During the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holidays, there are so many fun and uncrowded hidden villages in the suburbs of Beijing! I highly recommend them.

Number of days: 2 days
Time: September
With whom：parents and children
Tour kinds: Weekend Tour

Lao She once said that the period around Mid-Autumn Festival is Beijing's most beautiful. This year's Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays total eight days, perfect for enjoying the autumn season. I've compiled a list of the most hidden and fascinating villages outside Beijing I've visited, offering beautiful sights, delicious food, and fun activities. We encourage you to add your own to your collection.

Beijing Yanqing

Dazhuangke Township, Yanqing

Beijing boasts one of the most beautiful rural roads, Changchi Road, whose autumn beauty is truly remarkable. Starting from Beijing, take the Beijing-Tibet Expressway to Changchi Road, and the first scenic spot you'll reach is Dazhuangke.

Here are Lotus Mountain, Yanyu Mountain, the Great Wall ruins, Wanglongtan Grand Canyon, and the Shatanggou Red Base. Whether you are hiking, trekking, picnicking, reminiscing about the past, playing in the water, or picking, each one has its own unique charm. The Huanglongtan Dragon King Temple in Shangmo Village, Dazhuangke Township, boasts the best-preserved stone murals of any rural temple, bearing the imperial calligraphy of Emperor Qianlong and Emperor Guangxu. Both Cimuchuan Village, where Han Zhongli was born, and Hanjiachuan Village, where he achieved immortality through spiritual practice, also boast numerous historical and cultural stories, all embodying the legacy of folk wisdom. Interested individuals should visit and explore these sites. Such a prime Feng Shui location naturally calls for a soothing abode, one that offers a sense of tranquility and peace, yet is accessible and offers a sense of enlightenment. This elegant residence nestled among pine trees and bamboo forests, nestled among the flowers, is just the right place.

Huangyukou Village, Jiuxian County, Yanqing

Jiuxian Town is a health, sports and leisure town that Yanqing has fully built. Longqing Gorge, Longwan International Camping Park, Yunpu Valley, and cliff carvings are all places that perfectly integrate natural scenery with cultural facilities. Each has its own unique characteristics. The vast area is not overcrowded and there is no aesthetic fatigue. At the same time, there is no shortage of beautiful rural scenery, which you can explore in your own way. Huangyukou Village in Jiuxian Town, nestled right at the valley's mouth, produces vibrantly colored, thin-skinned, sweet, crispy apples. Among them is a particularly rare variety, the betel nut, with its rich aroma that fills the house with fragrance. It's now rare, and anyone who wants to experience the flavor of a native Chinese apple must try it. There’s a B&B nearby called “Laoma Returns Hometown”, which is surrounded by 1,600 acres of cornfields. It’s really nice. The dinner on the terrace is beautiful with the autumn colors, and it’s a great place to relax after a day of strolling around.

Xia Hujiao Village, Yanqing

Yongning Ancient Town, a well-known acropolis in Yanqing, is known for its delicious local specialties, huoshao and tofu. After visiting Yongning, follow Yanliu Road, winding up the mountain, and you will arrive at a small village hidden in the mountains - Xia Hujiao Village, Liubinbao Township, Yanqing. The village's name derives from a time when tigers roamed the area, surrounded by mountains. Its ecological environment is exceptional, evident in its exceptional location. With only two buses a day connecting to the outside world, the area enjoys minimal disruption and a tranquil countryside. Driving from here to Qianjiadian Town, a breathtaking landscape gallery, or Sihai Town's four-season flower fields, visitors can truly experience Yanqing's tranquil beauty.

Xia Hujiao is rich in products, including sweet potatoes, corn, millet, hawthorn, mushrooms, quinoa... They are all grown locally, pure and natural, and delicious. They are only produced once a year. You can enjoy natural and healthy food by staying at the nearby Hawthorn Courtyard B&B.

