Location & Transportation

Simagangou Village sits in the mountainous Fangshan District of Beijing, about a 90-minute drive from downtown. Located in central Fangshan, it’s nestled between hundreds of meters of mountains and valleys, making it a quiet escape from the city. To get there, you can:

  • Drive: Take the Jingkun Expressway (G45) and exit at Liangxiang, then follow local roads (GPS works well).
  • Public transport: Take the subway to Fangshan (Line 1 or Line S6), then transfer to a local bus or taxi. Some travelers also rent bikes for the final stretch.

Natural Scenery: A Mountain Lover’s Paradise

Simagangou Village is surrounded by lush green hills and steep cliffs, with a river winding through the valley. The village’s original name, “Lion Rock,” comes from a giant rock formation shaped like a lying lion—a symbol of protection in Chinese culture.

  • Forests & Trails: Walk along stone paths through pine forests, where the air smells fresh and crisp. In spring, wildflowers blanket the hills, while autumn turns leaves into a fiery red-orange palette.
  • River Views: A crystal-clear stream runs nearby, perfect for photo ops or skipping stones. Locals say the water is so pure you can see fish swimming!

Cultural Charm: History & Traditions

This village dates back to the Qing Dynasty (around 300 years ago) and still feels timeless.

  • Old-World Vibes: Many houses are built from local stones and wood, with roofs covered in gray tiles. You’ll see elderly villagers sitting outside, chatting or tending to vegetable gardens.
  • Lion Rock Legend: The village’s name story is fun to share. Long ago, people believed the lion-shaped rock guarded the area, bringing good luck to those who lived here.

What to Do: Adventure & Relaxation

Simagangou offers a mix of activities for all travelers.

  • Hiking: Tackle trails that loop around the village. A popular route takes you to the top of Lion Rock for panoramic views—great for sunrise or sunset photos.
  • Slow Living: Visit a teahouse or sit by the river with a book. Some homestays let you try traditional farming (like picking apples or grinding corn).
  • Photography: The rustic stone walls, terraced fields, and mountain light make Simagangou a photographer’s dream.

Stay & Eat: Homely Comforts

  • Accommodation: Choose from family-run guesthouses or boutique hotels. Many offer home-cooked meals made with organic veggies straight from their gardens.
  • Food: Don’t miss village-style dumplings, roasted corn on the cob, and spicy mountain mushroom hotpot. For dessert, try honey from local hives!

Tips for Visitors

  • Best Time: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer mild weather and colorful landscapes.
  • Language: English isn’t widely spoken, but younger villagers may help with basic phrases.
  • Souvenirs: Buy handwoven baskets, dried fruits, or lion-themed crafts from local shops.

Exploring Simagangou Village feels like stepping into a living postcard. Whether you’re hiking, snapping photos, or just breathing in the fresh air, this hidden gem lets you experience **Beijing’s