Location & Transportation

Huiyu Village sits in Mentougou District, Beijing, nestled in a mountain-ringed basin. Though it sounds unfamiliar, this hidden gem is a 90-minute drive from downtown Beijing. To get there, either rent a car (GPS: “Huiyu Village, Mentougou”) or arrange a private transfer—public transport is sparse, but the scenic drive makes the journey worth it. The old village lies near Junzhuang, while a newer settlement was built northward in 1993 due to its risky geology.

Natural Landscape: A Limestone Wonder

Huiyu Village feels like stepping into a timeless valley. Towering gray-white mountains surround it, their rocky slopes telling stories of ancient volcanic activity. Locals call this “limestone country,” and the bare, weathered cliffs glow silvery under sunlight. Though the lime kilns (huoyao) that once defined the village are gone, the rugged terrain still evokes mid-20th-century labor scenes—imagine young workers hauling carts of lime, a relic of Huiyu’s industrial past. Hiking here reveals hidden caves and wind-worn rock formations, perfect for photography.

Cultural Gems: Temples & Mills

The heart of Huiyu beats at its Guandi Temple (关帝庙), a small but storied site. This Taoist temple, likely centuries old, was last repaired in 1876 (Qing Dynasty) and later used as a meeting hall for villagers. Today, its three main halls and side chamber stand quietly behind the village committee’s modern building. Nearby, a tiny flour mill hums with life—villagers still grind wheat here, connecting Huiyu’s past (as a lime-production hub) to its present (a farming community). Don’t miss the faded red-brick walls of the old village, where elders share tales of Junzhuang Huiyu’s heyday.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience

Wandering Huiyu feels like time-traveling. Start at the south entrance: the village committee’s courtyard doubles as a local history museum, with relics like grinding stones and vintage tools. Follow cobblestone paths north to the temple, then loop past terraced fields. Bring snacks—there’s no fancy dining, but friendly families might invite you to try jianbing (Chinese crepes) or homemade noodles. For a deeper dive, chat with residents; many remember the 1960s lime-hauling days and love sharing stories.

Tips for Visitors

  • Best Time: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer mild weather and golden light on the limestone.
  • What to Bring: Sturdy shoes (for uneven paths), sunscreen, and curiosity.
  • Respect: Avoid loud music and be mindful of the temple’s quiet vibe.
  • Photo Ops: Sunrise over the basin, sunset on the temple’s roof, and candid shots of village life.

Huiyu Village isn’t about tourist traps—it’s about soaking in authenticity. Whether you’re marveling at limestone landscapes or hearing移民的往事, this forgotten corner of Beijing will surprise you with its blend of rugged beauty and warm-hearted people.