Mentougou Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, eat, and shop in Mentougou, a charming North China district rich in culture and natural beauty.


Mentougou Travel Guide - A Comprehensive Tour

Are you looking for a less-crowded destination to explore in China? Consider Mentougou, a charming district located in the western suburbs of Beijing. This area is known for its stunning natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Here’s a comprehensive tour guide to Mentougou, covering everything you need to know before you go.

Introduction to Mentougou

Mentougou is a district in the western suburbs of Beijing, located about 50 km from the city center. The district covers an area of 1,321 square kilometers and is home to around 400,000 residents. Mentougou has a rich history dating back thousands of years and is known for its unique natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, lakes, and valleys. The district’s diverse attractions make it an ideal destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Mentougou

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wanping Ancient City: This well-preserved ancient city was first built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and played a crucial role in defending Beijing against enemy attacks. Visitors can explore the city’s ramparts, gates, and towers and learn about its history as a vital military fortification.

  • Ming Tombs Reservoir: This scenic lake is located near the Ming Tombs, an important historical site in Mentougou. Visitors can rent boats to explore the lake’s crystal-clear waters and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Dajue Temple: This ancient Buddhist temple is one of the oldest and largest temples in Beijing, with a history dating back over 1,300 years. The temple is famous for its magnificent architecture and tranquil atmosphere, and visitors can admire its towering pagodas, ornate halls, and exquisite sculptures.

Natural Attractions of Mentougou: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jiufeng National Forest Park: This expansive park covers an area of over 200 square kilometers and features stunning mountains, forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. Visitors can go hiking, camping, rock climbing, mountain biking, or simply enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the park.

  • Shidu Scenic Area: This scenic area is located along the Juma River and is famous for its breathtaking karst landscapes, deep gorges, and clear waters. Visitors can take a cable car to see the panoramic views from above or explore the area’s hiking trails, waterfalls, and caves.

  • Yunju Temple Scenic Area: This area is known for its spectacular scenery and ancient temples, including the Yunju Temple, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Visitors can wander through the lush forests, climb the steep mountain paths, and marvel at the stunning views of the valleys and waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mentougou

  • Zhaitang Reservoir Hiking Trail: This 24 km trail takes visitors through the beautiful countryside around Zhaitang Reservoir, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and farmland. The trail is suitable for hikers of all levels and can be done as a day trip from Beijing.

  • Jiankou Great Wall Hiking Trail: This challenging trail takes visitors along the less-visited section of the Great Wall at Jiankou, offering breathtaking views of the mountain ridges and winding wall. The trail is steep and rugged, so it’s recommended for experienced hikers only.

  • Xishan Forest Park Mountain Biking Trail: This 15 km trail takes visitors through the picturesque Xishan Forest Park, offering scenic views of the forests, mountains, and lakes. The trail is suitable for intermediate-level bikers and can be done as a day trip from Beijing.

Best Things to Do in Mentougou: Activities and Tours

  • Visit a Local Farm: Mentougou is known for its agriculture and traditional farming methods. Visitors can visit a local farm to learn about these methods, help with the harvest, and taste fresh produce.

  • Join a Tea Ceremony: Traditional Chinese tea ceremonies are a popular activity in Mentougou. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of tea in China, sample different varieties of tea, and experience a traditional tea ceremony.

  • Cooking Class: Visitors can take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Chinese dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Mentougou is known for its delicious cuisine, so this is a great way to experience it firsthand.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mentougou

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Wanping Ancient City, Ming Tombs Reservoir, and Dajue Temple
Day 2 Go hiking in Jiufeng National Forest Park
Day 3 Explore Shidu Scenic Area
Day 4 Visit Yunju Temple Scenic Area
Day 5 Bike through Xishan Forest Park
Day 6 Take a cooking class or join a tea ceremony
Day 7 Return to Beijing or move on to another destination

Food and Drink Scene of Mentougou

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mentougou Roast Duck: This dish is made using locally sourced ducks, roasted to perfection with a crispy skin and juicy meat.

  • Yaoji Dumplings: These handmade dumplings are filled with minced meat and a variety of vegetables, then boiled or fried to perfection.

