Thorn Tree travel forum

1

The overnight train to Xi'an is a good idea.
Shanhaiguan is more interesting than Qinhuangdao, but maybe you had that place in mind as well with your stated intention.
There are several destinations to consider outside of Beijing's perimeter: Shanxi, Shandong and Henan province are close by.
(Pingyao, Qufu, Shao Lin Temple, etc.) Don't forget Dandong!
It wouldn't be hard to link Shanxi, Xi'an, and Henan in one loop with a return to Beijing but that's assuming you only spend 3-4 days in the capital.

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2

you better check these Must seen places of Interest in beijing.

I promise these scenery won't disappointed you.

3

I'd stay away from both qinhuangdao and shanhaiguan if I were you, choosing to go there instead of shanxi or shaanxi would be a big mistake.

4

I agree. There's so much worth seeing in Shaanxi and Shanxi!
Cheers!