The sky is clear while the air is refreshing. Why not plan a short cultural getaway that balances history, nature, and leisure? Fangshan, nestled in the scenic outskirts of Beijing, is an ideal destination. With serene mountain forests, historic sites, and rustic local cuisine, this suburban district offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and seasonal charm.

DAY 1: Yunju Temple Scenic Area → Sound of Clouds in the Valley (a B&B complex) / Yun Zhi Yuan Farmhouse → Zhoukoudian Site Museum

Yunju Temple Scenic Area

The production of the Fangshan stone sutras preserved at Yunju Temple started during the Daye period (605–618) of the Sui Dynasty and continued through six dynasties: Sui, Tang, Liao, Jin, Yuan, and Ming. Visitors can explore the underground chamber housing the stone sutras to appreciate these Buddhist scriptures carved on stones over a thousand years ago. They can also take a leisurely walk along the ancient trail on Shijing Mountain to enjoy a panoramic view of rolling hills blanketed in vibrant autumn hues.

Opening hours: 9:00–16:00, with ticket sales and admission ending at 15:30.

Food Recommendations

Restaurant at Sound of Clouds in the Valley: Charcoal-grilled rainbow trout is one of its signature dishes.

Yun Zhi Yuan Farmhouse: Here, you can enjoy hearty local dishes, including rural chicken stew, braised hairtail fish, stewed pig's trotters, and a variety of home-style stir-fries.

Zhoukoudian Site Museum

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Zhoukoudian preserves traces of Beijing's prehistoric past. The museum's exhibits include a famous Peking Man skull model, ancient animal fossils, and primitive stone tools. Visitors can participate in interactive educational programs such as 3D animations and simulated archaeological excavations.

After visiting the museum, head to the nearby Zhoukoudian National Archaeological Site Park. The site has several well-known fossil excavation locations, including the Peking Man Cave (where the Peking Man skull was discovered), the Upper Cave, and the New Cave. The Upper Cave, once home to Upper Cave Men, has an elevated viewing platform offering a panoramic view of the cave.

Opening hours: 9:00–16:00 from October 11 to March 31, 2026

Ticket sales and admission end at 15:30. The museum is closed on Mondays.

Please note: The wooden boardwalks in the Zhoukoudian National Archaeological Site Park are closed for maintenance until December 25, 2026, temporarily restricting access to certain visitor paths.

DAY 2: Baishui Temple Forest Park → Stop or Stay (a restaurant) / Caiwei Mountain House → Shihua Cave Scenic Area

Baishui Temple Forest Park

With easy hiking trails, the park is an ideal destination for a mind-soothing autumn walk. One of the highlights is its majestic grove of dawn redwoods, which creates an enchanting backdrop for photos. The grove is expected to reach its peak viewing season in early November.

Food Recommendations

Stop or Stay: The restaurant features a picturesque courtyard and serves both refreshing drinks and hearty full meals.

Caiwei Mountain House: Try its signature Caiwei Wild Vegetable Feast (采薇山野菜宴), which comprises a variety of dishes made with fresh, seasonal wild vegetables.

Shihua Cave Scenic Area

After a satisfying meal, head to the famed Shihua Cave for an extraordinary underground adventure. Known collectively as an "underground museum of karst art", the caves in Fangshan are typical examples of the karst formations in China's temperate, semi-arid northern region. Shihua Cave features 10 stunning natural wonders and maintains a year-round temperature of around 13°C. With its stable, spring-like climate, it is an ideal place to unwind and escape the late-autumn chill.

Opening hours: The scenic area now operates on its winter operating schedule. Tickets are available for purchase from 9:00 to 15:30.

This weekend, head to Fangshan's autumn woodlands to unwind, relax, and enjoy the beauty of nature!

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