Pinggu

Introducing Pinggu

Pinggu District belongs to Beijing and is located in the northeast of Beijing. It is 70 kilometers west of Beijing and 90 kilometers east of Tianjin. It is the link between the two major cities. The geographical coordinates are 116°55′E～117°24′E, 40°1′N～40°22′N. It borders Sanhe City, Hebei Province to the south, Miyun District, Beijing to the north, Shunyi District, Beijing to the west, Jizhou District, Tianjin to the southeast, and Xinglong County, Chengde City, Hebei Province to the northeast. Pinggu District is 35.5 kilometers long from east to west and 30.5 kilometers wide from north to south, with a total area of ​​950.13 square kilometers. It is surrounded by mountains on the east, south and north sides, with mountainous areas, shallow mountainous areas and plains each accounting for 1/3. The mountainous area accounts for 59.7%, and the cultivated land area is 115,100 mu. The district has 14 towns and 2 townships, 272 administrative villages, 4 district offices, 2 street offices, and 30 residents' committees[1]. In 2015, it was rated as a National Sanitary City (District).

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Most Popular FAQs for Pinggu

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

Pinggu District is in the northeast of Beijing and is known for its rich agricultural heritage, especially fruit cultivation. It has historical significance as a rural area contributing to Beijing’s food supply and cultural traditions, and is now a popular spot for agro-tourism and natural scenery.

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

• Location: Northeast Beijing, about 50–60 km from downtown Beijing.
• By bus: Take intercity buses from Dongzhimen or Wangjing Bus Stations to Pinggu.
• By taxi or private car: Approximately 1.5–2 hours from central Beijing.
• Guided day tours often include transportation from Beijing city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Most attractions open around 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM; specific farms or scenic areas may vary.
• Best time to visit: Spring (March–April) for peach blossoms, and autumn (September–October) for apple harvests.

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

• Entrance fees vary: Fruit-picking farms usually charge CNY 20–50, scenic spots around CNY 30–60.
• Tickets can often be purchased at the entrance or online through local tourism websites.

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

Booking is recommended for popular fruit-picking experiences and scenic spots during weekends or holidays. 1–2 weeks in advance is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full visit typically takes 1–2 days, depending on whether you focus on scenic areas, fruit-picking, or cultural experiences.

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

• Pinggu Peach Orchard – especially during bloom season.
• Local fruit farms for picking apples and peaches.
• Dongshuiyu Mountain Scenic Area – for hiking and natural landscapes.
• Pinggu Old Town – historic streets and local markets.
• Xiayunling Scenic Area – panoramic views and nature trails.

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

• Guided tours: Available through local travel agencies, mainly in Chinese; some English-speaking guides can be arranged.
• Audio guides: Rare, mostly provided in Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Pinggu Peach Orchard during blossom season.
• Hiking trails in Dongshuiyu and Xiayunling mountains.
• Old Town streets and traditional farmhouses.
• Scenic viewpoints overlooking terraced fields and valleys.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start with Pinggu Old Town to experience local culture.
• Visit Peach Orchard and fruit farms for seasonal activities.
• Take a hike in Dongshuiyu or Xiayunling Scenic Area for panoramic views.
• End with local markets or farm-to-table dining experiences.

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

Night visits are generally limited; special tours may be offered during festivals or blossom/harvest seasons.

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

• Crowds are higher on weekends, national holidays, and peak blossom/harvest seasons.
• Least crowded: Weekdays and early mornings.

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

• Basic toilets and rest areas at scenic spots and farms.
• Local restaurants and cafes serving farm-fresh meals.
• Small souvenir and fruit shops.
• Water and vending machines are available in major spots.

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

• Flat areas like orchards and old town are accessible for elderly and children.
• Mountain trails may be challenging; limited access for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted.
• Cash is recommended for small vendors or rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local farm restaurants serving fresh produce and traditional Beijing cuisine.
• Cafes and snack stalls in Pinggu Old Town.
• Restaurants at scenic areas offering light meals and refreshments.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Vegetarian options are available at most farm restaurants.
• Vegan options may be limited but can be arranged with advance notice.
• Halal food options are rare; check with local eateries beforehand.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Farm stays and guesthouses in Pinggu District.
• Small boutique hotels in Pinggu Old Town.
• Hotels in central Beijing with day-trip arrangements to Pinggu.

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

• Shisanling Ming Tombs – historic imperial tombs nearby.
• Gubeikou Great Wall section – less crowded and scenic.
• Yanqi Lake – water activities and natural landscapes.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Souvenir shops near orchards and scenic spots.
• Typical souvenirs: local fruits, peach blossom products, handicrafts, postcards.

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

• Return by intercity bus or taxi to Beijing city.
• Private car or tour group transfer to nearby attractions like Shisanling Tombs or Yanqi Lake.
• Some scenic areas provide shuttle services within Pinggu District.