Fragrant Hills Beijing: Your Ultimate Guide to This Historic and Scenic Park

I. Is Fragrant Hills Worth Visiting?

“Stopping my carriage, I sit to admire the maple grove at night; frost-bitten leaves are redder than February flowers.”— Du Mu

For centuries, these lines have captured the magic of autumn in China—and there’s hardly a better place to experience it than Fragrant Hills Beijing, also known as Xiangshan Park Beijing or simply Fragrant Hills Park.

But here’s the truth most guides don’t tell you: Fragrant Hills is not just about red leaves. Yes, the fall colors are stunning. But beyond that, this historic park hides imperial stories, quiet temples, forested hiking trails, and one of the most underrated panoramic views in Beijing.

If you’re planning a trip and wondering whether it’s worth your time, this guide will help you decide—and show you how to make the most of it.


II. Quick Facts

LOCATION: Situated in the western suburbs of Beijing, Haidian District, approximately 10 kilometers west of downtown Beijing, at the eastern foot of the Western Hills.
MAIN PEAK: Xianglu Peak (Incense Burner Peak), also known as "Where Even Ghosts Lose Heart", with an altitude of 575 meters above sea level.
AREA: Fragrant hills park covers a total area of about 168 hectares, with a forest coverage rate of 96%, making it a natural "oxygen bar" in Beijing.
NAME ORIGIN: The name “Fragrant Hills” is believed to come from Xianglu Peak, where clouds and mist often gather around the summit, resembling incense smoke rising from a burner.
HISTORY:
• Originally developed during the Jin Dynasty and later expanded in the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, the park became a favored retreat for emperors, especially under Emperor Qianlong.
• Over time, wars and political upheaval damaged many structures, but what remains today is a fascinating blend of restoration and authenticity.


III. Visiting Time

OPENNING HOURS
                                            Opening hours                      Last entry
Apr 1 – Nov 15                      6:00-19:30                            18:30
Nov 16 – Mar 31                    6:00-19:00                            18:00

RECOMMENDED VISITING TIME:
It is recommended to spend 3-5 hours in the park to fully appreciate the natural scenery and historical sites. For visitors who like hiking, it is advisable to arrange a whole day.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: 
From late October to early November (Red Leaf Festival) when the mountains are covered with red leaves, presenting a magnificent scene.


IV. Ticket Information

TICKET PRICES
                                           Full-price                Combined ticket(Biyun Temple included)
Apr 1 – Nov 15                      10RMB                                15RMB
Nov 16 – Mar 31                     5RMB                                 14RMB
* Biyun Temple Single Ticket: Full-price 10 yuan, discounted 5 yuan.
* Discount Ticket Policy
   Half price: Children 6–18, full-time students (with valid ID)
   Free: Children under 6 / under 1.2m, seniors 60+, people with disabilities (all with valid ID/passport)

TICKET PURCHASE
Tickets can be purchased on-site at the park gates or through the official WeChat public account. It is recommended to buy tickets in advance during peak seasons (such as Red Leaf Festival) to avoid long queues.
[Ticket Purchase Entrance]

RESERVATION
No mandatory reservation is required on ordinary days, but during peak periods (weekends, holidays, Red Leaf Festival), visitors need to make a reservation through the official WeChat public account with real-name authentication to ensure a smooth visit.


V. Transportation Guide

SUBWAY
Take Line 10 to Bagou Station, transfer to the Western Suburb Line, and get off at Xiangshan Station. It is only a 600-meter walk from the station to the park gate, which is the most convenient way to travel.

BUS
Take No. 318, 331, 360, 630, 714, 932 and other buses to Xiangshan Park Station, then walk for 5-10 minutes to reach the park.

SELF-DRIVING
Navigate to "Fragrant Hills Park (Xiangshan Park Beijing)", and there are 1-4 parking lots around Xiangshan Park, with about 1,500 parking spaces for small cars.

