It’s currently the busiest time of the Fragrant Hills Red Leaf Festival, with 70% of the mountain’s forests already turned red, layer upon layer like a painting naturally colored by nature, whetting tourists’ “appetites.” But those who have visited Fragrant Hills during the festival know very well that traffic around the area is extremely congested during this period—it’s common to be stuck in traffic for an hour, not to mention the crowded crowds and long queues on the roads. However, according to media reports, Fragrant Hills received 60,000 visitors in a single day during the recent peak period, which is still much lower than the scenic area’s maximum capacity of 160,000, and the experience on the mountain is quite comfortable. So, even during the bustling Red Leaf Festival, the biggest issue when visiting Fragrant Hills is just the traffic. So how do you solve the traffic problem? The editor believes that instead of getting stuck on the way to Fragrant Hills, you might as well stay right there. Here are two great accommodation options recommended for you.
Serena’s Home at Fragrant Hills, Beijing
Serena’s Home at Fragrant Hills is a small courtyard house located at the foot of Fragrant Hills, just a few minutes’ walk from the entrance. Staying here allows you to sleep in a bit before heading to the hills. While others are stuck in traffic, you can stroll leisurely to the entrance of Fragrant Hills Park without any rush. The courtyard environment is fresh and clean, with a distant view of the mountain outlines, and the sunset scenery in the evening is also beautiful. In addition to Fragrant Hills, nearby attractions such as the Eight Great Sites and the Summer Palace are also within easy reach.
The courtyard features an interior decoration style that blends Chinese and Western elements, with five guest rooms including Japanese tatami, European Mediterranean, and minimalist Chinese styles. Aside from the comfortable rooms, the courtyard also has a spacious yard and an outdoor terrace. It’s a great choice for weekend getaways with a couple of friends for a suburban trip around Beijing, or for hosting family and friends for a barbecue party.
Fragrant Hills Holiday Business Club Garden View in Beijing
This year, Fragrant Hills Park has highlighted a “Historic Ancient Path Red Leaf Viewing” route. Large patches of red leaves can already be seen near Jingcui Lake and Xianglu Peak, while the largest ginkgo tree in the park, located in the Shuangqing Villa area, is gradually turning golden.
However, for the best viewing experience, visitors are advised to take the cable car. As it ascends smoothly, with the altitude gradually increasing, visitors can witness the transformation of the red leaves on the southern mountains as the height rises— the colors grow richer the higher you go, and you can also overlook the entire red leaf spectacle of Fragrant Hills. On a clear day, passengers in the cable car can also enjoy views of the Beijing cityscape, including sights such as Kunming Lake in the Summer Palace, the Beijing Botanical Garden, and the CCTV Tower.