This Beijing Huairou District Travel Guide has everything you need for a seamless and enjoyable trip. Huairou District is home to breathtaking landscapes, historical landmarks, and peaceful retreats just outside Beijing. From top attractions and how to get there to visitor centers, local dining, and essential travel tips, this guide ensures you make the most of your visit to Huairou District.
1. Huairou District, Beijing: An Overview
Located in the northeastern suburbs of Beijing, Huairou District covers an area of 2,122.8 square kilometers, with 89% of its land covered by mountains. It borders Miyun District to the east and Shunyi District to the south, while Changping and Yanqing Districts lie to the west. To the north, it shares boundaries with Fengning, Luanping, and Chicheng Counties in Hebei Province. The district government is based at 15 Fuqian Street (府前街).
Huairou Offiial Website: Huairou District of People’s Government of Beijing Municipality (Chinese)
As of the end of 2023, Huairou District has a population of approximately 440,000 residents. It is administratively divided into two subdistricts, twelve towns, and two townships, covering 35 communities and 284 villages.
A Rich History
The name “Huairou” (怀柔) comes from a phrase in the ancient Chinese text Book of Songs (Shijing)—“Huairou Baishen” (怀柔百神), which means “to bring peace and harmony to all gods.” The district’s history dates back to the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, when it served as a strategic military location for the Yan State. During the Tang Dynasty (7th century), it officially became Huairou County, and in 2001, it was upgraded to a district. Interestingly, the administrative boundaries set in 1368 (Ming Dynasty) remain largely unchanged today.
2. Huairou District: Unique Features and Development
Huairou is not just a scenic retreat; it also plays a vital role in Beijing’s ecological conservation, scientific research, and international cooperation.
🌿 Eco-Conservation Hub
Huairou is a national-level ecological demonstration zone and serves as the primary water source for the Miyun Reservoir. The district is home to 17 major rivers and 16 reservoirs, ensuring a pristine environment and excellent air quality.
🔬 Scientific Innovation Center
Huairou Science City is a national research hub, focusing on cutting-edge industries and high-tech advancements. It plays a key role in China’s scientific and technological development.
🌍 A Global Meeting Destination
Yanqi Lake International Convention Center, located in Huairou, hosted the 2014 APEC Summit. Today, it continues to serve as a key venue for high-profile international events.
🎬 China’s Film Industry Hub
Huairou is also home to China Film Studio, a leading center for film production and cultural innovation. This has helped shape Huairou into a hub for the integration of culture and technology.
With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and forward-thinking development, Huairou District offers a perfect blend of nature, science, and culture, making it a fascinating destination to explore.
3. Top Attractions in Huairou District
As one of Beijing’s top eco-tourism and cultural destinations, Huairou District is packed with stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and unique experiences. Whether you’re here for the Great Wall, scenic lakes, or hidden cultural gems, there’s something for every traveler.
1) Iconic Great Wall Sections
Mutianyu Great Wall – Scenic & Family-Friendly 慕田峪长城
Mutianyu is one of the best-preserved and most scenic sections of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall. Stretching 5,400 meters, it features steep slopes, lush surroundings, and fewer crowds than Badaling. Key highlights include the Zhengguan Terrace and Dajiaolou Tower, offering panoramic views of rolling mountains. The wall’s gentler slopes and cable car access make it ideal for families and casual hikers. For an unforgettable descent, try the toboggan ride!
🚗 How to Get There:
- Take Bus 916 Express from Dongzhimen to Huairou Beidajie (怀柔北街）, then transfer to Bus H23 or H24.
- Private car hire is a hassle-free option, especially for groups.
- Check out How to get to Mutianyu Great Wall for more travel information.
Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall – A Rare Water & Wall Combo 黄花城长城
Huanghuacheng is the only section of the Great Wall in Beijing connected to water. Three parts of the wall descend into the reservoir, creating a breathtaking lakeside view. This site combines historical ruins and natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape from the city. Spring and summer bring fields of yellow wildflowers, making it a photographer’s paradise.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Take Bus 916 Express to Huairou, then hire a local driver to the scenic area.