Huairou Labagoumen Township

Labagoumen Manchu Township, the northern gateway to the capital and Beijing's largest ethnic minority township, preserves and upholds most Manchu folk customs. The Labagoumen primeval forest is Beijing's largest area of primary secondary forest, with a vegetation coverage rate exceeding 90%. In this natural oxygen bar, admire the distinctive Manchu architecture, experience the exotic atmosphere, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the vibrant colors of the forest. The Labagoumen Manchu Folk Museum details the origin, development, and traditional stories of the Manchu people. It also features treasures from various periods, cultural relics collected from the public, and replicas of their daily lives. It's truly an encyclopedia for understanding the Manchu people and is well worth a visit. This is also a paradise for natural history. There are countless varieties of mushrooms. Of course, you should be careful when eating them. You can ask the local villagers for advice. If you stay in the Shepherd's B&B in the village near Tanghekou, you can dig sweet potatoes and peanuts, ride horses and experience the fun of the wild. Isn't it wonderful?

Beijing Miyun

Chadaoyu Village, Miyun

Chadaoyu Village is located northeast of Taishitun Town. Surrounded by mountains and crisscrossed by streams, it boasts a spectacular "sea of flowers on earth," covering 1,800 mu (approximately 1,000 acres). From its vantage point, it resembles a vast, soft carpet of flowers swaying in the breeze, making it a perfect photo spot. Besides viewing the flowers, there's also a massive sand play area, unmatched by any of Beijing's other flower fields. Bring everything you need for fun and let the kids have fun while enjoying the flowers and having fun. Miyun is also renowned for its fish feasts. The fishing garden on the south side of the village boasts a 120-acre pond, stocked with live fish, offering authentic farm-style delicacies. After a hearty meal, check into the nearby guesthouse Yatou's Living Room, which overlooks the stunning Wangjing Tower and Fairy Tower at the Simatai Great Wall, illuminated at night. Jinpo Luo Village, Miyun, is located in Xiwengzhuang Town, at the foot of Miyun Reservoir, and boasts a bucolic atmosphere. At the entrance, the small town of Vernon, reminiscent of a Monet garden, boasts a charming pet garden with alpacas, donkeys, and sheep. The village is also developing a rural complex, featuring a nature theater, a family farm, and the Golden Sakura Valley Children's Park, perfect for photo opportunities and taking the kids out! There’s also a garden-style B&B in the village called Laoyouji, which is a paradise for gardening enthusiasts. The yard is filled with all kinds of flowers and green plants, which is rare in B&Bs in northern China. It’s a great place to spend a wonderful time with old friends, drinking coffee, listening to music, and spending time together. Miyun Bulaotun Town, located on the upwind and upstream coast of Miyun, lies the magical village of Bulaotun, a mountain covered in medical stones. The name alone evokes a yearning for the place. From rock formations over 1,000 meters underground, gurgling natural mineral water flows, a refreshing and sweet drink considered the water of longevity. The Huangtukan Ya Pear in Bulaotun Town is known as the "King of Pears," known for its crisp, sweet flavor. Bulaotun Town also boasts abundant reserves of medical stone, making it a renowned town for its treasures. Stay overnight at the designer B&B Manwan Xiaozhu and experience the secret of Bulaotun's eternal youth. Cuandixia Village, Mentougou District, Beijing

Beijing Mentougou District

Cuandixia Village, Mentougou District, is a renowned traditional Chinese ancient village located in Zhaitang Town, Mentougou District. Nestled in the deep valleys of the Taihang Mountains, it stands as a shining pearl of classical Chinese architecture. Zhaitang boasts a rich cultural heritage and numerous historical relics, all waiting to be discovered. Each visitor will experience a different experience and discover their own unique experiences. The town boasts 113 immovable cultural relics, and the Shuanglong Gorge, known as the "Little Jiuzhaigou of Western Beijing," offers a truly memorable experience. The fusion of nature and culture makes this a truly worthwhile experience.

