Planning a trip to Pinggu District? This Beijing Pinggu District Travel Guide has everything you need! From must-visit attractions and local dining spots to transportation tips and the best places to stay, this guide will help you explore Pinggu with ease. Whether you’re looking for scenic nature escapes, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, you’ll find all the essential travel information right here.
1. Pinggu District Overview
Pinggu District is in northeastern Beijing, covering 948.24 square kilometers. It borders Sanhe City in Hebei Province to the south, Miyun District to the north, and Shunyi District to the west. To the southeast, it connects with Jizhou District in Tianjin, and to the northeast, it neighbors Xinglong County in Chengde, Hebei Province. The terrain slopes from high in the northeast to low in the southwest, creating a stunning landscape.
Pinggu Offiial Website: Pinggu District of People’s Government of Beijing Municipality （Chinese）
Pinggu is one of Beijing’s key ecological conservation areas. Known as “China’s Peach Capital,” Pinggu is famous for its vast peach orchards, fresh air, and beautiful landscapes.
If you love outdoor activities, this is a perfect destination. You can go hiking, boating, or simply enjoy the fresh air. Additionally, Pinggu has several traditional villages, where you can experience local culture and rural life.
2. Top Attractions in Pinggu District
Pinggu is home to stunning natural landscapes, thrilling outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you enjoy hiking, boating, or exploring ancient sites, there’s something for everyone. Here are the must-visit attractions in Pinggu District.
1) Pinggu Peach Orchard 平谷桃园
Pinggu Peach Orchard, located in Beijing’s Pinggu District, is the largest peach orchard in the world, covering an impressive 220,000 acres. It’s not only China’s biggest peach-growing region but also the largest fruit-producing area in Beijing. Known for its stunning peach blossoms and rich ecological resources, this orchard attracts countless visitors every year.
Each April, the peach trees burst into bloom, transforming the landscape into a breathtaking sea of pink flowers. The best spots to admire the blossoms are in Yukou Town, Liujia Store Town, Dahua Mountain Town, Shandongzhuang Town, Nanduole River Town, and Jinhai Lake Town.
During this time, the Pinggu Peach Blossom Festival takes place, drawing crowds eager to experience the vibrant colors, cultural performances, and festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for a peaceful spring escape.
2) Jingdong Grand Canyon (京东大峡谷)
Jingdong Grand Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder known for its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes. The canyon features five unique landscapes, including a suspended plank road that offers thrilling views.
Adventure seekers can walk across the glass skywalk, which extends over the canyon’s edge, providing a heart-pounding experience. History lovers can visit the War Memorial Museum, which showcases relics and stories from China’s past. The area is also great for hiking, photography, and nature walks.
👉 How to Get There: Take Bus 852 from Dongzhimen to Pinggu Bus Station, then transfer to Bus 12.
3) Stone Forest Gorge (石林峡)
Stone Forest Gorge is famous for its dramatic rock formations, deep valleys, and lush forests. The highlight is the world’s largest glass viewing platform, perched over 400 meters high above the gorge. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire valley.
The park is also known for its spectacular waterfalls, including the Jiutian Waterfall, which plunges from the cliffs in a breathtaking display. Hiking trails wind through the area, offering stunning viewpoints and a chance to explore the diverse rock formations that make this place unique.
👉 How to Get There: Take Bus 852 to Pinggu town, then switch to Bus 25 or a local taxi.
4) Jinhai Lake (金海湖)
Jinhai Lake is Beijing’s largest water recreation area, surrounded by rolling mountains and lush greenery. It’s a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities like kayaking, sailing, fishing, and paddleboarding.
For those who prefer a relaxing experience, a boat cruise around the lake provides stunning views of Lake Light Tower, Green Island, and the Golden Flower Princess Tomb. Jinhai Lake is also a popular camping spot, where visitors can enjoy stargazing and bonfires by the water. The lake’s scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it a great getaway from Beijing’s busy city life.
👉 How to Get There: Take Bus 918 from Dongzhimen to Pinggu, then transfer to Bus 9.
5) Jingdong Karst Cave (京东大溶洞)
Jingdong Karst Cave is an underground marvel, often called “China’s No.1 Ancient Cave.” Formed over 1.5 billion years ago, it features massive stalactites and stalagmites in various fascinating shapes. Some formations resemble dragons, pagodas, and mythical creatures, with highlights like “Dragon Paints the Sky” being a visitor favorite.
The cave remains a cool 10-15°C (50-59°F) year-round, making it a refreshing escape during Beijing’s hot summers. Outside the cave, visitors can enjoy cable cars, go-karts, and family-friendly rides, adding to the fun.
👉 How to Get There: Take Bus 852 from Dongzhimen to Pinggu, then take a local taxi.
