Hundred-Mile Landscape Gallery | Connecting mountains, waters, forests, geological wonders, and rural charm into a scenic route
Beijing Hundred-Mile Landscape Gallery is located in the northeast of Yanqing District, linking six towns including Qianjiadian and Sihai. Centered around Luanchi Road, it connects mountains, waters, forests, geological wonders, and rural scenery into a continuous line. It is a top choice for self-driving and nature experiences in the Beijing suburbs and is acclaimed as the best self-driving route in Beijing.
Best Travel Time
- Autumn (September to November): The core viewing period, with peak autumn colors from late September to November 10. Yongxinbao Village’s dual-color maple forest displays a mix of red and yellow leaves, the mountains are richly colored, and the lake at Dishuihu reflects the colorful leaves, making it a photographer’s paradise.
- Summer (July to August): Average temperature is only 22°C, making it a natural summer resort. You can cool off by stepping into the water at Wulong Gorge, admire the spectacular terraced irrigation scenes, and encounter blooming wildflowers in the mountains.
- Spring (April to June): Mountain flowers bloom, vegetation revives, migratory birds rest by Yanshan Tianchi, presenting a vibrant scene perfect for spring outings and photography.
Core Attractions Recommended
Must-Visit Natural Wonders
- Wulong Gorge: A typical river valley landform, the 2-kilometer-long gorge features steep cliffs and connected pools. During the high-water season, waterfalls cascade with roaring water sounds. In 2025, a new autumn-only night tour will be added, with starry lights on the boardwalk after 5 PM, resembling a walk through the Milky Way. Admission is 30 RMB, located in Shaliangzi area, Qianjiadian Town, Yanqing District.
- Petrified Wood National Geopark: The only national geopark in China centered on petrified wood clusters, preserving wood fossils from the late Middle to Late Jurassic period. Its scale and quantity are rare worldwide. In 2025, an immersive AR guide will be introduced, allowing visitors to visually experience the ancient forest, making it great for children. Admission is 30 RMB, located in Xiadelongwan Village, Qianjiadian Town.
- Dishuihu (Dripping Water Pot): Named after a slender 30-meter-high waterfall that flows from a cliff opening, resembling water dripping from a pot. The lake water is emerald green like jade. A one-hour lakeside walk leads to the mountain top with panoramic views. The autumn scenery and reflections have earned it the nickname "Little Jiuzhaigou of Beijing suburbs." Admission is 25 RMB, free for children under 1.3 meters, and pets are allowed.
- Yanshan Tianchi (Baihebao Reservoir): A plateau lake surrounded by mountains on three sides, with a wide lake surface reflecting the mountains. Migratory birds gather in spring, and cool breezes blow in summer. It is the starting point of the western section of the route, offering a view of the "sapphire" water surface. Free admission, located 20 kilometers northeast of Yanqing Town.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
- Yongxinbao Village: Home to a hundred-acre dual-color maple forest with vibrant red and bright yellow leaves arranged neatly. You can drive into the forest for camping and atmospheric photography. After navigating to the village entrance, proceed to the next intersection and turn left to find parking.
- Xianai Mountain Village: A hidden paradise for camping enthusiasts, surrounded by forest meadows, small bridges, and flowing water. Free parking and rest areas are available. Camping is allowed but open flames are strictly prohibited. The quiet environment is perfect for relaxation.
- Four Seasons Flower Sea: A 47-kilometer-long valley where roses, lilies, marigolds, and other flowers bloom from May to October, forming a vast flower field. Flowers can still be enjoyed at the end of October. Ideal for cycling or strolling.
Transportation and Route Planning
Transportation Methods
- Self-driving (recommended): Depart from the city, take the Jingzang Expressway (G6) or Jingli Expressway to Yanqing, then transfer to Yanliu Road and enter Luanchi Road. The whole trip takes about 2 hours, mostly on paved roads, suitable for sedans. Six new charging stations have been added along the way, so new energy vehicles can travel with confidence.
- Public Transport: Take the subway to Badaling Great Wall Station, then transfer to a bus or chartered car. Pay attention to the last bus time; this option is better for short trips.
Classic Route Suggestions
1-Day Highlights Tour
Ganggou Welcome Lake (check in at the "Hundred-Mile Gallery" sign) → Petrified Wood National Geopark (AR guide experience) → Wulong Gorge (hiking and waterfall listening) → Dishuihu (lake and waterfall viewing). This covers the core attractions with a relaxed and manageable pace.
2-Day In-Depth Tour
- Day 1: Arrive at Petrified Wood National Geopark in the morning for the AR guide experience, hike Wulong Gorge in the afternoon, and stay for the night tour at dusk. Overnight at a guesthouse and enjoy a farmhouse dinner.
- Day 2: Drive along Luanchi Road in the morning for photography, stop at Xianai Mountain Village for rest, visit Dishuihu in the afternoon for tea picking (participate in tea picking and frying during the October autumn tea season), and on the way back, check in at Yongxinbao Village’s maple forest.
Accommodation and Dining
Accommodation Recommendations
- Characteristic Guesthouses: Prefer rural guesthouses like "Hawthorn Courtyard," some offering homemade hawthorn jam and other special treats. Experience farmhouse life with peaceful surrounding scenery.
- Convenient Hotels: Choose accommodations in Yanqing Town for better cost performance. It’s about a 30-minute drive to the core scenic spots, suitable for travelers who prefer comfortable lodging.
Dining Suggestions
- Specialty Foods: Try Yanqing huoshao (fire shovel bread), local stewed chicken, wild vegetables, and other farmhouse flavors. Participate in DIY huoshao experiences at guesthouses or workshops.
- Dining Locations: Small restaurants in Henan Village are located mid-route and offer authentic flavors, suitable for meals during the trip. Be cautious of prices at restaurants near scenic spots and avoid buying from roadside "internet-famous" honey stalls and other mobile vendors.