Jiankou Great Wall – Wild & Adventurous 箭扣长城
For those craving an authentic, rugged experience, Jiankou Great Wall is the place to go. Unlike the restored sections, Jiankou remains wild and untouched, with steep inclines and crumbling watchtowers. The trek is challenging but rewards hikers with some of the most stunning Great Wall views. This section is a favorite among photographers and adventure seekers.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Take Bus 916 Express to Huairou, then hire a private car or guide to the trailhead.
2) Natural & Eco Attractions
Yanqi Lake – A Swiss-like Getaway Near Beijing 雁西湖
Nicknamed “Beijing’s Little Switzerland”, Yanqi Lake offers stunning lake and mountain views year-round. It’s also home to the Sunrise Kempinski Hotel, one of China’s most iconic modern buildings. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, cycling trails, and picnics by the water. The area is also famous for hosting the 2014 APEC Summit, adding a touch of international flair.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Take Bus 916 Express to Huairou Bus Station, then transfer to Bus H58.
Qinglong Gorge – Outdoor Adventure Paradise 青龙峡
Qinglong Gorge is a perfect mix of mountains, water, and the Great Wall. It features a reservoir, glass-bottomed walkway, and extreme sports activities like bungee jumping and zip-lining. In summer, temperatures remain a cool 22°C (72°F), making it a great escape from Beijing’s heat. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Best accessed by private car from central Beijing.
Labagoumen Primeval Forest Park – Beijing’s Hidden Wilderness
喇叭沟门原始森林公园
Labagoumen is Beijing’s only primeval forest, offering an untouched natural retreat. In spring, rhododendrons bloom, covering the hills in vibrant colors. In autumn, red maple leaves transform the landscape into a fiery wonderland. The forest is incredibly peaceful and rich in biodiversity, making it perfect for hiking, camping, and photography.
🚗 How to Get There:
- The most convenient option is self-driving or hiring a private car.
3) Cultural & Unique Experiences
Hongluo Temple – Beijing’s Largest Buddhist Garden 红螺寺
Hongluo Temple is one of northern China’s most important Buddhist temples, dating back over 1,000 years. Nestled among lush forests, it features ancient trees, peaceful gardens, and a sacred pond. Many locals believe the temple brings good luck and spiritual peace. In autumn, the temple’s red maple trees create a breathtaking scene.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Take Bus 916 Express to Huairou Bus Station, then switch to Bus H57.
Shentangyu Scenic Area – Tranquil Valley with Hidden Treasures
神堂峪自然风景区
Shentangyu offers a perfect blend of nature and history, featuring ancient Great Wall ruins, cascading waterfalls, and scenic boardwalks. The area is perfect for leisurely hikes and summer getaways, with cool mountain air and refreshing water views.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Take Bus 916 Express to Huairou, then hire a local driver.
Liyuan Library – One of the World’s Most Beautiful Libraries 篱苑图书馆
Tucked away in the countryside, Liyuan Library is an architectural masterpiece. Its exterior is made from firewood sticks, blending seamlessly with nature. Inside, natural light filters through the walls, creating a cozy and serene reading space. It’s an incredible spot for book lovers, photographers, and architecture enthusiasts.
🚗 How to Get There:
- The best way to visit is by car or taxi.
4) Other Recommended Attractions
Baihewan Ecological Art Camp – A Creative Outdoor Escape
白河湾生态艺术营地
This unique eco-camp blends art, cycling, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy picnics, explore interactive art installations, or rent bikes to ride through scenic landscapes. It’s a great family-friendly destination with plenty of space to relax.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Best accessed by private car or taxi.
Dingxiu Meiquan Town – A European-Inspired Village 顶秀美泉小镇
This charming European-style village features colorful buildings, boutique shops, and scenic courtyards. It’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll, photoshoots, and trying international cuisine.
