Planning a trip to the scenic outskirts of Beijing? Our Beijing Miyun District Travel Guide is your go-to resource for exploring this stunning area. Discover essential visitor centers, top attractions, and travel tips to make your journey seamless. From nature escapes to cultural gems, Miyun offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
1. Miyun District Overview
Miyun District sits in northeastern Beijing, where the Yan Mountains meet the North China Plain. It borders Xinglong and Luanping Counties in Chengde, Hebei, to the east, Huairou District to the west, and Shunyi District and Pinggu District to the south. Often called the “Gateway to the Capital,” Miyun is a key passage between North China, Northeast China, and Inner Mongolia.
Miyun Offiial Website: Miyun District of People’s Government of Beijing Municipality (Chinese)
- Total Area: 2,229.45 square kilometers (Beijing’s largest district)
- Administrative Divisions: 2 subdistricts (Gulou and Guoyuan), 17 towns, and 1 ethnic township (Tanying Manchu-Mongolian Township)
Population
- Permanent Population (2022): About 526,000
- Registered Population: 441,000
Geography & Natural Resources
Miyun’s landscape is bowl-shaped, with mountains on three sides. The northwest is higher than the southeast, while the central area is home to the famous Miyun Reservoir. The southwest features an alluvial plain.
- Miyun Reservoir: The largest man-made lake in North China (188 sq km, 4.375 billion cubic meters capacity). Its water meets National Class II standards.
- Forest Coverage: 75.3%—one of the highest in Beijing.
- Air Quality: Over 80% of the year has good air quality, with negative oxygen ions 40 times higher than downtown Beijing.
- Climate:Temperate continental monsoon climate.
- Average annual temperature: 11.3°C
- Annual rainfall: 620 mm
- Summers are cool, winters are mild
2. Top Attractions & Transportation Tips
1) Gubeikou Great Wall (古北口长城)
Gubeikou Great Wall was a key part of Beijing’s defense system, earning the nickname “The Key to the Capital.” Unlike Simatai’s rugged terrain, Gubeikou offers a rich historical experience with landmarks like Yang Linggong Temple and Yaowang Temple.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Bus: Take Bus 980 from Dongzhimen to Miyun Town, then transfer to Mi 51 to Gubeikou Town (~2.5 hours).
- Train: Board the Jingtong Railway at Beijing North Station to Gubeikou Station (1 train per day, ~2 hours).
🏞 Why Visit?
Gubeikou is famous for the Panlongshan Great Wall, featuring dense watchtowers with unique architectural designs. A must-visit for history lovers!
2) Gubei Water Town (古北水镇)
This charming town blends northern China’s fortress-style architecture with southern water town vibes. Stroll along stone-paved streets, admire wooden houses, and enjoy the Simatai Great Wall’s night view. Don’t miss the Yongshun Dye Workshop for a cultural touch!
🚗 How to Get There:
- Bus: Take the Gubei Water Town Express Bus from Dongzhimen Transit Hub (7:00 AM – 1:00 PM, ~2 hours, ¥48).
- Self-Drive: Take the Jingcheng Expressway to the Simatai Exit (~1.5 hours, 130 km).
🌟 Highlights:
- Simatai Great Wall Night View
- Water Dance Show
- Traditional Workshops
3) Simatai Great Wall (司马台长城)
One of the most well-preserved Ming Dynasty Great Wall sections, Simatai Great Wall is famous for its steep cliffs and breathtaking views. Don’t miss Wangjing Tower and the Sky Ladder!
🚗 How to Get There:
- Same as Gubei Water Town (a shuttle bus connects the town to the Great Wall entrance every 15 minutes).
🏯 Why Visit?
- The only Great Wall section open for night tours
- Stunning panoramic views from the Sky Bridge
4) Yunmeng Mountain National Forest Park (云蒙山国家森林公园)
Known as the “Little Huangshan of the North,” this park offers dramatic landscapes with waterfalls, cable cars, and scenic viewpoints.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Bus: Take Bus 980 from Dongzhimen to Miyun Gulou Station, then transfer to Mi 60 (~3 hours).
- Self-Drive: Jingcheng Expressway to Huairou Exit, then follow Jingjia Road (~1.5 hours, 90 km).
🌿 Best Experiences:
- Black Dragon Pool Waterfall
- Summit Cable Car Ride
- Yunmeng Peak Observation Deck
5) Heilongtan Scenic Area (黑龙潭景区)
Famous for its “Three Waterfalls and Eighteen Pools,” Heilongtan offers stunning sights like Longxi Pool and Bottomless Pool. Try the floating bridge and forest adventure trails for extra fun!
🚗 How to Get There:
- Bus: Take Bus 980 to Miyun Gulou Station, then transfer to Mi 63 (~2.5 hours).
- Self-Drive: Jingcheng Expressway → Miyun City → Miguang Road (~1 hour 20 minutes, 85 km).
💦 Why Visit?
