Xishan National Forest Park is the national forest park closest to downtown Beijing. With abundant landscapes and convenient access, it has been a perfect destination for both locals and travelers to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
In this guide, we will share the unmissable highlights of the park and recommend the best visiting route for different travelers. Besides, transportation guide and practical tips are also included for you to enjoy a smooth journey there during your Beijing tour.
- Chinese Name: 西山国家森林公园
- Address: 100 meters west of the intersection of Minzhuang Road and Xiangshan South Road, Haidian District, Beijing
- Opening Hours:
March 15 – November 15: 07:00-18:00, park cleared by 21:00
November 16 – March 14: 08:00-17:00, park cleared by 20:00
- Ticket: CNY 10/USD 1
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn (mid-October – mid-November), spring (mid to late April – May)
- Highlights: Appreciate autumn foliage, climb the hill and enjoy a panoramic view of Beijing
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- Unmissable Highlights
- Recommended Routes
- How to Get to?
- Practical Travel Tips
- Explore with China Xian Tour
- FAQs
Unmissable Highlights of Xishan National Forest Park
The Best Night View in Beijing – Guixiao Rock
Standing at a height of 473 meters, Guixiao Rock is the highest viewpoint in Xishan National Forest Park. It got the name because the weathered holes in the stone make a sound similar to that of a ghost crying when the wind blows through.
It is widely considered the best place to appreciate the night skyline of Beijing. From the viewing platform, you can admire the glittering traffic flow along Chang’an Avenue and the modern skyscrapers, like the China World architectural complex and CCTV Tower. On sunny days, even the lights from adjacent Hebei Province can be seen.
Tips: It is recommended to arrive there 1 hour before sunset to enjoy both the charming sunset view and the dazzling lights after dark.
Spectacular Autumn Scenery – Red Leaves Ridge & Red Leaves Canyon
The period from mid-October to mid-November is the best time to appreciate the red leaves in Xishan Park.
Here are the two classic routes for sightseeing:
- Red Leaves Ridge Route (Mid Mountain Pavilion → Guixiao Rock): Strolling on this trail, you will be surrounded by the vibrant smoke trees, allowing you to appreciate the red autumn leaves up close
- Red Leaves Canyon (Plum Garden → Guixiao Rock): The valley is blanketed with red maple tress in autumn. Follow this route to feast your eyes on the panoramic view of the valley and take photos of colorful autumn foliage.
The park also holds the Red Leaves Culture Festival in mid-October. Besides, there is also a lively garden market where you can purchase flowers and watch the traditional intangible cultural heritages.
A Fairytale Misty Wonderland: Flower Creek
Flower Creek is a very unique landscape inside the park. On weekends and public holidays, artificial mist is activated to create a dreamy waterscape, making tourists feel as if they were in a fairyland. What’s more, rich in negative oxygen ions, it is reputed to be a natural oxygen bar and is suitable for a peaceful stroll.
Beautiful Sea of Flowers in Spring: Magnolias and Peach Flowers
The spring blossoms in Xishan National Forest Park last from early March to mid-May.
During early March – mid-April, thousands of magnolias in the Magnolia Garden are in full bloom, forming a sea of pink and white flowers.
From mid-March to mid-April, wild peach and apricot trees cover the hill. When viewed from afar, the hill seems to be blanketed with snow, recreating one of the Eight Great Sights of Yanjing, “the Sunny Western Hills After Snow”.
Abundant Historic and Cultural Heritages
Beyond the breathtaking natural scenery, the park also houses a wealth of historical and cultural scenic spots, such as the Remains of the Qing Dynasty Eight Banners Garrison, Fahai Temple, the Hall of Kshitigarbha, and Yaoyue Cave. Besides, it is home to some memorial sites, like the tomb of Mei Lanfang, a famous Peking Opera performer, and the Heishanhu Battle Monument.
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Recommended Routes
Route A: Summit Challenge Line
- Best For: Hikers and Photographers
- Route: East Gate → Xishan Waterfall → Flower Creek → Red Leaves Canyon → Mid Mountain Pavilion → Red Leaves Ridge → Guixiao Rock (Summit)
- Distance: About 12 km
- Time Needed: 5–6 hours
- Highlights: Connect the most iconic natural scenic spots, appreciate the abundant landscapes of waterfalls, misty streams and red leaves, and take panoramic photos of Beijing
- Tips:
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- There are more steps along this route, so it is more suitable for travelers with good physical strength. Please wear anti-slippery shoes and bring enough water and snacks.
- If you plan to enjoy both the sunset and the night view, it is better to start the hike at about 16:00.
