Pinggu Phoenix Terrace

Pinggu Phoenix Terrace

Phoenix Terrace, also known as Jingtai Mountain, is one of the two major scenic areas within the Eastern Great Canyon Tourist Zone. It sits atop the eastern peak of the canyon at an elevation of 800 meters. The name comes from its flat, broad summit resembling a platform and a well on the mountain whose water is as sweet and cool as spring water. Phoenix Terrace is covered in dense pine forests, shaded by tree canopies, abundant with mountain delicacies, and blessed with fresh air—truly a natural oxygen bar, making it an excellent spot for ecological tourism.

The scenery at Phoenix Terrace varies with the seasons: in spring, wildflowers bloom vibrantly and apricot blossoms fill the air with fragrance; in summer, gentle breezes bring refreshing coolness; in autumn, mountains are painted red and forests turn into a tapestry of colors; in winter, snow blankets the land and you can go searching for plum blossoms in the snow. Each season offers unique sights, sounds, and feelings, all with their own charm.

A mountain cable car connects Jingtai Mountain with the Eastern Great Canyon. The canyon is rugged and serene, while the mountain rises high into the clouds. A poetic couplet praises the experience: “Explore the canyon to feel its mystery and tranquility; climb the peak to gaze upon thousands of ridges and valleys.” After visiting, you’ll find the verse remarkably apt.

Phoenix Terrace boasts five spectacular highlights:

The first is the symphony of pine waves. Phoenix Terrace is home to thousands of acres of pine forest, lush and vibrant. Higher up, the air is cooler, and as you walk through the woods, the rustling of the pines forms waves of sound that seem like ancient zither melodies, babbling brooks, open-field songs, or surging waves—each season brings a different tune.

The second is the pine forest like a felt carpet. Beneath the pines of Jingtai Mountain lies a thick layer of fallen pine needles, soft as a rug or a felt mat. Whether you sit, lie, stand, or walk on it, a sense of joy arises, as if you’ve become one with nature and merged into the wilderness.

The third is apricot blossoms like blood. Phoenix Terrace has over 500 acres of apricot groves. When in full bloom, viewed from afar, they look like white snow against the spring sun, filling the area with a refreshing scent. Bees and butterflies dance among the blossoms, creating a delightful scene.

The fourth is the view from on high. Phoenix Terrace once had five ancient lookout platforms. Standing atop them and gazing into the distance fills you with awe and grandeur. You might see ranges upon ranges of mountains and peaks, vast fields of farmland with curling smoke from chimneys, steep cliffs and calm lakes, or lush greenery dotted with blooming flowers.

The fifth is the ancient charm of the Great Wall. Phoenix Terrace is home to remnants of the original ancient Great Wall, winding along the ridge. Reflecting on the past, you’ll be moved by the solemn and majestic history, almost hearing the echoes of time.

By car: Take the Beijing-Shunyi Road to Pinggu, then turn left at Zhangxindian.

By bus: Take Bus 918 from Dongzhimen to Pinggu, then transfer to a local shuttle bus to the scenic area. Alternatively, on Saturdays and Sundays, take Bus 918 from Dongzhimen to Dongdaqiao, then Transfer to Tourist Bus 14 or the Chongwenmen tourist shuttle bus directly to the scenic area.

Contact Info: Tel: 010-60968317; Address: Yuzishan Village, Shandongzhuang Town, Pinggu District, Beijing, within the Eastern Great Canyon.