* During peak seasons, temporary traffic control may be implemented, so it is recommended to arrive early or choose public transportation.
[Navigate Here]


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VI. Top Things to See in Xiangshan Park Beijing

Four-Season Landscapes

• Spring

Scenery: Hillsides are fully adorned with blooming mountain peach, apricot, lilac and pear blossoms. Fresh newly sprouted greenery blankets the entire mountain forest, while crystal-clear mountain streams meander through quiet valleys. Classical pavilions and winding corridors are hidden among blooming flowers, presenting a gentle and vivid spring garden landscape.
Special Activities: Spring outing, seasonal flower appreciation, leisurely walks through imperial-style gardens, and cultural heritage sightseeing.

• Summer

Scenery: Thick layers of woods form a natural green canopy, bringing a pleasant cool climate 5–8°C cooler than central Beijing. Towering ancient trees, serene mountain lakes and tree-lined shaded paths create an idyllic summer retreat away from urban heat. The quiet temples and secluded studios offer a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and escape.
Special Activities: Forest hiking, summer cooling leisure trips, tranquil temple visits and quiet garden wandering.

• Autumn

Scenery: More than 140,000 smoke trees and maples transform the mountains into a rich palette of fiery red, warm orange and golden yellow. Layer upon layer of forest slopes are dyed in brilliant autumn hues, forming the iconic red leaf landscape that defines Beijing’s autumn charm. The blend of ancient architecture and colorful foliage creates picturesque views everywhere.
Special Activities: Annual Red Leaf Festival, landscape photography tours, cultural check-in activities, and autumn garden themed events.

• Winter

Scenery: After snowfall, Fragrant Hills presents the timeless classic view of Sunny Western Hills after Snow. Snow covers the mountain peaks, while ancient temples, crimson palace walls and glazed pagodas stand out elegantly against the pure white snowscape. The quiet winter woods and historic buildings deliver a serene and poetic northern winter charm.
Special Activities: Winter mountain hiking, snow scenery appreciation tours, and quiet in-depth cultural visits to historic relics and ancient temples.

Must-See Highlights

• Xianglu Peak (Incense Burner Peak)

Introduction:
1. The highest peak of Fragrant Hills Park, standing at 575 meters above sea level.
2. Dominated by huge rock formations, it overlooks the entire western Beijing area.
3. On clear days, visitors can enjoy a sweeping bird’s-eye view of city skylines and rolling hills.

Fun Fact:
Its name comes from a giant stone boulder on the summit that resembles an ancient incense burner. In early mornings and misty days, lingering mountain fog curls around the rock, just like rising incense smoke.

Photo Spot:
Ideal for panoramic red leaf scenery. Visit before 10 AM or after 3 PM for soft natural light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture endless mountain foliage; light-colored clothing works perfectly as a foreground to add depth. Don’t miss the iconic Xianglu Peak stone tablet and wish cards for classic snapshots.

• Biyun Temple

Introduction:
1. Originally built in the Yuan Dynasty, rebuilt and expanded through the Ming and Qing dynasties.
2. It blends multi-dynasty Buddhist architecture and features serene courtyards and solemn halls.
3. Famous for housing China’s only intact collection of 500 gilt wooden Arhat statues.

Fun Fact:
The temple once served as a temporary resting place for Sun Yat-sen’s remains before his formal burial, making it a unique combination of Buddhist culture and modern Chinese history.

Photo Spot:
Excellent for ginkgo and ancient architecture shots. Recommended locations include the Drum Tower, main hall courtyard and Hanbi Studio. The quiet surroundings are perfect for peaceful retro-style photography.

• Fragrant Hills Temple

Introduction:
1. Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, it was the most influential ancient Buddhist temple in western Beijing.
2. Emperor Qianlong ordered large-scale expansions and integrated it into the imperial mountain garden.
3. Magnificent palatial buildings and a delicate hidden backyard form its core charm.

