Xizhāzi Village sits in Huairou District, northeastern Beijing, nestled at the foot of the Miyun Mountains. It’s a 90-minute drive from downtown Beijing, making it a perfect day trip or weekend escape. To get there, take Bus 916 to Huairou Downtown, then transfer to Bus H25 toward Tanghe Town. Alternatively, rent a car and drive along the Jingxiu Valley Road for scenic mountain views—just set your GPS to “Xizhāzi Village, Huairou.”

Natural Scenery: A Mountain Lover’s Paradise

Xizhāzi Village is surrounded by lush green hills, with the Jiankou Great Wall snaking through nearby mountains. The air here is crisp, and summer temperatures drop 5–8°C compared to urban Beijing. Hiking trails like Huairou Canyon and Qingshi Narrow Path offer stunning cliffs, streams, and autumn foliage. For a quieter walk, explore the village’s orchards and pine forests, where you might spot wild roses or hear birds singing. At night, the lack of city light pollution makes Xizhāzi ideal for stargazing.

Cultural Highlights: Simple Village Life

Unlike Beijing’s busy tourist spots, Xizhāzi feels authentic. Local farmers still grow millet and corn, and you can visit traditional stone houses or try homemade dumplings at family-run eateries. During harvest season (September–October), villagers dry fruits and herbs in front of their homes, offering a glimpse into rural Chinese life. For history buffs, the Ming Dynasty-era watchtowers near the Great Wall hint at its military past.

Getting Around: Practical Tips

  • By Car: Park near the village entrance; roads are narrow, so arrive early.
  • By Bike: Rent e-bikes in Huairou for hilly rides.
  • On Foot: Wear sturdy shoes—many paths are uneven.
  • Guided Tours: Hire local guides for hikes or photography trips (ask at village inns).

Stay & Eat: Cozy vs. Camping

Accommodation ranges from homestays (¥200–400/night) to luxury glamping tents with heated floors. Try Ziyou Courtyard or Mountain View Inn for locally sourced meals like roast lamb and wild mushroom hotpot. For budget travelers, campsites near the river charge ¥50/person, but bring warm gear—it gets chilly at night.

What to Do: Adventure & Relaxation

  • Hike: Tackle the 10km Jiankou-Xizhāzi trail (moderate difficulty) or shorter loops.
  • Photograph: Sunrise at the Great Wall or sunset over the village fields.
  • Relax: Fish in the river, pick apples in season, or sit by bonfires with villagers.
  • Seasonal Fun: Skate on frozen rivers in winter or join autumn harvest festivals.

Why Visit Xizhāzi Village?

This hidden gem combines Beijing’s history with nature’s calm. Whether you’re hiking, snapping photos, or simply breathing fresh air, Xizhāzi lets you escape without feeling “touristy.” Bring layers, comfy shoes, and a sense of adventure—you’ll leave with stories (and maybe a bag of local nuts) to share!