Nestled in Beijing's western mountains, Xifeng Temple is a hidden gem among ancient monasteries. Its 1,300-year-old ginkgo tree, a living relic from the Tang Dynasty, turns into a golden tsunami every autumn. Marvel at the Liao Dynasty stone tablets and Ming-era Buddha hall, where exquisite brick carvings of phoenixes peonies will steal your breath. Hike through Qing Dynasty monk pagodas while mountain winds dance with bronze bells, then continue your pilgrimage to Tanzhe Temple - locals say "First came Tanzhe, then Beijing itself."