Route B: Leisurely Light Hiking Route
- Best For: Families with kids and elders
- Route: East Gate / Northwest Gate → Flower Creek → Big Stage of the Forest (Children’s Amusement Area) → Nature Observation Path → The Delightful Forest (Picnic Area)
- Distance: About 3 – 4 km
- Time Needed: 2 – 3 hours
- Highlights: Flat road and stroller-accessible. At the Big Stage of the Forest, swings, slides, seesaws and other facilities are available for children. The Delightful Forest is shaded by lush trees, making it an ideal place for a picnic and observing squirrels.
- Tips: The food options are limited in the park, bring some snacks. A picnic mat is also highly recommended for you to lie down for a rest.
Route C: Efficient Night View Route
- Best For: Travelers with a tight schedule and night view enthusiasts
- Route: Take a taxi to the parking lot at the back mountain and then walk about 20 minutes to Guixiao Rock
- Distance: About 5 km
- Time Needed: about 45 minutes
- Highlights: The most effortless and efficient way to reach the core viewing platform at the peak, best for watching the sunset and the night skyline
- Tips: Since there are no street lamps along the road, it is advised to bring a light and travel with companions.
Route D: Easy Autumn Foliage Appreciation Route
- Best For: Travelers seeking a relaxing trip for autumn scenery and those who want to avoid crowds
- Route: East Gate → Plum Garden → Red Leaves Canyon → Guixiao Rock → Return as the same route you came or descend by another trail you prefer
- Distance: About 5 km
- Time Needed: about 2 – 3 hours
- Highlights: Avoid crowded Red Leaves Ridge, enjoy a sweeping view of red leaves all over the mountain at Red Leaves Canyon
- Tips: The best time to enjoy the red leaves is from late October to early November. Visiting on weekdays can avoid the peak crowds on weekends.
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How to Get to the Park?
Located in the Haidian District, Xishan National Forest Park is about 1 hour’s drive away from the city center (Tian’anmen Square).
Taking a taxi or ride-hailing service is the most worry-free and convenient way. Simply show the driver your destination: Xishan National Forest Park (西山国家森林公园). The cost is about CNY 60 – 100/USD 8 – 14.
If you plan to appreciate the night landscape, tell the driver to take you to Back Mountain Parking Lot near Guixiao Rock (鬼笑石后山停车场) and then walk about 20 minutes to the peak.
Please note that it may be difficult to find a private car or taxi for the return trip, so reserve your ride in advance.
You can also reach the park by combining the subway and public buses. It is money-saving, but requires several transfers, thus not recommended for travelers.
Practical Travel Tips about Xishan National Forest Park
- What to wear: A pair of non-slip shoes or hiking shoes is a must, as some roads have steep or worn steps. Bring a coat to protect yourself from the strong wind and low temperature at the peak.
- Equipment: For tourists planning to hike after dark, a torch or a headlamp is recommended. The phone flashlight is also usable, but it drains the battery quickly.
- Mosquito Protection: In the forested areas, mosquitoes are common. Apply insect repellent before your visit and bring it with you.
- Safety Precaution: Do not hike alone in the evening. It is strictly prohibited to bring any source of fire (lighters, matches) into the park. Pay attention to the weather and avoid climbing the hills during thunderstorms. Some roads may be icy in winter, so extra caution is needed.
- Avoid Crowds: In the peak season (October & November), the park will be filled with tourists on weekends. It is highly recommended to visit on weekdays or arrive before 08:00.
- Food Options: Inside the park, you can find a convenience store at the entrance. On weekends, there may be a stall near the Big Stage of the Forest selling some fast food. So, prepare enough water and snacks in advance.
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Whether you are a photographer seeking the best scene of the city, a hiker hoping to escape the bustling city or a family looking for a peaceful time, Xishan National Forest Park will not let you down.
Given the long distance, you may find it difficult to plan the trip by yourself. China Xian Tour is glad to offer you help. We are committed to provide high-end, customized China tours for international travelers for many years and have been recommended by 99% of our clients. Our itinerary is tailored completely based on your interests and needs. Travelling with us, you will enjoy a perfect journey. Just contact us now.
FAQs about Xishan National Forest Park
How to book the ticket?
You can purchase at the ticket window on site with your passport. It supports payment by WeChat, Alipay and cash. Generally, the ticket supply is abundant and it is unlikely to sell out.
Are there English signs in the park?
The English signs are relatively fewer, but it is not hard to navigate. You can also take a picture of the guide map at the entrance or download a map on your phone in advance.
