Liangxiang Chestnuts

Liangxiang Chestnuts

　　The history of chestnut production in the Beijing area dates back a long time, with specialized institutions managing and trading chestnuts established throughout various dynasties, such as the “Chestnut Garden” during the Liao and Jin periods. There are also many historical records about chestnuts, including texts such as “Records of the Grand Historian” and “Illustrated Pharmacopoeia.”

　　Liangxiang chestnuts are mainly produced in the western and northwestern mountainous areas of Fangshan. The highest yields come from villages such as Beiyao in Fozizhuang Township, Zhongyao, Shuiyu, and Huagang in Nanyao Township. They are considered among the finest quality chestnuts—sweet, flavorful, and plump, sinking immediately when placed in water. During the Tang Dynasty, Liangxiang chestnuts were offered as a local tribute from Fanyang to the capital Chang’an. In the Liao Dynasty, they were also presented to the imperial court. Liangxiang chestnuts have been exported for over a hundred years. After the founding of New China, they continued to be popular in Europe, America, and Japan.