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At Mulan Paddock, visitors can explore the vast grasslands, enjoy horseback riding, and experience the local Mongolian culture. The area is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and photography, particularly in the spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
Mulan Hunting Ground, the royal hunting ground of the Qing Dynasty, is located in the northeastern part of Hebei Province (Weichang Manchu and Mongolian Autonomous County, Chengde City), bordering the Inner Mongolia grasslands. Since ancient times, it has been a grassland with abundant water and grass and thriving beasts.
The "Thousand Mile Pine Forest" was once a hunting ground for the Liao emperors, while the "Mulan Hunting Ground" was the location for the Qing emperors' "Mulan Autumn Hunt." In 1681, Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty opened up over 10,000 square kilometers of hunting grounds here to train his troops. During the first half of the Qing dynasty, the emperor would lead princes, ministers, and elite troops from the Eight Banners to this area annually for hunting and sightseeing, a ritual known as the "Mulan Autumn Hunt." Over the 140-plus years between the reigns of Kangxi and Jiaqing, the Mulan Autumn Hunt was held here 105 times.
More than 200 episodes of TV dramas and movies, including "My Fair Princess", "The Legend of Miyue", "The Orphan of Zhao", "The Emperor Wu of Han", and "Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace", were completed here.
The climate is cold temperate continental monsoon plateau, and the best time to travel is from July to October.
About 3 days
150 yuan (one ticket for Saihanba Forest Farm, Yudaokou Ranch and Hongsongwa Nature Reserve).
Mulan Paddock has historical significance as a site where the famous legend of Hua Mulan is said to have originated. The area is a vast expanse of grassland with a long tradition of Mongolian herding and equestrian culture, making it a popular destination for visitors interested in China's rich rural heritage.
Mulan Paddock is located in Chengde, Hebei Province. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transport is limited, so it’s recommended to hire a car for convenience.
The paddock is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is at its most scenic. The paddock is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The entrance fee is around 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but online booking options may also be available through local tourism websites.
It’s not necessary to book tickets in advance, but for peak seasons or weekends, it’s a good idea to book tickets 1-2 days before your visit to avoid long queues.
To fully explore Mulan Paddock, 3-4 hours are recommended. This allows time for outdoor activities like horseback riding, hiking, and taking in the scenic beauty of the area.
The must-see highlights include the vast grasslands, the traditional Mongolian yurts, and the horse-riding trails. The panoramic views from the top of the hill are also a must-see, offering great photo opportunities.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides can be arranged upon request, but it's advisable to arrange in advance. Audio guides may also be available in Mandarin.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the hill overlooking the paddock. The open grasslands and the surrounding mountains provide stunning backdrops, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Start by visiting the horse-riding area for a quick experience, then take a walk through the vast grasslands. The highest point of the paddock offers excellent panoramic views, and visiting the Mongolian yurts for a cultural experience is highly recommended.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Mulan Paddock. However, a visit during the day, particularly around sunset, provides beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
The paddock tends to be less crowded on weekdays, especially during the off-season (autumn and winter). Weekends and public holidays can see a significant increase in visitors, so it's better to visit during the week for a more relaxed experience.
There are basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls selling snacks and drinks. You can also find some souvenir shops offering local products and crafts.
The area is mostly accessible, with paved paths in some parts. However, some areas, like the high viewpoints or horse-riding trails, may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. It’s best to check in advance if any specific accommodations are needed.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. It's still a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or in remote areas.
There are a few local restaurants nearby serving traditional Chinese meals, such as lamb dishes and hotpot. For a wider selection, Chengde city center offers a variety of dining options.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the local restaurants. Halal food is limited in the area, but may be found in Chengde city.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Chengde city, ranging from budget options to mid-range accommodations. Some hotels may offer shuttle services to Mulan Paddock.
Nearby attractions include Chengde Mountain Resort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Eight Outer Temples. These can be easily combined into a day trip, along with a visit to Mulan Paddock.
Yes, there are souvenir shops offering traditional crafts such as Mongolian-style jewelry, woolen items, and local snacks. The area is also known for its handmade leather goods and unique textiles.
After visiting Mulan Paddock, taxis or ride-hailing services like Didi are the most convenient options to continue your journey to other parts of Chengde or beyond.
