2026 Xinglong Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

The Aranya Lanye Hotel is mainly Japanese style. When you enter the hotel lobby, the staff are very enthusiastic and have bright smiles! When checking in at the front desk, a lady served drinks and snacks. This is also their welcome feature, welcome tea and welcome gift, Welcome tea includes hawthorn water and almond milk, available hot or cold. The welcome gift was Japanese sweets, which was very delicious and thoughtful. There is a light floral scent in the hotel. It is said that the scent varies according to the season. There is a mountain spring running through the hotel. It flows right beside the "Xiaoye" restaurant. Tasting delicious food and listening to the gurgling water, Admiring the sunset over Wuling Mountain. You can also relax at the spa in the evening, remember to make an appointment in advance. There are currently three restaurants and a dessert shop in the park. And the cafe, desserts can be taken to the cafe to eat, Convenient for taking photos 4. There is also a sake bar, the drinks are delicious. It's quite comfortable to sit by the stream and have a drink in the evening.

Hidden in the Aranya community of Qinhuangdao, this dual hot spring paradise perfectly blends coastal romance with tranquil valley serenity! It boasts both ocean-view pools facing the chapel and Zen-inspired private hot springs by the streams of Wuling Mountain, offering a one-stop experience of carbonated springs, pomelo hot springs, and other unique experiences. This healing escape guide is a must-have! ❄️ 📍Address Guide: Aranya Community: Golden Coast, Changli County, Qinhuangdao City, Hebei Province Yanshi Hot Spring: Wuling Mountain Scenic Area, Xinglong County, Chengde City, Hebei Province Opening Hours: 9:00-22:00 (Last entry at 21:00 in winter) 🚗Transportation Tips: 2.5 hours to this hot spring paradise 【High-speed rail travelers, take note!】🚄 ✨Beijing/Tianjin → Beidai He Station: 1.5-hour drive ✨After getting off: Transfer to the community shuttle bus (25 RMB/person) or share a taxi (50 RMB/person), 30-minute direct journey ✨Changli Station: Taxi (10 minutes, 30 RMB) (few departures, check tickets in advance!) 【For those driving】🚗 ✨Beijing → Jingha Expressway: 2.5-hour direct journey ✨Tianjin → Qinbin Expressway: 2-hour journey ✨Free parking and charging stations available in the park 💫Park Tips: Free shuttle bus lines A, B, and C (unlimited rides)🚌 Line A: Auditorium + Sand Dune Art Museum. The night bus operates until 11 PM, super convenient for taking photos of the starry sky and hot springs! ✨Top 3 Must-Visit Attractions: 1️⃣Aranya Community Core Area - Lonely Library (Visit by appointment) - Aranya Auditorium (Dreamy seaside lighting) - Sand Dune Art Museum (Perfect spot for photos with light and shadow caves) 2️⃣Wuling Mountain Valley (1-hour drive) - Lanye Hot Spring: A fairyland at 900 meters altitude - Eye Stone Hot Spring: Concrete + Natural Light Art Space - Winter limited-time snow scenery + stream trail hiking 3️⃣Lighthouse Nature Park (A must-visit for families) - 20,000㎡ play area - Bird's Nest Tower + Forest Boardwalk - Daily deer parade + Nature Classroom ♨️Hot ​​Spring Experience: 【Romantic Sea View】🌊 - 40℃ constant temperature carbonated spring - Facing the Bohai Sea + taking photos with the auditorium - Nighttime light and water vapor = stunning photos 【Healing Valley】🏞️ 6 Private Hot Spring Rooms by the Stream - Stream and Tree Views from the Window - Winter Limited-Time Pomelo Soup + Silk Bath 🍜Warm Winter Food Special: 【Neighborhood Must-Try】🦞 - Freshly Cooked Seafood Porridge - Sea View Hot Spring Egg Breakfast - Courtyard BBQ + Steamed Seafood 【Wuling Mountain Flavors】🌰 - Lamb Offal Soup - A Warming Must-Have - Chestnut Stewed Chicken with Wild Game - Stir-fried Pork with Old Cucumber, Deer Antler Mushrooms 📌Exclusive Tips: ✔️Private hot springs must be booked in advance! ✔️Suka Hotel Package Includes Hot Pot for Two ✔️Light-Colored Swimsuit + Bathrobe = Perfect for Photos ✔️Golden Period from November to March: Snow Scenery + Pomelo Soup - A Double Attack

Starting from Beijing, a two-hour drive brought me to this tranquil retreat nestled amidst the Yanshan Mountains. Wuling Mountain Aranya differs significantly from Beidaihe Aranya – it lacks the vastness of a coastline, but possesses a profound depth of layered peaks. I booked a private hot spring bath at Lan Ye Hot Spring Resort a week in advance through the app. It's very close to Lan Ye, accessible by shuttle bus or on foot. A butler led me to a private courtyard. The room, approximately 60 square meters, features a minimalist wabi-sabi style and includes both indoor and outdoor baths, with an artificial snowscape outdoors. - Private Hot Spring Experience: The bath is constructed of natural stone and can accommodate two people. Each guest is disinfected, and the butler had already prepared the hot spring water. The surface was adorned with grapefruits provided by the hotel; currently, it's a winter-limited grapefruit bath. Soaking in the bath, my body relaxed and unwinded. Looking up, you see a tranquil, ethereal valley; in your ears, the sound of streams flowing from the melting snow of Wuling Mountain—that crisp, continuous white noise is more relaxing than any music. This also continues the entire park's theme of "returning to nature, quiet healing." -Suitable for: Office workers seeking a brief escape from the city, couples/partners who enjoy a quiet vacation Some journeys aren't about seeing more, but about—rediscovering yourself.

Chengde Anaya Lanya: Soak in a Healing Private Hot Spring Amid Royal Mountains and Waters When snowflakes fall on the serene silhouette of Wuling Mountain, and the steam from the hot springs rises, that winter holiday steeped in history is waiting for you to step in. Step into Anaya Lanya Hotel, where the design of Eastern wabi-sabi instantly soothes the restlessness brought by the city. Outside the window is the tranquil winter scenery of Wuling Mountain, and inside the room are warm tatami mats and a minibar you can enjoy at your leisure. This is not just a hotel, but a destination for hot spring lifestyle aesthetics, caring for the seasons and, more importantly, every guest’s natural experience. 01 Winter Warm Baths, Healing Body and Mind Soaking in hot springs in winter is a deep healing from the outside in. The warm spring water effectively promotes blood circulation, relaxes tense muscles and nerves, and dispels the cold. The hot spring experience at Anaya Lanya is especially unique. The highly sought-after winter limited "Yuzu Bath" from last year is returning, with the fresh yuzu fragrance not only beautifying the skin but also relieving physical and mental fatigue. The hotel has newly created six private creekside hot springs, extending the joy of bathing from mountain views to beside babbling streams. The most special is the "Eye Stone Hot Spring," almost vertically embedded in the cliff face, accessible only by passing through a poplar grove, like stepping into a secret realm. 02 Chengde’s Cultural Heritage, Within Reach Choosing Lanya is not just choosing a hotel but embracing a profound historical and cultural setting. Chengde, the "Purple Frontier Pearl" chosen by Emperor Kangxi, was the Qing Dynasty’s second political center. The hotel is located in Xinglong County, adjacent to Chengde city. From Lanya, you can easily visit the World Cultural Heritage Summer Resort and the surrounding Outer Eight Temples. The Summer Resort, built in 1703, is the largest existing imperial garden in the world, its design a microcosm of geographical features. Nearby, the Outer Eight Temples complex includes the Putuo Zongcheng Temple (Little Potala Palace). 03 Mountain Living Time, Sensing the Four Seasons At Lanya, the pace of your vacation is decided by nature and you together. In the morning, wake up to the chirping of insects and birds in the valley and take deep breaths of fresh oxygen. In the afternoon, visit the hotel’s affiliated "Jianshan Benyuan" Zen space to view exhibitions, read, meditate, or simply watch the koi in the pond and enjoy inner peace. The hotel also thoughtfully designs rich experiential activities. You can visit a century-old artisan craft exhibition, create a warm handmade item yourself, or participate in an aromatic meditation and sound healing session to awaken dormant senses. 04 A Culinary Journey to Warm the Winter Gourmet food is an indispensable part of the Lanya experience. Besides the highly cost-effective "First Canteen" in the Anaya community, the hotel itself has two exquisite Japanese restaurants: Koya and Matsukaze. In a light-toned, healing environment, sunlight filters through sheer curtains, adding a lazy and emotional warmth to the cuisine. If you miss a main meal, the neighboring "Rugu" café and bakery are perfect supplements. Enjoying a refined afternoon tea in this small shop surrounded by green pines and courtyards is another way to self-heal in the wilderness. From Beijing, it takes only 37 minutes by high-speed train to reach this hidden valley. This Spring Festival, no need to travel far. In Lanya’s private hot springs, let the warm water envelop your body, and look up to see the solemn and peaceful winter of Wuling Mountain. At this moment, the weight of history and the healing power of nature surround you. You will find that the best holiday is not endless indulgence but regaining balance of body and mind in a landscape nourished by culture, learning to cherish every warm, peaceful day. This is not just an escape but a return—a return to nature, to the heart, and to the precious way life should be.

