Shentangyu Natural Scenic Area

Shentangyu Natural Scenic Area

Shentangyu Natural Scenic Area is a national AA-level tourist attraction.

Shentangyu Natural Scenic Area is located within Huairou County, 65 kilometers from Beijing. It integrates mountains, rivers, unique peaks, peculiar rocks, the Great Wall, and local folk culture, serving as a comprehensive tourist destination for sightseeing, entertainment, leisure, and weekend getaways.

Shentangyu Natural Scenic Area has a planned total area of 160,000 square kilometers, with over 75% green vegetation coverage. The area features lush forests, fresh air, pristine water quality, a pleasant climate, and significant diurnal temperature variation. In summer, temperatures here are 2°C lower than those in Beidaihe, making its environmental quality the best in the Beijing region. The renowned Longevity Village (Shipian Village) is situated right in the heart of this area.

The Mountains of Shentangyu: With elevations ranging between 250 to 875 meters, the peaks are steep and the rocks are naturally formed. The naturally occurring “Stone Waterfall” was shaped by rainwater erosion on a granite rock face spanning nearly 10,000 square meters, resembling a Milky Way pouring down or a frozen waterfall, displaying a grand and majestic presence.

The Waters of Shentangyu: The Yanqi River runs through the entire area, formed by the convergence of mountain springs. Its water quality exceeds the standard for Grade II drinking water. The river flows continuously all year round and is the source of Yanqi Lake. Here, clear springs and streams are found everywhere. The naturally formed Longtan (Dragon Pool) is 4 meters deep with crystal-clear water where fish are visible. There are also wider water bodies such as Yuanyang Pool (Mandarin Duck Pool) and Crocodile Pool, which are great spots for swimming and boating.

Historically, Shentangyu served as a strategic military pass to the capital. The “Shentangyu” Pass, built in the early Ming Dynasty, along with the ruins of ancient garrison fortresses, still remain. The unrestored sections of the ancient Great Wall are well-preserved, retaining their original appearance. Currently, Shentangyu Tourism Company has built a Great Wall Resort next to the ancient Great Wall. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll up the ancient wall during their break and fully immerse themselves in the experience of their ancestors guarding the frontier and resisting foreign invasions.

The shocking “Longtan Tragedy” records a tragic chapter of Japanese aggression against China that took place at Longtan, a major scenic spot within the area. To commemorate the revolutionary martyrs, with the approval of the Huairou County Committee, a “Longtan Tragedy Memorial Monument” was erected at the site of the tragedy. This site has now been designated as a Youth Patriotic Education Base by both the Municipal and County Youth Leagues.

Shentangyu began offering folk tourism activities in 1994, receiving a large number of visitors. Visitors here can not only enjoy the beautiful scenery but also experience rich local folk culture: eat farmhouse meals, experience rural life, sleep on a kang (traditional heated bed); enjoy picnics, fishing, barbecues, and more.

Shentangyu Scenic Area contains dozens of stunning natural attractions, all shaped by the wonders of nature without any artificial embellishment. In spring, the area is a riot of blooming flowers, with over a hundred species of wild medicinal herbs and mountain vegetables spread throughout, making it an ideal place for flower viewing and spring outings. In summer, the green grass and clear blue waters create a perfect summer retreat. If you’re feeling down, you don’t need to see a doctor—just breathe in the fresh air here, and all your worries will vanish. In autumn, golden harvests and abundant fruits offer a chance to return with a full load. In winter, the landscape is covered in silvery white, exceptionally enchanting. Shentangyu has distinct seasons, each with its own scenery. For seniors looking to relive memories of the past, the “Longevity Village” will make those dreams come true.

After five years of development, Shentangyu Natural Scenic Area now boasts improved facilities including a sandy beach bathing area, fishing spots, bonfire sites, and outdoor barbecues. Service facilities such as restaurants, guest rooms, themed wooden cabins, souvenir shops, public telephones, and parking lots have also been constructed. Strolling along the winding paths, breathing in the refreshing fragrance of flowers and plants, listening to the springs by the rocks or meditating by the stream, you will be enchanted by nature and find it hard to leave. At night, singing or dancing around the bonfire or in the open-air dance area offers endless charm.

Shentangyu Natural Scenic Area enjoys a prime location, adjacent to Yanqi Lake and Hongluo Temple, connected to the west with Mutianyu, and facing Yunmeng Mountain in the east. The Huai-Feng Highway and Fanqi Highway run on either side of the area, providing convenient transportation. From Dongzhimen, you can take bus routes 916 or 936, or from Xizhimen, you can take a train to reach the area. On Saturdays and holidays, a special tourist bus from Xuanwumen to Shentangyu is available from 7:00 to 8:30 am, providing direct access to Shentangyu.

Address: Shipian Village, 8 kilometers northwest of the Huairou District Yanqi Town Roundabout, Beijing