Autumn Outing

This weekend, we're heading to Mentougou.

With mid-October here, Beijing's autumn is becoming increasingly enchanting.

Situated in the western part of Beijing, Miaofeng Mountain is now adorned with beautiful autumn colors.

This weekend, we'll set off for Mentougou to enjoy the vibrant foliage, hike to stunning viewpoints, trek, and stargaze...

Let's fully enjoy the pleasures of autumn!

PART 01: Beautiful Scenery of Mentougou

01 Miaofeng Mountain

In October, Miaofeng Mountain is the perfect time to admire the red leaves.

The red leaves are mainly distributed around the scenic area.

Due to the high altitude and unique climate, the layers of red leaves are strikingly distinct. The mountains are covered in red leaves, layer upon layer, creating the effect of a vividly colored painting slowly unfolding between heaven and earth.

Miaofeng Mountain is part of the Taihang Mountain range, with its main peak reaching an elevation of 1,291 meters and steep terrain. The scenic area is renowned for its ancient temples, unique pine trees, strange rocks, and exotic flowers. It features seasonal attractions such as sunrise, sunset glow, rime ice, and expansive rose gardens. Additionally, it hosts the largest traditional pilgrimage fair in northern China.

Address: North of Jiangu Village, Miaofeng Mountain Town, Mentougou, Beijing

Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Contact Number: 010-61882936

Transportation:

By Car: Navigate to Miaofeng Mountain

By Bus: Take the M5 route from Apple Garden to Jiangu Village

Departure times from Apple Garden: 9:30 AM, 2:00 PM, 6:00 PM

Departure times from Jiangu Village: 6:10 AM, 11:00 AM, 4:00 PM

Baihua Mountain

The main peak of Baihua Mountain stands at 1,991 meters, making it the third highest peak in Beijing. It is also the largest national nature reserve in the city. Various types of forests can be found at different elevations, including Populus davidiana forests, larch forests, shrubbery, birch forests, and meadows, all interspersed with numerous colorful tree species.

From late September to mid-November each year, the vast forest, drenched in vibrant colors, resembles a watercolor painting spread across the mountains. Standing at a high point and looking down, one can behold the stunning tapestry of the colorful forest below.

Baihua Mountain, with its high altitude and low light pollution, offers an excellent location for stargazing and moon viewing on autumn nights. It is also a prime spot for witnessing breathtaking sunrises and sea of clouds.

Address: No. 102, Zhangjiapu Section, Qingshui Town, Mentougou, Beijing

03 Tanzhe Temple

"First there is Tanzhe Temple, then there is Beijing City." This ancient temple has a history of over 1,700 years. Visitors can explore the various architectural structures within the temple while also enjoying ancient trees, famous plants, and precious cultural relics.

Recently, the old persimmon tree in the temple is telling the story of tranquil times and the joy of harvest with its abundance of ripe fruits.

Inside the Pilu Pavilion of Tanzhe Temple, there are two tall ginkgo trees. On the east side stands the most famous "Imperial Tree," which is said to have been planted during the Tang Dynasty's Zhenguan period, giving it a history of over 1,400 years. To the west of the "Imperial Tree" is another tall ginkgo tree known as the "Supporting Tree." From late October to mid-November each year, these ancient ginkgo trees are adorned in golden leaves, shimmering brilliantly in the sunlight and showcasing the temple's timeless charm.

Address: Tanzhe Temple Scenic Area, Tanzhe Temple Town, Mentougou, Beijing

04 Tanko Moofland

Slow Flash Park is located in Tanko, near Tanzhe Temple. It features a fresh and beautiful natural environment, along with charming spots perfect for trendy individuals to take photos. Additionally, the park hosts avant-garde and independent cultural activities.

Address: 120 meters southwest of the intersection of Jingtan Middle Road and Jiufeng Road, Mentougou District, Beijing

In the coming months, these activities are waiting for you to participate in:

TANKO x OW Space

10th One Way Street Book Festival

Date: October 26 - October 27

Location: Tanko Moofland Park

TANKO x Art Power

"Book of the Earth" Artist Residency Program

In November, seven groups of artists from renowned art colleges both domestic and international will reside and live here. Artistic creations will encompass not only sculpture and painting but also a diverse range of forms including music and dance.

