Early autumn in Beijing is cool and pleasant — the perfect time to head outdoors. For a weekend escape with friends, Mentougou offers both charm and tranquility. Here's a two-day itinerary to guide your trip.

Day 1: Baihua Mountain Scenic Area → Lingshan Ancient Trail → Cuandixia Village

Baihua Mountain Scenic Area

Baihua Mountain is one of only two State-Level Nature Reserves in Beijing, and the city's largest nature reserve for higher plants and rare wildlife. Free from urban light pollution, it is also home to the Baihua Mountain Observatory, an ideal spot for stargazing and astrophotography  — perfect for families to explore the wonders of nature.

Lingshan Ancient Trail – Juling Gorge

Recently reopened, the Lingshan Ancient Trail — Juling Gorge Scenic Area offers hikers glorious views of Lingshan Mountain — Beijing's Highest Peak, rising over 2,300 meters. It boasts a mountain meadow at an altitude of 1,900 meters, nicknamed by social media users as the "Altay of Western Beijing", after the famous natural landscapes of Xinjiang.

Cuandixia Village

In Cuandixia Village, you can stroll along bluestone lanes and explore various historical buildings, or hike uphill for a panoramic view of this well-preserved residential community, which dates back to the Qing Dynasty. After you finish sightseeing, sit down in a courtyard to savor the signature dish — richly flavored braised pork — for an authentic taste of local cuisine.

Day 2: Tanzhe Temple → Baqi Cave → Jietai Temple

Located in the southeast of Mentougou and surrounded by mountains, Tanzhe Temple is famed for its spectacular scenery. Within the temple complex, majestic halls and tranquil courtyards are shaded by ancient trees and centuries-old plants, while rockeries and greenery form a picturesque setting. Walking among its red walls and green tiles, you may feel as if time itself has slowed down.

Baqi Cave

The cave stretches 1,350 meters, with a floor area of over 200,000 square meters. The cave is filled with striking stalactite formations, each with its own distinctive features. For a quicker way to the bottom, try the 410-meter slide, a novel and thrilling way to descend directly from the entrance.

Jietai Temple

With a history of more than 1,400 years, Jietai Temple is renowned for its Jietan Hall and unique ancient pine trees. A walking trail circles the temple, shaded by lush greenery and offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is gentle and pet-friendly, making it a great place to enjoy nature with your furry companion.

Feeling inspired? Then set out and make your own unforgettable autumnal memories in Beijing's mountains and landscapes!

(Source: Official WeChat account of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism)