Tianjin, is ideal for a day trip from the two metropolises. The earliest train departs at 6:45 am from Beijing South station; 20 others follow throughout the day.

You could start your adventure at the center of the town, from the Culture Park. There, you will witness people practicing tai chi, playing Chinese yo-yo, or kongzhu (a toy consisting of two equally sized discs connected with a long axle) and twisting to the Yangko dance, without a care in the world.

A district within Tianjin, Wuqing boasts several parks within walking distances of its town center.

The best part about the parks is their serenity. You can enjoy almost complete solitude in the company of reeds, flowers and stretches of clear water.

The parks run along the banks of the Great Canal between Beijing and Hangzhou - where the scenery is beautiful. There are fluffy reeds, florets, rows of trees, occasional flocks of sheep, wide patches of golden fields and a tranquil little village.

Also along the banks of the canal is a pathway that meets the standards of international-level marathons and cycling events.

At the end of the northern stretch of the canal, there is a trailer park. Caravans that come with a small garden are parked sporadically on that plot of land. They are available for rent, with two weeks' advance reservation. Adjacent to it is a parterre, children's playground and aisles ideal for lovers.

The place is also good for camping, picnics or barbecues under the shade.