Cuandixia Village

The Basics

Wander along the cobblestone lanes of this historic mountain village, and admire the architecture of the stone courtyard homes, many of which were built when the village was first founded more than 400 years ago. Don’t miss the delicate carvings in brick, stone, and wood. Scenic trails on the surrounding hillsides lead to temples and offer stunning views of the village and countryside.

Visit Cuandixia Village independently or as part of a private tour. Getting personalized attention and insights from your guide can be particularly helpful in this area, as most villagers here do not speak English.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There’s an entrance fee to enter the Cuandixia scenic area.

• Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, and be aware of uneven surfaces.

• There is a steep path with stairs leading to the village, steep stairs throughout the village, and steep paths to get to viewpoints.

• Many of the houses offer lunch, with some offering rooftop dining areas.

• Full-day tours from Beijing can last about eight hours.

How to Get There

Cuandixia Village is located about 56 miles (90 kilometers) northwest of Beijing. The easiest way to visit is to join a tour or to book a taxi or driver for the day. If you’re traveling on public transportation, take the train to Pinggouyuan Station, bus 892 (more than two hours) to Zhaitang, and then take a taxi to Cuandixia Village.

When to Get There

Cuandixia Village can be visited year-round. It’s very popular on the weekends and public holidays. Visit during the week to avoid the crowds. The village can easily be visited as a day trip, but some basic accommodations are available for those who want to spend the night.

Cuandixia Village Highlights

Particularly well-preserved courtyards include Guangliang Courtyard, Caizhu Courtyard, and Mill House. There is a viewpoint on the mountain facing the village. Visitors can also hike up to Guanyu Temple on the other side for equally stunning views.

Is visiting Cuandixia Village worth it?

Yes, a visit to Cuandixia Village provides the opportunity to admire traditional Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture and witness local life in a rural Chinese village. You can hike to mountainside temples, admire the historic courtyard homes, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch at a local home.

Can you go to Cuandixia Village on your own?

Yes, you can visit Cuandixia Village independently or as part of a tour—but a guide can be helpful, as locals speak minimal English. From Beijing, take the subway (line 1) to Pingguoyuan Station, followed by bus 892 to Zhaitang Station and a taxi to Cuandixia—about a 3-hour journey.

What is the best time to visit Cuandixia Village?

To avoid the crowds, visit Cuandixia Village on a weekday or spend the night to enjoy a more “local” experience before and after the tour groups arrive. The traditional village is also an interesting place to celebrate the Qingming Festival, Lantern Festival, or Chinese New Year.

Are there restrooms at Cuandixia Village?

Yes. There are restrooms at Cuandixia Village, and many local “restaurants” and homestays have bathrooms. However, be aware that most facilities here are squat-style toilets. Western-style toilets may be available, but hygiene standards may not be what you are used to, and toilet paper may not be provided.

How long does it take to tour Cuandixia Village?

Cuandixia Village is small enough to explore in the morning or afternoon—within a few hours, you can see the traditional courtyard homes, admire the view from Guan Yu Temple, and learn about local customs. For a more immersive cultural experience, you can also enjoy lunch or a night at a local home.

Can you take photos at Cuandixia Village?

Yes, Cuandixia Village is a popular destination for local and international tourists and has many photo opportunities. Enjoy taking photos of the traditional temples, courtyard houses, and mountain views—but remember to respect locals and always ask permission before taking pictures of them or their homes.