Location and How to Get There
Cuandixia Village is located in Zhaitang Town, Mentougou District, Beijing. It's about 90 kilometers west of downtown Beijing, nestled in the mountains. The easiest way to get there is by driving – it takes around 2 hours from central Beijing. You can also take a bus from Pingguoyuan subway station (Line 1) to Zhaitang, then take a taxi to the village. The journey is a bit long, but the scenic mountain views along the way make it worth it!
Natural Scenery
Cuandixia Village is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys. One of the highlights is the nearby “One Line Sky” (Yixiantian), a narrow gorge formed by steep cliffs. The village itself sits on a hillside, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. If you're up for a short hike, head to the observation deck on the waist of Jinchan Mountain, opposite the village. From there, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Cuandixia Village and its picturesque setting.
Cultural Heritage
Cuandixia Village has a history of over 400 years and is famous for its well-preserved traditional courtyard houses from the Ming and Qing dynasties. There are more than 70 of these ancient homes, giving you a glimpse into rural life centuries ago. The village has also gained fame as a filming location for the popular movie “The Warlords.”
You can explore many of these old buildings, including some impressive ones like the Landlord's Courtyard, Wudao Temple, and Guandi Temple. Each structure tells a story of the village's past and showcases traditional Chinese architecture.
Facilities and Services
In recent years, Cuandixia Village has developed into a popular rural tourism destination. Many local families have opened “nongjiale” (farmhouse stays), where you can experience authentic village life. Spend a night on a traditional heated brick bed (kang) and enjoy home-cooked meals made with fresh, local ingredients.
The village also has basic amenities like small shops and rest areas. It's not a luxury destination, but that's part of its charm – it's all about getting back to basics and enjoying simple rural living.
What to Do and Experience
A visit to Cuandixia Village is like stepping back in time. Wander through the narrow stone-paved lanes, admire the ancient architecture, and chat with friendly locals. It's particularly popular on weekends when city dwellers come to escape the hustle and bustle of Beijing.
Don't miss the chance to try local specialties like wild vegetables and free-range chicken. If you're visiting in autumn, you might even get to see or participate in the traditional harvest activities.
For a bit of adventure, explore the surrounding natural attractions like One Line Sky. The hike is not too challenging and offers great photo opportunities.
Best Time to Visit
Cuandixia Village is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). In spring, the mountains come alive with blossoming flowers, while autumn offers stunning foliage colors. Summer can be a good escape from Beijing's heat, and winter, though cold, gives the village a peaceful, snow-covered charm.
Tips for Visitors
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven stone paths.
- Bring cash as some small shops and farmhouses might not accept cards.
- If you plan to stay overnight, book your farmhouse stay in advance, especially on weekends.
- Respect the local culture and privacy of residents – remember, it's a living village, not just a tourist attraction.
- Don't forget your camera – the village and surrounding scenery are incredibly photogenic.
Visiting Cuandixia Village is a unique opportunity to experience traditional Chinese rural life and architecture, all within a short distance from Beijing. It’s a perfect day trip or weekend getaway for anyone looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in history and nature.
