Stay at Peking University Student Activity Center Guesthouse or Jingshi Hotel by Weiming Lake, both located within the university campus and just a 5-minute walk from the Cai Yuanpei Statue. These accommodations offer a serene, scholarly atmosphere with easy access to iconic spots like Weiming Lake and Boya Tower. The area is perfect for travelers seeking cultural depth and academic ambiance. Conveniently accessible via Line 4 of the Beijing Subway at "Beida East Gate Station," guests can also explore nearby independent bookstores and creative cafés, making it an ideal base for experiencing the essence of China's top-tier university life.

After visiting the Cai Yuanpei Statue, explore the Old Site of the Institute of Chinese Studies by Weiming Lake, a historic hub of modern Chinese intellectual thought. Visit the Yan Garden Museum, which showcases Peking University’s century-long journey and rare artifacts. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony beneath the Boya Tower, or join a student-led classical literature reading group for an authentic academic exchange. For a refined experience, head to Linhuxuan, once a venue for major academic conferences, now a graceful banquet hall reflecting the elegance of China’s scholarly tradition—perfect for immersing in the blend of history and culture that defines Peking University.

Take Beijing Subway Line 4 to "Beida East Gate Station," then walk about 800 meters to reach the Cai Yuanpei Statue. This route passes key transfer points like Xizhimen and Haidian Huangzhuang, offering efficient access. Alternatively, bus routes 331, 375, or 508 stop at "Chengfu Road South Intersection"—a 10-minute walk away. For convenience, especially with luggage or during nighttime, use Didi Chuxing or Gaode Maps ride-hailing services, which accurately navigate to the university gate. The journey takes roughly 20–30 minutes, providing seamless connectivity between urban life and one of China’s most prestigious academic sanctuaries.

The Weiming Lake and Boya Tower form the most iconic photogenic backdrop near the Cai Yuanpei Statue, creating a poetic scene especially during morning mist or golden hour sunlight. The Yan Garden Historic Buildings, including the Red Building and Gray Building, offer elegant architectural details perfect for candid and artistic shots. For a symbolic image, photograph from the stone steps in front of the Institute of Chinese Studies, where the statue serves as a powerful focal point. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full composition, and time your shoot during the golden hour—just after sunrise or before sunset—for optimal lighting and emotional depth in your photos.

From the Cai Yuanpei Statue, walk 5 minutes to Beida Dongmen Metro Station (Line 4) to access major sites: Tiananmen Square (20 min), Forbidden City (25 min), and Summer Palace (40 min). For destinations like Sanlitun or China World Trade Center, transfer to Line 10 via subway—total trip under 30 minutes. Multiple bus lines (e.g., Special 11, 331) also pass near campus, connecting directly to Bird's Nest and Water Cube. Use Beijing Transit Card or mobile payments (WeChat/Alipay) for seamless boarding and time-saving transfers.

Join a Peking University student-led tour or attend a Weiming Lake Poetry Gathering, where students guide visitors through the university’s history, memorial halls, and the Cai Yuanpei Statue, sharing insights on his educational legacy. During spring, participate in poetry recitals by the lake, blending classical and modern verse in an atmosphere rich with intellectual tradition. Weekend events often include historic photo exhibitions and campus photography workshops, showcasing the university’s century-long heritage. These free activities offer authentic interactions with students and a rare glimpse into China’s premier academic life.