Nestled in the south of Beijing, Fengtai District offers a unique blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and modern attractions. Despite its rapid urbanization, Fengtai retains a rich tapestry of history and tradition, making it a captivating destination for foreign tourists. This Beijing Fengtai District Travel Guide aims to provide insights into the district’s top attractions, dining spots, accommodation options, transportation, and essential travel tips to ensure a memorable visit.
1. Fengtai District Overview
Fengtai District, located in the southwest of the city center. is one of the city’s six core urban districts. It stands out for its strategic location, rich history, and convenient transportation. The district borders Chaoyang District to the east, Daxing District to the south, Fangshan District to the west, and Dongcheng and Xicheng Districts to the north. With its well-connected transport network, Fengtai is an ideal base for exploring both Beijing’s historic landmarks and modern attractions.
Fengtai boasts a long and fascinating history, with many historical sites and cultural treasures. Iconic landmarks like Marco Polo Bridge (Lugou Bridge) and Wanping Fortress offer a glimpse into China’s past. These sites are not just historical relics—they are symbols of resilience and heritage, drawing visitors from around the world.
Fengtai Offiial Website: Fengtai District of People’s Government of Beijing Municipality (Chinese)
Beyond its cultural significance, Fengtai is also a major transportation hub. It is home to Beijing South Railway Station and Beijing West Railway Station, two of the city’s busiest train stations. These stations provide high-speed rail connections across China, making Fengtai an ideal stop for travelers exploring Beijing or continuing their journey to other cities.
With its rich history, prime location, and excellent transport links, Fengtai offers a unique travel experience that blends the old with the new. Whether you’re a history lover, nature enthusiast, or urban explorer, this district has plenty to offer!
2. Top Attractions in Fengtai District
Fengtai is home to many must-visit attractions. Here are some of the best places to explore:
1) Marco Polo Bridge (Lugou Bridge) – A Historic Landmark
The Marco Polo Bridge is the longest ancient stone bridge in North China. Built during the Jin Dynasty (1192 AD), this bridge is famous for its intricate stone carvings and its role in modern Chinese history. In 1937, the Marco Polo Bridge Incident took place here.
Tip: Visit in the morning for great lighting for photography and a peaceful atmosphere.
What to See: Admire the stone lions, each with unique carvings, and explore the nearby Wanping Fortress.
2) Wanping Fortress 宛平城
Adjacent to the Marco Polo Bridge, Wanping Fortress is a 17th-century fortress built to defend Beijing against invaders. Today, it houses the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, offering deep insights into China’s wartime history.
3) Beijing World Park – A Mini World Tour 世界公园
Want to see the world without leaving Beijing? Beijing World Park features miniature replicas of famous landmarks from across the globe, including the Eiffel Tower, Egyptian Pyramids, and the Taj Mahal. This family-friendly park offers cultural performances, boat rides, and photo opportunities.
Best For: Families and those who love quirky attractions.
What to See: Walk through different “continents”, take pictures with iconic landmarks, and watch cultural shows.
4) Beijing Garden Expo Park – A Paradise for Nature Lovers 世博园
Originally built for the 2013 China International Garden Expo, this massive park is now a public attraction showcasing stunning gardens, lakes, and cultural pavilions. It’s perfect for a relaxing day out.
Tip: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit when flowers are in full bloom.
What to See: Explore themed gardens, walk along scenic lakes, and enjoy seasonal flower exhibitions.
5) World Flower Garden: A Hidden Green Oasis in Fengtai 世界花卉大观园
The World Flower Garden is the largest botanical garden within Beijing’s Fourth Ring Road. Located in Fengtai District, it sits just north of South Fourth Ring Road and east of Jingkai Highway, making it easily accessible for visitors.
Spanning 41.8 hectares, this garden is a paradise for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts. It features seven large greenhouses and 15 themed garden plazas, each showcasing a diverse range of plant species and unique landscape designs. Whether you’re fascinated by rare tropical plants, desert flora, or seasonal flowers, there’s always something beautiful to discover.
6) Beijing Auto Museum – A Must-Visit for Car Enthusiasts
This museum is a dream destination for car lovers. It showcases China’s automobile history, classic cars, and futuristic vehicle designs. The interactive exhibits make it a fun experience for families and tech enthusiasts.
- What to See: Admire vintage cars, modern supercars, and futuristic vehicle prototypes.
- Best For: Car lovers and families with kids.
7) Relics of the Western Han Tomb at Dabaotai 大葆台西汉墓遗址
This archaeological site offers a glimpse into ancient Chinese burial practices. Discovered in 1974, the mausoleum contains the tombs of a Western Han dynasty prince and his wife, providing valuable insights into imperial life over 2,000 years ago.
8) Beigong National Forest Park – A Hiking and Camping Spot
Looking for an escape into nature? Beigong National Forest Park is a hidden gem known for its dense forests, hiking trails, and peaceful atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for picnics, photography, and camping.
Tip: Bring comfortable shoes and visit during autumn for beautiful foliage.
What to See: Hike up the mountain trails, enjoy a lake boat ride, and camp under the stars.
3. Transportation in Fengtai District
By Subway ( How to Use Beijing Subway )
Fengtai is well-connected with multiple subway lines, making it easy to explore:
- Line 9 – Direct access to Beijing World Park.
- Line 10 – Passes through major shopping areas in Fengtai.
- Line 14 – Convenient for reaching Beijing Garden Expo Park.
By Bus
Numerous bus routes operate throughout Fengtai, offering an affordable means of transportation. Buses connect key sites such as the Marco Polo Bridge and Wanping Fortress. It’s advisable to have the destination names written in Chinese characters to assist with navigation.
