2 Days Beijing Walking Tour: Temple Visits & Scenic Views in Western Hills

Day1 Beijing

Pick-up service is arranged directly from your hotel lobby or Beijing train station for your convenience. Upon arrival, our knowledgeable Beijing guide will warmly greet you with a personalized "Your Way Holiday" sign, ensuring a smooth start to your exploration. They'll assist with luggage and transportation, providing useful tips and local recommendations as you set out on your tailored journey through Beijing. This personalized service guarantees a welcoming and hassle-free beginning to your travel experience with us.

It’s said that the Western Hills is where Beijing’s soul truly lies. Amid its rolling mountains, the spiritual seek peace and reflection, finding solace in the serenity of the landscape and the calm of its sacred temples. Interestingly, these temples also host a different kind of gathering—nude parties that add an unexpected twist to the area's mystique. The cooler climate and lush scenery of the Western Hills have long made it a pleasure ground for the wealthy, both past and present. Historically, the elite have flocked here to escape the city's heat and enjoy the natural beauty. Today, this tradition continues, as some of Beijing’s most expensive real estate is set within these verdant hills, offering luxurious retreats and scenic views. Our guide will enlighten you with engaging tales of the Western Hills, from its spiritual significance to its modern-day appeal, providing a rich and comprehensive understanding of this unique area.

Firstly, you will pay your respects at the Buddhist Temple Dajue Buddhist Temple. Located at the eastern foot of Yangtai Mountain, Dajuesi is one of the oldest temples in the Western Hills, dating back to the Liao Dynasty (907-1125). While unassuming from the outside, its dusty and dim halls house Ming Dynasty Buddhist sculptures in need of restoration. The highlight of the temple is the 12-meter-high white Sarira Pagoda, built in 1747. Resembling a miniature version of the one in Beihai Park, it is said to contain the remains of a former temple abbot. This visit will offer you a glimpse into the rich history and spiritual significance of the area, guided by our knowledgeable tour guide who will provide insights into the temple's architecture, history, and cultural importance.

And then the tour will take you to the Beijia Huayuan, a lovely villa set in the Western Hills. Often romanticized in foreign-language novels, this area was once home to expatriates who built extravagant villas, some with colorful tales of indulgence. Among them, the villa of French doctor Jean Boussier stands out. He was a renowned physician who treated prominent Chinese figures, including President Yuan Shikai, and built the villa to care for his ailing daughter, not for debauchery. As your guide leads you through this beautifully preserved three-story mansion, you’ll learn about its rich history. You can also explore a hidden underground tunnel, once used for storage, adding a touch of mystery to the visit. Your guide will offer detailed stories and background, making this a memorable stop on your journey.

Enjoy a delightful lunch featuring farmers' delicacies along the way, take a break at any of the farmers' restaurants you come across. Look for signs saying "Nongjiale" along the roadside or in villages—wherever you choose, you're likely to find a satisfying meal. These local eateries typically serve hearty family-style dishes, often prepared right in their backyard kitchens using homegrown or locally sourced ingredients. For an authentic taste, ask for dishes made with self-grown vegetables. Don't miss the chance to try wild vegetables or Chinese toon stir-fried with eggs, specialties that are harder to find in urban settings. Our guide will help you select a restaurant known for its delicious farm-to-table offerings, ensuring your lunch is not only delicious but also a memorable part of your cultural exploration in the Western Hills.

After lunch, your tour continues to the Tomb of Prince Chun. As you ascend the stairs to the front gate inscribed with "Chunqin Wangmu, Tomb of Prince Chun," you'll cross a humpback bridge leading to the courtyard where Prince Chun (1840-1891) resided while nursing his illness. Known as the 'seventh prince,' he was the grandfather of the last emperor of China, and his former mansion is located near Shichahai in downtown Beijing. Proceeding further, through a stone gate on a spacious, open platform, you'll reach the actual tomb. The central stone mound at the rear belongs to Prince Chun, surrounded by mounds for his three wives. Our guide will provide detailed commentary on Prince Chun's life, his significance in Chinese history, and the architectural and cultural elements of the tomb. They will enrich your visit with historical anecdotes and ensure you understand the legacy of Prince Chun within the context of Beijing's imperial past.

