Grape Expo Park Golden Autumn Grape Culture Festival is nestled in Xia Lufengying Village, Zhangshanying Township, a scenic rural area in Beijing’s Yanqing District. This spot sits in the gentle embrace of mountains, about an hour’s drive northwest from downtown Beijing. If you’re visiting during the festival (usually in late September to October), you’ll escape the city crowds and breathe fresh mountain air while surrounded by endless grapevines.
To get here, take Subway Line 13 to Huilongguan Station, then transfer to Bus 919 toward Yanqing. Tell the driver you’re heading to “Xia Lufengying”—they’ll know exactly where to drop you. Driving is even easier: Follow the G6 Beisixiao Highway, take the Yanqing exit, and follow signs to Zhangshanying. Parking is free and plentiful, so no worries about your vehicle!
Natural Scenery: A Slice of Rural Paradise
The park’s landscape feels like a painting. Rows of grapevines stretch as far as the eye can see, with leafy archways perfect for Instagram photos. During autumn, the vines burst with plump purple grapes, creating a contrast against the yellow-green leaves. You’ll also spot sunflower fields and wildflower patches, adding pops of yellow and red to the scenery.
A dirt path winds through the vineyards, lined with wooden benches where you can pause to admire the view. In the morning, mist often blankets the valley, making the grape rows look like a fairytale. Bring a camera—sunset here is magical, with the setting sun casting a golden glow on the grapes!
Cultural Highlights: More Than Just Grapes
Don’t think this is just a farm! The Golden Autumn Grape Culture Festival turns the park into a lively celebration. Local farmers showcase ancient grape-growing techniques, and you can try your hand at stomping grapes in giant wooden tanks (yes, like in the movies!). Workshops teach traditional winemaking, and you’ll leave with a bottle of homemade grape juice or wine as a souvenir.
Scattered throughout the park are colorful stalls selling grape-themed crafts—think hand-painted wine glasses, grape-patterned scarves, and even grape-shaped doughnuts. On weekends, folk musicians play traditional Chinese instruments under the vines, adding a cheerful soundtrack to your visit.
Practical Facilities for Comfort
The park is surprisingly tourist-friendly. Clean restrooms and drinking water stations are placed every 200 meters. For food, a local food court serves Yanqing specialties like grilled lamb skewers, sweet potato noodles, and grape-filled mooncakes. There’s also a shaded picnic area with tables if you packed your own lunch.
Parents will love the kid-friendly zone, where children can ride pretend tractors, paint pumpkins, or feed goats in a petting zoo. Wheelchair access is available along main paths, and English-speaking staff wear bright vests, so ask them for help anytime.
Immersive Experience: What to Do
Start your day early! Arrive by 9 AM to avoid midday crowds. Join a guided tour (offered in English) to learn how grapes are grown here—the soil is rich with minerals, which gives the grapes their sweetness. During the tour, you’ll taste different varieties, from seedless greens to deep purple concords.
At noon, grab lunch at the food court and watch a cooking demo using grapes (like grape-glazed chicken skewers!). Afternoons are perfect for leisurely walks or renting a bike to explore the vineyard trails. Don’t miss the grape-stomping contest at 3 PM—it’s hilarious watching adults try (and fail) to crush grapes like pros!
Before leaving, buy a bag of fresh grapes at the on-site market. Prices are fair, and the farmers pride themselves on organic farming.
Why Visit?
Grape Expo Park isn’t just a景点—it’s a chance to connect with Beijing’s rural roots. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, or culture buff, there’s something here for everyone. Pro tip: Come on a weekday if you prefer quieter vibes, and wear comfy shoes—those gravel paths can be uneven!
This off-the-beaten-path spot proves that Beijing’s charm isn’t limited to temples and palaces. For a day of sunshine, fresh air, and enough grape-flavored everything to make your teeth tingle, head to Grape Expo Park during the Golden Autumn festival. Trust me, you’ll leave with purple fingers and a happy heart!