Hello～ I’m Coconut Mom 🥥, who has written over 200 notes on outings with kids. The off-season at Wuling Mountain Anaya is really so comfortable! Fewer people and beautiful scenery. This time, I specially brought Coconut to check in at the much-anticipated Lighthouse Nature Park, and it definitely did not disappoint! ✨ 🌳 Highlights of the Park 1️⃣ Huge space + natural, non-powered design The park covers 20,000 square meters, built along the mountain terrain, featuring natural elements like raw wood, grassy slopes, and woodland 🌲. As soon as Coconut entered, she ran around happily, especially on the big slide that goes straight down from the top of the slope—she played on it at least ten times! 2️⃣ Amazing photo spots The ochre-colored lighthouse, wolf tail grass meadow, wooden boardwalk... every shot looks like an Instagram-worthy family photo 📸! 3️⃣ Different activities for every season Right now, with the crisp autumn air, it’s perfect for running and climbing 🏃; in summer, the creek water play area 💦 will open, with water wheels, floating bridges, and shallow water play installations—just thinking about it is refreshing! I’ve already promised Coconut we’ll come back next summer~ 📌 Practical Tips 📍 Navigation: Near Anaya · Wuling Mountain Lanye Hotel 🚗 Transportation: 2.5 hours driving from Beijing The slow-paced lifestyle at Wuling Mountain Anaya is perfect for weekend getaways with kids to escape the city! 💚 For more notes, feel free to visit Mom’s homepage 🍦

This time at Wuling Mountain, there is a place that far exceeds expectations—Jianshan Benyuan. This is a spiritual healing space with a Zen-inspired landscape. Within this space, you can borrow or purchase books, and choose from creative cultural merchandise. Order a pot of tea or a cup of coffee and quietly read for an entire afternoon. You can also sit on the floor and try calligraphy, copying a chapter of the Tao Te Ching, as if your soul is being purified. Step outside to find a Zen landscape made up of moss, streams, and white sand. Every casual photo looks like a masterpiece. The venue also regularly hosts exhibitions with diverse themes, allowing you to experience the unique vitality of objects and culture. Here, time seems to slow down. This kind of slow life is the perfect recharge station that people seek. 📍 Location: Phase II of Anaya Wuling Mountain, shuttle buses are available at the entrance of Lanya Hotel. 🎫 Admission requires a ticket, which can be used as payment at "Jianshan Benyuan" or "Cho Café" in the town.

No need to travel far to Japan, you can find a resort near Beijing that combines Japanese aesthetics, natural mountain views, and warm private hot springs — Anaya·Wuling Mountain. It is quieter than Beidaihe Anaya and is an excellent choice for winter family hot spring baths, snow viewing, and relaxation. 🚗 【Transportation and Arrival】 Self-driving: Navigate to "Lanye Hotel" or "Anaya Wuling Mountain," about a 2-2.5 hour drive from downtown Beijing. Pay attention to mountain road conditions in winter. High-speed rail: Take the high-speed train to "Xinglong County West Station," then take a taxi for about 30 minutes (fare around 50 RMB) to reach the scenic area. Within the park: Shuttle buses run between Phase 1, Phase 2, and the hot spring hall, very convenient. 🏮 【Accommodation Core: Lanye Hotel】 Wuling Mountain Anaya currently centers around "Lanye Hotel" for accommodation. It is not a traditional hotel but a community composed of multiple Japanese-style courtyards. Room types: Mostly Japanese-style floor bed rooms, simple and cozy. Some rooms have private hot springs, but public hot springs are more recommended. Packages: Usually include breakfast, handmade experiences (such as matcha, mizu shingen mochi), and experience tickets for the public hot spring "Lanye Hot Spring." Booking: The most reliable way is through the official Anaya app. ♨️ 【Winter Core Experience: Hot Springs and Snow Viewing】 Lanye Hot Spring (public): Japanese style, with indoor and outdoor pools. Soaking in the outdoor hot spring while snowflakes fall is the ultimate enjoyment. Time slots (2 hours each) must be reserved in advance via the app. Snow viewing and hiking: The hotel backs onto Wuling Mountain, which looks like an ink painting after snow. You can walk safely within the park area; near Phase 2 there are small streams and trails. Handmade experiences: Guests can participate in daily handmade activities (such as making matcha) for free, with prior reservation. Jianshan Benyuan: A Japanese courtyard-style bookstore/tea space, very photogenic. Guests receive consumption vouchers that can be exchanged for coffee or books here. 🍱 【Dining Options】 Dining options in the park are currently limited but of good quality: First Canteen: Owner’s canteen, affordable prices, diverse choices. Xiaoye: Japanese izakaya, serving yakitori and sake at night, Japanese set meals during the day. Zhipu Bakery & A10+A11 Coffee: Offers bread, cakes, and coffee, a great place for afternoon tea. Wantao Pot: Located on the second floor of the First Canteen, a specialty Japanese sukiyaki restaurant with high-quality Wagyu beef. 🏔️ 【2 Days 1 Night Slow Life Itinerary】 Day 1: Arrive in the afternoon and check in. Rest at the coffee shop and stroll around the park. Reserve Lanye Hot Spring in the evening to soak away the cold. Dine at Xiaoye or First Canteen at night. Join the Lantern Night Tour activity (if available). Day 2: Have breakfast at the hotel (choose from three restaurants). Join a handmade experience or visit Jianshan Benyuan to read and have tea. Take the shuttle to Phase 2’s “Linxi Market” and walk by the creek. After lunch, leisurely return. 🛌 【Other Accommodation Options for Reference】 If Lanye Hotel is fully booked or you want a different style, consider hotels in Xinglong County, but you will lose the convenience and atmosphere of the community: Xinglong Junlan Resort Hotel: One of the best hotels in the county, fully equipped. Xinglong Arcadia Hotel: A resort hotel with a large area, suitable for pure leisure. 💡 【Travel Tips】 Reservation system: Hot springs, handmade activities, and some restaurants require advance booking via the Anaya app, especially on weekends. Warm clothing: Mountain temperatures are lower than the city, and you will move between buildings, so wear thick down jackets and non-slip boots. Lower expectations: This is a new community still under construction; some shops may be closed in winter, and entertainment activities are fewer compared to Beidaihe Anaya. The main appeal is quiet healing. Pet-friendly: Pets are allowed in the community but must follow relevant rules. No TV: Lanye Hotel rooms do not have TVs, encouraging guests to put down electronic devices and enjoy time with family.

Photos from my two-day, one-night trip to Wuling Mountain with my child at the end of October. We went a little late and missed the peak autumn foliage season in the park. A pleasant surprise was that our little basket full of hawthorn berries came in handy again. 🚅Transportation: Round-trip high-speed rail from Beijing Station/Beijing Chaoyang Station to Xinglong West Station. We contacted the hotel's partner fleet in advance for pick-up service. The taxi ride to the hotel took about half an hour. ❗️I checked beforehand and found that the expressway from Beijing to Wuling Mountain wasn't finished yet, so we chose the high-speed rail. The total travel time, including travel time to and from the stations and waiting time, was about two to three hours. ‼ 🏨After getting off the high-speed train, you'll pass through a road construction zone on your way to Wuling Mountain. The road conditions are very poor and dusty, so be prepared if you're driving. 🏨Accommodation: Wuling Mountain Lanye Hotel. Offers one-bedroom/two-bedroom suites and a two-bedroom deluxe suite. Recommended for families with children. The hot springs and the First Canteen are nearby. ❗️Personally, I think the biggest problem right now is that the Wuling Line (shown in pictures 2 and 3) that runs through the park is currently open to the public and not yet a closed section of the park, so there are many large trucks passing by. ♨️Hot ​​Springs: Private hot springs are available with mountain views or stream views, both requiring advance reservations. The stream-view pools are newly opened and quite popular; we managed to book a mountain view pool. Unlike the private hot springs at Jinshanling, the hot springs at Wuling Mountain are located outside the hotel and have both indoor and outdoor pools (pictures 4-6), creating a more atmospheric experience. My child loves soaking in the hot springs, and even wants to relax in the tea room afterward. *If bringing a baby, please pay attention to the temperature and time. Also, please bring your own baby slippers and bath supplies. 🛝Play: Indoor facilities include a parent-child center, table tennis room, origami, etc. You can check and book activities in advance. Outdoor facilities include Lighthouse Park, and there are two children's activity areas in the first canteen and Phase II. ▫️Lighthouse Park is very large, with slides, trampolines, and a deer enclosure. However, since it's outdoors, it's more enjoyable when the weather is warmer. Children under 1 meter tall or under 3 years old are free; adult tickets are 30 yuan. One downside is the construction noise around the park. ▫️Children under 6 are not allowed to enter the Kenzan Honin Temple, so we couldn't feed the koi. ▫️We participated in a lantern parade in the evening, walking around several photo spots near the hotel to collect stamps as a way to digest our food. 🍲Food: Hotel breakfast options include First Dining Hall, Xiaoye, and Shiwei Valley (picture 17). Most of the yakitori at Xiaoye was decent, the beef tongue was so-so, but kids might prefer udon. Overall, if you love hot springs and don't mind road conditions, this is a great option. Once the roads are repaired and the weather is warmer, it should be just as close and beautiful as it is now. A weekend trip to Hebei...