6) Yaji Mountain (丫髻山)
Yaji Mountain is one of northern China’s most important Taoist sites, attracting both pilgrims and tourists. The mountain gets its name from its twin peaks, which resemble a traditional Chinese girl’s hair buns.
At the summit, the Bixia Yuanjun Temple is a popular spot where visitors pray for blessings, health, and success. Every year during the fourth lunar month, a grand temple fair brings thousands of visitors for religious ceremonies, cultural performances, and local food stalls. The mountain also offers scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
👉 How to Get There: Take Bus 852 from Dongzhimen to Pinggu, then take a taxi or a local bus.
3. How to Get to Pinggu District
There are several ways to reach Pinggu from Beijing.
By Subway
Currently, there is no direct subway to Pinggu. The closest option is Line 15 to Fengbo Station, then transferring to a bus or taxi.
By Bus
- Jingdong Grand Canyon: Take Bus 852 from Dongzhimen Public Transport Hub in Beijing to Pinggu town, then switch to Bus 12.
- Stone Forest Gorge: Take Bus 852, then transfer to Bus 25.
- Jinhai Lake: Take Bus 918, then transfer to Bus 9.
By Car
Driving from downtown Beijing to Pinggu takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes via the Jingping Expressway. Road signs along the way make navigation easy.
4.Where to Eat in Pinggu District
Pinggu District is famous for its fresh peaches, roast lamb, and farm-style dishes. Here are some great places to try local flavors.
1) Pinggu Roast Lamb (平谷烤全羊)
Roast lamb is a must-try dish in Pinggu. The meat is tender, flavorful, and cooked over charcoal. Many local restaurants serve this specialty.
Recommended Restaurant: Yulong Roast Lamb Restaurant (渔龙烤全羊)
2) Farmhouse Cuisine (农家菜)
Many local farmhouses serve fresh home-cooked meals made from organic vegetables, tofu, and free-range chicken.
Recommended Restaurant: Shanshui Farmhouse (山水人家)
3) Pinggu Peaches (平谷大桃)
Pinggu is famous for its peaches. If you visit during summer, don’t miss the opportunity to taste these sweet and juicy fruits.
4) Pinggu Town Restaurants
You’ll find a variety of choices, from hot pot and BBQ to Western cuisine.
5. Where to Stay in Pinggu District
Pinggu offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets.
Luxury Hotels
- CITIC Jinling Hotel (中信金陵酒店) – Located in a scenic area, this high-end hotel offers modern facilities and beautiful surroundings.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Jinhai Lake Resort (金海湖度假村) – A great choice for families, offering comfortable rooms and lake views.
Budget Stays & Farmhouses
- Yaji Mountain Farmhouse Inns (丫髻山农家院) – Affordable and cozy, these farm stays offer an authentic rural experience with home-cooked meals.
- For an authentic experience, consider staying at a farmhouse. You’ll enjoy home-cooked meals, rural scenery, and friendly hospitality.
6. Pinggu Tourist Information Centre
Heading to Pinggu and need some Beijing Pinggu District Travel Guide? Make sure to stop by the Beijing Tourist Information Center in Pinggu District! Conveniently located near top attractions like Jinhai Lake and Yaji Mountain, this center provides free maps, transportation guidance, and insider tips on the best places to visit. The helpful staff are always ready to assist, ensuring you have a smooth and enjoyable trip. Discover Pinggu’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage with confidence!
| Station Name | Address | Service Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Jinhai Lake Information Center (平谷金海湖咨询站) | Jinhai Lake Scenic Area, Pinggu District (平谷金海湖景区) | 69991356 |
| Yaji Mountain Taoist Cultural Site Information Station (平谷丫髻山道教文化名胜区咨询站) | Shimen Taiji Square, Beijishan Village, Liujia Store Town, Pinggu District (平谷刘家店镇北吉山村石门太极广场) | 6197253 |
7.Pinggu District Travel Tips
Here are some helpful tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
1) Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Pinggu is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). Spring offers blooming peach blossoms, while autumn has beautiful fall colors.
2) What to Pack
If you’re visiting in summer, bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. For winter trips, wear warm clothes since temperatures can drop below freezing.
3) Payment Methods
Most places accept Alipay, WeChat Pay, and cash. However, some smaller shops may not take foreign credit cards.
4) Language Tips
English is not widely spoken in Pinggu, so learning basic Chinese phrases can be helpful.
5) Safety and Etiquette
Pinggu is very safe, but always keep an eye on your belongings. Be respectful in rural areas and follow local customs.
Pinggu District is a hidden gem in Beijing, offering a mix of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re exploring Jinhai Lake, hiking through canyons, or tasting delicious local food, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.
This Beijing Pinggu District Travel Guide provides all the essential details for a smooth trip. Now, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Pinggu!
