Trip Overview
When: September-October (Mid-Autumn & National Day holiday, 8 days total)
Duration: 2 days
Travelers: Family with kids
Budget: ~1,500-2,500 RMB (~$210-350 USD)
Transportation: Self-drive recommended (Beijing's suburbs are spread out)
Essential Foreigner Info
Getting There: Rent a car or hire a driver—public transport to these villages is infrequent and buses may not run on schedule. Highways are well-maintained; G110 and G109 national roads offer scenic drives.
Money Matters: Most villages only accept cash. Bring at least 2,000 RMB in cash for meals, entrance fees, and accommodations. WeChat Pay works in some modern villages but don't rely on it.
Language: Mandarin essential here. Village elders may not speak English. Save locations in Chinese characters on your phone for navigation and showing to locals.
Seasonal Note: Autumn (September-November) is peak season for Beijing's suburbs—fall foliage creates stunning landscapes, but expect some crowds on weekends. Weekdays are quieter.
Day 1: Yanqing District (延庆) – The Northern Gateway
Mr. Lu Xun once wrote that mid-autumn is Beijing's most beautiful season. This year, the National Day holiday gives us 8 perfect days to escape the city and explore Beijing's hidden rural gems.
Beijing's northern suburbs (Yanqing District, 延庆) offer some of the most stunning autumn scenery within a 2-hour drive from the city center. Today we're exploring the least crowded yet most charming villages in the area.
Dazhuake Township (大庄科乡)
Starting from downtown Beijing, take the Jingzang Expressway (京藏高速) and connect to the Changchi Road (昌赤路)—Beijing's most beautiful country road. The autumn scenery alone is worth the drive. The first stop is Dazhuake (大庄科), a hidden gem where mountain views meet village charm.
Lianhua Mountain (莲花山) & Yanyu Mountain (燕语山): These peaks offer excellent hiking trails with panoramic views of the autumn-colored forests. The trails are moderate difficulty—good for families with kids.
Great Wall Ruins (长城遗址): Unlike the tourist-packed Badaling section, these Ming Dynasty wall segments remain wild and untouched. History buffs will love exploring these ancient stones—bring good hiking shoes.
Wanglongtan Grand Canyon (旺龙潭大峡谷): A hidden valley with crystal-clear streams, perfect for a summer paddle or autumn photoshoot. The red sandstone base of Sagatangou (沙塘沟红色基地) adds dramatic color to the landscape.
Cimu Valley (慈母川村): This village claims to be the birthplace of Han Zhongli, one of the Eight Immortals in Chinese mythology. Nearby, Hanjiachuan Village (汉家川村) is said to be where he achieved immortality. These spots offer a unique blend of natural beauty and folk legend.
Pro tip: The Huanglongtan Dragon King Temple (黄龙潭龙王庙) in Shangmo Village (上磨村) houses the best-preserved rural temple stone murals in the area, with calligraphy from Emperor Qianlong and Emperor Guangxu. Entry is free—look for the weathered but beautiful stone carvings behind the main hall.
Where We Stayed: Huaxili She (花蹊丽舍) – A cozy retreat nestled among pine forests and bamboo groves. The winding paths to reach it feel like a journey to another world, yet it's surprisingly easy to find. The rooms are modern yet rustic, perfect for resetting after a day of exploration.
Old County & Huangyukou Village (旧县黄峪口村)
Continuing our journey, we reach Old County Town (旧县镇), Yanqing's health and sports recreation hub. This area perfectly blends natural山水 with well-developed tourism infrastructure—spacious enough to avoid crowds yet packed with attractions.
Longqingxia (龙庆峡): Known as "Little Jiuzhaigou in the West," this gorge features crystal-clear waters, strange rock formations, and autumn foliage reflected in the lake. Boat rides available (80-120 RMB).
Dragon Bay International Camping Park (龙湾国际露营公园): For families, this offers RV camping, tent sites, and outdoor activities. Great for kids to run free in nature.
Yunpai Gou (云瀑沟) & Moyan Stone Carvings (摩崖石刻): Less-visited spots with unique geological features. Perfect for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Huangyukou Village (黄峪口村): This village sits right at the valley entrance. The apples here are legendary—thin skin, bright color, and incredibly sweet. The rare "Bingzi" fruit (槟子果) is a local specialty with an intense fragrance that fills the entire room. If you find it, buy some—it's becoming increasingly rare.
Where We Stayed: Laoma Huxiang (老马回乡) – This homestay is wrapped by 1,600 mu (about 265 acres) of corn fields. The terrace dinner with autumn views is unforgettable. Book rooms in advance during holiday seasons.
Xiahujiao Village (下虎叫村)
The name literally means "tigers used to appear here"—and that's precisely why the ecology is pristine. This hidden mountain village has only two bus connections to the outside world daily, ensuring peaceful seclusion.
From here, driving to Qianli Mountain Painting Gallery (百里山水画廊) in Qianjiadian Town (千家店镇) or the Four Seasons Sea (四季花海) in Sihai Town (四海镇) reveals Yanqing's most serene scenery—forest-covered mountains, clear streams, and practically no tourists.
Local Products: Sweet potatoes, corn, millet, hawthorn, mushrooms, and quinoa—all naturally grown, harvested only once yearly. Stay at the Hawthorn Courtyard (山楂小院) homestay to taste these authentic farm-to-table ingredients.
Day 2: Huairou (怀柔) & Beyond
Jiuduhe Town (九渡河镇)
Connected to Yanqing via Huaichang Road (怀长路) and Ansi Road (安四路), Jiuduhe offers spectacular autumn colors. Villages like Huanghua Village (黄花城村), Xishuiyu Village (西水峪村), Erdaoguan Village (二道关村), and Xingshuitai Village (杏树台村) form a scenic corridor.
Mountain springs flow year-round through every valley, converging into streams that feed the Donggou River (东沟河), then the Huaijiu River (怀九河), finally into Huairou Reservoir (怀柔水库). Follow ancient paths, cross wooden bridges, wade through streams, and hop over strange rocks—all the way to Huanghua City Water Great Wall (黄花城水长城), where the "Three Unique Views" will leave you in awe.
Food Alert: Jiuduhe is one of Huairou's premier chestnut-producing areas. During autumn, the oily, glossy chestnuts are absolutely irresistible. And the rainbow trout? Must-eat. Catch it live, prepare it multiple ways— grilled, soup, sashimi. Your taste buds will thank you.
Where We Stayed: Crayon Forest (蜡笔森林) – A glass house straight out of fairy tales, perched in the mountains. The dandelion spirit seems to have planted this crayon-colored forest in the valley. Here, every imagination about nature and art comes alive.
Laba Goumen Township (喇叭沟门乡)
Beijing's northern gateway and largest ethnic minority township, Laba Goumen (喇叭沟门) preserves authentic Manchu customs. The Laba Goumen Primitive Forest is Beijing's largest primary forest area, with 90%+ vegetation coverage. Breathe in the天然 oxygen bar, admire traditional Manchu architecture, soak in ethnic culture, and witness the most spectacular autumn foliage.
Manchu Folk Customs Museum (满族民俗博物馆): This museum comprehensively presents Manchu origins, development, and traditional stories through artifacts from various periods, folk-collected relics, and life-size recreations. A fascinating百科全书 of Manchu culture—well worth a visit.
Nature Alert: The area is a paradise for mushroom enthusiasts—countless varieties. But be very careful about which ones you eat. Consult local villagers before foraging.
Where We Stayed: Horse Master's Home (牧马人民宿) in Tanghekou village. Here you can dig sweet potatoes and peanuts, ride horses freely, and experience wild nature. Pure bliss.
Miyun (密云) – The Eastern Frontier
Chedaoyu Village (车道峪村)
In the northeastern part of Taishitun Town (太师屯镇), Chedaoyu Village is surrounded by mountains on all sides with a creek running through. The famous "Sea of Flowers" (人间花海) covers 1,800 mu—quite spectacular. From above, it looks like a giant soft flower carpet swaying in the wind. Perfect for Instagram.
Beyond flower viewing, there's a massive sand play area that truly stands out among Beijing's flower parks. Bring equipment and let kids run wild—flower viewing and fun combined.
Miyun Fish Feast: The fishing park on the village's south side covers 120 mu with flowing water—authentic rural flavors. After a hearty meal, stay at Yatou de Keting (丫头的客厅), a homestay facing the Simatai Great Wall (司马台长城) and its Fairy Tower and Wangjing Tower. At night, the lights create a stunning view.
Jinpoluo Village (金叵罗村)
Located in Xiwengzhuang Town (溪翁庄镇) at the foot of Miyun Reservoir (密云水库), this village exudes pure countryside charm. At the village entrance, Vernon Town (弗农小镇) channels Monet's Garden vibes, while the cute pet park has alpacas, donkeys, and bleating sheep—perfect for photos and kids.
A rural complex is under construction: natural theater, parent-child farm, Golden Valley Children's Park... Perfect for photography and family outings.
Where We Stayed: Old Friends Season (老友季) – A garden-style homestay that's a paradise for horticulture lovers. The courtyard filled with various flowers and green plants is rare among northern homestays. Perfect for enjoying coffee and music with old friends.
Bu Lao Tun Town (不老屯镇)
In the north of Miyun, the upper reaches where wind and water are optimal, there's a magical village surrounded by medicinal stone (麦饭石)—Bu Lao Tun (不老屯). The name alone inspires longing. Over 1,000 meters underground, natural mineral water gushes out—clear, sweet, and pure. No wonder locals call it the "Longevity Water."
Local Specialty: Bu Lao Tun's Huangyukeng pears (黄土坎鸭梨) are renowned as "King of Pears"—exceptionally crisp and sweet. The area is rich in medicinal stone deposits, earning it the title "Town of Medicinal Stone." Come and discover your own treasures.
