Shijingshan District is one of Beijing’s hidden gems, located in the city’s western region. This district offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and modern attractions, making it a great escape from Beijing’s busy city center.
If you’re looking for scenic parks, ancient temples, amusement parks, and outdoor adventures, Shijingshan has plenty to offer. In this Beijing Shijingshan District Travel Guide, we’ll explore top attractions, transportation, places to eat and stay, and essential travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.
1. Shijingshan District Overview
Shijingshan District takes its name from Shijingshan (Stone Mirror Mountain), also known as “The First Immortal Mountain of Yandu.” This area has long been an important cultural and historical hub in western Beijing. It shares borders with Haidian District to the northeast, Fengtai District to the south, and Mentougou District to the west.
Shijingshan Offiial Website: Shijingshan District of People’s Government of Beijing Municipality
One of Shijingshan’s biggest highlights is its abundant green spaces. With mountains covering 23% of the district and a citywide green coverage rate of 47.09%, it boasts some of the richest forest resources in Beijing’s urban areas. The district also offers 73.89 square meters of public green space per person, making it one of the greenest places in the city.
With its unique mix of history, nature, and modern development, Shijingshan is a fantastic place to explore, whether you’re interested in scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, or city life.
2. Top Attractions in Shijingshan District
Shijingshan has a mix of cultural, historical, and recreational attractions. Whether you love history, outdoor activities, or family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone.
1) Badachu Park – A Spiritual Retreat
Badachu Park is one of Beijing’s most famous Buddhist sites. Its name, meaning “Eight Great Sites”, comes from the eight ancient temples and monasteries within the park. The most famous is Lingguang Temple, which houses a relic of the Buddha’s tooth, attracting many Buddhist pilgrims.
- What to See: Explore historic temples, hike scenic trails, and enjoy peaceful gardens.
- Best For: Spiritual travelers, nature lovers, and photographers.
- Tip: The cable car ride to the mountaintop offers stunning views of Beijing.
2) Shougang Industrial Heritage Park – A Glimpse into Beijing’s Industrial Past
Shougang Industrial Heritage Park, located in the former Shougang Steel Factory, is now a modern cultural and leisure site. The park preserves old steel mill structures and repurposes them into exhibition spaces, sports venues, and creative zones.
- What to See: Explore old blast furnaces, towering chimneys, and steel bridges that tell the story of China’s industrial development.
- Best For: History buffs, photographers, and architecture enthusiasts.
- Tip: Visit Shougang Big Air—the venue for Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics snowboarding competitions.
3) Shijingshan Amusement Park – Classic Fun for All Ages
As one of Beijing’s earliest theme parks, Shijingshan Amusement Park features roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and carnival games. While it’s often compared to Disneyland, it has its own unique charm.
- What to See: Ride the classic wooden roller coaster, enjoy family-friendly attractions, and watch seasonal festivals.
- Best For: Families, kids, and amusement park lovers.
- Tip: Visit on weekdays for shorter lines and a more relaxed experience.
4) Fahai Temple – A Hidden Artistic Treasure
Fahai Temple is famous for its Ming Dynasty murals, considered some of the best-preserved Buddhist paintings in China. These stunning artworks depict Bodhisattvas, celestial beings, and religious scenes with exquisite details and vibrant colors.
- What to See: Admire over 500-year-old murals, explore ancient halls, and enjoy the surrounding nature park.
- Best For: Art lovers, history enthusiasts, and culture seekers.
- Tip: Photography is not allowed inside the mural hall, so take time to observe the artwork closely.
5) Beijing International Sculpture Park – An Outdoor Art Museum
This massive sculpture park displays artworks from around the world. Featuring contemporary, abstract, and classical sculptures, it’s a perfect place for a relaxing walk or a cultural outing.
- What to See: Explore unique sculptures, interactive installations, and landscaped gardens.
- Best For: Art lovers, couples, and those looking for a peaceful escape.
- Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting to photograph the sculptures.
3. Transportation in Shijingshan District
Getting around Shijingshan is easy and convenient thanks to Beijing’s extensive public transportation system. Here’s how you can explore the district:
1) By Subway ( How to Use Subway in Beijing )
Line 1: Direct access to Shijingshan Amusement Park (Bajiao Amusement Park Station) and Shougang Industrial Heritage Park (Gucheng Station).
Line 6: Connects to other Beijing districts and allows transfers to buses heading toward Badachu Park.