🚗 How to Get There:
- A short drive from Huairou’s main town.
Xiangshuihu Great Wall & Waterfall – A Hidden Gem with 响水湖
Xiangshuihu combines ancient Great Wall ruins with stunning waterfalls and rock carvings. It’s one of the lesser-known but most picturesque sections of the Wall, offering a peaceful hike away from the crowds.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Take Bus 916 Express to Huairou, then hire a private car.
4. How to Get to Huairou District from Downtown Beijing
Planning a trip to Huairou District? There are several ways to get there, including driving, suburban trains, buses, and ride-sharing services. Here’s a breakdown of the best options, so you can choose the one that fits your budget and schedule.
1) Driving to Huairou (About 1.2 Hours, Total Cost: ¥57)
Route:
Start in downtown Beijing, then follow:
- Dongchang’an Street → Jianguomen Bridge → 2nd Ring Road
- Jingcheng Expressway → Daguang Expressway → Huairou Bridge
- Jingmi Expressway → Yingbin South Road → Fuqian Street (Huairou Center)
Cost & Distance:
- Total distance: About 61.5 km
- Fuel cost: Around ¥37
- Toll fee: ¥20
Tips for Drivers:
- Jingcheng and Jingmi Expressways are the main routes to Huairou.
- Expect traffic on weekends and holidays. Try to leave early or travel during off-peak hours.
2) Beijing Suburban Railway (Huairou-Miyun Line, About 1.5 Hours, ¥8)
Where to Board:
- Beijing North Station
- Qinghe Station
- Changping North Station
Where to Get Off:
- Yanqi Lake Station (Closest to Yanqi Lake Scenic Area)
- Huairou North Station (Near Huairou Downtown)
How to Buy Tickets:
- No need to buy in advance! Simply scan your Yitongxing (亿通行) app QR code at the station.
- Trains run frequently, and you can board as long as seats are available.
Why Choose the Train?
- No traffic delays
- Scenic countryside views along the way
3) Taking the Bus to Huairou (About 2 Hours, ¥10-¥20)
If you’re traveling on a budget, buses are a great choice. Here are the best options:
Bus 916 Express (Fastest Bus to Huairou)
- Route: Dongzhimen Hub → Huairou South Street East (Downtown Huairou)
- Travel time: About 1 hour 40 minutes
- First & last buses: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Bus 866 (Great for Metro Transfers)
- Route: Wangjing West Subway Station → Huairou Commercial Street
- Best for: Those taking the subway and needing a direct connection to Huairou
Bus 936 (Qinglong Gorge Line)
- Route: Beijing Railway Station → Bus 2 or 24 → Dongzhimen → Transfer to Bus 936 → Huairou Bus Station
- Travel time: About 2.5 hours
- Best for: Travelers heading to Qinglong Gorge
4) Other Travel Options 🚖🚴
🚗 Ride-Sharing (Didi or Carpooling)
- Cost: ¥50-¥80 per person
- Best for: Groups of 3-4 people looking for a quick and flexible option
🚴 Cycling or Hiking
- Only recommended for short-distance countryside trips within Huairou.
- Always check weather conditions and bring enough water.
5) Best Way to Travel Based on Your Needs
✔️ Fastest & Most Comfortable: Beijing Suburban Railway (Huairou-Miyun Line) → Get off at Yanqi Lake Station.
💰 Budget-Friendly: Bus 916 Express → Direct to Huairou Downtown.
🚗 Most Flexible: Driving → Ideal for weekend trips or family travel, with stops at Qinglong Gorge and other attractions along the way.
5. Where to Stay in Beijing
Beijing offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury lakeside resorts to family-friendly theme hotels and budget-friendly stays. Whether you’re here for a business trip, a family vacation, or a nature retreat, there’s a perfect hotel for you.
1) Luxury Conference & Resort Hotels ✨
Beijing Yanqi Jianguo Hotel 北京雁栖建国酒店
- Category: 4-star lakeside hotel near Yanqi Lake Scenic Area.
