Things To Do
in Jiuduhe

Picturesque stone bridges, reflections on calm water and riverside farmland—best at golden hour for soft light and misty mornings.

Patchwork terraces, rustic farmhouses and drying corn strings make for classic rural scenes, especially in late summer and autumn.

Short hikes to nearby ridgelines reward photographers with panoramic views of the valley and layered mountain silhouettes.

Traditional architecture and small village temples provide cultural contrast to the natural landscape—ideal for close-up and cultural shots.

Rich, slow-braised pork prepared in a sweet-savory sauce; commonly served at local guesthouses and perfect with steamed buns or rice.

Must-Try!

A northern rural staple made from cornmeal—crispy on the outside and soft inside; sold at markets and small street stalls.

Locally sourced river fish, often simply grilled or braised with garlic and soy—available at farm restaurants near the river.

Seasonal dish in autumn featuring local wild mushrooms sautéed with greens and garlic; a highlight in mushroom season.

Small morning market where farmers sell fresh vegetables, corn, eggs and seasonal mushrooms—great for sampling fresh snacks and fruit.

Simple night stalls near guesthouses selling grilled skewers (羊肉串/鸡肉串), corn, and fried dough—popular after hikes.

A friendly greeting and modest behavior are appreciated. Address elders with respect and accept food or tea with both hands when offered.

In private homes, hosts may ask you to remove shoes—follow the host’s lead and offer to wear provided slippers if available.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially inside private courtyards or during family activities.

Avoid loud or confrontational behavior; direct criticism in public can cause embarrassment. Small talk and smiles go a long way.

Tipping is not customary in small towns; service staff do not expect tips, though leaving small change or rounding up in guesthouses is appreciated. For guided hikes or private drivers, a modest tip for excellent service is acceptable.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widespread in China but in very small shops and rural stalls cash (RMB) is still commonly used—carry some cash for markets and remote areas.

Late March–May brings mild weather and blossoming trees; trails can be muddy early in spring. Good time for wildflowers and fewer crowds.

June–August is warm and humid but generally cooler than central Beijing; frequent afternoon showers and lush vegetation make it good for river walks and escaping city heat.

September–November is the best time for clear skies, crisp air and colorful foliage—ideal for hiking and photography, with cooler daytime temperatures and chilly nights.

December–February is cold and dry with occasional snow; some guesthouses may offer cheaper rates, but outdoor activities are limited by cold and icy trails—pack warm clothing.

Main international airport serving northeastern Beijing; from Jiuduhe expect a 1–1.5 hour drive depending on route and traffic. Accessible by taxi or arranged transfer; combine with a train or bus into Beijing if arriving by air.

Newer southern airport for Beijing; travel time to Jiuduhe is longer (often over 1.5 hours) and typically requires a taxi or private transfer. Useful for many international and domestic flights.