Location & Transportation

Keluotuo Village sits quietly in Mentougou District, Beijing, nestled along the Jingxi Ancient Road—a historic trail once used by traders and travelers. To reach this peaceful spot, you’ll need to embrace a bit of adventure. The village lies near Tanghe Temple, so many visitors combine a hike to the temple with a stop here.

By car: Drive for about 1.5–2 hours from downtown Beijing (depending on traffic). Use a map app to navigate to Mentougou District, then follow signs for Tanghe Temple. Keluotuo Village is about a 30-minute walk or short drive from the temple’s back mountain entrance.
By public transport: Take bus 892 or 941 to Mentougou, then transfer to a local taxi or shuttle. Be prepared for a scenic but winding journey!
For hikers: The village is a perfect pit stop if you’re trekking the Jingxi Ancient Road. Start at Nianfoxiaosi (Lama Temple) or Pearl Lake Park in western Beijing, and follow the trail—you’ll pass Keluotuo Village en route to Tanghe Temple.

Natural Scenery: A Breath of Fresh Air

Keluotuo Village is all about tranquility and unspoiled beauty. Surrounded by lush mountains, it feels like a world away from Beijing’s hustle. Here’s what to expect:

  • Mountain trails: Narrow paths wind through forests of pine and oak trees. In spring, wildflowers blanket the slopes, while autumn paints the valley in shades of red and gold.
  • Clean air: Breathe deeply! The air here is crisp, especially after rain. Perfect for urbanites craving a lungful of nature.
  • Scenic viewpoints: Stop mid-hike to gaze at rolling hills, distant temple roofs, and maybe even spot a bird or two.

Pro tip: Visit after a rain for misty mornings that make the village feel like a Chinese watercolor painting!

Cultural Charm: Step Back in Time

While Keluotuo Village isn’t a major historical site, its rustic vibe and connection to the Jingxi Ancient Road offer a glimpse into Beijing’s past.

  • Ancient road remnants: Parts of the stone-paved Jingxi trail still run through the village. Walk them to imagine mule trains carrying goods centuries ago.
  • Local life: The village feels frozen in time. You’ll see elderly villagers tending fields, simple stone houses, and maybe even a traditional courtyard (siheyuan) tucked away.
  • Link to Tanghe Temple: Just a short hike away, the famous Tanghe Temple (built in the Yuan Dynasty) adds a layer of cultural depth to your trip.

Note: Keluotuo isn’t packed with touristy attractions—it’s more about soaking in the authentic rural atmosphere.

Practical Tips: What to Bring & Expect

Keluotuo Village is low-key, so plan accordingly:

  • Food & drink: Bring snacks and water. A few local farmhouses (no fancy restaurants!) might serve basic meals like homemade noodles or mountain veggies. Ask villagers for recommendations.
  • Toilets: Very basic facilities—think squat toilets in someone’s home. Better to prep ahead!
  • Accommodation: No hotels here. Stay overnight at a farm stay (if available) or commute from Beijing. Sunsets are stunning, but pack a flashlight for the hike out.
  • Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes. The trails are rocky and uneven.

Why Visit? A Slice of Serenity

Keluotuo Village isn’t for everyone—there’s no grand temple or shopping street. But if you love:

  • Hiking off the beaten path
  • Escaping crowds
  • Photographing unspoiled landscapes
  • Experiencing rural Chinese life
    then this hidden gem is perfect. Think of it as a side quest on your Beijing adventure—peaceful, grounding, and utterly refreshing.

Pro tip: Pair your visit with a trip to Tanghe Temple or Mutianyu Great Wall for a full day of exploration. And don’t forget to chat with villagers—they’re used to rare tourists and often share fascinating stories about the area’s history!