How to Get to Bashang Grassland in Mulan Paddock from Beijing

Overview

Bashang Grassland, also known as Aaihanba Forest Park (塞罕坝森林公园), is a stunning prairie destination located about 450 kilometers northeast of Beijing. With its temperate monsoon climate, the area boasts cool, mild summers and long winters, making it a popular spot for summer retreats and outdoor activities. The best visiting period spans from June to October.

Geographic Divisions

The Bashang Grasslands consist of four main areas, each offering unique landscapes and experiences:

  1. Fengning Bashang: Known for its rolling hills and vibrant wildflowers.
  2. Zhangbei Bashang: Offers picturesque views and cultural experiences.
  3. Weichang Bashang: Famous for its ecological diversity and scenic beauty.
  4. Guyuan Bashang: Features expansive grasslands ideal for outdoor adventures.

Key Destinations

Your main points of interest within Bashang Grassland will be:

  • Hongshan Junmachang (红山军马场): A historical site and equestrian base, perfect for horse riding and photography.
  • Jixie Linchang (机械林场): Offers various outdoor activities and beautiful natural scenery.

Transportation Options

By Coach (Highly Recommended)

Direct Coach (Beijing → Jixie Forest Farm)

  • Departure: Daily at 9:00 AM from:
    • Beijing Liuliqiao Long-distance Bus Station (六里桥客运站)
    • Sanyuanqiao Bus Station (三元桥客运站)
  • Arrival: Approximately 5:00 PM at Yudaokou or Sihanba scenic spot.
  • Duration: Around 7 hours.
  • Ticket Price: Approximately 100 RMB.

Transfer Coach (Beijing → Weichang → Jixie Forest Farm)

  1. Step 1: Take a coach to Weichang from the bus stations mentioned above.
  2. Step 2: Disembark at Weichang East Bus Station, then take a taxi to Mulan Weichang North Bus Station.
  3. Step 3: Transfer to a bus heading to Bashang Grassland or rent a car upon arrival.

By Train

Trains offer a comfortable alternative to reach Bashang Grassland. The following routes are available from Beijing to Shiheyong Town:

Train Options

Train Code Departure Arrival Duration Soft Sleeper Hard Sleeper Hard Seats
2621 09:35 16:49 7h 14m 130.5 RMB 84.5 RMB 38.5 RMB
K1189 16:03 22:21 6h 18m 146.5 RMB 96.5 RMB 50.5 RMB
K1457 22:38 05:47 7h 9m 152.5 RMB 99.5 RMB 53.5 RMB
  • From Siheyong Station: Take a bus to Weichang (approximately 20 minutes). After reaching Weichang, you can take a public bus or taxi to Hongshan Junmachang, which is about a 2-hour drive away. It’s advisable to pre-book a taxi for convenience.

Travel Tips

  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Ticket Price: 150 RMB
  • Photography: The expansive landscapes provide excellent opportunities for photography. Renting a vehicle (like a Beijing Jeep) or a horse at Hongshan Junmachang is recommended for better access to scenic spots.

Best Times to Visit

  • Summer (June to September): Ideal for enjoying the lush greenery and mild weather.
  • Late May to Early June: Best for vibrant spring colors and blooming flowers.
  • End of June to Early July: Perfect for photographing fields of cole flowers.
  • End of September: Excellent for capturing autumn foliage and landscapes.

Activities and Attractions

  • Horse Riding: Explore the vast grasslands on horseback, a popular way to experience the scenery.
  • Photography: The diverse landscapes, flora, and fauna make it a photographer’s paradise.
  • Cultural Experiences: Engage with local nomadic cultures and traditional practices, enriching your visit.