Location & How to Get There

Houlvzhuang Village sits in Yanqing District, Beijing—a rural escape just 60 miles northwest of downtown. Reach it via a scenic drive (about 1.5 hours) or take Bus 919 from De胜men, transferring to a local shuttle. For train lovers, Yanqing Station (part of the new high-speed rail) is 20 minutes away by taxi. Pro tip: Rent a bike in town for easy exploration!

Natural Beauty: Mountains, Fields, and Sky

Nestled against the Jiankou Valley mountains, Houlvzhuang Village feels like a postcard. In spring, cherry blossoms and apricot trees paint the hills pink and white. Summer brings lush green rice paddies and wildflowers. Autumn? The village glows with golden ginkgo leaves and fiery red maples. Don’t miss the sunset view from Xiangling Hill—perfect for photos!

Cultural Roots: Life in a Real Chinese Village

Unlike touristy spots, Houlvzhuang offers authentic rural life. Wander through stone-paved lanes lined with traditional courtyard houses. Locals still grow crops, raise goats, and make handicrafts. Visit the Folk Museum to try calligraphy or weaving. During festivals, join villagers for dragon dances or dumpling-making—it’s like stepping back in time!

Things to Do: Adventure & Relaxation

  • Hiking: Tackle trails to nearby Great Wall ruins or climb Huangyu Mountain (easy-medium difficulty).
  • Cycling: Pedal through vineyards and fruit orchards. Stop at roadside stalls for fresh peaches!
  • Farm Stays: Sleep in renovated farmhouses. Some hosts teach cooking classes using homegrown veggies.
  • Photography: Sunrise over the mist-covered valley? Check. Ancient temple rooftops? Check.

Eat, Shop, and Stay Like a Local

  • Food: Savor yanqing kaoyu (crispy grilled fish) at village eateries. For sweets, try rose-flavored cakes.
  • Shopping: Buy honey, dried fruit, or handmade cloth shoes. The weekend market buzzes with local goods.
  • Accommodation: Choose from cozy B&Bs or boutique hotels. Book ahead—weekends get busy!

Why You’ll Love Houlvzhuang Village

It’s the real China—no crowds, no scripted performances. Whether you’re hiking, snapping pics, or chatting with villagers, Houlvzhuang feels honest and unfiltered. Bring comfy shoes, a camera, and curiosity. This off-the-beaten-path spot might just become your favorite Beijing escape!

Note: Respect local customs—ask before entering private homes or taking photos of people.