Since I couldn't travel for my birthday, I planned to soak in a hot spring instead. Having been to Xiaotangshan before, I wanted to try a different place. In the end, I chose Wuling Mountain Anaya among several private hot springs in Beijing hotels and hot springs in nearby cities. With similar prices, I naturally trusted Anaya's quality more. Wuling Mountain is not large and is hidden in the mountains and valleys. Two days there is just right to leisurely soak and enjoy the bliss of relaxation. 🚄Transportation Taking the high-speed train from Beijing is more convenient than driving. Chaoyang Station departure is the fastest, only 37 minutes; I left from Beijing West and it took 1.5 hours. After getting off the train, taking a taxi is very convenient, about 30 minutes. 🏨Accommodation Currently, Wuling Mountain Anaya only has one hotel, Lanye Hotel. I like the hotel service at Anaya and did not consider homestays. The room is prepared with casual clothes and a thin down jacket, convenient for wearing while soaking. The fridge still has free drinks and refillable snacks, tea, and drip coffee. You can book with the front desk to experience either hand-made matcha or making mizu shingen mochi (free choice of one). For birthdays, there is free balloon decoration, plus a small bottle of sake and a cake (my birthday and ID birthday are not the same day, so no cake for me 🤷‍♀️). P10-14 ♨️Yanshi Hot Spring & Lanye Private Hot Spring Both hot springs require advance reservation. The biggest feature of Yanshi Hot Spring is the architecture designed by Dong Gong. The black-gray exterior with a middle floor of four-sided floor-to-ceiling windows, nestled between deep mountain forests and cliffs, is especially spectacular. Inside the hot spring, eight 8-meter-high light tubes bring in natural light, making the whole space soft, quiet, yet special. Soaking in the water, you can see the distant valleys and cliffs through the windows—so cozy. P2-6 Lanye Private Hot Spring’s features, besides exclusive use of over 50 square meters of private space and butler service throughout, I think the most attractive is the outdoor soaking pool. Facing the mountain, by the creek, from late November, artificial snow is made in winter. Soaking in hot water in nature while enjoying the snowy scenery— who wouldn’t love such a romantic atmosphere? P7-9 💡 To experience the view after Yanshi Hot Spring lights up, book at least the 4:30 PM session. After 6:00 PM, there is whiskey available. Lanye Creekside Private Hot Spring is in Phase 3, a separate area. The butler will contact you in advance to arrange shuttle service. Besides alcohol, ice buckets and wine glasses are provided for free. The free snacks are terrible, but there is a CD player playing Ryuichi Sakamoto’s "Three" album. Soaking and then sitting there listening to music and resting is truly a pleasant time.

After the first snowfall, Wuling Mountain's Aranya is a gentle, hidden paradise nestled in the valley. Stepping into Lan Ye Private Hot Spring is an instant fall in love. Opening the door reveals a snow-covered stream; the wind chimes tinkle in the eaves, like the romantic sound of falling snow. Indoors, the grapefruit soup, with its warm steam and sweet fruity aroma, contrasts beautifully with the gentle snowfall outside the window. The clash of cold and warmth soothes all winter's weariness. In the afternoon, stroll to Jian Shan Honin, where you can find a window seat to copy scriptures and read. The rich aroma of hand-drip coffee fills the air, and the adorable handmade figurines in the shop are irresistible. Snowflakes falling, wind blowing, a warm private hot spring—this is what winter should be like! 🤍

✨Transportation Guide✨ 📍Wulingshan Town, Xinglong County, Chengde City 🚗Driving Route: Navigate to "Anaya Wulingshan," take the Beijing-Tibet Expressway → Daqing-Guangzhou Expressway, Wulingshan Exit 🕒Driving Time: 40 minutes from Beijing! Approximately 3 hours from Inner Mongolia 🚄High-Speed ​​Rail: Get off at Xinglong County West Station (40-minute drive), then a 30-minute taxi ride~ 💓Must-Visit Attractions💓 🔹【Lanye Hot Spring】A stunning Japanese-style forest hot spring! - Choose between indoor and outdoor pools - Public pools are free but require reservations - Private pools are 500 RMB/2 hours (ideal for couples) 📷Enjoying the hot spring in the morning and evening is a wonderful experience! Remember to bring your swimsuit! 🌿Nature Hiking Guide🌿 🧗Wulingshan Primitive Forest Trail - Light hiking friendly! Remember to bring a jacket! - The air is so fresh it's practically bubbling with peach! 🌲 Every season has its own unique beauty! 🎨Artsy Instagrammable Spots🎨 ☕ Triangle Wooden House Bookstore (A must-visit for Instagrammers) 🍽️ First Canteen (50+ RMB per person, eat until you're stuffed) ✨ Aranya's standard coffee shop (100% photogenic) 🏡Accommodation Recommendations🏡 ⭐【Lanye Hotel】Japanese minimalist style - Includes a private hot spring bath, super romantic! A must-stay for couples! - Address: Building C, Yanshi Village, Wulingshan Town 💰【Homestay Courtyard】2-4 bedroom villas - Suitable for girls/families ⚠️ Remember to book 1-2 weeks in advance! 🍴Foodie Guide🍴 🥢First Canteen: A great value option 🍣Songfeng Japanese Restaurant: 150+ RMB per person 🏮Late Night Canteen: Japanese Izakaya 🐟Nearby Farmhouse Cuisine: Rainbow trout is a must-try! 💡Friendly Reminders💡 1. Large temperature difference! Bring a jacket for mornings and evenings. 2. Download the "Aranya APP" in advance to make reservations. 3. Suitable for those who prefer a quiet environment. 4. Recommended to combine with sightseeing in Chengde city. 【The hotel lights at night are incredibly dreamy ✨ Remember to take lots of beautiful photos!】

I found out when I flipped through the poster in the room Aranya has launched a collection of hospitality options Recommend good hotels all over the world And Lanye Hotel is one of them Suddenly peace of mind later vacation with hospitality choice as well Trust Aranya's taste is always right🫶🏻 ♨️ Private soup Make a reservation above in advance~ The experience was beyond expectations It’s comparable to what I soaked in Hakone and Hokkaido Outside the window is a snowy stream soaking in hot soup If you are afraid of cold, you can soak indoors Even the tiredness accumulated in Beijing for months was melted away The room is also equipped with a record player, refreshments and iced milk🥛 Tired of soaking listening to music eating something drinking something so chill 🍱 Catering This time I ate at three restaurants in the park: Green Mountain Firefly / Little Night / Picking the Flavor Valley The taste is good and the price is right (within 100 RMB per person Also tasted the latte from Cho Cafe (next to the convenience store in Phase 2). The owner is from Taiwan This is the only branch in mainland China The latte is so fragrant. It's so happy to have a cup under the warm sunshine in winter☕ 🫗 Events There are so many activities. Every time slot is filled with activities😶 In the room you can make water Shingen cake, matcha, homemade drinks🍻 You can go out to sing karaoke, carry lanterns for night tours, hike, and do crafts And the activities are different every day It's quite suitable for a group of friends to gather. Don't be afraid of getting bored 🏠Accommodation The room is too comfortable. The heater is hot and can adjust the temperature The bed was soft. I took a break from my busy schedule and slept for 8 hours There are lots of delicious snacks and drinks available for free You can also ask the front desk to get a projection to sit in bed and watch TV series🌨 🚄Transportation Beijing Chaoyang Station👉Xinglong County West 37 minutes one way After arriving at the station, take a taxi for 50 RMB/trip and reach the hotel in half an hour~ From the door to the hotel only 1.5 hours comfortable I want to come again next summer for good food, fun and shopping It’s a great place for people in the capital to relax and unwind

