This year's Geminid meteor shower will peak around 9:00 (UTC+8) on December 14. The ideal time for observation will be from the night of December 13 to the early hours of December 14. To enhance the stargazing experience, viewers are recommended to wait until midnight when the moon starts to set in the west, reducing moonlight interference. Facing east will enable viewers to have a clearer view of a greater number of meteors.
Recommended Stargazing Locations
Da'an Mountain
Da'an Mountain, located at the border of Fangshan and Mentougou districts, features a spacious, flat area surrounded by mountains, commonly known as "Beidaliang". It is a popular spot for scenic views.
Labagoumen Manchu Township
Huairou District's Labagoumen Manchu Township, located at the northernmost tip of Beijing, is far from city light interference and offers exceptional stargazing conditions.
Huahai Tianyuan Astronomical Farm
Huahai Tianyuan Astronomical Farm, located in Yanqing District, was recognized as one of the "Cases of Recommended Stargazing Destinations in China in 2023".
Recommended Homestays for Stargazers
Baihua Shanshe Homestay is located in Huang'antuo Village, Qingshui Town, Mentougou District. It features eight courtyards, complemented by the mountain café, the Sky Library, and a variety of outdoor recreational facilities.
Chuangyi Xiangju Homestay is nestled in Liangjiazhuang Village, Qingshui Town, Mentougou District. With a mountain-view courtyard as its core, this homestay offers every guest a chance to marvel at the splendid surrounding mountains during the day and diamond-like stars at night.
Ranshe Homestay is located in Zhongshan Village, Da'anshan Township, Fangshan District. This serene getaway features a courtyard with a swimming pool and private hot springs, allowing guests to enjoy stargazing while lounging in its hot tub.
Mumaren Homestay is located in Changshaoying Manchu Township, Huairou District. The surrounding areas have preserved a rich variety of the cultural heritage items of the Manchu ethnic group. During your stay, you can also learn to make traditional dishes such as rose sachima (a sweet snack) and handmade soy milk.
The best meteor shower of 2024 is just around the corner. Have you decided what wish you'll make?
(Source: Official WeChat account of Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism)
