Escape the hustle and bustle of Beijing at Taoyuan Ancient Cave, a hidden gem nestled amidst emerald mountains. The fresh air here is scented with wildflowers, making it a natural oxygen bar. Inside the cave, you'll be awed by the glittering stalactites – each one a masterpiece carved by nature over millennia. Don't forget your camera, as every turn reveals Instagram-worthy vistas! A babbling creek adds to the magic, making this the perfect summer retreat. Pro tip: Visit at golden hour when sunlight filters through the cave's openings for an ethereal glow.


Nestled in a hawthorn valley, this luxury homestay offers a unique escape with over 7,000 30-year-old hawthorn trees creating a breathtaking natural landscape. Enjoy BBQ gatherings, let your kids explore the playground, or relax in the camping meadow. With a pet-friendly policy, animal interactions, and easy access to downtown (just 1.2 hours away), it’s perfect for family trips or group getaways. A serene retreat for nature lovers!


















Everything you need to know about Taoyuan Gudong
While Taoyuan Ancient Cave is nestled in a natural landscape, nearby villages offer charming boutique stays. Stay at Yinju Mountain Cottage near Tantasi Temple, a meticulously restored traditional Beijing-style retreat blending rustic charm with modern comfort. Just a 15-minute walk from the cave entrance, its floor-to-ceiling windows frame panoramic views of terraced hills and ancient trees. Guests can enjoy morning bird songs and babbling brooks. The hotel also provides guided tours into the cave’s hidden grottos, revealing centuries-old carvings and tales of local legends—perfect for immersive cultural exploration.
From central Beijing, take Line 16 subway to Fengtai Station, then transfer to bus 921 or 973 bound for "Tantasi Temple." Walk about 15 minutes to reach Taoyuan Ancient Cave. Alternatively, private car or Didi rides take around 40 minutes, offering scenic views of western Beijing’s countryside. For eco-conscious travelers, weekend guided hiking shuttle services are available through local tour operators, including cave tours and tea breaks. Electric mobility scooters are also rented on-site, ideal for visitors with limited mobility seeking an easy, enjoyable visit.
Beyond exploring ancient stone carvings and thousand-year-old trees within the cave, visitors can engage in authentic cultural activities. Join a traditional woodcarving workshop led by local artisans teaching mortise-and-tenon techniques and nature-themed carving. Participate in morning meditation sessions held on natural rock platforms outside the cave, connecting with the surrounding energy. During lunar calendar new moons and full moons, attend temple blessing ceremonies open to guests, featuring incense offerings and limited-edition prayer talismans. Some guesthouses host a "Mountain Whispers Library," regularly hosting poetry readings and guqin performances, immersing travelers in the refined atmosphere of northern Chinese scholar culture.
During summer festivals, Taoyuan Ancient Cave hosts a nighttime light art exhibition, using projection technology to animate ancient carvings and mythological scenes on the cave walls, creating a surreal visual experience. Limited to two shows per night, tickets must be booked in advance. A dedicated stargazing platform at the entrance offers clear views of the Milky Way and meteor showers, thanks to minimal light pollution. Some guesthouses provide night guided tours with flashlights and expert narration, leading visitors through shadowy tunnels while sharing haunting legends. Wear non-slip shoes and bring warm clothing for safety and comfort during these magical evening adventures.
While Taoyuan Ancient Cave in Beijing lacks large hotels, nearby Haidian District and Xiangshan Mountain offer charming boutique inns. Recommended is Xiangshan Footprint: Hidden Garden Villa, a design-focused retreat blending traditional Beijing courtyard aesthetics with modern minimalism. Just a 15-minute walk from the cave entrance, the villa features floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of misty valleys and ancient trees. Guests enjoy complimentary guided tours to explore the site’s 1,000-year-old history and ecological wonders.
The property also hosts tea ceremony workshops, where visitors can savor authentic Beijing floral teas and experience classical scholar culture. For transportation, take Bus 904 from Xizhimen Metro Station to "Xiangshan Park," then transfer to a minibus for a 10-minute ride—extremely convenient. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking quiet contemplation amidst serene mountain scenery.
The most convenient route from central Beijing to Taoyuan Ancient Cave is taking Line 16 Subway to "Xiyuan Station," then transferring to Bus 904 bound for "Xiangshan Park." A short walk or local minibus ride (about 10 minutes) leads directly to the cave entrance. The journey takes roughly 1 hour, passing through key areas like Wanshou Road and Haidian Golden Commercial Belt, where you can stop by Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park or Summer Palace en route.
For comfort, consider HopeGoo a private car via Didi Chuxing or a local travel agency’s full-day tour package (¥300–400), which includes guided tours and parking access. It’s recommended to depart early on weekends to avoid afternoon traffic and enjoy cooler, quieter mountain air. The cave entrance features a free parking lot with EV charging stations, ideal for self-drive travelers.
Notably, the cave interior has an AI-powered multilingual audio guide system, allowing real-time language switching. This seamless blend of heritage and technology makes the trip perfect for cultural explorers and nature enthusiasts alike.
At Taoyuan Ancient Cave, visitors can enjoy several distinctive outdoor experiences. First, join the nighttime light show, where specialized lighting highlights natural rock formations, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that feels like stepping into another era. Second, participate in the ancient mining reenactment workshop, where guests learn traditional techniques using stone hammers and bamboo baskets, crafting their own handmade mineral keepsake.
Near the entrance, an eco-guided trail features smart touch kiosks explaining cave formation and rare flora such as Beijing Coptis and Purple-spotted Peony. Every Saturday, a mountain poetry gathering invites poets to recite classical verses inspired by the cave, evoking a scholar’s gathering ambiance.
Families can book the Kids Explorer Pack, including a mini geology hammer, expandable map, and mission cards, guiding children through a treasure hunt challenge led by trained guides. All activities follow low-carbon principles, using recyclable materials and strict visitor limits to preserve ecological integrity.
These immersive experiences deepen historical appreciation while adding interactivity and educational value to your visit.
Yes, Taoyuan Ancient Cave and its surrounding area are highly suitable for family visits, featuring numerous child-friendly facilities and activities. The cave boasts wide, gently sloped pathways with non-slip handrails, ensuring safe access for seniors and young children. Near the entrance, a kids’ play zone includes sand pits, climbing structures, and interactive science walls, keeping little ones entertained while waiting for guided tours.
A Family Explorer Kit is available, containing mission cards, compasses, and mini geology hammers, enabling children to complete a treasure hunt challenge with parental support. Upon completion, they receive a "Junior Cave Guide" certificate, a cherished keepsake.
The site also features rest areas with free hot water, light meals, and full accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs. Nearby attractions like Xiangshan Park and Beijing Botanical Garden are equally family-oriented, making a full-day itinerary easy to plan.
Travelers can reach the site within 1 hour from Xizhimen Metro Station, ideal for weekend getaways. Overall, Taoyuan Ancient Cave combines cultural depth with educational fun—perfect for families seeking meaningful, memorable adventures. Note: HopeGoo guided tours in advance during weekends and holidays is recommended to avoid crowds and ensure a smooth experience.
Explore more amazing destinations