🌊 Aranya, the winter artistic pinnacle! Check in to the stunning sea view and snow view rooms✨ Hidden in the Aranya community of Qinhuangdao, the healing hotel — Lanye! The unique tranquility of winter combined with "seaside healing aesthetics," the snow-covered beach and frozen sea outside the window are breathtakingly beautiful～❄️ The vintage industrial design collides with the snowy scenery to create a unique atmosphere. A 5-minute walk takes you directly to the Lonely Library, and you can unlock the viral winter-exclusive snow scene photoshoot spots! 📍Address: Inside Aranya Community, Changli County, Qinhuangdao City, Hebei Province 🚗 Transportation Guide 👉 Must-see for self-drivers: • From Beijing: Take Jingha Expressway → Changli East Exit (2.5h), navigate to "Aranya Lanye Hotel." The Binhe Road along the way is perfect for shooting snowy road scenes! • From Tianjin: Qinbin Expressway about 2h direct arrival 🚆 Benefits for non-drivers: • Take high-speed rail to Beidaihe Station → transfer to Aranya shuttle bus (40 minutes). The hotel offers shuttle pick-up service by appointment～ • Free shuttle buses within the community are super convenient, no worries about traveling in snowy weather! 🏨 Winter Exclusive Experience｜Every corner is photogenic! 1️⃣ 270° Snow and Sea View Rooms Starting from 45㎡ with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, outside the window is the snow-covered beach and frozen sea🌊 Open the curtains in the morning to instantly enter a fairy tale world! Some rooms have terraces, making snow bathing super romantic～ 2️⃣ Winter Photography Tips: Highly recommend the window-side tatami area! Perfect for shooting Japanese-style photos with the snow scene Suggested outfit: off-white/camel sweater + scarf, best match with the snow 3-4 PM light is soft, and the snow naturally provides a soft glow effect 3️⃣ Snowy Sunset Bar The terrace bar transforms into a "lost in Tokyo in the snow" scene in winter Order a glass of hot mulled wine paired with the distant icy sea sunset, absolutely perfect!🍷 📸 Must-visit winter spots (walkable) ❄️ Lonely Library The exposed concrete building covered in snow adds an extra layer of solitary beauty Window seats on the second floor are golden spots for snow scene photos📚 ❄️ Aranya Auditorium The pure white building perfectly echoes the snowy ground Recommended to catch the first morning light for snow scenes without people ❄️ Private Beach The beach after snow is less crowded and beautiful You can also capture the rare spectacle of frozen sea waves! ⚠️ Winter Tips: • Temperature: -5℃ to -10℃, remember to bring down jackets + snow boots • Photography: Keep your phone warm with heat pads to prevent shutdown • Best time: December to February, avoid New Year holidays for fewer crowds • Hotel perks: Special winter hot ginger tea and blanket rental service 💡 Hidden Activities: 1. Book a hotel photographer for snow scene portraits (3 days in advance required) 2. Join the seaside reading club, enjoy reading while watching the snow 3. Experience the Japanese-style private hot spring, soaking in the icy snow is super enjoyable! This winter, come to Lanye to experience a unique seaside snow scene～❄️✨

Help! This Anaya at Wuling Mountain is the true healing ceiling✨ Stayed in the mountains for three days and was speechless from the beauty of the wild mountain hot springs. This is the right way to escape the city! You can enter the park by driving and reporting your license plate number. It’s a 2.5-hour drive from Beijing, winding through mountain roads into the valley. The air is so fresh you can’t help but take deep breaths🌿 ♨️The wild mountain hot springs are truly amazing! The hotel focuses on hot spring vacations. The public hot spring pool is hidden in a bamboo forest, and the private hot spring courtyards are exclusive and very private~ Soaking in the warm spring water, looking up at the starry sky, with only the sound of insects around, you feel completely refreshed and relaxed. Coming in autumn and winter is pure happiness! You can also soak in the hot spring on the room terrace, sipping tea and enjoying the mountain view, not wanting to leave at all! 🎋Japanese Zen style is stunningly beautiful! It’s not the refreshing seaside style, but a mix of Japanese Zen and Eastern aesthetics~ Natural wood tatami mats, paper sliding doors, moss and dry landscape gardens, bamboo woven lamps and green plants in the corridor—every shot looks like Kyoto📸 The tea sets and aromatherapy in the room are full of healing vibes, perfectly matching the wild mountain scenery! 🛏️Who understands the joy of living in a mountain view room! The mountain view rooms have amazing views. Open the curtains to see layers of green mountains and valleys, waking up to birdsong in the morning~ The bedding is soft, pillows come in different heights, and after a day of travel, you fall asleep instantly! The washbasin is separated for wet and dry use, the mirror has lighting, and the toiletries have a light cedar scent, both luxurious and calming. 🍵Breakfast tastes like the wild mountains! The semi-buffet breakfast is just right! Freshly cooked millet porridge, dumplings, local eggs, and freshly ground soy milk, eaten with the morning mountain light, warming your stomach~ Outside the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows is the valley, listening to the flowing water while eating—this is what a vacation should be like! 💁‍♀️Service is thoughtful to the core! The front desk ladies proactively help carry luggage directly to the room. If you want to soak in the hot spring at night, they preheat it in advance. There’s no sense of distance, it feels just like visiting a friend’s home. 🌲Surrounding activities are varied! A 10-minute walk to the valley, where you can catch small fish in the stream in summer and watch the red leaves in autumn🍁 A 15-minute drive to Wuling Mountain Scenic Area for a healing mountain hike and fresh air~ The community also has cafes, Japanese restaurants, and cultural shops. Spend the afternoon reading in a quiet space, then soak in the hot springs at dusk. Life slows down just right. Trust me! If you want to relax in the mountains, go straight to this place! Hot springs, mountain views, and Zen vibes all online. Next time I’m bringing my parents to stay in a private hot spring courtyard!

While searching for lunch at Wuling Mountain in Anaya, we blindly chose Qingshan Firefly, a restaurant next to the Lan Ye Hotel. It didn't disappoint! The Western food was delicious, the ambiance was fantastic, and the service was incredibly attentive! This Japanese-style restaurant offers both open and private rooms (no minimum spend). The space is spacious, and the seating is comfortable. The environment is perfect for dates or family gatherings, with private rooms available (no minimum spend). It's definitely a great place for a quiet chat! We were seated in a window seat. Even though the view outside was less vibrant in winter, it was still beautiful. I can imagine how amazing the view must be in other seasons! The Western menu is extensive, covering a wide range of dishes, from grilled items and steaks to pasta and desserts. We tried their signature roast chicken, and it was indeed delicious—crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. The steak was generously portioned and very flavorful. The meat sauce pasta was generously portioned with lots of meat sauce, which the kids loved! It's also worth mentioning the excellent service. The staff promptly refilled water, introduced the dishes, and were friendly without being overly intrusive, creating a relaxed dining experience. Children could move freely inside without worrying about disturbing others. I look forward to visiting Aoyama Firefly Restaurant again in other seasons to enjoy delicious food, beautiful views, and even more stunning scenery.

Last week I took a trip to Beijing Valley. It's a 1.5-hour drive from the city center, and I arrived just in time for their hot spring and snow season opening! I finally saw the kettle-making performance I'd been longing to see! 👏 The valley was filled with Christmas trees and white snow (even the artificial ones were beautiful). It felt like stepping into a winter fairytale world. There are tons of Christmas and New Year's activities! For those who haven't decided where to spend New Year's Eve, this is a great option. Staying overnight is highly recommended for an even better experience! ✅【Daytime Activities: Winter Wonderland + Healing Market】 ❄️Fun in the Snow Enjoy snow bumper cars and snow tractors. There are also adorable snow alpacas to pet – so soft and fluffy! 🐑 ❄️Cat Encounters There are many stray cats in the park, remember to bring a cat treat. You'll receive a whole wave of feline love! 🐱 ❄️Indoor Crafts If you're afraid of the cold, you can participate in indoor winter craft experiences. This time it's a Labubu theme, very cute! ✅【Nighttime Feast: A Romantic Blend of Ice and Fire】 The highlights are all at night! The atmosphere is absolutely amazing! 🎄Lighting Ceremony with Thousands of Lights Illuminating the Snow At 6 pm, the valley lights and the giant Christmas tree are instantly illuminated. From the shopping street to the lawn, it's like walking into a starlight tunnel! ✨ 🎄Intangible Cultural Heritage "Fire Kettle" Performance: A Must-See! A thousand-degree charcoal fire dances like a "waterfall of sparks," scattering across the snow, creating a striking contrast of fire and ice. The entire audience gasped in amazement! 🔥 🎄 Bonfire, Fireworks, and Sky Lanterns The fireworks burst under the starry sky on a grand scale! Those who aren't afraid of the cold can dance and sing around the bonfire. You can even release your own sky lantern! ✅【Accommodation: Snow-view windows, private hot springs for healing】 After a long day of fun, a soak in the hot springs is a must! We recommend choosing a room with a private hot spring bath; the view of the snow is right outside the window. The hot spring here is a natural spring dug 2600 meters deep, a precious "medical-grade fluorosilicic acid spring." Like a sapphire in the hot spring, your skin will feel incredibly smooth after soaking. You can choose to enjoy the snow from your private hot spring bath in your room, or go to the outdoor pool at the popular Tantang Mansion, surrounded by snowmen and reindeer decorations. ✅【Useful Tips】 ⏰Opening Date: Opened on December 20th, bustling with Christmas and New Year's celebrations. 🚗Transportation: Navigate to "Beijing Valley," direct highway access, approximately 1-1.5 hours. 📒Reservations: It's recommended to book the hotel and hot spring tickets in advance, especially during holidays. 👗Clothing: There's a large temperature difference between day and night; wear windproof and warm clothing, plus a hat and gloves for evening activities. 🧑‍🧑‍🧒Suitable for: Families, friends gatherings, and couples' dates. Snow, lights, hot springs, fireworks—it's all the elements of winter romance you could imagine. Plan a winter escape!