- Unique waterfalls and natural pools
- Floating bridges and adventure activities
6) Taoyuan Xiangu (桃源仙谷)
A hidden valley paradise filled with waterfalls, rock pools, and hiking trails. In spring, wildflowers bloom everywhere, while autumn turns the valley into a red and gold wonderland.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Bus: Take Bus 980 to Miyun Gulou Station, then transfer to Mi 67 (~3 hours).
🏔 Best For:
- Hiking & Rock Climbing
- Seasonal Foliage Views
7) Yexian Pagoda (冶仙塔)
Dating back to the Liao Dynasty, this ancient pagoda is part of the “Eight Great Scenic Spots of Yanjing.” Climb to the top for a stunning view of Miyun District.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Bus: Take Mi 1 from Miyun Town (~10 minutes).
- Taxi: Only 3 km from downtown Miyun.
🏛 Why Visit?
- Ancient architecture & history
- Panoramic city views
8) Miyun Reservoir Scenic Viewpoint (密云水库观景台)
As North China’s largest man-made lake, Miyun Reservoir is known for crystal-clear water and lush surroundings. The best viewpoints are at Dashishan Forest Park and Tianmen Mountain.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Self-Drive or Hire a Car (No direct bus). Take Jingcheng Expressway → Miyun City → Miguang Road.
🌊 Why Visit?
- Breathtaking lake views
- Eco-friendly environment
10) Qingliang Valley (清凉谷)
A fun destination with water parks, glass walkways, and alpine slides! Highlights include the Crystal Great Wall and the Sky Glass Bridge—perfect for thrill-seekers.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Bus: Take Mi 63 from Miyun Town (confirm schedule in advance).
🎢 Why Visit?
- Water sports & adventure rides
- Glass-bottomed sky bridge
10) Changyu AFIP Winery (张裕爱斐堡酒庄)
Step into a European-style castle and experience winemaking and wine tasting. It’s a great place for photography, family trips, or a romantic getaway.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Self-Drive Only: Take Jingcheng Expressway → Miyun Exit, then drive 8 km east.
🍷 Best For:
- Wine tasting & vineyard tours
- Photography & relaxing escapes
11. Tianmen Mountain (天门山)
A scenic spot famous for its “Heavenly Gate” rock formation. In spring, the mountain is covered in pink apricot blossoms, while autumn offers a golden landscape.
🚗 How to Get There:
- Bus: Take Mi 8 from Miyun Town (~1-hour intervals).
🌄 Why Visit?
- Panoramic views of Miyun Reservoir
- Stunning natural rock formations
Miyun District is packed with history, nature, and adventure. Whether you’re hiking the Great Wall, relaxing in a water town, or exploring hidden valleys, there’s something for everyone. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and enjoy the best of Beijing’s scenic countryside! 🚗🏞✨
3. Miyun Tourist Information Center
Heading to Miyun and need Beijing Miyun District Travel Guide? Drop by the Beijing Tourist Information Center in Miyun District! Conveniently located near top attractions like Simatai Great Wall, Gubeikou Great Wall, Heilongtan, Yunmengshan Great Wall Ruins Park, and Jugezhuang Winery, it’s the perfect spot to plan your adventure. Grab free maps, transportation advice, and insider recommendations from the helpful staff. Whether you’re exploring Miyun’s stunning landscapes or diving into its rich history, this center ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip!
| Station Name | Address | Service Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Henanzhai Information Station (密云河南寨咨询站) | Beidanjiazhuang Village, Henanzhai Town, Miyun District (密云河南寨镇北单家庄村) | 69045115 |
| Zhangyu Aifeibao Information Station (密云张裕爱菲堡咨询站) | Dongbaiyan Village, Jugezhuang Town, Miyun District (密云巨各庄镇东白岩村) | 89092999 |
| Heilongtan Information Station (密云黑龙潭咨询站) | Daguanqiao, Shicheng Town, Miyun District (密云石城镇大关桥) | 61025391 |
| Yunlongjian Information Station (密云云龙涧咨询站) | Heishansi Village, Xiwengzhuang Town, Miyun District (密云溪翁庄镇黑山寺村) | 69017888 |
| Impression Club Information Station (密云印象会所咨询站) | West of Qikongqiao, Xiwengzhuang Town, Miyun District (密云溪翁庄镇七孔桥西) | 69012385 |
| Yunmengshan Great Wall Ruins Park Information Station (密云云蒙山长城遗址公园) | Shicheng Town, Miyun District (密云区石城镇) | 61025248 |
| Yunxiugu Information Station (密云云岫谷咨询站) | South of Yaoqiaoyu Village, Xinchengzi Town, Miyun District (密云新城子镇遥桥峪村南) | 8102230 |
Miyun is where nature, history, and culture come together, offering a perfect escape from Beijing’s urban hustle. Whether you’re hiking the Great Wall, wandering through ancient water towns, or soaking in breathtaking mountain views, there’s something for everyone. With this Beijing Miyun District Travel Guide, you’re all set to explore the best of Miyun with ease. Pack your bags, hit the road, and experience the hidden gem of Beijing’s countryside!
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!