The last part of the tour for today is enjoying the view of sunset. Today, you will overnight at local farmer's house. Many of the farmers’ restaurants also provide accommodation, although the quality of rooms varies markedly. The Chenzhaosen Yangsheng Jidi not only has a gigantic yard with open views of Fenghuangling Nature Park, it’s also a great choice for an overnight stay. Rooms are clean, spacious and kitted with modern facilities. Another good choice is the lovely courtyard restaurant Beijing Shuanrou Fang, right by the Dajuesi temple, with it’s beautiful little garden full of fruit trees.The hotel Sanhe Tang by the restaurant offers smart and modern en suites (Expense on you own).

After the tour concludes at Fenghuangling Nature Park, where you'll have the opportunity to witness a beautiful sunset, you will be comfortably transported back to your hotel in Beijing. Our guide will ensure a smooth and pleasant journey, providing any additional information or assistance you may need. They will also be available to answer questions and offer recommendations for the remainder of your stay in Beijing, ensuring you have a memorable and fulfilling experience exploring the city's cultural and natural landmarks. The serene beauty of Fenghuangling Nature Park at sunset, with its calm atmosphere and scenic views, will be a highlight of your visit.

Day2 Beijing

This morning, you will set out on a scenic hike. After enjoying a simple breakfast, our knowledgeable guide will meet you at a local farmer's house. The guide will provide useful information about the area, ensuring you have a memorable experience. They will share stories and facts about the local culture, flora, and fauna, enhancing your appreciation of the beautiful surroundings. The guide's expertise will make the hike both enjoyable and educational, offering you a deeper understanding of the region's natural and cultural heritage.

There are plenty of options for hikers on the far side of the Western Hills. Cobbled pilgrim trails (guxiangdao) famously stitch through the mountains, ending at the Daoist holy ground of Miaofeng Mountain (Miaofengshan) at the northwestern tip. There are four main pilgrimage routes that go to the mountain’s temples; we suggest taking the route from Dajuesi Temple or Jiufeng National Forest Park. Our guide will accompany you and provide essential tips and directions, ensuring your safety and helping you navigate the trails, which can be challenging due to the worn paths.

Along the route to Fenghuangling Nature Park, you have the opportunity to explore Jiufeng National Forest Park, offering extensive hiking trails through lush green landscapes. Begin your journey by heading south and then westwards from Baguabei, located behind the park’s restaurant. This path will lead you to the mountain ridge trail that eventually ascends to Miaofeng Mountain. The trails wind through serene forests and scenic viewpoints, providing a refreshing escape into nature's calm. Our guide will accompany you, providing insights into the local flora and fauna, pointing out notable landmarks, and ensuring you make the most of your hiking experience in these picturesque surroundings.

In the afternoon,you can enjoy lunch at one of the many superb orchard restaurants along the narrow stretch of Fenghuangling South Road. Our guide will assist you in selecting a restaurant and provide insights into the local cuisine. During the hike, the guide will share engaging stories about the area's religious significance and historical background, ensuring a rich and engaging experience as you traverse the sacred paths towards Miaofeng Mountain.

After that, you will set out on the pilgrim trail, honored as sacred ground for both Daoism and Buddhism in the capital. Traditionally, followers make their pilgrimages through the Western Hills, culminating at the Daoist Miaofeng Mountain during its temple fair in May. For a shortcut, head to Jiangou Village from Fenghuangling, which is about an hour’s drive. Here, you can park your car and hike the last leg of the pilgrimage trail.

The walk from Jiangou Village to the ticket office for Miaofeng Mountain Scenic Area takes around half an hour, allowing you to enjoy the calm beauty of the surroundings. Upon reaching the scenic area, make your way to the top of the Goddess Temple, where a grand white pagoda stands, offering sweeping panoramic views of the landscape. The climb to the temple is invigorating, with each step revealing more of the lovely scenery. Each year, during the temple fair, the lower temple site bursts into life with a lively cacophony of folk performances. The air is filled with music, dance, and the joyful chatter of visitors. Early risers can enjoy an array of free snacks starting as early as 6am, adding to the festive atmosphere. Our guide will be with you throughout, sharing stories and historical context, pointing out significant landmarks, and ensuring you don't miss any of the local spots along the way. This guidance will enhance your experience, making your visit to Miaofeng Mountain both enjoyable and memorable.

After the tour, you will be comfortably escorted back to your hotel in Beijing or dropped off at the Beijing train station, depending on your preference. Our guide will ensure a smooth and pleasant journey, assisting you with any needs or questions you might have along the way. They will provide helpful tips and recommendations for the rest of your stay in Beijing or your onward travel. The guide's attentive service will ensure you end your day feeling relaxed and well-cared-for, making your experience in Beijing truly memorable.

Price Per Person in US Dollars