Push open the vermilion wooden door of the millennium-old Yahuan Mountain ancient temple, the door hinge creaks a long "creak," as if opening the door of time🪟. Snowflakes❄️ silently fall on the green-tiled eaves, each one like a footnote of history—this architectural complex, built during the Ming Dynasty, is telling the story of six centuries of wind and frost in its silence.🏮 📍Detailed Address: Yahuan Mountain Scenic Area, Xinglong County, Chengde City, Hebei Province (at the junction of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei) 🎯 For navigation, simply search "Yahuan Mountain Scenic Area" to arrive accurately! 🌟Highlights🌟 1️⃣ Twin Peaks Snow Clearing · Ink Painting Wonder 🏔️ Yahuan Mountain is named after its twin peaks resembling an ancient hairstyle bun. After winter snow— ✅ Best spot: Viewing platform for panoramic shots of the "White-Clad Yahuan" ✅ Magical moment: 7:30-8:30 AM, when clouds and mist swirl like a fairyland ✅ Hidden angle: Shoot upward from the foot of the mountain at Ciyun Temple, where red walls and white snow contrast📸 2️⃣ Ice Waterfall Secret Realm · Blue Ice Fantasy 💎 A rare multi-layered ice waterfall group in the north! 📍 Location: West Mountain Canyon (about 20 minutes hiking) ✨ Features: · Naturally formed ice pillars over ten meters high · Dreamy blue hues under afternoon sunlight · Safe photo spots set up for easy stunning shots🎬 ❄️3️⃣ Unique Wonderland Snow Scenery · "Twin Peaks Wearing Snow" spectacle: Two main peaks covered in snow look like Yahuan hair buns, most beautiful in the morning mist📸 · Kilometer-long ice waterfall corridor: Natural waterfalls frozen into blue ice, sparkling like diamonds under sunlight💎 · Rime secret realm: Above 800 meters altitude, often see the "thousands of trees blooming like pear flowers" rime scene 🔥4️⃣ Winter Exclusive Experiences · Ancient temple snow Zen tea: Brew tea by the stove in the millennium-old temple, listen to the snow falling and bell sounds · Fun on ice: Natural ice rink offers ice cart and ice top experiences Winter at Yahuan Mountain is a fairyland kissed by snowflakes❄️. Here, time slows down, giving every snowflake a chance to rest on your shoulder for a moment💓

Hello, I’m travel blogger Xiao Li! Today, I’ll take you into Chengde City, known as the "Ecological Health High Ground of the Yanshan Mountains and the Luan River Healthy Living Demonstration Zone" in China. Located at 40.9°N latitude, this "Summer Resort and Royal Garden City" is a national ecological civilization construction demonstration zone, one of the first "Climate Health Pilot Cities" in China, and the first prefecture-level city in Hebei Province to join the "World Health Organization Healthy Cities Alliance" (certified in 2024). With an average annual temperature of 9.3°C, relative humidity at 58% (the ideal dry-wet balance), an air quality excellence rate of 99.7%, and an annual average PM2.5 of only 3μg/m³ (one of the best levels globally), the Wuling Mountain National Forest Health Base boasts a peak negative ion concentration of 10,350/cm³ (the highest in North China), the Wulie River National Wetland Park reaches 6,520/cm³, and the entire region has a 99.9% selenium-rich soil rate with no heavy industry, making it a low-allergy, light-activity, strong seasonal therapy health travel destination in North China. This guide strictly follows Trip.com’s content standards. All attractions, transportation, and accommodation information have been verified in real-time via the official "Chengde Culture and Tourism" website and the Trip.com app (updated July 2024), ensuring authenticity, bookability, safety, compliance, and barrier-free access. The entire trip focuses on a three-dimensional health upgrade: "Wuling Mountain breathing × Wulie River calming × Yanshan medicinal food therapy," with enhanced health features including the new "Yanshan High Altitude Adaptation Grading Guide," "Traditional Chinese Medicine Constitution-Five Elements-Seasonal-Luan River Four-Dimensional Food Therapy Matrix," and "Intelligent Health Monitoring and Linked Alerts"— ✅ Integrates Wuling Mountain forest trails + Wulie River waterfront boardwalk + Chengde Traditional Chinese Medicine Culture Museum guided tours ✅ Advocates Leave No Trace Tourism 3.0 standards: zero plastic travel, waste sorting guidance, carbon footprint recording suggestions ✅ Strengthens Hebei authentic medicinal herb concepts: customized by constitution + five elements + season + Luan River environment (spring liver nourishment with goji chrysanthemum stewed chicken, summer heart nourishment with lotus seed lily soup, long summer spleen strengthening with poria yam porridge, autumn lung moisturizing with polygonatum adenophora paste, winter warming tonic with polygonatum and eucommia paste) ✅ Implements the "Three Reductions and Four Highs" dietary principles (reduce oil, salt, sugar; high protein, high fiber, high vitamins, high antioxidants) ✅ Adds psychological health care corners, barrier-free access reminders, and fourfold protection reminders against wind, sun, cold, and moisture The entire budget is controlled within 2,200 RMB per person (excluding round-trip major transportation), with a relaxed and reasonable pace, including a Yanshan high-altitude adaptation buffer design (first day limited to altitude ≤900m, no drinking iced Pteridophyte leaf tea on an empty stomach, equipped with a portable pulse oximeter), suitable for family travel, middle-aged and elderly groups, and sub-healthy urban populations. 🗓️ Day 1: Seeking the Way in Wuling Mountain · Strolling the Wulie River Green Corridor 🚄 Arrive at [Chengde Puning Airport] → Taxi to Wuling Mountain National Nature Reserve (about 1 hour 40 minutes, 210 RMB), check into a compliant eco-homestay (such as "Xinglong Yun She," about 660 RMB for two nights) ⛰️ Morning visit to [Wuling Mountain National Forest Health Base] (ticket 70 RMB + eco-vehicle 45 RMB, including guided tour + barefoot experience): a national 5A-level scenic spot, "The Peak of Yanshan · Natural Oxygen Bar." Recommended route: "Wuling Mountain Breathing Loop" (main entrance → Longtan Waterfall → Cool Zone → Immortal Tower → Primitive Secondary Forest Viewing Platform), a gentle combination of wooden boardwalks and stone steps with five sensory healing checkpoints along the way: listen to the stream hitting stones, touch thousand-year-old oak trees, smell the fresh scent of Pteridophyte leaves, watch the sea of clouds rolling, and taste Wuling Mountain spring water (drinking points disinfected, containing natural metasilicic acid 0.61mg/L), completing a deep connection with nature. 🌿 Afternoon participation in the [Wuling Mountain Forest Healing Public Class] (daily at 3:00 PM, led by health instructors from Hebei University of Chinese Medicine), including barefoot moss walking + closed-eye meditation + Chengde Qingyin Society intangible cultural heritage sound therapy experience, and receive a digital copy of the "Chengde Constitution-Five Elements-Seasonal-Luan River Food Therapy Handbook" (scan QR code to get), offering personalized diet and lifestyle advice. 🍲 Lunch at [Wuling Mountain · Yanzhong Medicinal Food Workshop]: customized by four dimensions—spring liver nourishment with goji chrysanthemum stewed chicken (oil-reduced version), summer heart nourishment with lotus seed lily soup, long summer spleen strengthening with poria yam porridge, autumn lung moisturizing with polygonatum adenophora paste, winter warming tonic with polygonatum and eucommia paste served with mixed grain rice, average 85 RMB per person, ingredients sourced from local GAP-certified bases (Scutellaria baicalensis, Anemarrhena asphodeloides, Polygonatum, Polygonatum sibiricum, Eucommia ulmoides, all geographical indication products of "Jiyu Dao Di Medicinal Herbs"). 🌙 Overnight at the foot of Wuling Mountain, recommended lights out before 10:00 PM, turn off electronic devices, do pre-sleep stretching or meditation. You may drink a warm cup of rose goji tea to soothe the liver, relieve depression, and aid sleep. 🗓️ Day 2: Tracing the Source of Chengde · Strolling the Poetic Wulie River 🌄 Early morning join the homestay’s [Wulie River Waterfront Morning Exercise Class] (including abdominal breathing + Eight Brocade Qigong + Wulie River rhythmic breathing method) to awaken body energy 🚗 Morning drive to [Chengde Traditional Chinese Medicine Culture Museum] (free admission, reservation required): Hebei Province’s first city-level TCM cultural experience base. Recommended route: "Medicinal Food Calming Trail," sit quietly for 5 minutes in the Scutellaria garden, silently recite the "Compendium of Materia Medica" Jiyu Dao sections; participate in public workshops for "Handmade Scutellaria Enzyme Drink," "Poria Yam Paste," and "Polygonatum Adenophora Paste" (material fee 32 RMB), learning traditional health wisdom of "Yanshan Immortal Herbs." 🌊 Afternoon visit to [Wulie River National Wetland Park] (ticket 40 RMB, including guided tour + mindfulness walking class): a national urban wetland park, "Ecological Pearl of Chengde’s Mother River." Experience the "Wulie River Mindfulness Walking Class" (material fee 15 RMB), completing a 10-minute closed-eye water sound listening training on the waterfront boardwalk to improve concentration and emotional stability. 🍽️ Lunch at [Wulie River · Yanzhong Medicinal Food Restaurant]: customized by four dimensions—spring stir-fried chicken with goji chrysanthemum, summer lotus seed lily white fungus soup, long summer poria yam millet porridge, autumn polygonatum adenophora white fungus soup, winter polygonatum and eucommia paste with black sesame paste, average 80 RMB per person. 🛍️ Before returning, purchase souvenirs: small packs of organic Scutellaria enzyme drink sample (≤50ml), Poria yam paste sample (≤30g), Polygonatum adenophora paste sample (≤20g), total ≤25 RMB, avoiding excessive packaging. 📌 Blogger’s Luan River Healthy and Civilized Travel Code (Chengde Special Edition): ✅ On arrival day, avoid drinking iced Pteridophyte leaf tea on an empty stomach, avoid hair drying after washing, avoid excessive sweating; carry a portable pulse oximeter (only engage in activities if SpO₂≥95%); ✅ Bring SPF50+ waterproof sunscreen, wide-brim hat, sunglasses, thermos, lip balm, warming patches, humidifying spray; ✅ Choose diet according to four-dimensional constitution, avoid raw, cold, and greasy foods; drink plenty of warm water, daily Scutellaria intake ≤6g; ✅ Bring your own water cup, cloth bag, stainless steel utensils, practice low-carbon travel; ✅ Scan QR code to receive the "Chengde Healthy Travel Digital Passport," linked to local smart medical resources. In Chengde, every mountain and river nurtures qi, every herb and medicine nurtures vitality. I’m travel blogger Xiao Li, and our next stop will continue to measure the vast land of China with our footsteps.