The bus network in Fengtai is extensive, covering all major attractions and business districts. Buses are a cheap way to travel, but they can be slow during rush hours.
By Taxi and Ride-Sharing
Driving in Fengtai is relatively easy, with plenty of parking near major attractions. Taxis and DiDi ride-hailing services are widely available, but having your destination written in Chinese helps with communication.
By Bicycle
Bike-sharing apps like Mobike and Meituan make it easy to explore parks and smaller streets. Renting a bike is affordable and convenient, especially for short distances.
4. Where to Eat in Fengtai District
Fengtai has a vibrant food scene, from traditional Beijing cuisine to international flavors.
Traditional Cuisine
- Luzhu Huoshao: A traditional Beijing dish featuring pork lungs stewed with baked wheaten cakes. Several local eateries in Fengtai serve this delicacy, offering an authentic taste of Beijing’s culinary heritage.
- Jiaozi (Dumplings): Many local restaurants specialize in these savory dumplings, offering a variety of fillings that cater to diverse palates.
- Peking Duck – Try crispy roast duck at well-known restaurants in Fengtai.
- Zha Jiang Mian (Beijing Noodles) – A must-try dish of thick noodles with savory soybean paste sauce.
International Fare
Western & Japanese Restaurants – Found in Fengtai’s shopping centers and hotels. Options include steakhouses, sushi spots, and Italian cafes.
Street Food
- Maliandao Tea Street: Known as Beijing’s tea hub, this area also offers various street foods, allowing visitors to sample local snacks while exploring tea shops.
- Local Night Markets – Great for trying Tanghulu (candied fruit), Jianbing (savory pancakes), and BBQ skewers.
5. Where to Stay in Fengtai District
Fengtai offers a range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
Luxury Hotels
- Beijing Riverside Hotel: Located near the Garden Expo Park, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations with scenic views, providing top-notch amenities for a comfortable stay.
- Beijing Nangong Hot Spring Resort – A perfect place to relax in natural hot springs.
- Beijing Fengtai International Hotel – Offers spacious rooms and a high-end experience.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Holiday Inn Beijing Fengtai: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, conveniently located near public transportation hubs, making it ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and accessibility.
- Jianguo Hotel – Well-located with comfortable rooms and good amenities.
Budget Accommodations
- 7 Days Inn: A budget-friendly option providing basic amenities, suitable for travelers looking for economical accommodations without compromising on essential comforts.
- Hanting Express & Home Inn – Affordable chain hotels with clean and comfortable rooms.
6. Fengtai Tourist Information Centers
Visiting Fengtai and looking for Beijing Fengtai District Travel Guide? Stop by the Beijing Tourist Information Center in Fengtai District! Conveniently located near World Park, Nangong Geothermal Park, and the World Flower Garden, it’s the perfect place to start your adventure. Pick up free maps, get transport guidance, and find top sightseeing recommendations. The helpful staff are always ready to assist. Explore Fengtai hassle-free!
| Station Name | Address | Service Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Nangong Geothermal Expo Park Information Station (丰台南宫地热博览园咨询站) | Nangong Village, Wangzuo Town, Fengtai District (丰台区王佐镇南宫村) | 83318032 |
| World Park Information Tourist Office (丰台世界公园咨询站) | No. 158 Fengbaotai, Huaxiang, Fengtai District (丰台区花乡丰葆台158号) | 83613681 |
| World Flower Grand View Garden Information Centre (丰台世界花卉大观园咨询站) | No. 235 South Fourth Ring Middle Road, Fengtai District (丰台区南四环中路235号) | 87500840 |
If you need additional assistance, you can also use apps like Baidu Maps, Google Maps, or WeChat Translate to navigate the area easily.
7. Fengtai District Travel Tips
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, here are some essential Fengtai District travel tips:
1) Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the best weather for outdoor activities.
- Summer can be hot and humid, but parks like Beijing Garden Expo Park provide shady retreats.
- Winter is cold but less crowded, making it a good time for historical and indoor attractions.
2) Getting Around
- The subway is the fastest and easiest way to explore Fengtai. Use Lines 4, 9, 10, 14, and 16 for major sites.
- Buses are budget-friendly, but they can be slow during rush hours.
- Ride-hailing apps like DiDi are convenient but may require basic Chinese knowledge or translation apps for communication.
- Shared bikes are available near parks and metro stations for short trips.
3) Local Etiquette
- When visiting historical sites like Wanping Fortress, be respectful and avoid loud conversations.
- In markets or street food stalls, it is acceptable to bargain, but do so politely.
- If visiting temples or cultural sites, wear modest clothing and avoid taking photos where prohibited.
4) Payment and Shopping
- Most shops and restaurants accept Alipay and WeChat Pay, so having a Chinese payment app is helpful.
- Cash is still accepted, especially in small local eateries and markets.
- If shopping for souvenirs, check out Maliandao Tea Street, Beijing’s famous tea market, for authentic Chinese tea.
5) Language and Communication
- Many hotels and major attractions have English-speaking staff, but in local areas, basic Chinese phrases can be useful.
- Translation apps like Google Translate or WeChat Translate can help with communication.
- Offline maps can be useful in case of poor internet connection in some areas.
This Beijing Fengtai District Travel Guide provides all the essential information to help you navigate the area, find top attractions, and enjoy a smooth travel experience. With these Fengtai District Travel Tips, you’ll be well-prepared to explore this fascinating district.
Whether you’re discovering ancient landmarks, relaxing in beautiful parks, or tasting local flavors, Fengtai offers a unique and memorable experience in Beijing. So pack your bags, plan your trip, and get ready for an exciting adventure in Fengtai District!