Fun Fact:
In ancient times, emperors and nobles often came here to pray for blessings and escape the summer heat. It was once known as the “Royal Temple in the West Hills”.

Photo Spot:
Perfect for shooting ginkgo trees paired with traditional ancient buildings. The layered temple corridors and quiet courtyards create a strong classical Chinese atmosphere all year round.

• Shuangqing Villa

Introduction:
1. Named after two natural fresh mountain springs that flow constantly all year round.
2. Nestled in dense forests, it boasts quiet scenery and exquisite garden layout.
3. It holds great historical value as an important former residence and working site.

Fun Fact:
The two natural springs never dry up even in harsh winters or dry seasons. The cool spring water once provided daily drinking water for residents in the villa.

Photo Spot:
Features a quiet red leaf tunnel ideal for low-angle shots to create depth. Highlights include stone gate frame views, red pavilions, ginkgo trees and mirror-like pool reflections. Fewer crowds make it great for casual walking snapshots.

• Jingcui Lake (Jingcui Lake)

Introduction:
1. A signature scenic lake in Fragrant Hills Park, surrounded by lush woods, pavilions and stone bridges.
2. The tranquil water mirrors mountain views, creating a classic Chinese landscape scene.
3. It is a popular leisure spot and photo hotspot all year round.

Fun Fact:
In autumn, red maple leaves fall onto the lake surface, forming a stunning red-and-green water scenery. It is one of the most photographed spots during Beijing’s red leaf season.

Photo Spot:
Famous for symmetrical lake reflections of red leaves. Shoot horizontally for balanced composition, with blurred red leaves as foreground. Evening warm sunset light creates a dreamy atmosphere. You can also capture mandarin ducks, withered lotus and smoketree along the bank.

• Zhiyuan Studio

Introduction:
1. Constructed in the Ming Dynasty, it is a typical private garden with elegant Jiangnan style.
2. Surrounded by winding covered corridors, rockeries, ponds and ancient trees.
3. It perfectly combines northern garden grandeur with southern water-town delicacy.

Fun Fact:
This small secluded studio was once a private reading and retreat place for ancient scholars and officials, who came here to escape busy city life and enjoy peaceful moments.

Photo Spot:
Classic Chinese-style shooting location. The winding corridors, pavilions and water scenery match well with Hanfu and linen-style outfits. Overcast weather enhances the quiet and poetic garden vibe.


VII. Recommended Itineraries

Tailored Routes for Every Traveler

• Couples’ Scenic Route
Route: East Gate—Jingcui Lake—Fragrant Hills Temple—Shuangqing Villa—Yuxiang Pavilion—Xianglu Peak
Recommended duration: 3-4 hours
Highlights: This route combines natural scenery and romantic atmosphere, with gentle slopes and beautiful views, suitable for couples to walk hand in hand and enjoy the beautiful time.

• Family-Friendly Route
Route: East Gate—Jingcui Lake—Zhiyuan Studio—Baisong Pavilion—Shuangqing Villa—Pine Forest Restaurant
Recommended duration: 2-3 hours
Highlights: This route is flat and easy to walk, with many resting spots and children-friendly facilities. You can enjoy the scenery while resting, which is suitable for families with children.

• Elderly-Friendly Route
Route: East Gate—Qinzheng Hall—Fragrant Hills Temple—Shuangqing Villa—Jingcui Lake
Recommended duration: 1.5-2 hours
Highlights: This route is flat, with no steep slopes, and there are many pavilions for rest along the way. It focuses on appreciating historical sites and gentle scenery, which is suitable for the elderly.