Wuling Mountain Fairy Trail Exploration☁️｜Chengde's Stunning Sea of Clouds Check-in Spot! Summit Guide at 2,118 Meters✨ 📍"The Highest Peak East of Beijing"—Let's Go! Surrounded by Mist Like a Fairyland This place is definitely a photographer’s paradise! The sea of clouds appears very frequently🔥 🚗 Transportation Tips Address: North side of Yanshi Village, Wuling Mountain Town, Xinglong County, Chengde City Self-drive: 2.5 hours from Beijing directly to the North Gate via the mountain road Bus: Miyun 980 Express → Miyun 38 to Wuling Mountain North Gate ⏰ Opening Hours May 31 - October 15, 08:30-17:00 Weekends open half an hour earlier (ticket sales stop at 15:30) 🌄 Must-Visit Routes 1️⃣ Fairy Tower → Lotus Pond Fairy Tower: Volcanic rock wonder! Half-hour climb to see the sea of clouds Lotus Pond: Hidden alpine meadow spot to shoot the "Mirror of the Sky" 2️⃣ Summit "Wai Tao Peak" Altitude 2,118 meters, the highest point! The ascent has 3 viewing platforms 📸 Tips: Sunrise offers the highest chance to capture sea of clouds + Buddha’s light together 3️⃣ Longtan Waterfall → Cool Realm Longtan: 30-meter waterfall, very impressive, rainbows often appear Cool Realm: Surrounded by ancient trees and streams, temperature drops by 10°C 🍜 Mountain Delicacies 🌸 Pear Blossom Pancake: Freshly baked at farmhouse, sweet and not greasy 🐟 Rainbow Trout: Raised in mountain springs, amazing three-ways-to-eat 🌰 Almond Oil Flatbread: Chengde specialty, crispy and flaky ⚠️ Avoid Pitfalls • Mountain road has many sharp turns! New drivers be cautious • Large temperature difference at the summit, bring a jacket even in August • Drones require prior approval (restricted flying in the scenic area) The summit is quite cold; it’s recommended to avoid climbing after autumn

This escape to Xinglong is truly a delightful surprise. The most recommendable spot is this hidden paradise at the foot of Wuling Mountain — Anaya Lanye Hotel! It not only takes Japanese aesthetics to the extreme but also redefines my understanding of mountain vacationing with its six-star service. 🌿 Room Experience Open the window to see the changing seasons of Wuling Mountain. The room features a natural wood tone as the main color, and floor-to-ceiling windows bring in lush greenery. Waking up naturally to the morning sunlight in the mountains feels like stepping into a movie scene. The amenities are all high-end, and the mini bar snacks and drinks can be refilled for free. After soaking in the private hot spring, curling up on the tatami to drink tea and enjoy snacks is so healing! ♨️ Hot Spring Wonderland The public bath faces the mountain view directly; soaking in the hot spring while watching the mist is like a divine experience. Even more stunning are the duplex rooms with private hot springs — a magical combination of a bedroom on the second floor and a hot spring room on the first floor. At night, soak while counting stars. Remember to bring a beautiful yukata to shoot atmospheric photos. 🍱 Culinary Romance The kaiseki cuisine at the Japanese restaurant is so authentic it makes you want to scream. The tuna belly and sea urchin are freshly delivered daily; the Chinese restaurant creatively uses local mountain ingredients, with chestnut braised pork and mushroom soup that are incredibly flavorful. You can even choose to have breakfast in the courtyard, where freshly made soufflé pancakes with wild mountain honey are absolutely divine~ 🎋 Mountain Living • Beyond expectations service: The butler quietly places hot spring bath additives and a handwritten card during turndown service • Hidden activities: Morning forest yoga, original Japanese manga in the library, origami classes in the kids’ playground • Nearby surprises: A 15-minute walk leads to a wild creek for fishing, and when in season, the butler will guide you to pick mushrooms

I know, it’s very overwhelming traveling on your own (without guided tour) to Wulingyuan National Park where the famous Avatar film is shot at. Especially after reading all the various itinerary in forums, blogs, websites, etc. If you're confused at this point, take a breather and read this post. Hopefully this humble 2 cents from me helps. For a start, I would say the most important tips of all tips is: always be ahead of the tour groups; if the tour group turn left, you turn right. If the tour group go up, you go down. 90% of the tour groups arrives in great numbers from 0830hrs onwards till 1100hrs daily. If you’re traveling yourself, I can’t stress this enough, please make an effort to wake up at 0600hrs, head to hotel breakfast (don’t waste time finding food outside) at 0630hrs, and immediately head to the park entrance and enter by 0730hrs. Just by doing the above, you’ll be the first 1000 people out of 100000 to enter the park and you’ll have almost private access with zero queue at the bus queue a , the Bailong elevator and the other cableways. You’ll have plenty of time to take (and even correct your awkward pose) as many photos as possible at the viewing deck without anyone pressuring/bothering you. My itinerary is as follows but do note that the park is super flexible in how you explore it. There’s no “right or wrong” way to explore the park. Always always remember the main goal is to not be sandwiched between tour groups. Mind you, the amount of tours and the number of people arriving here everyday is comparable to Tomorrowland/EDC raves. Exaggerated alittle but you’ll get the idea. 4-day Entrance Pass with UNLIMITED/Multi-trip cableway & elevator - East Gate Line B Day 1 - Bailong - YuanJiaJie - TianZiShan [Do remember to scan the park reentry QR code and book your Day 2 entry timing and entrance after exiting the park for Day 1. For foreigner who are using roaming data, the QR wont work. Either you head to the ticketing office after exiting the park and ask the counter to help or connect to your hotel Wifi to access the QR code which will open a mini program where you can book your ticket reentry.] Day 2 - HuangShiZhai - Golden Whip Stream - [Optional] Ten Mile Natural Gallery - [Optional] Bailong - YuanJiaJie Round 2 Decided to call it a day on Wulingyuan after Day 2 and head to TianMenShan for my next adventure. That's about it. All the best and I highly recommend spending that small extra cost for unlimited cableway/elevator tickets. The optional up and down trip to enjoy the views at YangJiaJie cableway was totally worth it.

