Apricot picking near ancient pass of Great Wall

120 kilometers northeast from Beijing, Simatai village is part of the historical county of Gubeikou. With an area of over 130,000 square kilometers,(?) more than two thirds of the village is covered by plants. As the picking period runs from April to October, the village overgrows with peaches, apples, chestnuts and the star production, apricots.

Apricots are nutritious with various vitamins and amino acids. They work well against coughing, aging and cancer. The apricot in Simatai village was also a favourite fruit sent up to the imperial court in the Qing Dynasty since Emperor Qianlong first tasted them during a private visit. More history and old tales can be discovered if you pay a visit to local various temples.

Hundreds of fruit picking venues are scattered in the outskirts of Beijing. Each have their own specialities for visitors. It a new type of fun for urbanites, going to the suburbs with their families, taking a break from the bustling city and relaxing from the busy beat.