Fengning Grassland (丰宁草原), also known as the “First Grassland North of Beijing,” is a pristine expanse situated in the northwest of Fengning Manchu Autonomous County, Hebei Province, covering a vast area of 350 square kilometers. Referred to as “Hailiutu” in Mongolian, which translates to a place abundant with water and lush grass, this region boasts not only enchanting grassland vistas – where the sky meets the vastness of the wild, and grass sways low, revealing herds of cattle and sheep – but also a diverse array of recreational activities. From horseback riding and off-road motorcycle adventures to participating in bonfire soirées, enjoying ethnic dances, and witnessing equestrian performances, Fengning Grassland offers an all-encompassing experience for visitors.
The average elevation of Fengning Grassland is 1487 meters, characterized by a continental monsoon climate. Springs and autumns are short, with minimal rainfall, while winters tend to be long, bitterly cold, and windy. Summers, on the other hand, are pleasantly cool, with no scorching heat – July averages a temperature of 17.4°C, with the highest temperature rarely exceeding 24°C throughout the year.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Fengning Grassland
- Vlog about Fengning Grassland
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Natural Sceneries in Chengde
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day, 7 days a week |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0314-8280094 |
Location and Transportation
Fengning Grassland is an enchanting natural treasure located in Fengning Manchu Autonomous County, Chengde City, Hebei Province, China. Situated approximately 180 kilometers north of Beijing, this vast expanse of pristine landscapes beckons travelers to explore its captivating beauty and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Tourists to Fengning Grassland can first take a train to Fengning Railway Station (丰宁火车站) and then transfer to a coach to cover the remaining 65 kilometers. But most people would choose to drive themselves, which is more convenient and time-saving.
Highlights of Fengning Grassland
Scenic Majesty
The natural resources of Fengning Grassland are exceptionally rich. Among the myriad of flowers and plants available for admiration, the golden needles in May, wild onions in June, dry branch plums in July, and golden lotus flowers in August stand out and are beloved by many. Around the time of the Dragon Boat Festival, skylarks lay their eggs and hatch in the midst of these flowers and plants, creating the perfect opportunity for birdwatching. In October, hundreds of thousands of southern migratory geese make a brief stopover here. Wild hares, moles, foxes, leopards, and other grassland animals are frequent visitors to the slopes and grassy areas. Fengning Grassland, the premier grassland north of Beijing, is an excellent destination for summer retreats and hunting expeditions.
Nomadic Culture
Inhabited by Mongolian, Manchu, and Evenki ethnic groups, Fengning Grassland is a melting pot of unique cultures.
- Nomadic songs and dances have flourished here, characterized by the profound, restrained, expansive, and majestic qualities that have developed over centuries due to the geographical and climatic conditions of the grassland.
- Wrestling, a popular sport on the grassland, is an essential competition during the Nadam Festival. Mongolian wrestling, with its distinctive costumes, rules, and techniques, is aptly known as Mongolian-style wrestling.
- Buttering the forehead with yak butter is a Mongolian hospitality tradition. When hosting esteemed guests or celebrating significant festivals, the host presents a bottle of wine without immediately pouring it into cups. The bottle’s mouth is coated with yak butter, and the honored guest or elder dips their finger into the butter before applying it to their forehead. Following the order of seniority, others follow suit, and only after this ritual is complete does the host serve the wine to the guests.
Outdoor Adventures
Fengning Grassland offers a playground of outdoor adventures amidst its breathtaking landscapes. Here, the spirit of exploration comes alive through exhilarating activities. Horseback riding lets you gallop through the open expanse, feeling the wind in your hair. Hiking trails wind through rolling hills, revealing panoramic vistas. Archery tests your precision against the grassland’s backdrop. Camping beneath the star-studded sky brings nature’s embrace closer. Each adventure immerses you in the untamed beauty, creating memories against a backdrop of sweeping meadows, clear streams, and boundless skies.
Culinary Delights
Fengning Grassland boasts its unique culinary treasures. One such delight is naked oats, locally known as “youmai,” processed into flour to make a staple food called youmian. Another specialty is wild mushrooms, known as “koumo,” which thrive in deep mountain valleys between 800 and 1500 meters above sea level, offering a distinctive flavor and essential amino acids that are beneficial for the physical and intellectual development of children. Lastly, there’s mare’s milk wine – a fermented beverage created by filling fresh mare’s milk into a rawhide bag, hanging it in a sunny spot, and stirring it several times a day with a specially crafted wooden stick. When the mare’s milk turns clear and slightly sour, the mare’s milk wine is ready to be savored – a refreshing and tangy treat unique to the region.
Stargazing
Fengning Grassland offers an enchanting canvas for stargazing enthusiasts. As twilight gives way to night, the vast expanse becomes a celestial theater, free from urban light pollution. Under the pristine, ink-black sky, stars burst forth in a mesmerizing display. The Milky Way arches gracefully, connecting Earth to the cosmos. With each twinkle, constellations and planets tell stories of ancient lore. Stargazing on the grassland unveils a profound connection to the universe, a tranquil escape where time seems to stand still. Amidst the quiet whispers of the wind, you’ll find serenity and wonder, lost in the awe-inspiring beauty of the cosmos.
Vlog about Fengning Grassland
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
China Horse Town: Themed around horse culture, China Horse Town features various theme parks and artistic performances, making it a comprehensive and cost-effective entertainment destination.
Baili Tianlu (Hundred Miles Sky Road): One of China’s ten most beautiful roads, Baili Tianlu is free to access. Vehicles with more than seven seats are not allowed. This 90-kilometer road integrates the essence of Fengning Grassland, offering picturesque views.
Qiansongba National Forest Park: Known for its natural secondary forest landscape, this park boasts vast areas of original birch forests, particularly stunning in summer and autumn.
Culinary Recommendations: Try the roasted whole lamb, especially if there’s a crowd. The grass-fed lamb is described as non-gamy and tender. Alternatively, for smaller groups, lamb chops or lamb legs are suggested.
Driving Recommendations: Consider self-driving from Beijing to the grassland, as it is vast, and having a vehicle is necessary for convenient exploration.
Sun Protection Warning: Emphasizing the importance of sun protection, especially in the summer, due to intense UV radiation. Apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn and deterioration of the skin.
Horseback Riding Tips: For those planning to ride horses, wear long horse-riding boots or leg guards. It is recommended to wear long, high-friction denim pants and gloves for a more comfortable experience.