With Beijing's first snow approaching, what could be more enjoyable than soaking in an outdoor private hot spring while watching the snow? Here are some hidden gem private hot springs recommended for you: Yushe Hot Spring Boutique Hotel: Located at the foot of the Great Wall in Gubei Water Town, it is a Japanese-style hot spring themed hotel. The duplex rooms have two double hot spring pools, with distant mountains outside the window. The scenery during the first snow is picturesque, and the outdoor small pool in the public area also allows you to immerse yourself in snow viewing. Fangen Boutique Homestay: Situated at the foot of Panlong Mountain Great Wall, it is a courtyard-style private hot spring villa. Each room is equipped with a private hot spring pool, with a minimum area of 75 square meters. You can enjoy garden views and koi fish, and the hot spring can be heated and sprinkled with flower petals, making it super romantic. Beijing Bay Hillside Hot Spring Hotel: Built on the hillside summit, it has 13 mountain hot spring pools open all year round. There are 12 semi-enclosed private hot spring pools with different medicinal baths, such as ginger essence bath and angelica health herbal bath. There are also independent courtyard private hot spring rooms with excellent privacy. Anaya Wuling Mountain Lanye Hotel: Just a 37-minute high-speed train ride from Beijing, it features 6 brand-new creekside private hot springs that are stunning, looking like a fairyland during the first snow. The winter-exclusive "Yuzu Bath" is also very special, with yuzu floating in the pool, which beautifies the skin and relieves fatigue.

🏔️ Anaya Yanshi Hot Spring is legendary! Top-tier architectural design + mountain forest suspended hot spring, a must-visit escape in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Hidden among the poplar trees of Wuling Mountain, Yanshi Hot Spring is a landmark secret spot of Anaya Wuling Mountain! Designed by Dong Gong, the designer of the "Solitary Library," the vertical concrete architecture seamlessly blends with the wild mountain scenery. The three-story space offers a "suspended forest" bathing experience, perfect for couples on dates, friends checking in, or solo healing～ 🚗 Transportation Guide | Escape the city in 37 minutes • High-speed rail: Beijing Chaoyang Station → Xinglong County West Station (37 minutes), about 30 minutes by car from the station to the hot spring. You can book the park shuttle (via Anaya APP) or take a taxi for more flexibility. • Self-driving: About 3 hours from Beijing/Tianjin. The hotel provides free parking; it’s recommended to arrive early during holidays to secure a spot. • Tips: The hot spring is in Phase II of the park, accessible via a forest path. The cliff walls and stream scenery along the way are super healing～ ✨ 3 Core Highlights 1. Architectural Aesthetic Impact: A vertical concrete tower embedded into the hillside, with rough carving techniques echoing the cliff texture. Eight cylindrical light tubes let natural light pour in. The spiral staircase and curved walls make every photo a masterpiece, fully capturing a Japanese film vibe. 2. Immersive Bathing Experience: Three floors of pools hidden under the light tubes, with pools at different temperatures paired with an ice bucket area. The west side’s strip window faces the deep valley and poplar forest, making you feel like you’re floating in the woods while bathing. Winter-exclusive yuzu baths with floating fragrant yuzu, warm water paired with mountain views is super healing. 3. Thoughtful Service Details: Each session limits 8-10 people for privacy; the second-floor lounge is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows, offering free yogurt and whole grain biscuits, and whiskey is served during night sessions. The ladies-only session (daily at 1 PM) is very considerate, with high-end toiletries like those from three. 🍵 Food & Practical Tips • Food: You can walk to Lanya Hotel’s "Matsukaze" Japanese restaurant or "Xiaoye" afternoon tea. Mountain-style treats like yokan and shiratama dango are excellent. The park’s "Rugu" coffee shop’s freshly ground coffee is also worth trying. • Booking & Ticket Prices: Advance booking on the Anaya APP is required. Weekdays cost 200 RMB/2 hours, weekends 300 RMB/2 hours. It’s recommended to choose the 4-6 PM slot for the best sunset soft light filter. • Essentials: Swimsuit, non-slip slippers, shower cap (not provided at the hot spring). Stay hydrated between baths, and bring a light jacket for the big temperature difference between morning and evening～ Here, architecture is an extension of nature, and the hot spring is a carrier of healing. Every moment lets you feel the collision of wilderness and aesthetics. Friends in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, don’t stay home this weekend—grab your friends and unlock this suspended mountain forest bathing journey!

Just returned from Xinglong, here are some unpleasant truths😅 In December, I thought about escaping the crowds to a tropical town for summer, but... it really wasn't quite what I imagined! This guide is all about an unfiltered review, laying out all the pros and cons, so you can decide if you want to go for it🌴 🚗Transportation: It almost got me down Xinglong has no airport and no direct high-speed train! I flew to Sanya, then booked a car in advance on a rental platform. The drive took about an hour and a half. If you don't rent a car, you can also take a high-speed train from Sanya to Wanning Station, then take a taxi, but taxi fares aren't cheap, and transportation in town mainly relies on self-driving or electric scooters. The road conditions are decent, but some sections have dim streetlights at night, so drive with extreme caution! I recommend renting a brightly colored car; it makes for great photos and can even be a prop🚗 To be honest, the transportation cost and time were higher than expected, but the tropical scenery along the way—coconut groves, banana trees, blue skies, and white clouds—can instantly cure road rage! Especially that moment when you roll down the window and feel the breeze, it feels totally worth it🌤️ 🏨Accommodation: Don't be fooled by "influencer" filters! Accommodation here is polarized. Either high-end resort hotels, where prices skyrocket but the facilities and environment are indeed excellent, with private pools and beautiful gardens. Or local old-brand guesthouses or B&Bs, which are affordable but some facilities might be old, and soundproofing might not be great. I chose a mid-range hot spring hotel, and soaking in the hot springs at night to relieve fatigue was quite nice♨️ Here's the key! Before booking, be sure to compare prices across multiple platforms. I used Trip.com, but I also checked other apps. Look at recent reviews with actual photos, don't just rely on retouched promotional images! Some popular B&Bs are in very remote locations with nothing around, making it inconvenient to buy anything at night. I recommend staying near Xinglong town center for easier access to dining, shopping, and experiencing local life🛌 🍍Food & Drink: Xinglong coffee and Nanyang flavors are truly top-notch! I must praise this! Xinglong coffee truly lives up to its reputation. There are coffee shops everywhere; just walk into any old establishment, order a charcoal-roasted coffee, and the rich, mellow taste for only about ten yuan is an incredible value☕️ There are also tons of Nanyang snacks, like Indonesian-style pastries, curry zongzi, coconut rice... the flavors are very unique, and those who love Southeast Asian cuisine will be thrilled. However, the taste tends to be sweet and fragrant, which can get a bit cloying after too much, and hygiene conditions vary. It's more reliable to find old shops where locals queue up🍛 One thing to avoid: Don't eat seafood at restaurants near scenic spots! You might get ripped off. If you want seafood, you can go to the town market to pick your own, then find a restaurant to process it; it's fresh and cost-effective. Qingbuliang (Hainanese dessert) and fried ice, however, can be bought anywhere; it's hard to go wrong with them🍧 🌴Activities: Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden vs. "Photo-deceiving" Beaches Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden is worth visiting! All sorts of exotic tropical plants, great for green photos, and you can learn a lot. Remember to hire a guide, otherwise, you'll just be casually strolling through🌿 But! Don't have high expectations for the beaches. The sea here isn't as clear as Sanya's, and the beaches are more natural, not as fine. You can try surfing, but the water is a bit cold in winter. A better mindset is to find a seaside cafe, quietly watch the sunset, and just chill out; that feeling is truly amazing🌅 Bali Village and Coffee Valley are photo-op spots. If you're not very interested in history and culture, you might find them a bit boring, and tickets aren't cheap. Choose wisely📸 💰Cost Truth: Varies by individual, but avoid scams Overall consumption isn't too high, but don't be a sucker! You can confidently buy fruit; it's cheap and sweet. Local specialties like coffee cakes and pepper powder are good. But for handicrafts in scenic spots, just look. For food, drink, and entertainment bills, pay extra attention and ask for prices before consuming💸 December is the beginning of the peak season, so crowds are slowly increasing, and prices will slightly rise, but it's still much more comfortable than Sanya. Remember to bargain, especially in markets and small shops; boldly try to cut the price in half, and if it doesn't work, no harm done💪 📌 My Sincere Tips: Be sure to bring sunscreen! The winter sun in Hainan can still give you uneven tan lines, so arm yourself with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses🧴 Carry mosquito repellent with you! Mosquitoes in tropical regions don't care if it's winter or summer, especially when visiting the botanical garden🦟 Bring a light jacket, as there's a temperature difference between morning and evening, and the sea breeze can still be a bit chilly🧥 Wear comfortable shoes! You'll rely on them for exploring the botanical garden and old streets. You can bring a nice pair of slippers for photos too👟 Bring a 128GB stomach and phone memory! The food and scenery here will truly make you unable to stop taking photos and eat until you can barely walk😋 I've shared so many truths, not to deter you, but to help you enjoy it better. Xinglong's charm lies in its not-so-"perfect" everyday vibrancy. It's riding an electric scooter through old streets filled with the scent of coffee, the surprise of discovering a super delicious pastry, and the moment of seeing a stunning sunset on a not-so-perfect beach. This place is suitable for those who want to walk slowly, see slowly, and savor life slowly. If you're also tired of generic influencer hotspots, then Xinglong in December, with its tropical warmth carrying the scent of coffee and Nanyang flavors, is truly worth experiencing firsthand. Looking at flights?✈️🍃

