Cuandixia Village

Cuandixia Village is situated 90 kilometers northwest of downtown Beijing at Zhaitang Town in Mentougou District. Covering an area of 10,000 square meters (2.5 acres), the mountain village in a valley is the best preserved in China with courtyard houses dating to the Ming and Qing dynasties.

History and Legend

It is said the village was established by a Han clan who migrated from Shanxi Province in Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). The village was a prosperous business distribution center and ancient post stop in Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

The character 'cuan' means stove in Chinese. When the village was established, the villagers named it 'cuandixia' with the implication of keeping away from the severe cold as well as the scourge of war.

Courtyards

Currently, there are 76 well-preserved ancient courtyards open to visitors. These courtyards are built with natural stones and wood one by one on the northern slopes of the valley. A stone paved lane divides the village into two groups and the houses extends from north to south like a in a sector shape. Most people in the village have the surname of Han.

Ancient quadrangle dwellings are mainly courtyards with three rooms on three sides. Most of them are Qing Dynasty buildings which look like castles in the mountain. The houses are decorated with brick, wooden and stone carvings engraved with flowers and birds symbolizing good luck. There are also calligraphy and paintings within the houses. Accessory buildings for the courtyards include screen wall, archway, hitching posts and stones to mount a horse.

At present, many of these houses courtyards have been converted into inns offering food and lodging to travelers.

Natural Beauty

Located in a valley surrounded by mountains, Cuandixia Village has beautiful natural landscape with lush grass and luxuriant trees. The village has a clear night sky with little light pollution. A mountain trail winding up and around the peak to the south of the village is called One Thread of Heaven. Like a slumbering dragon, it protects the village and provides a dizzying view of Cuandixia Village and its surrounding mountains.

In this village, the beauty of nature and ancient courtyards combined harmoniously. The poetic landscape attracts many tourist as well as photographers and painters. It is also popular among hikers for its mountains and trails.