- Rooms: 190 guestrooms, including standard rooms and suites.
- Best for: Business conferences, large events, and relaxing vacations.
- Unique Features: Hosted major international events like the APEC Summit. Starting in 2025, wedding banquet packages begin at ¥5,988 per table, with customized event planning services.
Beijing Champion Garden Hotel (Huairou) 北京冠军苑怀柔宾馆
- Category: Business-friendly hotel with great value.
- Best for: Travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and affordability.
- Features: 24-hour hot water, private bathrooms, and easy access to local attractions.
2) Family-Friendly & Themed Hotels 👨👩👧👦🏰
Tingshow Fairy Castle Parent-Child Hotel 顶秀精灵堡童话亲子酒店
- Theme & Design: Inspired by fairy tale magic, featuring bright ocean blue and neon green exteriors.
- Rooms: 57 themed suites, including Enchanted Forest and Fairy Castle rooms.
- Kid-Friendly Features:
- Child-height sinks and smart voice-controlled lighting.
- Interactive magical creature games.
- AI-powered robotic services for an extra fun experience.
Banshan Hotel (Huairou Branch) 半山酒店（怀柔店）
- Category: Boutique mountain retreat, fully renovated in 2023.
- Rooms: 37 guest rooms, all equipped with smart toilets, floor heating, and fresh air systems.
- Best for: Families and weekend getaways, offering a cozy and modern escape from the city.
3) Eco-Resorts & Nature Retreats 🌲🏞️
Beijing Starway Hotel 北京星美酒店
- Location: In the heart of Beijing’s film industry hub (Yangsong Town), near China Film Studio.
- Best for: Film enthusiasts or travelers looking for a cultural stay with an eco-friendly touch.
Huairou Hotel Cluster Overview 怀柔酒店集群（整体特色）
- Scenic Stays: Many hotels and resorts in Huairou focus on nature and relaxation, catering to business retreats, vacations, and training programs.
- Options for Every Budget:
- 5-star hotels: Yanqi Jianguo Hotel.
- 4-star hotels: Hongluoyuan Hotel.
4) Business & Budget-Friendly Hotels 💼💰
Beijing Wanghuai Huating Hotel 北京望怀华庭酒店
- Style: Elegant European-style business hotel.
- Location: Near Yingbin Roundabout, offering easy access to major roads.
- Facilities: Gym, café, and a private dining restaurant.
- Average Price: Around ¥300 per night, making it a great budget option for business travelers.
5) Booking Tips & Recommendations 📝🔍
✔️ Peak Season Alert: Hotels near Yanqi Lake and Qinglong Gorge (such as Yanqi Jianguo and Tingshow Fairy Castle) get fully booked 1-2 weeks in advance, especially on weekends.
💰 Best Budget Picks: Champion Garden Hotel and Wanghuai Huating Hotel offer affordable stays with great convenience.
📅 Plan Ahead: Book early for the best rates, especially during public holidays and festival seasons.
With options ranging from luxury lakeside retreats to charming themed stays, Beijing’s Huairou District has the perfect hotel for every type of traveler! 🌟
6. Where and What to Eat in Huairou District
Huairou District offers a delicious mix of local flavors, fresh mountain ingredients, and creative fusion dishes. From traditional farmhouse meals and rainbow trout specialties to Manchu cuisine and family-friendly dining, there’s something for every taste and budget.
1) Local Flavors & Specialty Dishes
Farmhouse Cuisine & Manchu Influence 🍲
Huairou’s traditional dishes reflect rural home cooking with a touch of Manchu culinary heritage. Expect hearty, flavorful meals with a focus on natural ingredients and generous portions. Popular dishes include:
- Stewed Free-Range Chicken (炖柴鸡) – Slow-cooked for rich flavors.
- Copper Pot Sauerkraut with Pork (铜锅酸菜白肉) – A comforting Manchu-style dish.
- Braised Pork with Chestnuts (板栗红烧肉) – A perfect blend of sweet and savory.
