Daying Village Beacon Tower Site sits in the southeastern corner of Guhe River Forest Park in Yanqing, Beijing—a spot that’s part wild nature, part history. It’s about 90 kilometers northwest of downtown Beijing, near the foot of the Yan Mountains. If you’re coming from central Beijing, take the G6 Jing藏 Highway and drive for around 1.5 hours. The site is easy to reach by car, and there’s free parking right at the entrance. For public transport, take Bus 919 to Yanqing, then a taxi or local bus to Guhe River Forest Park. From there, it’s a short walk (or a bike ride) to the beacon tower.

Natural Scenery: Forests, Rivers, and Mountain Views

The area around Daying Village Beacon Tower Site is pure nature. The beacon tower stands near the Guhe River, surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. In spring, wildflowers blanket the trails, while summer brings lush greenery and cool shade. Autumn paints the leaves in fiery reds and oranges, perfect for photos. Even in winter, the snow-dusted landscape feels peaceful. The air here is fresher than downtown, and you’ll often hear birds chirping or the river flowing. There are simple walking paths along the riverbank, so you can combine a visit to the tower with a relaxing forest stroll.

History Lesson: Watchtowers of the Ming Dynasty

Daying Village Beacon Tower isn’t just an old tower—it’s a window into China’s military past. Back in the Ming Dynasty (around 500 years ago), these beacon towers were used to send signals across long distances. If enemies approached, soldiers would light fires or smoke signals, which other towers would pass along. This one isn’t fully restored, but you can still climb the ruins and imagine how soldiers kept watch over the mountains. It’s a tiny, quiet spot, but it tells a big story about China’s border defenses.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

The site is pretty basic—there’s no fancy visitor center, but that’s part of its charm. Here’s what to expect:

  • Parking: Free and right next to the entrance.
  • Restrooms: Simple ones near the parking lot.
  • Food/Drinks: A small stall sells water and snacks, but it’s better to bring your own. Pack a picnic if you want to hang by the river!
  • Footwear: Wear comfy shoes. The climb to the tower is short, but the terrain is rocky.

Exploring the Tower: A Quick But Scenic Hike

Visiting Daying Village Beacon Tower Site takes about 1–2 hours. Start by walking up the stone steps to the tower’s base. The views from the top are worth it—you’ll see the Guhe River winding through the valley and forests stretching into the horizon. On clear days, you might even spot distant mountains. Take photos of the tower’s crumbling walls; they look rugged but cool against the blue sky. If you’re feeling active, continue along the riverside trail for longer hikes.

Best Time to Visit

  • Morning or late afternoon: Avoid the midday heat, and the light is great for photos.
  • Weekdays: Fewer crowds than weekends.
  • Autumn: The foliage makes the area extra magical.

Nearby Attractions

After visiting Daying Village Beacon Tower Site, head to:

  • Guhe River Forest Park: Rent a bike or kayak to explore the river.
  • Beijing World Park Expo Site: A quick drive away, perfect for garden lovers.
  • Yanqing Ancient Town: Check out local food and historic streets.