Aranya is really not recommended to visit in July

Pre-Trip Preparation - **Reserve Entry:** Aranya is an upscale residential community, and advance reservations are required for entry. You can reserve through the following methods: - Book a hotel or homestay within the community to enter as a guest. - Reserve a free visit to the Lonely Library. - Purchase a dual ticket for the Aranya Art Center & Dune Art Museum (💰200). - **Download the App:** Download the official Aranya app in advance, register, and log your visitor details for easy access to information, activity bookings, navigation, and more within the community. - **Packing Essentials:** July in Aranya is hot, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and flip-flops. UV rays are strong by the sea, so sun protection is a must. You can also bring beach toys like shovels and buckets for added fun. Transportation Guide - **Self-Drive:** From Beijing, take the Jingha Expressway and Qinbin Expressway, then follow Changhuang Road and Binhai New Avenue to reach Aranya directly—about a 3.5-hour drive. - **Public Transport:** - **High-Speed Rail + Taxi:** Take the high-speed rail to Beidaihe Station, then a taxi to Aranya (40 mins, ~¥70). - **High-Speed Rail + Shuttle:** Take the high-speed rail to Beidaihe Station, then the community shuttle to Aranya (one-way ¥25). Note: The shuttle is only for property owners, hotel guests, and homestay visitors—book tickets in advance via the app. - **Train + Bus:** Take a train to Changli Station, then Bus Chang 20 directly to Aranya. Accommodation Recommendations - **Hotels:** - **Anlan Hotel:** Centrally located, budget-friendly, with a kids' play area—ideal for families. - **Pulan Hotel:** The closest villa hotel to the chapel, perfect for sunrise views. - **Tangshe Hotel:** A unique courtyard-style hotel designed by Shouhei Aoyama. - **Club Med:** All-inclusive, with all rooms facing the sea—great for a premium vacation experience. - **Homestays:** Aranya offers a variety of cozy, well-equipped homestays, some with small yards—ideal for families. Prices peak in high season (¥1,000+), but drop to a few hundred in low season, offering better value. Itinerary Suggestions - **Day 1:** - Afternoon: Arrive at Aranya, check in at the First Homestay Reception Center. Relax, then take a seaside stroll to enjoy the sunset. - Evening: Dine at a canteen to experience Aranya’s lively atmosphere. - **Day 2:** - Morning: Wake early to watch the sunrise at Aranya Chapel, soaking in the serene ambiance. Capture photos of the chapel bathed in morning light. - Late Morning: Visit the Lonely Library for a quiet reading session (no photos inside, but the exterior and beach views are photogenic). - Noon: Enjoy seafood or other dishes at a seaside restaurant. - Afternoon: Explore the Dune Art Museum, admiring both the art and the rooftop sea views. - Evening: Walk along the beach at sunset, savoring the sea breeze. - Night: Dine at a community restaurant, then take a moonlit beach walk. - **Day 3:** - Morning: Visit the Aranya Art Center for exhibitions. Families with toddlers can head to Jiuer Children’s House (Montessori toys, ¥60/hour for under-3s). - Noon: Lunch at a favorite spot in the community. - Afternoon: Pack, check out, buy souvenirs, and depart. Dining Recommendations - **Canteens:** Multiple affordable canteens offer diverse meals—great value. - **Specialty Restaurants:** - **Senhai Yin Quan:** Japanese cuisine nestled in acacia woods—tranquil ambiance. - **No. 27 North, Yellow River Meets the Sea:** Lanzhou-style dishes in a uniquely designed space. - **Coconut Life Restaurant:** Coconut-themed dishes, with a cute bear at each table. - **Breeze Bar:** Enjoy beer, skewers, and sea breezes for a laid-back vibe. - **Hongshanhu Seafood Stall:** Opposite Aranya North’s west gate—fresh seafood, lobster set recommended. Important Notes - **Sun Protection:** July is scorching with strong UV rays—apply sunscreen even on cloudy days. - **Planning:** With many activities and sights, book via the app early to save time.