Rainbow Trout Delicacies 🐟🔥
Huairou’s pristine waters make it a prime spot for rainbow trout farming. Local restaurants specialize in trout cooked in various ways:
- Grilled Rainbow Trout – Crispy on the outside, tender inside, with no fishy taste.
- Steamed Rainbow Trout – Light, fresh, and full of natural flavors.
- Rainbow Trout Sashimi – A must-try for sushi lovers!
Wild Game & Mountain Ingredients 🍖🌿
Huairou’s mountain location means plenty of wild and locally foraged ingredients. Signature dishes include:
- Braised Donkey Meat (酱驴肉) – Tender, flavorful, and high in protein.
- Crispy Fried Wild Mushrooms (干炸栗蘑) – A crunchy and earthy delight.
- Donkey Meat Skewers & Bone Broth – A local specialty loved by both locals and visitors.
Fusion Cuisine 🌎🍽
Huairou also blends regional Chinese flavors with international influences. You’ll find:
- Hunan & Sichuan Dishes – Try stir-fried dried string beans with pork or spicy Kung Pao Chicken at Lao Wu Fast Food or Hong Li Sheng Restaurant.
- Creative Fusion Dishes – Thai-style shrimp balls and playful desserts at 28 Dao Restaurant, perfect for families.
2) Best Restaurants in Huairou
Classic Local Restaurants 🍜
✅ Jingdu Restaurant (京都酒家) – A 30-year-old favorite serving “Sea Fish Hot Pot”, a signature dish that combines ribbonfish and pomfret in a flavorful stew. Their braised beef with potatoes and red bean rice are also highly recommended. (Average: ¥59 per person)
✅ Tanghe Shui Clay Pot House (汤河水砂锅居) – One of the oldest private restaurants in Huairou. Known for sauerkraut and tofu stew with pork belly and twice-cooked pork with red bean rice.
✅ Liuhe Manor (六合山庄) – Famous for its braised donkey meat, served hot or as a sandwich (驴肉火烧). Their takeout counter is always busy!
Rainbow Trout Specialty Restaurants 🐟🔥
✅ Shui’an Yuge (水岸渔歌) – A garden-style restaurant featuring grilled and raw rainbow trout. The outdoor seating by the lotus pond makes it a scenic summer dining spot.
✅ Yujia’ao & Fish Master (渔家傲与鱼师傅) – Longtime favorites near Mutianyu Great Wall. Their stone house setting adds to the charm, and they serve steamed, grilled, and fried trout.
Fusion & Family-Friendly Dining 👨👩👧👦
✅ 28 Dao Restaurant (二十八道餐厅) – Famous for grilled rainbow trout and braised pork with chestnuts. The kid-friendly desserts and play area make it perfect for family dining.
✅ Manchu Village Restaurant (满乡小馆) – Offers a museum-like dining experience with authentic Manchu hot pot and traditional stews. A great place to experience history through food.
Budget-Friendly & Local Favorites 💰
✅ Hong Li Sheng Restaurant (红力生食府) – A casual spot known for Kung Pao Chicken and Sichuan-style boiled beef. Portions are large, and prices are reasonable. (Delivery and private rooms available!)
✅ Jianghu Yijia (江湖一家怀柔店) – A local community restaurant serving simple, home-style meals at affordable prices. Ideal for a quick bite.
7. Beijing Tourist Information Center – Huairou District
Visiting Huairou and looking for Beijing Huairou District Travel Guide? Stop by the Beijing Tourist Information Center in Huairou District! Conveniently located near top attractions like Mutianyu Great Wall, Hongluo Temple, and Yanqi Lake, this center offers free maps, transportation guidance, and expert local tips. The friendly staff are always happy to assist, ensuring you explore Huairou’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures with ease.
