Mentougou

Introducing Mentougou

Mentougou, located just southwest of Beijing, is an old district steeped in history, culture, and revolutionary traditions. As early as 10,000 years ago, the "Donghulin People," a people from the Early Neolithic period, thrived here. Necklaces made of small snail shells and tin pierced through cattle ribs have been discovered at Donghulin sites, reflecting humanity's pursuit of beauty and the beginnings of primitive animal husbandry. Furthermore, remains of ancient human life from this period have been discovered in Dadonggong Village in Yanhecheng and Baiyu Village in Zhaitang Town.

Climate and best time to travel

Climate: mid-latitude continental monsoon climate

Best time to travel: All seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended places to visit: Lingshan, Baihuashan, Miaofengshan, Huangcaoliang, Tanzhe Temple, Jietai Temple, Yongding River, Pearl Lake

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Mentougou

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Mentougou is located on the western outskirts of Beijing and is known for its rich cultural history and stunning natural scenery. The area has ancient temples, such as the Tanzhe Temple, and historical relics from the Jin and Yuan Dynasties. Mentougou is also famous for the Longqing Gorge, a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Mentougou is located approximately 60 km from downtown Beijing. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or private car, but public buses are also available from central Beijing. The subway is not directly connected, but you can take a bus from Beijing's western bus stations.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The best time to visit Mentougou is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its best. The popular tourist sites like Longqing Gorge and Tanzhe Temple are generally open year-round from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Longqing Gorge is approximately ¥60, while Tanzhe Temple has an entry fee of around ¥20. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but some attractions also offer online booking options for convenience.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For major attractions like Longqing Gorge, it's recommended to book tickets at least 1-2 days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, for the Tanzhe Temple and other smaller sites, tickets can generally be bought on-site.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore the main attractions like Longqing Gorge and Tanzhe Temple, a full day is recommended. If you're interested in hiking or visiting additional natural sites, you may want to plan for a longer stay of 2-3 days.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the stunning Longqing Gorge, the historic Tanzhe Temple, and the picturesque nearby mountains and caves. The local villages and rivers also offer great photo opportunities and peaceful retreats.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for many of the main attractions, such as Longqing Gorge and Tanzhe Temple. Most tours are offered in Chinese, but some can be arranged in English upon request. Audio guides may also be available in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are at the top of the cliffs in Longqing Gorge, offering panoramic views of the river and surrounding mountains. Tanzhe Temple also provides excellent photography opportunities, especially for those interested in traditional architecture and nature shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary is to start with the scenic boat tour in Longqing Gorge, then explore the temple and surrounding nature areas. Afterward, visit the local villages or go hiking on nearby trails. If you have more time, consider visiting some of the caves in the region.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While night visits are not common for most attractions in Mentougou, Longqing Gorge offers special light shows during the summer months, particularly during the Lantern Festival. These light shows create a magical atmosphere around the gorge's natural beauty.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Mentougou can get crowded during public holidays and the summer months. The least crowded times are typically weekdays in the spring and autumn, especially in the mornings when the weather is cooler.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most attractions, such as Longqing Gorge and Tanzhe Temple, have toilets, food stalls, and water available. There are also rest areas for visitors. Larger attractions like Longqing Gorge have shops selling souvenirs and local snacks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Mentougou is generally accessible for elderly and children, though some hiking routes in the mountains may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Longqing Gorge has boat tours that provide easier access to the scenic areas, while the temple can be accessed by paths suitable for most visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still commonly used, especially in smaller villages or remote areas. However, many of the larger attractions and restaurants accept mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay), and some may accept credit cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants near Longqing Gorge offering traditional Chinese meals, such as noodles, dumplings, and barbecue. In the villages around Mentougou, you'll find small eateries serving regional specialties like lamb and fish dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are limited in the area but can be found in some restaurants in Ulaanbaatar or larger towns. Halal food is not commonly found, but you can ask for special requests in some restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near Mentougou, such as the Mentougou Hotel and various local guesthouses. For a more comfortable stay, you can also choose hotels in the nearby town of Beijing, which offers more luxurious options.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Summer Palace in Beijing is about 30-40 minutes away and can be easily combined with a trip to Mentougou.
• The Great Wall of China (Badaling section) is also nearby and can be visited as part of a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops in Longqing Gorge and around Tanzhe Temple, where you can find traditional Chinese items, such as calligraphy scrolls, tea sets, and local handicrafts. You can also find souvenirs like postcards, clothing, and small statues.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Mentougou, you can take a taxi or bus back to central Beijing, or if you're heading to other parts of China, there are buses and trains available from Beijing's major transportation hubs like Beijing West Railway Station.