Other Destinations:

Labagou Men

Labagou is located within a Man nationality township in Huairou. It has a thick forest known for being home to a variety of Chinese medicinal plants. Local guides can introduce visitors to the different kinds of herbal plants, such as licorice and skullcap.

Getting there: Take Bus 936 Subline to Labagoumen stop, or drive along Jingcheng Expressway to Huairou, then go via National Highway 111 to reach the destination

Guji Mountain

The mountain, located on the border of Fangshan and Mentougou, has few cliffs and isn't very steep. Three Buddhist shrines can be found at its peak, but they have been abandoned and are partlydestroyed. On its southern foot are many historical places, including ancient temples and steles. Some of the temples have also been abandoned.

Getting there: Take Bus 931 to Lujiatan Xikou stop

Ling Mountain

At 2,302 meters high, Ling is the highest peak in Beijing. From the mountaintop, hikers can see surrounding mountains. It also has a vast meadow with thick grass, which makes it the only ideal grazing area in Beijing for Qinghai and Tibetan plateau yak and Yili horses.

Getting there: Take Bus 929 Subline to Shuangtangjian Xi stop. Alternatively, visitors can drive along Fushi Lu to Mentougou, then go via National Highway 109 to reach the place

Tips:

1. Hiking in the Beijing mountains combines the skills of mountaineering, rock climbing and spelunking. Foreigners are advised to take a local friend or guide with them.

2. Basic hiking equipment is essential, such as lightweight walking boots and a warm jacket even in the summer. Accessories like a small headlamp or flashlight, as well as a hiking rod will be helpful.

(CRI May 27, 2009)