TGIF: Hiking Getaway, Temple Yoga, Photography Workshop

The weekend is here! Time for fun, relaxation, and recharging the ol' batteries ahead of *gulp* Monday morning's alarm clock. Luckily enough, there’s plenty of fun stuff to keep you occupied over the weekend that doesn't necessarily involve getting blitzed. Our weekend roundup offers you some of the best.

Feb 20-21: Jingxi Mountain Overnight Hike

Pack your rucksack and join China Culture Plus on a hike through mountains and hills along historic roads and paths that wind through ancient villages. Spend a peaceful night in a modern guesthouse, awaking to the rooster’s call instead of the sounds of city life. RMB 1,350. 

Feb 20: Photos for the Road: Photography Workshop with Dan Sandoval

Join professionally-trained photographer Dan Sandoval for a workshop geared to those who want to hit the road and take better photos. Start with a theory session covering everything from how to handle your camera, composition, and how to prepare for the best shots by researching your destination. Later, head out into the hutongs to put all that theory into practice and then come together to share your best shots. Find out more about Dan and book your slot here. RMB 650. 1-5pm. The Hutong 

Feb 20: Laugh Your Ox Off with Beijing Improv

A new year is what you make it, so Beijing Improv is here to make it up. Join them at The Great Outdoors this Saturday, Feb 20 and you'll be laughing your ox off in no time. RMB 70. 8.30pm. The Great Outdoors

Feb 21: Morning Temple Yoga With Yiyang

Join local yoga teacher Yiyang for a yoga class in the serene setting of Zhizhu Temple Hall (in the sample location as TRB Hutong). The price of the class includes premium oolong tea from Alishan. Pay and book your spot here. RMB 180. 10-11.15am. Main hall of Zhizhu Temple

Feb 21: Chinese New Year Brunch at Zarah

Keep the Spring Festival celebrations going with Zarah's Chinese New Year-themed brunch. Enjoy local specials such as traditional Chinese dumplings, DIY-breakfast jianbing, Chinese spring rolls, and Beijing-style sweets, alongside a selection of more traditional brunch offerings. RMB 198 or RMB 298 with free-flow alcoholic drinks. 10am-3pm. Zarah

Feb 21: Treatment for two at Guo Yi Hui 

Treat a friend or loved one to a treatment for two at Guo Yi Hui traditional Chinese Medicine Center this month. Enjoy a 40-minute thermal radiation therapy treatment, which helps to relax and relieve sore muscles, for two for just RMB 500 (usually RMB 500 each). Available on Sundays, Mondays, and Wednesdays in February. RMB 500. 9am-5pm. Guo Yi Hui Traditional Chinese Medicine Center

READ: Pick Up Sticks: Who Says You're Too Old to Play With Your Food?

Images: Ali Kazal (via Unsplash), China Culture Plus, Edward Boulton (via Unsplash), Alan Caishan (via Unsplash), Joshua Hanson (via Unsplash), Conscious Design (via Unsplash)