  • Mentougou Noodle Soup: This simple yet delicious soup features local hand-pulled noodles, vegetables, and meat in a savory broth.

Local Beverages

  • Mentougou Green Tea: This district is known for producing high-quality green tea, which has a light, refreshing taste and is packed with health benefits.

  • Baijiu: This traditional Chinese liquor is made from grains like sorghum or wheat and has a high alcohol content (usually around 50%).

  • Local Craft Beers: Mentougou is home to several local breweries that produce a range of craft beers, from traditional Chinese styles to more modern IPA’s.

Where to Stay in Mentougou: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Jiufeng National Forest Park Guesthouses: There are several guesthouses located within the Jiufeng National Forest Park, offering a unique and peaceful stay in the heart of nature.

  • Yunju Temple Scenic Area Hotels: There are several hotels located near the Yunju Temple Scenic Area, offering convenient access to the area’s hiking trails and scenic views.

  • Mentougou District Center Hotels: There are several hotels located in the center of Mentougou District, offering easy access to local restaurants and shops.

What to Buy in Mentougou: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Green Tea: Mentougou is known for its high-quality green tea, which makes for a great souvenir or gift.

  • Handmade Pottery: The district is also known for its traditional pottery, featuring intricate designs and patterns.

  • Local Honey: Mentougou is home to several bee farms, producing high-quality honey with a unique flavor and health benefits.

Local Culture and Customs of Mentougou

Mentougou has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its unique location between the mountains and the city. The people of Mentougou have a deep appreciation for nature and traditional ways of life. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, dress modestly, and avoid loud or disruptive behavior in public spaces.

Best Time to Visit Mentougou

The best time to visit Mentougou is in the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer mild temperatures, clear skies, and beautiful foliage. The summer months can be hot and crowded, while the winter months can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mentougou

Do:

  • Do respect local customs and traditions.
  • Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or historic sites.
  • Do bring comfortable shoes and clothing for outdoor activities.
  • Do try local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural environments.
  • Don’t make loud or disruptive behavior in public spaces.
  • Don’t take photos of people or places without permission.
  • Don’t ignore safety guidelines and warnings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mentougou

Mentougou is a relatively safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should be cautious when hiking or biking in remote areas, and always stay on designated trails. It’s also a good idea to travel with a friend or group and avoid going out alone at night.

Health in Mentougou

Mentougou has generally clean water and air, but travelers should be careful when eating street food or drinking tap water. It’s recommended to drink bottled water and avoid food that has been left out for a long time or doesn’t look fresh.

Getting to Mentougou: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mentougou

The nearest airport to Mentougou is Beijing Capital International Airport, located about 50 km from the district center. From there, visitors can take a taxi or bus to Mentougou.

Bus Stations Near Mentougou

There are several bus stations located near the district center, offering connections to nearby cities and towns. The Beijing West Railway Station is also located nearby, offering connections to other parts of China.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a taxi or hire a car to travel to Mentougou from Beijing. The trip takes about an hour, depending on traffic.

How to Get Around in Mentougou

The best way to get around Mentougou is by car or taxi. There are also several bus routes that connect the district center to nearby attractions and towns. Visitors can also rent bikes or join a tour to explore the area’s natural beauty.

Where to Go Next from Mentougou: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Beijing: The capital city of China is only about an hour away from Mentougou, offering endless opportunities for cultural exploration, dining, shopping, and more.

  • Datong: This ancient city is located about 5 hours from Mentougou and is known for its stunning Buddhist cave art, traditional architecture, and rich history.

  • Hohhot: The capital of Inner Mongolia is located about 7 hours from Mentougou and is known for its unique culture, cuisine, and natural landscapes.

Conclusion

Mentougou offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and outdoor adventure that is sure to enchant visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the mountains or an action-packed getaway, Mentougou has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive tour guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to this charming district in North China.

Fengtai–Shacheng railway, near entrance to Pearl Lake Fengtai–Shacheng railway, near entrance to Pearl Lake View of Cuandixia View of Cuandixia Cloudy mist over the meadow of Mount Baihua Cloudy mist over the meadow of Mount Baihua