• Routes for Hiking Enthusiasts
1. South Route
Route: East Gate—Jingcui Lake—Fragrant Hills Temple—Shuangqing Villa—Xianglu Peak
Recommended duration: 2–3 hours
Highlights: Gentle slope with well-paved paths; passes classic scenic spots, cultural sites and dense forest views; ideal for sightseeing while hiking.
2. Middle Route
Route: East Gate—Zhiyuan Studio—Zhisong Garden—Xianglu Peak
Recommended duration: 1–2 hours
Highlights: Steady and comfortable incline with plenty of shade; scenic viewpoints and rest pavilions along the way; balanced for hiking and photography.
3. North Route
Route: North Gate—Cableway Route—Xianglu Peak
Recommended duration: About 1 hour
Highlights: Steeper and more direct climb with stone steps; fewer crowds; best for experienced hikers seeking a challenge and faster summit access.

Combined Day Trips from Fragrant Hills

• Fragrant Hills+Fruit Picking Garden

Schedule:
Morning: Hike and explore Fragrant Hills.
Afternoon: Enjoy seasonal fruit picking in the nearby orchard.
Location: Near Fragrant Hills in Haidian District, easy to reach by car or taxi.
Key attractions: There are picking activities all year round: strawberries in spring, watermelons, melons, peaches and grapes in summer, and oranges in autumn.
Highlights: Fresh air, safe walking paths, family-friendly activities, and tasty fresh-picked fruit.
Suitable for: Parent-child tours, elderly tours and group activities.

• Fragrant Hills + Beijing Botanical Garden

Schedule:
Morning: Explore Fragrant Hills Park for hiking, historic sites, and mountain scenery.
Afternoon: Visit Beijing Botanical Garden for flowers, plants, and cultural spots.
Location: Right next to Fragrant Hills, easy to reach by short walk or local transport.
Key attractions: Huge plant collections, greenhouses, seasonal flower displays, Wofo Temple, and Cao Xueqin Memorial Hall.
Highlights: Perfect nature-and-culture day trip; peaceful, family-friendly, and great for photos.
Suitable for: Nature lovers, families, photographers, and casual day-trippers.

• Fragrant Hills + Summer Palace

Schedule:
Morning: Walk and sightsee at Fragrant Hills.
Afternoon: Tour the Summer Palace to experience royal garden scenery.
Location: Short ride from Fragrant Hills via the Western Suburban Line.
Key attractions: Kunming Lake, Longevity Hill, ancient palaces, bridges, and traditional Chinese architecture.
Highlights: Classic royal garden experience; combines mountain scenery with water views and history.
Suitable for: Culture travelers, first-time visitors to Beijing, and those who love classic sights.

• Mutianyu Great Wall + Fragrant Hills

Schedule:
Morning: Hike and enjoy views at Mutianyu Great Wall.
Afternoon: Relax in the forest and hills at Fragrant Hills.
Location: Mutianyu is a short drive north of Beijing.
Key attractions: Iconic, well-preserved Great Wall at Mutianyu; forest trails, temples, and panoramic views at Fragrant Hills.
Highlights: Ultimate full-day combo: world heritage and nature escape; less crowded than downtown routes.
Suitable for: Active travelers, hikers, photographers, and anyone wanting a classic Beijing highlight tour.


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VIII. Practical Guide for Visitors

Facilities & Accessibility

• Wheelchair Rental
Wheelchairs are available for rent at the tourist service centers inside and outside the East Gate of the park. A valid ID (ID card, passport) is required for rental, and there may be a small deposit (refundable when returned).

• Stroller Rental
Strollers are also available for rent at the tourist service centers inside and outside the East Gate, which is convenient for families with infants. The rental method is the same as that of wheelchairs.

• Other Facilities
The park is equipped with public toilets, rest pavilions, drinking fountains, and catering facilities (such as Pine Forest Restaurant) to meet the needs of visitors.

What to Bring

• Backpack
20-30L outdoor backpack, with a rain cover to prevent rain.

• Clothing
Quick-drying clothes (inner layer), fleece or thin down jacket (middle layer), windproof and waterproof jacket (outer layer), suitable for layered wearing; comfortable and non-slip hiking shoes or sports shoes.

