Baicaopan Nature Scenic Area

Baicaopan Nature Scenic Area

The Fangshan Baicaopan Scenic Area is about 110 kilometers from downtown Beijing. Here you can enjoy alpine meadows covered in wildflowers, vast and spectacular mountain ranges, ancient pine forests lush with trees, and the frequent sea of clouds among the peaks—offering truly stunning natural scenery. It’s a delightful place to take in the views, snap photos, and breathe fresh air.

Pre-Trip Information

The Fangshan Baicaopan Nature Scenic Area shares its name with the Baishanpo Baicaopan Scenic Area in Baoding, Hebei. In addition, many travelers also confuse the Mentougou Baihuashan Nature Reserve and the Fangshan Baihuashan Scenic Area with these two. In fact, all several areas are located within the Baihua Mountain Range, which has one main peak on the Beijing side and another on the Hebei side. The Fangshan Baicaopan Nature Scenic Area belongs to the Beijing-side main peak, as do the Mentougou Baihuashan Nature Reserve and the Fangshan Baihuashan Scenic Area—meaning that one single mountain peak hosts three separately ticketed scenic zones, all of which connect at the summit. The Baishanpo Baicaopan Scenic Area, however, is located on the Hebei side and is a separate, unconnected destination. The famous Baihua Grassland of Baihua Mountain is situated on the Beijing side and can be accessed from any of the three Beijing-area scenic zones, but not from the Baishanpo Baicaopan Scenic Area. The highland meadow at Baishanpo is a different attraction. Be sure to distinguish them before your trip.

Overview

The Fangshan Baicaopan Nature Scenic Area is built around one of the main peaks of Baihua Mountain—Wuzhi Peak. There is about 15 kilometers of mountain road from the scenic area entrance to the summit, with a shuttle bus service available inside the park. The shuttle runs directly from the base to the summit, and tickets are mandatory. The shuttle operates on a loop schedule, so you can board a bus anytime after your exploration. There are no stops along the way (though you can flag down the bus if you’ve hiked partway and wish to ride back, as long as there are available seats). The main experience involves taking the shuttle to the top, then visiting scenic spots such as Pine Sea and Forest Waves, Pine Forest Ant Hills, and Furious Rocks Falling from Heaven. Afterward, hike for about an hour to reach Baihua Grassland. Once you've enjoyed the grassland, return to the shuttle pick-up point to head back to the scenic area gate. The total visit typically takes around 4 hours.

At the summit’s Wuzhi Peak, you’ll find the highest point in the vicinity. From here, you can gaze down upon rolling mountain ranges and winding roads snaking through the hills—a truly majestic view. The key sights here include Pine Sea and Forest Waves and Pine Forest Ant Hills, which are actually in the same area. This spot features dense pine woods where the tree canopy offers cool shade. On the ground around you, you’ll see mysterious ant hills rising more than half a meter above the soil.

It takes about an hour to walk from the summit to Baihua Grassland. This area is the highlight of the entire scenic zone. From June to August each year, wildflowers bloom across the mountaintop meadow, covering the grass in vibrant colors—a perfect spot for photography. In autumn, the landscape turns golden, offering equally stunning views. Additionally, the sea of clouds often seen here makes for great photo opportunities.

Accommodation and Dining

For weekend trips, consider staying overnight in the suburbs. A recommended option is Simatai Village, located about 8 kilometers from the scenic area (you can take a small car from the scenic area gate for around 20 RMB per person). The village has several guesthouses and many farmhouse accommodations. Standard rooms in guesthouses cost approximately 200–300 RMB and are in good condition. Farmhouse rooms are around 100–150 RMB and also include bathing facilities.

For meals, it’s recommended to dine at local farmhouses. While slightly pricier than regular restaurants, prices are still reasonable compared to other tourist destinations. You can sample authentic rural home cooking and enjoy a true countryside experience.

Special Tips

1. The scenic area is closed during winter each year, typically from November to April of the following year. However, closure dates may vary annually—please call ahead to confirm before your visit.

2. The temperature is cooler in the early morning and evening around the scenic area, so bring warm clothing.

3. On sunny days at the summit, sunlight is strong, so prepare sun protection items such as a sun hat and sunglasses.

4. Shopping is limited in the scenic area, so bring your own drinking water and any snacks or meals you might need during your visit.

Address: Simatai Village, Xiayunling Township, Fangshan District, Beijing

Type: Forest & Mountain

Recommended Visit Duration: About 4 hours

Phone: 010-60369038; 010-80392938; 4001816006

Official Website: http://www.baicaopan.com/

Opening Hours:

The scenic area is generally open from late April to late October each year. During this period, it is open daily from approximately 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (it may stay open until around 6:00 PM depending on visitor numbers). The area is closed and inaccessible from November to April.

Ticket Information:

Gate Price: 40.0 RMB

Adult admission: 40 RMB; sightseeing shuttle bus ticket within the scenic area: 40 RMB.

Xiayunling Township: 1. Location: Located at the foot of Baihua Mountain in southwestern Beijing, Xiayunling Township is 89 kilometers from downtown Beijing. The famous National Highway 108 runs through the township for 44 kilometers. It borders Hebei Province, with an average elevation of over 1,000 meters. Transportation is convenient. 2. Ecology: The township covers a total area of 218 square kilometers, includes 15 administrative villages, and has a population of 10,170. It boasts 178,000 mu of forest land, 130,000 mu of grassland, and over 400,000 fruit trees. The forest coverage rate exceeds 60%. The area is rich in mineral resources such as coal and stone, and enjoys fresh air and a pleasant environment. Natural scenery... More details on Xiayunling Township++