Starting June 25, the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall has once again opened for night visits. Come to Huairou District this weekend to admire the illuminated Great Wall and enjoy the cool summer evening breeze.
Day 1: WA Art. Architecture Museum → Beigala Shuanrou / Jingbei Yujia'ao / Yisonglou Restaurant → Mutianyu Great Wall (for Summer Night Tour)
WA Art. Architecture Museum
Nestled at the foot of the Mutianyu Great Wall, this museum has become a highly popular cultural and artistic spot for visitors. This summer, the museum has launched its brand-new exhibition series titled "The Marvel of Daily Life and Glimmers on Tiles". The opening exhibition "Muses of Healing Under Tile Eaves" is now underway. Visitors can admire over 100 works created by 13 illustrators, which explore the interplay of art and nature while showcasing the gentle encounters between rural life and contemporary art. The opening exhibition will run until August.
Meanwhile, the special art project "Cats in the Brickyard" (猫在瓦厂) is underway. Complementing the exhibitions, Brickyard Retreat Hotel has launched themed rooms, dining experiences, immersive settings and creative merchandise, extending artistic fun beyond the exhibition halls.
Beigala Shuanrou (北旮旯涮肉)
Come here for the traditional Beijing hot pots right at the foot of the Great Wall. You can enjoy tender, steaming slices of mutton paired with crispy sesame flatbread—all in a refreshing mountainous region. Full of authentic local flavors, this dining venue offers hearty and comforting meals.
Jingbei Yujia'ao (京北渔家傲)
This time-honored restaurant in Huairou is famous for its Charcoal-grilled Rainbow Trout (炭烤虹鳟鱼), which boasts crispy skin and tender flesh. The restaurant also serves local dishes such as Fried Chinese Prickly Ash Sprouts (炸花椒芽) and Braised Pork with Chestnuts (板栗红烧肉), making it an ideal spot for meals after sightseeing.
Yisonglou Restaurant (翼松楼餐厅)
Located inside the Mutianyu Great Wall Scenic Area, this restaurant offers must-try signature dishes including Oil-Poached Rainbow Trout (油浸虹鳟鱼) and Braised Pork Jowl (扒猪脸).
Mutianyu Great Wall
The Mutianyu Great Wall relaunched its popular summer night tour on June 25. Strolling along the ancient wall after dark, you can enjoy the peace and grandeur of this millennia-old landmark in an unrivaled, immersive ambience.
At 19:30, warm yellow lights illuminate the mountain ridges, making the Great Wall appear like a giant dragon beneath the stars. Watchtowers No. 10 to No. 15 come alive with dynamic light shows inside, offering perfect photo opportunities. When you need a break, stop by the beer garden and enjoy craft beer and delicious food in the evening breeze. You cannot miss this one-stop leisure and entertainment experience here.
Summer night tour dates: June 25–August 31
Lighting hours: 19:30–21:00 daily (subject to sunset times)
Operating hours of shuttle buses: 7:30–21:00
Operating hours of cable cars: 7:30–21:00
Ticket Purchase: Book tickets in advance via the official WeChat account of the Mutianyu Great Wall (慕田峪长城) or the official website of the scenic area (https://mutianyugreatwall.com/). Real-name verification is required. Enter the scenic area by presenting your reservation QR code or your identity document.
In the case where any event has to be cancelled or the entire scenic area must be closed due to extreme weather or other types of force majeure, the scenic area will release a notice in advance.
Day 2: Hongluo Temple Scenic Area → YAN Restaurant / Huaishan–Lujing–Huairou Local Farmhouse Cuisine / Huairou Ershibadao Restaurant → Vintage Car Museum
Hongluo Temple Scenic Area
First built in the Eastern Jin Dynasty, Hongluo Temple is one of the most renowned ancient temples in Huairou. Nestled against Hongluo Mountain and surrounded by lush greenery, the red-walled temple blends harmoniously into its natural surroundings. Strolling slowly along the temple's paths, you can feel the cool breeze and enjoy the tranquil scenery. It is a perfect retreat to unwind and embrace the peace of summer mountains.
YAN Restaurant (嵓YAN餐厅)
Situated near Hongluo Temple, the restaurant boasts a refreshing and cozy environment. It specializes in creative fusion cuisine, coffee and desserts, winning praise for both delightful presentations and wonderful flavors.
Huaishan–Lujing–Huairou Local Farmhouse Cuisine (怀山·麓璟·怀柔特色农家菜)
Hidden deep in the mountains, this rural courtyard restaurant serves authentic local dishes. Signature offerings include Free-Range Chicken Stewed with Mushrooms (柴鸡炖蘑菇) and Steamed Vegetable Cornmeal Buns (菜团子). All ingredients are sourced locally and prepared in traditional
Huairou Ershibadao Restaurant (怀柔·二十八道餐厅)
The restaurant lies only 200 meters from Hongluo Temple. Its signature dishes include Charcoal-Grilled Rainbow Trout (碳烤虹鳟鱼) and Braised Pork with Chestnuts (板栗红烧肉). The fish boasts crispy skin and tender flesh, while the braised pork is hearty yet not greasy. With three indoor floors and an open-air terrace, this spot is perfect for taking fantastic photos.
Vintage Car Museum
This museum houses more than 100 well-preserved vintage automobiles, most of which are Chinese brands.
From June 10 to October 31, the museum hosts a special exhibition titled "Stories Behind Car Logos" (车标里的故事). The display features a fascinating collection of physical car emblems, model replicas, and pictures, along with stories detailing the designs and inspirations behind the logos.
Come to Huairou this weekend for a relaxing summer getaway amid the gentle breeze and local charm.
(Source: Official WeChat account of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism)