Where We Stayed: Manwan Xiaozhu (蔓湾小筑) – A designer homestay where you can experience Bu Lao Tun's secret to eternal youth.
Mentougou (门头沟) – The Western Mountains
Cuan Di Xia Village (爨底下村)
One of China's famous traditional ancient villages, Cuan Di Xia (爨底下村) sits in Zhaitang Town (斋堂镇) within the deep valleys of the Taihang Mountains. This pearl of ancient Chinese architecture shines brilliantly.
Zhaitang Culture: The area is steeped in cultural heritage with numerous cultural relics and historic sites waiting to be discovered. The entire town has 113 non-movable cultural relics. Double Dragon Gorge (双龙峡), nicknamed "Little Jiuzhaigou in the West of Beijing," seamlessly blends nature and culture—a must-visit.
Huangtu Gui Village (黄土贵村)
From the Western Sixth Ring Road onto G110 National Road, along the Yongding River valley through country roads winding among autumn-colored mountains—you reach this simple, tranquil village in 1.5 hours. Quieter than tourist spots, richer than wild mountains, more natural than gardens, and more warmth than urban areas.
The village is small but rich in produce: radishes, pumpkins, dates, apples, persimmons—enjoy farm experiences. Visit Grandpa Li's beekeeping garden for pure honey. The homestay built beautiful wooden boardwalks and platforms for morning yoga with autumn views.
Jiu Yuan Village (韭园村)
Beijing's most beautiful village, Jiu Yuan (韭园村) is located in Wangping Town (王平镇). The village has many ancient courtyards over 100 years old, Niujiaoling Pass (牛角岭关城), and Ma Zhi Yuan's Former Residence (马致远故居). See those horse-hoof marks? Full of character. You must walk this excellent West Beijing Ancient Path (京西古道) hiking route.
The village has two 100-mu pear orchards, a 100-mu walnut garden, and a 30-mu apricot garden—flowers in three seasons, fruits in four seasons. All dried and fresh fruits available. Over a dozen mountain springs with excellent water quality. Here you can climb heights and appreciate history while satisfying your appetite—truly a triple幸福的 symphony for eyes, heart, and taste buds.
Fangshan (房山) – The Western Frontier
Puwa Township (蒲洼乡)
Praised as "Beijing's Little Tibet," Puwa (蒲洼乡) is Fangshan's deepest township—pristine and unspoiled. High altitude with mountains all around, autumn scenery is absolutely stunning. The area produces various melons and fruits—experience the joy of autumn harvest.
Puwa is vast, with each village having its own scenery. Dong Village's Huatai Scenic Area (东村花台景区) is the most developed. Near the 108 National Road's Da'anling Service Station (108国道大安岭服务站), along the national road you'll see mountain酸枣 (hawthorn) laden with fruit and stones with rich textures, plus strange peaks, rock formations, sea of clouds, and waves of pine. Stay at the semi-mountain wooden villa Forest Village Inn (森林乡居), appreciate the scenery, and enjoy the special mushroom feast—truly immortal days.
Nanjiao Shuiyu Village (南窖水峪村)
Many ancient villages exist in Beijing's suburbs, but those maintaining complete original style are rare. Shuiyu (水峪村) is even more rustic than Cuan Di Xia. Deep ancient streets with stone slab paths, ancient trees with broken branches and blue stone walls—full of charm, perfect for photography. One main road divides the village into east and west, with various deep courtyard houses that are fascinating.
Record Alert: Shuiyu preserves 128 old stone mills—that set a Guinness World Record! Some even bear inscriptions from Guangxu and Daoguang Emperors. Whether from cultural inheritance or ancient house remnants, the original ecology is more charming. No excessive commercial development, no entrance fee—ancient exploration at its finest.
Majiagou Village (马家沟村)
Located in the southeast of Qinglong Lake (青龙湖)—Beijing's western pearl—Majiagou Village is home to Dan Shi Hong Winery (丹世红酒庄), integrating grape planting, wine brewing, and wine culture. Here you can tour the traditional winemaking process and experience the pleasure of wine dancing on your nose and taste buds.
Walk from the village to Qinglong Lake Water Playground with many entertainment options: parasailing, jet skis, dragon boats—satisfying all at once. You can also hike in the forest park. A day of leisure and fulfillment.
Where We Stayed: Zuo'an Garden (左岸花园) – A literary homestay near Qinglong Lake. Sleep beautifully under a blanket of stars.
Closing Thoughts
Beijing's suburbs are far more than just Great Walls and tourist traps. Within a 2-hour drive from the city center lie hidden villages that preserve centuries of history, serve incredible local cuisine, and offer accommodation experiences that rival boutique hotels. Whether you're seeking autumn foliage, authentic food, cultural heritage, or simply peace and quiet away from crowds—these villages deliver.
Mr. Lu Xun was right: Beijing in autumn is truly beautiful. But the beauty extends far beyond the city proper. Pack your bags, bring cash, and discover the Beijing that most tourists never see.