Oh my god, the Huanglong Scenic Area is so breathtakingly beautiful that it took my breath away!

**II. Transportation Guide**
1. **Self-drive**:
- **From Beijing**: Take the G6 Jingzang Expressway → Exit at Huailai → Follow Provincial Road S241 to Huanglong Villa (approx. 2.5 hours).
- **From Zhangjiakou**: Take the Jingxin Expressway → Huailai County → S241 (approx. 1 hour).
2. **Public Transport**:
- Take a high-speed train from Beijing/Zhangjiakou to **Huailai Station**, then take a taxi to the scenic area (approx. 30 minutes).
- Direct buses are available from Huailai County to the scenic area (limited schedules, check in advance).

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**III. Must-Visit Attractions**
1. **Cloud Meadow**
- Alpine grassland at the mountaintop, accessible by hiking or cable car (cable car fee: ~¥60/person).
- Summer blooms are perfect for photos; autumn offers stunning foliage.
2. **Fairy Cabinet Mountain**
- Unique cabinet-shaped rock formation with legendary immortal relics (~1-hour hike).
3. **Huanglong Lake**
- Crystal-clear mountain lake surrounded by forests, ideal for picnics.
4. **Activities**
- Grass sliding, horseback riding, archery (¥30-100/activity).

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**IV. Accommodation Tips**
1. **Inside the Scenic Area**:
- **Huanglong Villa Resort**: Wooden cabins or standard rooms with mountain views (peak season: ~¥400-600/night).
2. **Nearby Options**:
- **Huailai County Hotels**: Budget-friendly (e.g., Huailai Blue Whale Hotel, ¥200-300/night).
- **Farmstays**: Rural charm at affordable prices (¥100-200/night).

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**V. Food Guide**
1. **Local Specialties**:
- **Huailai Grapes**: Famous local produce (harvest season: Aug-Oct).
- **Iron Pot Fish Stew**: Fresh reservoir fish cooked in rustic style.
- **Oat Noodle Rolls**: Traditional Zhangjiakou staple.
2. **Recommended Eateries**:
- Scenic area restaurants (~¥50-80/person).
- **"Guanting Reservoir Fish Banquet"** in Huailai (e.g., "Lakeside Fishing Village").

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**VI. Sample Itinerary (2 Days, 1 Night)**
**Day 1**:
- Morning: Arrive → Cable car to Cloud Meadow → Hiking & photos.
- Afternoon: Hike Fairy Cabinet Mountain → Relax at Huanglong Lake.
- Evening: Stay at the resort for stargazing.

**Day 2**:
- Morning: Grass sliding/horseback riding → Walk in birch forests.
- Afternoon: Return via Huailai for reservoir fish feast.

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**VII. Tips**
- **Best Season**: June-October (summer escapes, autumn foliage).
- **Clothing**: Pack layers (mountain temperature swings) + sun protection.
- **Tickets**: ~¥60/person (cable car/activities extra).
- **Essentials**: Mosquito repellent + comfortable shoes.