7 Fun Beijing Races to Kickstart Your Summer Exercise Routine

Whether you’re a long-time avid runner that is looking to add a full marathon to your bucket list, or a determined newbie wanting to simply exercise more, Beijing has a running event for you. We've hand-picked eight races that will test your wits, no matter your fitness level.

Color Festival - Sunday, Mar 31

The 5km Color Festival (not to be confused with the Color Run) is specially designed for those new to running as well as anyone who doesn't mind getting a little dirty in the process. The idea is simple: participants run while gleefully throw packets of colored powder and paint at one another. The race takes place at Lianshihu Wetland Park, and will be accompanied by live music.

Time: 1.30-2.30pm
Registration deadline: Mar 27
Fee: RMB 59
Register here.
 

Sanfeng Cross-Country Race - Sunday, Apr 7

The Sanfeng Cross-Country Race starts at the ancient Buddhist Dajue Temple, heads towards the hilly Luobodi Yakou, on into the scenic Yangshan Mountain, Miaofeng Mountain, then passes Jianguo Village, before turning back to the starting point. The entire route is lined with magnolias and peach trees, making it one of the most scenic on this list, and participants can choose between 10km, 23km, and 50km loops.

Racing time: 8.30am-7pm
Registration deadline: Mar 18
Fee: RMB 450 for 50km, RMB 229 for 23km, RMB 149 for 10km
Register here.
 

Barbarian Challenge Obstacle Race - Saturday, Apr 30

The Barbarian Challenge is truly an event for the strong and determined. All racers, competing as either individuals or in groups, will confront 21 endurance-busting obstacles that require both strength and determination to get through. The 8km race takes place at Lianhuashan Ski Resort, and is only open to runners between the ages of 18 and 60. Runners will get extremely dirty, but don't worry, there are showers awaiting the brave after the finish line.

Racing time: 8.30am onwards
Registration deadline: Apr 13
Fee: RMB 399
Register here.
 

Black Stone Cross-country Race - Saturday, Apr 21

This grueling cross-country race starts at Badachu park in the northern outskirts of Beijing, which is also home to eight ancient Buddhist temples. The route then takes runners through several scenic spots such as Nanmachang Reservoir, Cishan Temple, Black Stone Village, and Dongshan Pear Garden. There are multiple distance options: 42km (cutoff time: 10 hours), 21km (cutoff time: 6 hours), and 6km (cutoff time: 4 hours). The event is only open to runners aged between 18 and 60.

Racing time: 8am onwards
Registration deadline: Mar 18
Fee: RMB 520 for 42km, RMB 359 for 21km, RMB 199 for 6km
Register here.
 

Mutianyu Great Wall Race - Saturday, May 18

Located in Huairou county, the Mutianyu portion of the Great Wall is particularly scenic, with 22 watchtowers flagged by swooping valleys, promising postcard-like backdrops to the proceedings. Not that you'll have time to notice because you'll be running either 10km (cutoff time: 4 hours), 28km (cutoff time: 8 hours), and 50km (cutoff time: 14 hours). The race begins on the Great Wall, before winding through neighboring villages, and finishing in the mountains. The race will also involve a challenging climb in elevation of 2,639m for the 50km group.

Racing time: 7am onwards
Registration deadline: Apr 28
Fee: RMB 520 for 50km, RMB 299 for 28km, RMB 199 for 10km
Register here.
 

Run to the Beat - Sunday, May 19

Run to the Beat takes its name from the bouncy tunes that accompany runners along the route out by the Ming Tombs, performed by live bands and DJs. The route is centered around the picturesque Shisanling Reservoir, and ends with (what else) a fun dance party. Runners 16 years and older can register.

Racing time: 8am onwards (cutoff time: 3.5 hours)
Registration deadline: May 15 or until sold out
Fee: RMB 268
Register here.
 

Qixi Festival Marathon - Sunday, Aug 4

Qixi Festival – Chinese Valentine’s Day – falls on Aug 4 this year. Instead of the same-old cliche chocolate or flowers, why not team up and run the scenic Badachu Park instead? The race lasts for 13.14km. Why so weirdly specific? That's because 1-3-1-4 yīsānyīsì sounds similar to 一生一世 yīshēng yīshì AKA 'lifetime,' signifying an auspicious and long-lasting relationship.

Racing time: 4pm (cutoff time: 3 hours)
Registration deadline: Jul 7
Fee: RMB 99
Register here. 

READ: OlymPicks: China Vows to Become a Winter Sports Leader by 2022

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Email: kuang@thebeijinger.com
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Photos: youxiake; xrail; iranshao; anfang; zuicool