Autumn Escape Plan: 4 Hidden Gems + Photo Tips, Enjoy Stunning Fall Scenery for Just 300 RMB per Person

1. Ancient Village Route in Beijing Suburbs: Time Travel in Cuandixia Village, Mentougou Cuandixia Village, a 2.5-hour drive from downtown Beijing, is nestled in the Taihang Gorge with a cluster of Ming and Qing dynasty buildings that serve as an "autumn time machine." The blue bricks and gray tiles featured in the film "The Warlords" create a cinematic atmosphere against the backdrop of autumn leaves. Early morning at the village viewing platform offers breathtaking shots of layered houses bathed in the rising autumn sun. In the afternoon, hike 1 km west along the village to Yixiantian, where shifting light and shadows in the gorge reveal wild sour jujube trees—pick a sour-sweet fruit for a refreshing snack. The intangible cultural heritage experiences here are a hidden highlight: learn woodblock printing and bamboo basket weaving from villagers, where old crafts carry the warmth of bygone days. The local flavors come from mountain gifts: a 15 RMB bowl of firewood chicken stewed with mushrooms and flatbread, soaking up the broth to warm and fill you; 3 RMB wild vegetable buns bursting with fresh herbal aroma. Driving via the Jingkun Expressway is the most convenient, or take bus 892 for 15 RMB direct. Traditional courtyard homestays cost 150-200 RMB per night including breakfast. Enjoy steamed buns and pickles in the courtyard under the autumn sun—more cozy than a star-rated hotel. 2. Lake and Mountain Scenery Route: Light Vacation Aesthetics at Yanqi Lake, Huairou Yanqi Lake, 1.5 hours by car, is perfect for a light autumn getaway. Rent a bike and ride the 10 km lakeside path; windmills and reed beds sway in the autumn breeze. Rest at the viewing platform to watch flocks of wild geese skim the lake. The sunset paints the water golden-red, making every snapshot wallpaper-worthy. In the afternoon, hike the West Mountain trail for panoramic views of the lake, mountains, and the unique Sunrise Kempinski Hotel. Soft light acts like a natural filter for photos. For 40 RMB, take a boat to the island in the lake, where maple and ginkgo trees reflect autumn’s colors, a hidden paradise on the city’s edge. Nearby farmhouses offer rainbow trout feasts for about 50 RMB per person, with steamed and braised flavors. Sugar-roasted chestnuts at 15 RMB per jin are sweet and powdery, a seasonal treat. Buy a 34 RMB e-ticket in advance via WeChat to save 3 RMB on site. Stay in Huairou town for 100-150 RMB per night; a 20-minute bus ride to the scenic area is more economical. 3. Grassland Secret Route: Autumn Duet at Zhuozi Mountain Zhuozi Mountain, a 2-hour 16-minute high-speed train ride from Beijing Qinghe Station, hides an autumn secret where grasslands meet forests. The free Red Zhaolong Bay features layered birch and poplar trees changing colors, with streams perfect for oxygen-rich hikes that soothe the soul. Don’t miss the Zhuozi Mountain Smoked Chicken Museum to learn about this intangible heritage and sample freshly smoked chicken with an irresistible aroma. Daihai Wetland is a birdwatcher’s paradise; in autumn, migratory birds like egrets and grey cranes pass over the reeds, creating a vast, poetic scene. Must-try dishes include half a smoked chicken for 30 RMB, firm and flavorful, perfect as a gift; and 20 RMB per person for youmian wowo (oat noodles) with lamb sauce, chewy and filling. After arriving at Zhuozi East Station, a 10 RMB taxi ride takes you to town; taxis between scenic spots usually cost under 20 RMB. City hotels cost 80-120 RMB per night, clean and some include breakfast, offering great value. 4. Ancient Castle and Great Wall Route: Slow Life Code in Yaoqiaoyu Village Yaoqiaoyu Village, 2.5 hours from the city, blends Ming dynasty castles with reservoir views for a unique autumn vibe. Stroll the castle’s bluestone paths and watch villagers leisurely drying corn—time seems to slow down. The Yunxiu Valley waterfalls hide among red leaves; from the top, you can see Simatai Great Wall. Tickets are 36 RMB, and buying online in advance saves 6 RMB. October is the Red Fuji apple harvest season in Xinchengzi Town. Pick apples for 10 RMB per jin and enjoy fresh, crisp, juicy fruit. Farmhouse reservoir stove fish costs about 40 RMB per person; fresh fish stewed with flatbread and corn is savory and delicious. Spring water tofu for 3 RMB dipped in sauce has a rich bean aroma that lingers. Driving via Jingcheng Expressway then Songcao Road is smoothest, or take bus 980 to Miyun then transfer to local bus; total fare is about 20 RMB. The castle and village are free to visit, and staying in village homestays lets you experience authentic rural life. 5. Ultimate Autumn Travel Tips For transportation, book high-speed train tickets 30 days in advance. If driving, depart before 7 AM to avoid Jingzang and Jingcheng Expressway rush hours. Book suburban homestays a month ahead; choose rooms with breakfast to save morning meal time. Pack a light jacket for temperature changes, wear comfortable sports shoes for hiking, and be cautious on steep trails. Photo tips from popular posts: wear white or light apricot clothes for a fresh contrast with autumn colors; use fallen leaves as foreground blur for layered shots. Arrive at popular spots before 9 AM to avoid crowds; choose local restaurants near scenic areas for better value lunch. This autumn, no need for long trips—unlock a relaxing holiday among mountains, waters, and ancient villages. Pack your bags and set off!