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Xianglu Peak, the summit of Beijing's Fragrant Hills, stands at 575 meters above sea level. It's named after a large rock at the summit that, when viewed from a distance, resembles an incense burner. The surrounding area is often shrouded in mist, creating a captivating scene resembling incense smoke. Because the peak is steep and difficult to climb, it's nicknamed "Ghost-Seeing Sorrow."
Standing on Xianglu Peak, gazing out across the surrounding countryside, one can take in the panoramic views of Xiangshan Mountain. This is especially true in autumn, when the maple leaves turn red, creating a dazzling display of crimson leaves across the mountaintops, creating a vibrant scene. Instead of hiking directly to the summit, a sightseeing cable car, nearly a kilometer long and divided into three stations: upper, middle, and lower, provides the ideal and safest way to enjoy the scenery from Xianglu Peak.
North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Autumn is the best time to visit and enjoy the gorgeous scenery of the red leaves in Xiangshan.
It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours
Included in the Xiangshan Park scenic area
April-June, September-November 15th, Monday to Sunday 06:00-18:30
July-August Monday to Sunday 06:00-19:00
November 16th - March of the following year, Monday to Sunday, 06:00-18:00
Xianglu Peak, located in Xiangshan Park, is one of Beijing's famous natural landmarks. It is historically significant as it offers stunning views of the city and has been a location for imperial gardens and cultural sites. The peak has become a symbol of Beijing's rich cultural and natural heritage.
Xianglu Peak is located in Xiangshan Park, in the western part of Beijing. You can take the Beijing subway (Line 4) to the Beigongmen Station, and from there, it's a short taxi or bus ride to the park entrance. It's also accessible by walking if you're nearby.
The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and the park is less crowded. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.
The entrance fee to Xiangshan Park is about 10 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the park entrance, and online bookings are available during peak seasons or holidays for a smoother entry process.
It's not necessary to book tickets in advance unless you plan to visit during peak seasons or holidays, in which case booking a day or two ahead can help avoid long queues.
You can fully explore Xianglu Peak and the surrounding park in about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace. If you're hiking to the top, plan for a bit more time to enjoy the views and take photographs.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and they can be arranged at the entrance of the park. Audio guides in English and Chinese are also available, though they may require a small rental fee.
The best viewpoints are from the top of Xianglu Peak, offering expansive views of Beijing and the surrounding hills. The Temple of the White Cloud also provides great photo opportunities with its historical and natural backdrop.
There are no night visits or light shows, as the park closes at 7:00 PM. However, visiting during sunset can offer a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere for photos and relaxation.
The park can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on a weekday morning or late afternoon, especially during the off-season (spring and fall).
There are public toilets and rest areas scattered throughout the park. There are also small food vendors selling snacks and drinks, but no large restaurants inside the park. It's a good idea to bring water and snacks with you for the hike.
The park is accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths and resting areas. However, the hike to the summit can be challenging, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility difficulties. There are alternative routes with less steep terrain.
Cash is accepted at the entrance, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) and credit cards are also widely used throughout the park and nearby areas.
There are several small cafes and restaurants around the entrance of Xiangshan Park where you can enjoy traditional Chinese dishes and snacks. The nearby district also offers a variety of dining options.
Vegetarian options are available in nearby restaurants, with a focus on traditional Chinese vegetarian dishes. Halal food is also available in nearby areas, though not inside the park.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance of Xiangshan Park offering postcards, traditional Chinese crafts, and small trinkets. You can also find nature-themed items such as mountain climbing accessories and local art.