Date: November

Location: Tanko Moofland

Tanko Ice and Snow Season

The winter valley is filled with the romance and joy of ice and snow. The beautiful Christmas atmosphere creates a sense of romantic ceremony, while the novel ice and snow games bring back the pure joys of childhood.

Date: Starting in December

Location: Riverside of Tanko Moofland Square, Slow Flash Park, and the large lawn on the west side of the park

PART 02: Mentougou Cuisine

01 Gushan Village Granary Feast

The Gushan Village Granary Feast is a representative cuisine of the Yungding River area. The ingredients used in the Granary Feast are all sourced from local natural seasonal mountain products and vegetables. The dish design reflects the main characteristics of the diet from the agricultural era while embodying the farmers' hopes for abundant harvests and favorable weather.

02 Cuandixia Farmer's Feast

The farmer's feast with "Beijing West characteristics" includes dishes such as chicken stewed with mushrooms, pork braised with vermicelli, fried small river fish and shrimp, scrambled eggs, and fresh vegetables. It also features scallion pancakes, flatbreads, cornmeal porridge, and hand-pulled noodles, offering a delightful and hearty dining experience.

03 Yunjing Fishing Village Whole Fish Feast

The Whole Fish Feast at Yunjing Fishing Village allows you to enjoy every part of a reservoir fish from head to tail, with each section prepared in a unique way. Different parts are paired with various cooking methods, offering a delightful culinary experience. Surrounded by green mountains and trees, savoring the delicious dishes from the countryside is truly a pleasure.

04 Lao Lou's Pan-Fried Dumplings

With options like tender pork, rich beef, and refreshing vegetarian three-flavor fillings, Lao Lou's Pan-Fried Dumplings offer dozens of choices to satisfy various tastes. The crispy, golden-brown outer layer is filled with juicy and delicious ingredients. Each serving is freshly ordered, wrapped, and pan-fried to perfection.

PART 03: Mentougou Accommodations

01 Yipiao Bed and Breakfast

Slowly savor the autumn vibes and enjoy the tranquility in this mountain courtyard. Sitting under the autumn locust tree, you can listen to the rustling sound of the wind through the leaves. Climbing up to the inn's terrace, you can gaze far into the distance at the colorful layers of trees and the rolling mountains.

The inn features 13 guest rooms, each with a unique style, exuding a sense of tranquility and elegance. Every room is equipped with a private hot spring bath, and the facilities are fully comprehensive, including a large screen projector and smart home appliances.

Address: No. 9, Zone 5, 288 Tanwang Road, Tanzhe Temple Town, Mentougou, Beijing

02 Wayao Homestay

Wayao Homestay is a boutique independent courtyard in a Chinese style, consisting of 22 traditional Chinese courtyards built against the mountains, offering picturesque scenery. It is suitable for family vacations as well as team-building activities. The homestay is fully equipped, featuring an agricultural observation garden, a hundred-acre pear orchard, a rainbow slide, trendy swings, a fountain, and other recreational facilities.

Address: No. 1 Courtyard, Qijiazhuang Village, Qingshui Town, Mentougou, Beijing

03 Baihua Mountain Society

Baihua Mountain Society is located at an altitude of 1,090 meters on the slopes of Baihua Mountain. It has been awarded the 2023 National A-Class Homestay designation. The high elevation provides rare natural landscapes and expansive views in the capital, allowing guests to enjoy sea of clouds, admire the setting sun's afterglow, and gaze at the starry sky and Milky Way.

The altitude of the mountain society has inspired the names of its various courtyards, such as the 1,060m High Mountain Courtyard. Additionally, it features a sky lounge, a high-altitude library, a sky reading room, a high-altitude football field, a basketball court, and a non-powered children's playground, providing a wide range of facilities for guests.

Address: No. 34, Huangantuo Village, Qingshui Town, Mentougou, Beijing

Translator: BAI Jing

Reviewer: FENG Haoxuan