Huairou

Introducing Huairou

Huairou District, a district under the jurisdiction of Beijing, lies at the southern foot of the Yanshan Mountains in northeastern Beijing. It borders Miyun District to the east, Shunyi District and Changping District to the south, Yanqing District to the west, and Chicheng, Fengning, and Luanping Counties of Hebei Province to the north. The urban area is 50 kilometers from Beijing's Dongzhimen Gate and covers a total area of ​​2,122.6 square kilometers. The 2014 APEC meeting was held at Yanqi Lake in Huairou District, and in 2015, it was designated a National Sanitary City (District).

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Most Popular FAQs for Huairou

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

Huairou is a district in Beijing that has long been a retreat for Beijing residents, offering natural beauty and historic sites like the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. The area also has significance due to the Hongluo Temple, which has a history dating back over 1,000 years, and its role as a base for eco-tourism and cultural preservation.

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

Huairou is located about 45 km northeast of central Beijing. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car, though public buses and a combination of metro and buses can also get you there, with a transfer from Dongzhimen or Huoying metro stations.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The major attractions, including the Mutianyu Great Wall, are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends.

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

For the Mutianyu Great Wall, the entrance fee is about 45 CNY, with additional fees for the cable car or chair lift. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through official platforms like Trip.com or other travel agencies. Fees for other attractions, like Hongluo Temple, may vary.

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

Booking tickets for the Great Wall in advance is recommended during peak seasons, especially in autumn. A few days to a week in advance is sufficient, but booking ahead ensures better availability for special tours or cable car services.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the Mutianyu Great Wall and surrounding areas, plan for about 3 to 4 hours. If you plan to visit additional sites like Hongluo Temple or Yanqi Lake, you may need a full day.

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

Key highlights in Huairou include the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, Hongluo Temple, and the Yanqi Lake area. The panoramic views from the Great Wall and the historical architecture of Hongluo Temple are particularly memorable.

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

Guided tours are available for the Great Wall and other sites in Huairou. Tours are usually offered in Chinese, but some agencies provide tours in English and other languages upon request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

For the best photography, head to the Mutianyu Great Wall's highest points, where you can capture sweeping views of the wall and surrounding mountains. Yanqi Lake also offers great spots for landscape photography, particularly during sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit at the Mutianyu Great Wall and hike along the wall, taking breaks at the various watchtowers. Afterward, visit Hongluo Temple and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. If time permits, head to Yanqi Lake for a relaxing boat ride or lakeside walk.

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

There are no light shows or night visits at the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. However, some evening tours around Yanqi Lake are available, particularly for dinner cruises and lakeside activities.

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

Huairou can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially at the Great Wall. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons.

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

At the Mutianyu Great Wall, you’ll find toilets, rest areas, food stalls, and souvenir shops. There are also cafes and restaurants near Yanqi Lake and the Hongluo Temple for refreshments.

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

The Mutianyu Great Wall has cable cars and chair lifts, making it accessible for elderly or disabled visitors, though the terrain can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Hongluo Temple is accessible, but parts of the area near the lake may require walking on uneven paths. It is generally suitable for children.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at most attractions and restaurants in Huairou. However, it’s always good to carry some cash for smaller shops or street vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and cafes near the Great Wall and Yanqi Lake, offering both local and international cuisine. For example, the Yanqi Lake area has lakeside cafes and dining options with views of the water.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some restaurants near the Great Wall and in Huairou town. Halal food options may be limited, but you can find some in larger restaurants or nearby markets.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the Great Wall and Yanqi Lake, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Popular options include the Yanqi Lake Hotel and Huairou district guesthouses.

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

• The Mutianyu Great Wall is often combined with a visit to the Hongluo Temple.
• Yanqi Lake offers scenic views and boat rides, and you can also explore the nearby Simatai section of the Great Wall.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the Great Wall sell items like keychains, postcards, traditional Chinese crafts, and wall art. You can also buy small decorative items and local specialties from nearby markets.

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

Taxi or private car is the best option for continuing your trip. If you are returning to Beijing, you can take a bus back to Dongzhimen or Huoying metro stations. Public transportation is available but less direct.