A return visit to the ancient village in western Beijing in autumn brings the scent of harvest.

The most famous ancient village in Beijing is undoubtedly Cuandixia. I visited once ten years ago and was deeply impressed. This year, I revisited during the National Day holiday and found that the ancient village is also keeping pace with the times, with more bustling crowds and less of the quiet, rustic charm. The ancient buildings have been infused with contemporary cultural elements.

Cuandixia Village has a history of over 600 years and has well preserved 75 traditional northern mountain courtyard houses from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Visiting the ancient village in autumn, the sunlight is gentle and lazy, shining on every brick and tile of the old courtyards, making the traces of time appear even more rustic. The branches swaying in the breeze in front of and behind the houses are beginning to show red and yellow hues, conveying the atmosphere of autumn to the village.

⭐️Main Attractions:
1. Yixiantian: A natural canyon and filming location for the movie "The Warlords."
2. Wealthy Family Courtyard: Also called Guangliang Courtyard, it is the highest and most prestigious courtyard in the village.
3. Guandi Temple: Located on the small hill at the easternmost edge of the village, known by locals as the "Big Temple."
4. Quote Wall: Very characteristic of the times, full of memories.

👉Travel Tips:
1. Cuandixia Village is suitable for a one-day visit. If you want to stay for two days on the weekend, you can first explore nearby scenic spots and then stay overnight in a local guesthouse in Cuandixia to experience rural nightlife.
2. On holidays, it’s best to set off early and arrive early. Drive straight through the village to Yixiantian for photos and check-in, then leisurely stroll back through the village. If you arrive late, the road to Yixiantian will be very congested, and it will be crowded and difficult to take photos.
3. Suggested route 👉 Walk along the main street to the stone mill, then start ascending from the right side path, passing the Wealthy Family Courtyard, ancient well, and Quote Wall. Head northeast to Guandi Temple, then descend the wooden plank road on one side of the temple back to the main street.
4. Climb to the opposite hill’s viewing platform for a panoramic view of the ancient village.
5. Village restaurants mainly serve farmhouse dishes, and there are also outdoor street-side cafes. The service facilities are well equipped.

📍Address & Transportation: Located 90 kilometers from the city center in Zhaitang Town, Mentougou District. The village has one main street shared by cars and pedestrians. During peak tourist season, traffic jams occur entering the village, so it is recommended to park at the village entrance parking lot or open spaces if arriving late.
🕑Opening Hours: Open year-round for free. Many courtyards in the village are also open for visitors to enter and explore.

Post by HenryGarcia | Oct 21, 2025