Location & Transportation

Qinglong Lake Forest Park is tucked away in the southwestern corner of Beijing, near the town of Donggaofang in Fangshan District. While it’s not smack in the city center, the park’s remote feel is part of its charm. To get there, you can hop on Bus 917 from downtown Beijing ( Zhangjiakou Station or Liulichang) and tell the driver you’re heading to Qinglong Lake—locals know the stop. If you’d rather drive, punch “28 South Street, Shuti Village, Fangshan District” into Google Maps, and you’ll find the park’s entrance. A taxi from downtown costs around ¥100–¥150, but traffic can get tricky on weekends.

Natural Scenery: Lake, Forest, and Fresh Air

The star of Qinglong Lake Forest Park is, well, the lake! Named after its striking Qinglong Lake (“Green Dragon Lake”), this spot wraps you in lush forests, rolling hills, and water that sparkles on sunny days. Over 90% of the park is covered in trees—think oak, pine, and maple—so the air feels cleaner than downtown. In spring, wildflowers blanket the trails, while autumn paints the woods in fiery reds and oranges. The lake itself is perfect for strolls: walk along the wooden boardwalks, rent a paddleboat, or just sit by the water and watch dragonflies skim the surface.

Cultural Touches and Local Vibes

Don’t expect ancient temples or palaces here—Qinglong Lake Forest Park is all about nature. But if you’re curious about local life, wander to the nearby Shuti Village. You’ll see traditional courtyard houses and farmers tending fields. On weekends, the village sometimes hosts small markets where you can try jianbing (Chinese crepes) or pick up handmade souvenirs. The park also has a few pavilions with roofs curling like dragon tails, great for Instagram photos!

Practical Tips: What to Bring

The park is huge (over 10 square kilometers!), so wear comfy shoes. There are bike rentals (¥20/hour) if you’d rather pedal than walk. For snacks, there’s a small café near the main entrance, but it’s smart to pack a picnic. Shade is plentiful, but bring sunscreen if you’re sitting by the lake for hours. Oh, and don’t forget your camera—the sunset over the lake is worth waiting for!

Family-Friendly Fun

With wide, flat paths and safe swimming areas (in summer), Qinglong Lake Forest Park is a hit with families. Kids love the children’s playground near the lake, which has swings and a mini zip line. For something extra, rent a tandem bike to explore the trails together. If you’re visiting on a holiday, keep an eye out for seasonal festivals—they often host kite-flying events or lantern displays by the water.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots

Want to escape the crowds? Head to the northern tip of the lake, where a hidden trail leads to a lookout tower. Climb it for views of the entire park, plus a peek at the distant mountains. Another gem: the reed wetlands on the east side, where herons and egrets nest. Bring binoculars if you’re into birdwatching!

Pro Tips for First-Timers

  • Best time to visit: April–October (spring and fall are magical, but summer gets hot).
  • Avoid: Weekdays if you want solitude—weekends are packed with local families.
  • Entry fee: Only ¥10 per person (super affordable!).
  • Hidden gem: The lotus pond blooms in July—it’s like a pink carpet floating on the water.

Whether you’re craving a peaceful hike, a lakeside picnic, or a glimpse of rural Beijing, Qinglong Lake Forest Park delivers. It’s not as famous as the Great Wall or Summer Palace, but that’s why it’s special—fewer tourists, more nature, and a chance to unwind far from the city buzz. Pack your sunhat and get ready to breathe deeply!