| Station Name | Address | Service Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Qiaozibeizhai Information Station (怀柔桥梓北宅咨询站) | Beizhai Village, Qiaozi Town, Huairou District (怀柔区桥梓镇北宅村) | 60671551 |
| Kuangou Information Station (怀柔宽沟咨询站) | West of Sunshishan Village, Miaocheng Town, Huairou District (怀柔区庙城镇孙史山村西) | 69679099 |
| Mutianyu Great Wall Information Center (怀柔慕田峪长城咨询站) | Mutianyu Village, Bohai Town, Huairou District (怀柔区渤海镇慕田峪村) | 61626876 |
| Hongluo Temple Information Station (怀柔红螺寺咨询站) | No. 2 Hongluo East Road, Huairou District (怀柔区红螺东路2号) | 60682649 |
| Yanqi Lake Scenic Area Information Center (怀柔雁栖湖旅游区咨询站) | No. 3 Yanshui Road, Huairou District (怀柔区雁水路3号) | 69663011 |
| Qinglong Gorge Resort Information Station (怀柔青龙峡旅游度假区咨询站) | 500m north of Dashuiyu Village, Huaibei Town, Huairou District (怀柔区怀北镇大水峪村北500米) | 89696781 |
| Xiangshui Lake Tourist Area Information Station (怀柔响水湖旅游区咨询站) | East of Dazhenyu Village, Bohai Town, Huairou District (怀柔区渤海镇大榛峪村东) | 89602539 |
| Survival Island New Concept Tourism Base Information Station (怀柔生存岛新概念旅游基地咨询站) | No. 6 Hongluo East Road, Huairou District (怀柔区红螺东路6号) | 60681166 |
| Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall Scenic Area Information Station (怀柔黄花城水长城旅游区咨询站) | P3 Parking Lot, Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall, Xishuiyu Village, Jiuduhe Town, Huairou District (怀柔区九渡河镇西水峪村黄花城水长城P3停车场) | 61651111 |
| Yougu Shentan Natural Scenic Area Information Station (怀柔幽谷神潭自然风景区咨询站) | North of Duanshuling Village, Huairou District (怀柔区椴树岭村北) | 61622358 / 2569 |
| Yunmeng Wonderland Scenic Area Information Station (怀柔云梦仙境景区咨询站) | Dongyu Village, Liulimiao Town, Huairou District (怀柔区琉璃庙镇东峪村) | 61618157 / 8140 |
| Shentangyu Natural Scenic Area Information Station (怀柔神堂峪自然风景区咨询站) | No. 1 Shipian Village, Yanqi Town, Huairou District (怀柔区雁栖镇石片村1号) | 89617093 |
| Baiquanshan Tourist Area Information Station (怀柔百泉山旅游区咨询站) | No. 1 Duanshuling Beitaizi, Huaibei Town, Huairou District (怀柔区怀北镇椴树岭北台子1号) | 61622954 |
| Shengquansi Scenic Area Information Station (怀柔圣泉寺景区咨询站) | Koutou Village, Qiaozi Town, Huairou District (怀柔区桥梓镇口头村) | 60637288 / 7289 |
| Jiugukou Scenic Area Information Station (怀柔九谷口景区咨询站) | No. 548 Hefangkou Village, Huaibei Town, Huairou District (怀柔区怀北镇河防口村548号) | 8969667 |
Huairou District Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather.
- Clothing Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, especially for hiking the Great Wall.
- Local Transport: Taxis are available, but agree on a price before the ride.
- Cash vs. Card: Many places accept WeChat Pay and Alipay, but cash is still useful.
- Avoid Crowds: Visit early in the morning or on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Huairou District is a hidden gem just outside Beijing. Whether you’re hiking the Great Wall, exploring a water town, or enjoying the peaceful countryside, there’s something for every traveler.
Use this Beijing Huairou District Travel Guide to plan your trip, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Further Reading
Explore Beijing’s 16 Districts: The Ultimate Travel Guide
Beijing is more than just its iconic landmarks! From the historic charm of Dongcheng to the natural beauty of Miyun, each district offers something unique. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, scenic mountains, bustling markets, or modern marvels, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate Beijing’s 16 districts with ease. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
