mountain resort and temples

4 hours by train from Beijing to see MORE imperial sights? After Forbidden City Summer Palace the Great Wall etc. honestly the 90RMB entrace for foreigners isn't necessary on your itinerary. But if you want out of the city heat the temples
aound the mountain resort are varied and impressive. Entrance fees between 20 and 60RMB. They certainly were alive with Buddhist pilgrims, Llamas,and endless
vendors.

Weekday departures are quiet on the train. Sunday return was packed. The downhill route was also much more remote (saw some HWY building)

Chengde makes a nice not essential side trip from Beijing. Especially if not seeing
Tibet (Potala Palace likeness!) 1overnight plenty of time.