Cuandixia Village (爨底下村)

Do you want to visit the traditional courtyards of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties not far from Beijing? If so, we recommend you visit the Chuandixia Village (爨底下村) located in the suburbs of the city. This village is also called the Potala Palace of Beijing because all the houses are located on a gentle slope of a mountain, layer upon layer, just like the soaring Potala Palace.

On the ancient land of Beijing lies a cultural pearl of ancient villages-Cuandixia Village, which hides itself quietly in the deep valleys in the west of Beijing is called "China's Pompeii". It is located in Zhaitang Town, Mentougou District, about 90kms from downtown Beijing.

Beijing Cuandixia Village about 70 various and flexible courtyards were built one by one following the terrain of the slopes. The houses were built with natural stones and wood, the steep stairs and streets paved by the rocks are all simple, natural and colorful.

Mountains surround Cuandixia Village and streams flow through them. The village layout merging with the slopes is quite orderly and harmonic. The environments, where the villagers have inhabited, ploughed and enjoyed themselves for generations are full of serenity, just like a Land of Peach Blossoms.