Huangtugui Village, Mentougou

From the West Sixth Ring Road, take National Highway G109 along the Yongding River, and enjoy the autumn scenery along the winding country road in the valley. A 1.5-hour drive will take you directly to this simple and tranquil mountain village. It's more tranquil than a scenic spot, richer than the mountains, more natural than a garden, and more humane than the city. Although the village isn't large, it's rich in produce, including radishes, pumpkins, dates, apples, and persimmons. Enjoy a delightful farming experience here. Visit villager Grandpa Li's home to visit the Bee Paradise and take home two bottles of pure honey. Huang Tugui, the village's guesthouse, has specially designed beautiful wooden plank roads and terraces. Wake up to a good night's sleep with an invigorating workout – the perfect way to experience a crisp autumn morning in the countryside.

Mentougou Jiuyuan Village

Beijing's most beautiful village, Jiuyuan Village, is located in Wangping Town, Mentougou. The village boasts numerous ancient courtyards over a century old, including Niujiaoling Pass and Ma Zhiyuan's former residence. Looking at these horseshoe nests is truly captivating! Be sure to hike this fantastic Western Beijing Historic Trail. The village boasts two 100-mu pear orchards, a 100-mu walnut orchard, and a 30-mu apricot orchard, each bearing blossoms three seasons and fruit all year round. A wide selection of fresh and dried fruits is available, along with over ten high-quality mountain springs. A visit here offers both a chance to reminisce about the past and a feast for the senses—a truly satisfying trifecta for the eyes, the soul, and the palate.

Fangshan District, Beijing

Puwa Township, Fangshan

Known as Beijing's "Little Tibet," Puwa Township lies deep in Fangshan District, a pristine and unspoiled township that is truly remarkable. Located high above and surrounded by mountains, Puwa offers breathtaking autumn scenery and abundant fruits and vegetables, making it a great place to experience the joy of the autumn harvest. Puwa Township is a sprawling area, and each village boasts its own unique beauty. The flower terraces in Dongcun are the most impressive. Located near the Da'anling Service Station on National Highway 108, along the highway, visitors can admire laden jujube trees, richly textured rocks, and a variety of bizarre peaks and rocks, as well as seas of clouds and pine trees. Staying in a wooded villa mid-mountain, enjoying the stunning scenery and then savoring a unique mushroom feast is truly a heavenly experience.

Shuiyu Village, Nanjiao, Fangshan

There are many ancient villages in the suburbs of Beijing, but it's rare for one to retain its original appearance. Shuiyu Village is even more quaint than Cuandixia Village. The secluded old streets, paved with cobblestones, and ancient trees and broken branches along the bluestone walls all add to its charm, making it a perfect place for photo ops. A main road divides the village into east and west, and the various large courtyards are a sight to behold. Shuiyu Village still boasts 128 old millstones, a Guinness World Record-breaking millstone, bearing inscriptions from the reigns of Emperors Guangxu and Daoguang. Whether in terms of cultural heritage or the remaining old houses, the pristine environment is all the more captivating. Free of commercial development and no entrance fee, it's a perfect place for exploring the past and exploring the hidden gems.

Majiagou Village, Fangshan

Majiagou Village is located in the southeast of Qinglong Lake, the Pearl of Western Beijing. The village's Danshihong Winery integrates grape cultivation, winemaking, and the promotion of wine culture. Here, you can not only observe the traditional winemaking process, but also experience the pleasure of the wine aroma dancing on your nose and taste buds. From the village, walk to Qinglong Lake. The water park offers a variety of attractions, including paragliding, jet skiing, and dragon boat racing. You can also hike in the forest park, making for a relaxing and fulfilling day. Stay at Zuo'an Garden, a charming guesthouse near Qinglong Lake, for a night of rest and relaxation under the starry sky.

Lailishui Village, Fangshan

At the foot of Pofengling, a famous spot for viewing red leaves in Beijing, lies Lailishui Village, a village not quite as red but distinctly charming. Nestled within the village is the iconic Yaoshi Temple, a red temple nestled against the mountainside. It was first built in the mid-Tang Dynasty, destroyed by fire, and rebuilt in the Ming Dynasty. At that time, there were many medicinal herbs and the springs flowing from the mountain were full of medicinal properties. This is how the legend of the Medicine Buddha appearing here originated.