2) By Bus
- To Badachu Park: Take buses 347, 389, or 598 directly to the entrance.
- To Shougang Industrial Park: Take bus 337 or 747 to Changdongmen Station.
- To Shijingshan Amusement Park: The Bajiao Amusement Park Station is next to the park.
3) By Taxi and Ride-Sharing ( Beijing Taxi )
- Taxis and DiDi (China’s Uber) are easy to find.
- Tip: Have your destination written in Chinese, as many drivers don’t speak English.
4) By Bicycle
- Bike-sharing apps like Meituan and Mobike are great for short rides around the district.
- Some parks have rental bikes available at the entrance.
4. Where to Eat in Shijingshan District
Shijingshan offers a variety of dining options, from local Beijing specialties to international flavors.
1) Traditional Beijing Cuisine
- Peking Duck – A must-try dish when visiting Beijing.
- Zhajiangmian (Beijing Noodles) – Thick noodles served with savory soybean paste and fresh vegetables.
- Try classic dishes like Zhajiangmian (Beijing noodles) and Luzhu Huoshao (stewed pork lungs and baked wheat cakes). Where to go: Modekou Street and Yuquan Road Snack Street.
2) Hot Pot & BBQ
- Haidilao Hot Pot – Famous for its rich broths and high-quality ingredients.
- Korean BBQ – Several restaurants in Shijingshan offer authentic Korean-style BBQ.
3) International Cuisine
- Western Cafés and Italian Restaurants can be found in shopping malls and hotels.
- Japanese and Korean Restaurants are popular choices in the district.
4) Unique Industrial-Themed Dining
- Shougang Park’s restaurants serve old-school factory-style meals, including Shougang Soda and cafeteria tray meals.
5. Where to Stay in Shijingshan District
Whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or budget-friendly stays, Shijingshan has great accommodation options.
1) Luxury Hotels
- Holiday Inn Beijing Shijingshan Parkview – Offers modern rooms and easy access to attractions.
- Shougang Gongshe Boutique Hotel – Located inside Shougang Park, this hotel combines industrial design with modern comfort.
2) Mid-Range Hotels
- Jianguo Hotel – A comfortable option with good service and great dining choices.
- Chain Hotels near Shijingshan Amusement Park – Affordable and conveniently located near the subway and attractions.
3) Budget-Friendly Stays
- Local guesthouses and hostels provide affordable stays for travelers.
- Youth hostels and guesthouses – Great for budget travelers looking for a simple stay.
6. Shijingshan Tourist Information Centers
Exploring Shijingshan and looking for Beijing Shijingshan District Travel Guide ? Drop by the Beijing Tourist Information Center in Shijingshan District! Conveniently located near Shijingshan Amusement Park and Bajiao Scenic Area, it’s the perfect place to start your adventure. Pick up free maps, get transportation guidance, and discover top local attractions. The helpful staff are always ready to assist. Make your visit to Shijingshan smooth and unforgettable!
| Station Name | Address | Service Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Shijingshan Amusement Park Information Station (石景山游乐园咨询站) | No. 25 Shijingshan Road, Shijingshan District (石景山路25号) | 88925159 |
| Bajiao Scenic Area Information Centre (八大处站) | No. 3 Jia Bajiao Road, Shijingshan District (八大处路甲3号) | 88964661 ext. 2131 |
7. Shijingshan District Travel Tips
To make the most of your trip, keep these Shijingshan District travel tips in mind:
1) Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) have the best weather.
- Summer is hot, but amusement parks and indoor attractions provide cool escapes.
- Winter is quieter, making it a good time to visit temples and cultural sites.
2) Language & Communication
- Basic Mandarin phrases can be helpful, especially in local areas.
- Translation apps like Google Translate or WeChat Translate can assist with communication.
3) Payment & Currency
- Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used, but some vendors still accept cash.
- Major hotels and restaurants accept credit cards.
4) Safety & Cultural Etiquette
- Be respectful in temples, dress modestly, and avoid loud conversations.
- Bargaining is acceptable in markets but should be done politely.
Shijingshan District is a fantastic place to explore beyond Beijing’s city center. With its stunning natural scenery, historic temples, and exciting amusement park, it’s perfect for families, hikers, and culture lovers alike.
This Beijing Shijingshan District Travel Guide has everything you need to plan your visit and enjoy the best of this unique area. Use these Shijingshan District Travel Tips, stop by a Shijingshan Tourist Information Center, and enjoy an unforgettable adventure!
