Mentougou: Ancient Roads, Glaze Art and Wide-Ranging Views

In Mentougou District, old trade routes, glazed pottery craftsmanship and viewpoints offer different ways to explore. The attractions are spread across several townships: in Shuizui, the story of Jingxi Ancient Road takes centre stage; at Dingdu Peak, two trails and views across Beijing shape the excursion; while Liuliqu is associated with glazed tiles and ceramics. These differences give your stay a clear focus. Search for a holiday apartment based on which of these themes interests you most.

Ancient Roads and Views at Dingdu Peak

Jingxi Ancient Road Scenic Area is in Shuizui Village, Miaofengshan Township, Mentougou District, and covers 1.5 square kilometres. A 1,500-metre section of the old road is largely preserved within the village. A folk customs museum in the scenic area presents the route’s development, past repairs, functions and associated customs. The culture of the caravans is also part of the visit: guests can sample a regional horse-caravan banquet in the scenic area.

Dingdu Peak lies north of Sangyu Village in Tanzhesi Township. The scenic area covers 2,700 mu and combines sightseeing, recreation and wellness holidays. To help you choose a route, here is a direct comparison: the eastern route is about 3 kilometres long and passes, among other places, Dajuntai, Xiaojuntai and Wangjingtai. The western route is about 4.5 kilometres long and runs via Wangshitai and Guanghui Temple. From Dingdu Pavilion, the view extends east across Beijing; visible landmarks include Chang’an Avenue, the TV Tower, the Guomao area, Yintai Center and the new headquarters of China Central Television.

Glaze Traditions in Liuliqu

Liuliqu Scenic Area is in Liuliqu Village, Longquan Township. The village has been designated a “Chinese Famous Historical and Cultural Village”. The route “古道拾遗”, introduced in 2024, linked several natural and cultural heritage sites with intangible cultural heritage projects; the listed stops included Jin'yu Liuli Culture Creative Industrial Park and Liuliqu Ancient Road Site.

The sightseeing highlights in Liuliqu described in 2024 included the well-preserved Royal Glazed-Tile Museum, Sanguan Pavilion Gate Tower and Guandi Temple. A presentation focused on the technique of firing glazed tiles, which is recognised as intangible cultural heritage. Visitors could also make their own glazed piece at Jin'yu Liuli Culture Creative Industrial Park and take photos with an exhibition of modern glaze art. Historic buildings and traditional crafts thus sit alongside a hands-on experience with glaze.

Ceramics Between Exhibition and Craft

The exhibition “西山窑火，千年釉彩——北京龙泉务窑陶瓷展” opened on 18 March 2025 and displayed more than 300 ceramic works. A kiln bed, firebox opening and ventilation opening illustrated a historic kiln scene. Visitors could experience stages of the process, including preparing the clay, shaping and drying the pieces. They could also choose a vessel shape, pattern and glaze colour, have a personalised “龙泉务窑陶瓷” made and create a digital collectible. The opening and these experiences belong to 2025; the exhibition should therefore not be assumed to be currently available.

Choose the Right Focus for Your Stay

Whether you are more interested in the history of ancient roads, the view from Dingdu Pavilion or glaze craftsmanship, these themes give a stay in Mentougou different emphases. If a described hands-on activity or exhibition is the deciding factor for your trip, check whether it will be available during your stay before making plans.

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