Location & Accessibility

Youlan Mountain Scenic Area sits in Huangshan Dian Village, Fangshan District, about 50 kilometers southwest of central Beijing. This hidden gem is nestled near the famous Zhoukoudian Peking Man Site (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and offers a peaceful escape from the city. To get here, you can:

  • Drive: Rent a car and navigate via GPS (use “Youlan Mountain Scenic Area” for accurate directions). The scenic route takes around 1–1.5 hours from downtown.
  • Public transport: Take the subway to Liangma Bridge Station (Line 9), then transfer to bus 836 or 901. Get off at Huangshan Dian Village and walk 10 minutes to the entrance.
  • Day tours: Many Beijing travel agencies offer guided trips here, especially during autumn.

Natural Landscapes: A Dramatic Play of Seasons

The crown jewel of Youlan Mountain is Poseidon Ridge (a red-leaf hotspot in autumn), where nature performs its finest show. Imagine:

  • Mist-covered valleys that look like watercolor paintings in early morning.
  • Steep trails winding through maple and sumac trees—perfect for photography or quiet reflection.
  • Panoramic views from summit lookouts, where you can see layered hills and traditional villages below.
    Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers cool hikes, and winter wraps the mountains in snow. But autumn? That’s when Youlan Mountain truly shines, with leaves turning fiery red and gold.

Cultural Treasures: Stepping Back 500,000 Years

Just a few kilometers away lies Zhoukoudian, where archaeologist Pei Wenzhong discovered Peking Man fossils in 1929. These relics—teeth, bones, and a full skull—proved humans lived here over 500,000 years ago. Visit the nearby Peking Man Site Museum to see replicas and learn how early humans survived.
At Youlan Mountain itself, local villages like Huangshan Dian retain timeless customs. Stay in stone-and-wood homestays, try homemade noodle dishes (like yansheng), and chat with hosts who still use traditional cooking stoves. It’s like traveling back in time—but with WiFi!

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes (trails can be steep).
  • Clothing: Layers for changing weather, plus a hat and sunglasses.
  • Essentials: Water, snacks, and cash (some vendors don’t take cards).
  • Camera: Sunrise/sunset over the ridge is unforgettable.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Charm

Unlike crowded Great Wall sections or the Summer Palace, Youlan Mountain feels private. Even on busy weekends, you’ll find quiet spots to explore. Locals are friendly—don’t hesitate to ask villagers for recommendations. Try chestnut picking in fall or join a farmhouse dinner with seasonal dishes like mushroom hotpot.

Why You’ll Love It

Youlan Mountain Scenic Area isn’t just a day trip—it’s a journey into nature, history, and simplicity. Whether you’re hiking under flaming autumn leaves, touching 500,000-year-old fossil replicas, or savoring village-cooked dumplings, this spot proves that Beijing’s beauty goes far beyond its city walls. Come for the views, stay for the stories—and leave with a new appreciation for both humanity’s past and China’s countryside.