Anaya Lan is like a hidden paradise nestled in the Wuling Mountain range, offering both a sense of healing and a luxurious experience. 🍵Hidden Activities Recommendations: 1️⃣Choose butler service upon check-in for a super smooth check-in process and to reserve a private dessert time at 7 PM. 2️⃣The Japanese yukatas provided in the rooms are perfect for photos, especially against the backdrop of lush greenery outside the window – every snapshot is a masterpiece for your social media! 3️⃣Remember to reserve your evening delivery for a DIY experience with Mizu Shingen Mochi (water mochi). The process of making it with matcha powder and translucent mochi is incredibly relaxing. 🚗Transportation Guide: ▫️Address: Wuling Mountain Town Eyestone Village (Building C, Qianxilong Park) ▫️Driving is recommended; approximately a 2-hour drive from Beijing. ▫️The park has its own parking lot, and the butler will help with luggage. ✨Hidden Tips: 1️⃣If you prefer a quieter experience, avoid holidays; weekdays offer a better experience with fewer people. 2️⃣Bring your favorite book; the beanbag chair by the floor-to-ceiling window with the mountain view is the perfect reading nook. 3️⃣The autumn colors are most beautiful in late October; remember to book a month in advance for the red leaf season. The most unexpected surprise this summer was making matcha genmochi on a mountainside evening while enjoying the mountain breeze!

Christmas in Snowtown: Winter Playland❄️#hellochristmas Welcome to a dreamy ice-and-snow paradise: Snowtown’s Ten Mile Gallery (雪乡十里画廊)! 🎄❄️ This place is like stepping into a real life winter wonderland—the snow here is THICK, sparkling, and totally magical. You’ll get those jaw-dropping 360° snowy views that look straight out of a fairy tale 😍. Got a little one with you? Get ready for the cutest outdoor adventure—kids LOVE playing in the snow here. Think snowball fights, sledding, and all sorts of fun snowy activities. Every moment is seriously Instagram-worthy! Hot tip: Plan your trip between late December and the end of February for peak snow magic! That’s when Snowtown is looking its absolute best and the scenery is just unforgettable. Location Address: Xuexiang Ten Mile Gallery, Snowtown Scenic Area, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China Opening Hours: 8:00 – 18:00 (subject to weather conditions) Don’t miss out on this epic frosty experience. Bundle up, snap a ton of pics, and make forever memories in this winter playland! ⛄✨ For more travel inspo and booking details, check out trip.com!

Escape the mundane narratives of the city; in Anaya Wuling Mountain, all senses are amplified. Listen to a drop of water falling onto a rock 🪨, savor a cup of tea on your lips 🍵, play a tune to reflect on yourself 🛸, watch a flower sway in the wind… Emotions that cool instantly seep into the heart through the senses, becoming wondrous reflections on life. Whether actively or passively, these reflections engage with and focus on life, making the ordinary become quiet yet enriching. The willows by the roadside haven't yet grown tall and straight; impulsively, I follow the green with my eyes, only to find the night deepening. - At 5 a.m., my mind isn't fully awake. The whole world is the past, only this past is very, very close to us. I rush towards a cluster of light, sometimes bright, sometimes dim. I smell the aroma of tea, savor the subtle flavors, and observe the changing forms of life. I drink the Honey Orchid Fragrance from Tongyuan Tea House; the floral aroma, slowly roasted, assaults my nostrils, and the sweet aftertaste of the tea soothes my soul. Steam rises, accompanied by the creaking of the teapot lid, and a tea-making journey begins. - Passing through a corner of the mountains, detachment, paleness, emptiness… the surging wind brings all of this to life.

Before returning home, I stumbled upon a post about Wuling Mountain in Anaya, and was instantly captivated by the misty mountain scenery and hot springs. After sending it to a friend, she mentioned she had planned to go last year but couldn't make it, so we immediately decided to escape for a weekend hot spring getaway. 🚄 Transportation: High-speed rail experience was incredibly smooth. Itinerary (personally tested, not rushed or tiring): 7:08 Binhai Station → Beijing South Beijing South Taxi → Beijing Chaoyang Station 10:00 Beijing Chaoyang Station → Xinglong County West Arriving at Beijing Chaoyang Station, we had plenty of time to browse convenience stores, have coffee, and chat with friends – very relaxing. The hotel can pre-book a shuttle bus to the train station for 50 RMB per trip. I was initially a little anxious about the transfers, but the overall experience was surprisingly smooth. Having read some driving reviews, I anticipated potential traffic jams and less-than-ideal mountain road conditions, making me even more grateful that we chose the high-speed rail this time. 🛀 First thing upon arrival: Hot springs! We arrived at the Lan Ye Hotel around 11:30 AM. Since check-in wasn't until 3 PM, we left our luggage and went straight to the public bath (one visit to the public bath is complimentary for hotel guests). We were a bit tired from the journey, but after soaking in the public bath, it felt like a complete reset—we were instantly switched from "working mode" back to "vacation mode." 🫧 Public Bath Experience: 🍀It's about the size of a small swimming pool. 🍀The shower area is next to it. 🍀Very few people; we practically had half the bath to ourselves. 🍀We soaked for about half an hour. The changing room had Three skincare products and the hotel's own brand of hand cream. After drying our hair and doing our makeup, the hotel called to say our room was ready in advance—we were very lucky. 🏨 Lan Ye Hotel: Attention to Detail The room was incredibly thoughtfully prepared: ❤️‍🩹 Japanese-style short-sleeved shirt and shorts specifically for the bath ❤️‍🩹 A blue jacket with a cotton lining (super fit, super soft, but not for sale 😭) ❤️‍🩹 The refrigerator was stocked with beer, orange-flavored cola, and tonic water ❤️‍🩹 Snacks, drip coffee, and tea were all refillable; the front desk even proactively asked if we needed more. We also borrowed a sound system and relaxed in the room listening to music in the evening, instantly maximizing the vacation experience. ♨️ Private Hot Spring Room: Two Hours of Mountain Retreat (P1–7: Interior and Exterior Views of the Private Hot Spring) The private hot spring room is limited to two hours. It features both indoor and outdoor baths, and the space was much larger than expected. Indoors, there's a small tea room and a separate dressing area. Outdoors, there's a stone bath surrounded by mountain views. The environment was clean, quiet, and incredibly photogenic; soaking in it completely relaxed me. The tea room offered hot tea and snacks, and the almond tart was a delightful surprise—crispy, fragrant, and perfectly sweet. My friend and I ate it while soaking in the hot spring, and we weren't even hungry afterward. The overall experience was incredibly therapeutic, one of my favorite parts of visiting Wuling Mountain. 🥢 Shiwei Valley We chose Shiwei Valley for the complimentary breakfast provided by the hotel. It was a buffet, but each table received an extra serving of soy milk. Steamed dumplings and tea eggs could be chosen on-site; the preserved vegetable and pork dumplings were particularly delicious—not greasy at all, and with a clean flavor. The overall atmosphere and food quality were much better than expected; it was the kind of breakfast that would lift your spirits.