Beijing Moat, a good place for Swimming

During the pandemic of covid-19, a lot of indoor swimming pools in the city are shut down.

But for real swim lovers, rivers are a lot better. Many people decide to go to swim in the rivers to enjoy a cool summer. Most of them doing this activity are retired people living near the river. Overtime, they become good friends.

Swimming is a good activity. But on the other hand, swimming in the river can be dangerous, which means people need to take their own risks.

Sometimes there are undercurrents beneath the peaceful water, and on the bottom of the river, river weeds grow a lot. Swimmers can get tangled and drown. Therefore the staff of the river take small boats to salvage the river weeds regularly.

Originally the river was a moat surrounding the city wall of the Ming Dynasty. In 1960s, most of the City Wall was taken down to build new roads, but the moat remained.

Years ago, the moat was converted into a modern river with decorated railings and nice footpaths on both sides for people to exercise.

Swimming is a good activity

Tip: Hassle-free Beijing Guided Tours

If you don’t want to go the do-it-yourself route and prefer the hassle-free escorted tours,  here are some options for Beijing guided tours:

Further Readings