Location & How to Get There

Black Dragon Pool Natural Scenic Area, home to the iconic Black Dragon Head Pool, sits in Miyun District of Beijing—about a 1.5-hour drive from downtown. The address is Shicheng Town, Miyun District, near Miyun Reservoir. To reach it:

  • By car: Follow G45 Daguang Highway and take the exit for Miyun Reservoir. The winding mountain roads are part of the fun!
  • By public transport: Take the subway to Wangjing, then bus 980 to Miyun, transfer to local bus Miyun-to-Xiangguo or a taxi. (Pro tip: Enjoy the scenic ride through rural hills!)

Nature’s Playground

The heart of the park is Black Dragon Head Pool, a crystal-clear mountain spring surrounded by steep cliffs. Legend says a black dragon once lived here, hence the name—no fire-breathing monsters, just a calm, turquoise pool! In spring, wildflowers blanket the trails, while summer brings cool mist from waterfalls. Autumn paints the valley in red and gold, and winter freezes the pools into ice sculptures.

Other highlights:

  • Sixteen Pools Trail: Hike past cascades like “Dragon’s Tail Pool” and “Turtle Pool,” each with unique rock formations.
  • Pine Forest Oasis: Ancient pines line the paths, offering shade and fresh air. Perfect for deep breaths (and Instagram photos!).

Culture & Stories

While there’s no ancient temple here, locals share tales of the “dragon’s blessing.” They say drinking water from Black Dragon Head Pool brings good luck—give it a try! Nearby, a small stone bridge called “Wish Bridge” invites visitors to make silent wishes. (No pressure, but who wouldn’t want a selfie on a wish-granting bridge?)

Practical Tips

  • Opening hours: Roughly 8 AM–5 PM (best to confirm online).
  • Tickets: Around ¥30–¥50, affordable for families.
  • Food & Rest: A few snack stands sell noodles and local dumplings. Bring your own picnic for a lakeside lunch!
  • Footwear: Wear grippy shoes—stones get slippery near the pools.

The Experience

Visiting Black Dragon Pool feels like stepping into a Chinese painting. Start at the Black Dragon Head Pool, then wander downstream to smaller pools. Kids love skipping stones, while adults relax by the water. On busy days, arrive early to avoid crowds. For a full day, pair it with a visit to nearby Miyun Reservoir or Jiuyueting (Nine-Mouth Tower).

Final tip: Go on a weekday for tranquility. The mix of nature, easy hikes, and zero tourist traps makes Black Dragon Pool a hidden gem worth the trip!