Laiyuan County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food scene, where to stay, local culture, and more in Laiyuan County, Hebei, China.


Introduction to Laiyuan County

Laiyuan County is located in the Hebei province of North China, situated near the Taihang Mountains. The county has a rich cultural history dating back to the Han Dynasty, and it boasts a plethora of natural attractions such as scenic spots, lush forests, and streams. Laiyuan County is well known for its ancient architecture, including fascinating temples and pagodas. The locals are friendly, and many still live a traditional way of life. Being just four hours from Beijing, Laiyuan County makes for a perfect weekend or day trip.

List of Places to Visit in Laiyuan County

When it comes to places to visit in Laiyuan County, there is no shortage of options! Here are a few must-visit destinations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Qingliangshan National Forest Park: This park is located 11 kilometers south of Laiyuan County, and is home to rare animals and plants, natural waterfalls, and ancient ruins.

  • Xianling Forest Park: Covering an area of 20,000 acres, Xianling Forest Park offers magnificent temples, pavilions, and over 60 natural scenic spots.

  • Tangliang Temple: Tangliang Temple was built in the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) and is located on a hilltop with commanding views of the surrounding area.

  • Laiyuan Confucian Temple: Built in 803 AD, the Laiyuan Confucian Temple is one of the largest Confucian temples in northern China, and it houses numerous ancient books and artworks.

Natural Attractions of Laiyuan County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Yishan Mountain: Located in the north of Laiyuan County, Yishan Mountain is a stunning natural landmark, standing at 1,200 meters high. Visitors can opt for hiking, or take a cable car to the peak.

  • Strawberry Picking: Laiyuan County is known for its strawberry farms. Visitors can go picking, taste fresh strawberries, and indulge in strawberry-based desserts.

  • Xianghua Mountain Scenic Area: Xianghua Mountain Scenic Area features breathtaking waterfalls, mountain scenes, and a sacred temple. The area is popular with photographers and nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Laiyuan County

Laiyuan County offers numerous hiking and biking routes for nature lovers. Here are some of our favorites:

  • Yidao Ridge to Yishan Mountain: This challenging hike offers panoramic views of Taoyuan Gorge, and is ideal for more experienced hikers.

  • Biking Routes in Qingliangshan National Forest Park: Whether you’re a beginner or experienced biker, the winding tracks and ancient forests in Qingliangshan Park offer the perfect terrain for biking.

Best Things to Do in Laiyuan County: Activities and Tours

There are many things to do in Laiyuan County, here are some of our top picks:

  • Learn about Traditional Chinese Medicine: Visitors can learn about traditional Chinese medicine at the Laiyuan Chinese Medicine Museum. Experts offer tutorials on acupuncture, herbal medicine, and massage.

  • Explore Qingliang Scenic Area by Boat: This relaxing tour of the Qingliang Scenic Area offers a unique view of the landscape, passing by hidden valleys, ancient bridges, and winding waterways.

Week-Long Itinerary for Laiyuan County

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Laiyuan County:

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Laiyuan County and check into your accommodation.
2 Visit Laiyuan Confucian Temple and Tangliang Temple.
3 Take a bike ride through Qingliangshan National Forest Park.
4 Hike Yidao Ridge to Yishan Mountain for a panoramic view of Taoyuan Gorge.
5 Explore Xianghua Mountain Scenic Area and learn about traditional Chinese medicine.
6 Go strawberry picking and visit Xianling Forest Park.
7 Depart Laiyuan County and head back home or onto your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Laiyuan County

No travel guide is complete without exploring the local cuisine! Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Laiyuan Braised Pork: Rich pork belly cooked in soy sauce and an array of spices and herbs.

  • Ma Lajiao: Spicy, minced meat served over vegetables.

  • Gourd Dumplings: A healthy snack comprising ginger, green vegetables and ground meat.

Local Beverages

  • Laiyuan Wine: A traditional Chinese beverage made from glutinous rice and often offered at weddings and banquets.

Where to Stay in Laiyuan County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Laiyuan County offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some recommendations:

  • Mei Xi Mansion: A comfortable, luxurious hotel in the heart of Laiyuan County, featuring a restaurant and lounge bar.

  • China Elite Hotel: A high-end hotel with swimming pool and restaurant chain.

  • Haiyun Hotel: A mid-range, modern hotel located near the Qingliangshan National Forest Park.

What to Buy in Laiyuan County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Laiyuan County can find a selection of authentic local products to bring home. These include hand-made baskets, tea sets, and traditional Chinese clothing. Travelers can find all these items and more at local stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Laiyuan County

Laiyuan County has a rich cultural history and many customs that are still prevalent today. Here are some of note:

  • Spring Festival: The most important festival in China is celebrated in Laiyuan County. It is a time when families reunite to enjoy traditional foods while lighting up skies with fireworks.

  • Respect for Elders: Laiyuan County people place a high value on respecting their elders, and it is a common practice to bow to seniors and address them using hierarchical language.

Best Time to Visit Laiyuan County

The best time to visit Laiyuan County is from May to October when temperatures average around 25°C. The springtime from April to mid-May offers a beautiful display of cherry blossoms and other colorful flora and fauna, while autumn displays endless vistas of red and yellow leaves.

Do’s and Don’ts of Laiyuan County

Do:

  • Dress modestly.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Get off the beaten path and explore the lesser known attractions.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect senior citizens or authorities.
  • Take photos of military installations or other restricted areas.
  • Litter the natural beauty of the county.

Safety and Health

Safety in Laiyuan County

Laiyuan County is generally safe, but like any travel destination, visitors must take precautions. Stay in safe areas, only drink bottled water, and avoid drinking too much alcohol.

Health in Laiyuan County

There are no major health concerns in Laiyuan County, but visitors should ensure they are up to date on all necessary vaccinations.

Getting to Laiyuan County: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are multiple transportation options to reach Laiyuan County, including:

Airports Near Laiyuan County

The nearest international airports are Beijing Capital International Airport, Tianjin Binhai International Airport, and Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport, which offer connecting domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Laiyuan County

There are several bus stations in Beijing which offer buses to Laiyuan County.

Other Options

Renting a car, taxis, and private transportation are all convenient ways to get to Laiyuan County.

How to Get Around in Laiyuan County

Public transportation services are available, but it is recommended to hire a car or driver to go around the scenic sites. Taxis and bicycles are also convenient for getting around in Laiyuan County.

Where to Go Next from Laiyuan County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Laiyuan County is a great base for venturing onward to other destinations nearby, such as Zhangjiakou, Chengde, and Beijing.

Conclusion

A trip to Laiyuan County offers a unique opportunity to explore and immerse oneself in the rich culture and natural beauty of North China. Whether it is hiking in beautiful mountains, exploring centuries-old temples or sampling the local delicacies, Laiyuan County has something for everyone. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and enjoy every moment of your stay.