A mountain is not high, but it is spiritual if there are immortals. Although the temple is small, the master is kind and the mountains and forests are peaceful. Across from the village is Pofengling. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, enjoy the crimson leaves, and cultivate your mind, the stunning Red Leaf Fangyunshang Stone House is highly recommended.

Fangshan Huangshandian Village

Huangshandian Village is located in Zhoukoudian Town, home to the Peking Man Site. Originally named Taoyekou (Peach Leaf Pass), the village boasts numerous shale-based structures, making it a popular destination for geology enthusiasts. The majestic Youlan Mountain in western Beijing, along with the nearby Happy Forest and Drunk Stone Forest, invites you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Louzishui Village, located near the village, is a renowned fruit picking garden. Beijing white pears and apples are in season, and there's also the Royal Bee Hall, which sells pure honey. You can also learn how to make bee soap and lipstick, all natural and handmade. Give it a try if you're interested. Of course, Huangshandian Village is most famous for its cluster of unique B&Bs. From the internationally award-winning, late Qing Dynasty-era home "Grandma's Home" to the bourgeois charm of "Cotinus Coggygria Blossoms," from the Chinese-style "Peach Leaf Valley" to the botanical aromatherapy-themed "Xiangbang Fangshe," it has become a favorite B&B destination for Beijing residents.

Chengde, Hebei

Wuling Mountain in Xinglong, Chengde, Hebei

Wuling Mountain in Chengde is a national nature reserve and the closest one to the capital. Situated along the Andam River, the pristine landscape has nurtured generations of hardworking Da'anyu residents. Century-old chestnut orchards and hawthorn forests add to the beauty, delicious food, and joy of labor during autumn visits. Walking through the winding country road, you can see 15 adorable candy-colored bubble houses dotted among the mountains and forests. At the foot of the mountain, there is also a pure white Jiangnan Villa meticulously designed by a designer from Moganshan, which attracts many people.

Exiting through the west gate of Wuling Mountain, you’ll arrive at the Luming Restaurant, which is part of the B&B and serves a variety of exquisite Chinese and Western cuisine. Whether it’s a day trip without accommodation or a trip to the mountains, it’s the best choice to discover the beauty of the countryside and explore the multiple possibilities of life. Nanyu Village, Laishui, Baoding, Hebei Province: A two-hour drive from Beijing on the highway takes you directly to Yesanpo. Hidden on the banks of the famous Juma River, at the crossing of the river, lies the small mountain village of Nanyu. Located where the Taihang and Yanshan Mountains meet, this charming village boasts mountains, water, and terraced fields, offering tranquil beauty year-round. The mountains are teeming with persimmon trees over a decade old, their vibrant yellow beauty. In autumn, when the persimmons arrive, I can't wait to savor their sweet delights. There are also Sichuan pepper trees, a specialty of the region. Pick one and chew it—hmmmm, the flavor is indescribable! You can't help but try it yourself, haha. Scattered along the terraced hillside are 15 converted houses, a guesthouse called Mamahua Hillside. You can only find the housekeeper's signature braised beans and rice here. Fangkou Village, Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province, is located in the southeastern mountainous area of Huailai County, nestled south of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall amidst the surrounding hills. Behind the village is the Great Wall. At Fangkou, there's a large well, dug in the 1970s by the "Iron Girls Platoon" to address poverty and address their livelihoods. This well holds many stories of the village's transformation over time, forming an intriguing chapter in its history. The village is dotted with earthen houses built of loess and stones, and this unique landscape captivates visitors with its captivating views of this land. The Beijing Film Academy Film and Television Studio and the public welfare canteen for the elderly are both located here. People enjoy the village's weathered, rugged, and tranquil atmosphere, making it a valuable source of inspiration for sketching, photography, and creative work. Spending the night in the quiet West Valley, sitting cross-legged on a corner of the Great Wall, admiring the afterglow, watching a movie, and gazing at the stars – I believe this kind of life experience will remain deeply in our memories.