• Food and Water
500ml-1L of water per person (more in summer); energy supplements such as energy bars, chocolate, and nuts; simple snacks such as bread and fruits.

• Auxiliary Equipment
Trekking poles (to save energy and protect knees), sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF50+), mosquito repellent (in summer), power bank, headlamp (for emergency use).

• Medical Supplies
Band-aids, disinfectant cotton pads, painkillers, gastrointestinal medicine, and other commonly used drugs.

Tips & Common Mistakes

• Avoid Peak Hours
The peak visiting hours of the park are 9:00-15:00 on weekends and holidays, especially during the Red Leaf Festival. It is recommended to arrive early (before 8:00) or visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.

• Traffic Tips
During peak seasons, there may be temporary traffic control around the park. It is recommended to take public transportation (subway + Western Suburb Line) to avoid traffic jams.

• Hiking Notes
Choose a suitable hiking route according to your physical condition; do not take unmarked paths to avoid getting lost; pay attention to safety when climbing, especially in rainy and snowy weather.

• Ticket Notes
Discounted tickets are available for children under 1.2 meters, elderly over 65 years old, and students with student ID cards; the park annual pass can be used directly.

• Environmental Protection
Do not litter in the park, do not pick flowers and leaves, and protect the natural environment.

• Weather Tips
The temperature in the mountain is 5-8? lower than that in downtown Beijing. It is recommended to bring more clothes, especially in autumn and winter; check the weather forecast in advance and avoid visiting in severe weather.


IX. Where to Eat

Lanxi Xiaoguan (Xiangshan Store)

Rating: 4.6/5
Location: Biyunsi Road, Haidian District (near North Gate of Fragrant Hills Park).
Business hours: 11:00–15:30, 17:00–21:00
Recommended Dishes: Braised bamboo shoots, Lanxi duck soup, scallion oil noodles, braised pork with rice wine.
Average Price: Around ¥80–100 per person.

Xiaodiao Pear Soup (Xiangshan Store)

Rating: 4.5/5
Location: No.29 Yikesong Road, Xiangshan Subdistrict, Haidian District.
Business hours: 11:00–14:30, 17:00–21:00
Recommended Dishes: Traditional pear soup, pear-ball shrimp, beef risotto, Qianlong cabbage.
Average Price: Around ¥75–80 per person.

Na Jia Xiao Guan (Xiangshan Store)

Rating: 4.5/5
Location: No.29 Yikesong Road, south of the crossroad near Beijing Botanical Garden.
Business hours: 10:30–21:30
Recommended Dishes: Royal pot stew, crispy shrimp, osmanthus yam, eight-braised eggplant.
Average Price: Around ¥160–180 per person.


X. Where to Stay

Fragrant Hill Empark Hotel

Rating: 9.4/10
Location: No. 59 Beizheng Huangqi, Haidian District; 500m from Xiangshan Station, 7-minute walk to Fragrant Hills Park, around 10 minutes to National Botanical Garden.
Price: RMB 400–800 per room per night
Hotel features: Renovated in 2025; 220 guest rooms including family suites; equipped with fitness center, indoor swimming pool, on-site restaurant and free WiFi; ideal for families, couples and business travelers.

Fragrant Hill Hotel

Rating: 9.1/10
Location: Inside Fragrant Hills scenic area, adjacent to Fragrant Hills Park.
Price: RMB 600–1000 per room per night
Hotel features: Quiet garden-style environment; elegant guest rooms; on-site Chinese restaurants; perfect for travelers who want to stay inside the park and enjoy peaceful mountain views.

Beijing Fragrant Hill Holiday Business Hotel

Rating: 9.4/10
Location: No. 19, Xiangshan Xinying, Haidian District.
Price: RMB 400–500 per room per night
Hotel features: Quiet mountain-surrounded garden-style setting; diverse guest rooms and suites; well-equipped meeting facilities for events and business gatherings; complete leisure amenities.

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