Leisure Area sits in the embrace of Beijing’s Huairou District, nestled 500 meters north of Dashuiyu Village. It’s part of the Qinglong Gorge Resort, a 30-minute drive from downtown Huairou. The area feels worlds away from Beijing’s hustle—think towering hills, winding rivers, and fresh air. To get here, you can take a taxi or rent a car (GPS: Qinglongxia Tourist Resort), or hop on a local bus from Huairou Bus Station.

Natural Scenery

Leisure Area is all about nature’s drama. The Qinglong Gorge nearby boasts steep cliffs, crystal-clear streams, and a 60-meter-high waterfall that roars in spring. In summer, the valley turns into a lush green paradise, perfect for hiking or picnicking by the water. Autumn paints the hills in fiery reds and oranges, while winter transforms the gorge into a snowy wonderland. Walking through the area, you’ll spot wildflowers, ancient pines, and maybe even a hawk gliding overhead.

Cultural Highlights

While Leisure Area leans into nature, it’s not short on local charm. Nearby Dashuiyu Village offers a peek into rural Beijing life—think stone courtyards, fruit orchards, and friendly villagers selling homemade jam. During festivals, you might catch traditional dances or taste sticky rice cakes cooked over wood fires. For history buffs, the area’s ancient irrigation systems and terraced fields show how people have lived off this land for centuries.

Getting Around

The resort is designed for easy exploration. A paved trail connects Leisure Area to Qinglong Gorge, taking about an hour at a leisurely pace. If you’re feeling active, rent a bike or join a guided hike. For families, golf carts are available to shuttle between spots. Just wear comfy shoes—some paths get rocky, especially near the waterfall.

Amenities

Leisure Area has everything you need to unwind. There’s a cozy café with mountain views, serving coffee, tea, and light snacks. Picnic tables dot the riverbanks, and BBQ grills let you cook up a storm (bring your own ingredients!). Clean restrooms and lockers are scattered around, and free Wi-Fi covers most of the main areas. If you want to stay longer, cabins and yurts offer overnight options with stunning stargazing opportunities.

What to Do

Start your day with a morning walk along the river—the mist rising off the water is pure magic. Rent a kayak to paddle under the gorge’s rocky arches, or try fly-fishing in the stocked ponds. Families love the designated picnic zones, while adventurers can tackle the “1000 Steps Trail” for panoramic views. At night, the area lights up with lanterns, creating a fairy-tale vibe. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds!

Why You’ll Love It

Leisure Area isn’t about ticking off sights—it’s about slowing down. Whether you’re sipping tea while watching dragonflies dart over the water, listening to the waterfall’s roar, or chatting with villagers at a roadside stand, every moment feels authentic. It’s the kind of place where you leave feeling recharged, even if you did nothing more than breathe deeply and soak up the silence.

Use “Leisure Area” as your excuse to escape Beijing’s city buzz. Pack layers, bring bug spray, and don’t forget your camera—this corner of Huairou will make you forget you’re in the capital.