Jinhekou Valley

Jinhekou Valley

At the northern foot of the highest peak of the Yanshan Mountain Range—Xiaowutai Mountain—lies a spectacular and unique canyon: Jinhekou Valley. The “Golden River” gets its name from the golden-yellow rocks at the riverbed, which shimmer brilliantly against the clear blue water. Climbing to the peaks on either side of the valley, you can view the well-preserved Warring States-period Zhao Great Wall, as well as the “Ten Temples of Jinhe,” “Sunrise over Tai Mountain,” and “Bright Moon over Jinhe,” the latter being especially breathtaking. Jinhekou Forest Park is located at the foot of Xiaowutai Mountain, covering an area of 330,000 mu (about 22,000 hectares), and is the only primeval forest near Beijing. It is home to more than 1,320 plant species and 137 animal species, and has been designated as a provincial-level nature reserve and forest park. This area is part of the Taihang Mountain range, with Dongtai being the highest peak at 2,882 meters above sea level. The rugged mountains are teeming with rare birds and animals, as well as famous flowers and unusual plants. In May, the hillsides are blanketed with pink apricot blossoms, adding immense charm to the mountain scenery. Yu County is the largest producer of dried apricots in China, with 435,000 mu dedicated to their cultivation. By July, the branches are weighed down with abundant fruit, further enriching the area’s rustic charm.