Things To Do
in Fengning
Fengning Manchu Autonomous County sits on the Bashang Plateau in northern Hebei and is known for its wide grasslands, pastoral scenery, and distinct Manchu cultural heritage. The area offers contrasting seasons — cool, breezy summers ideal for grassland festivals and harsh, snowy winters that attract skiers and winter photographers. Highlights include sweeping Bashang Grassland vistas, sections of the Ximatai Great Wall, and forested reserves within driving distance.
Fengning is rural and peaceful, popular with domestic visitors seeking nature, horseback riding, and simple farmhouse stays.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Awake to the serene beauty of the Fengning grasslands, where the morning sun casts a golden hue over the vast landscape. Enjoy a traditional Chinese breakfast at a local eatery, surrounded by the sounds of nature. After breakfast, embark on a leisurely stroll through the vibrant meadows, taking in the sight of herds of sheep grazing peacefully.
In the afternoon, participate in a horseback riding tour that meanders through the lush green hills, allowing you to experience the grasslands from a different perspective. Stop for a picnic lunch, savoring local specialties while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. As the sun climbs higher, capture stunning photographs of the landscape and the local flora.
As dusk settles in, return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for dinner. Sample an authentic Mongolian barbecue at a local restaurant, where you can grill your own meats and vegetables. Conclude your evening by stargazing on the grasslands, marveling at the clear night sky dotted with stars.
Begin your day with a visit to the ancient temples of Fengning, where the rich history and spirituality of the area come alive. Participate in a guided meditation session that offers insight into the local Buddhist practices and beliefs. Afterward, explore the intricate architecture and sacred artifacts that adorn these historic sites.
In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony at a nearby teahouse to learn about the significance of tea culture in China. Engage with local artisans who craft beautiful pottery and textiles, and try your hand at making some of your own. This interactive experience provides a deeper understanding of the local customs and traditions that shape Fengning's culture.
As the sun begins to set, join a community event or festival that showcases local music and dance. Taste homemade snacks from various food stalls, each offering a unique flavor of the region. Wrap up your evening by mingling with the locals, sharing stories, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.30-1 |
| 🚕Taxi short ride (within town) | $2-5 |
| 🛏Budget guesthouse / simple hotel (per night) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Wide, scenic grasslands and dramatic natural landscapes perfect for photography and outdoor activities
- Strong local Manchu cultural flavor and rural hospitality
- Good summer escape from city heat and clear night skies for stargazing
- Winter season offers snow sports and a quiet, atmospheric low-season experience
- Limited tourist infrastructure compared with major Chinese cities; fewer English signs and services
- Cold, harsh winters require proper gear and planning
- Mobile payment dominance and limited card acceptance may complicate payments for foreigners without local apps
- Transport between attractions often requires private vehicle or arranged tours
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxie)" - Thank you
- "多少钱？ (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much does this cost?
- "不吃肉 (Wǒ bù chī ròu)" - I don't eat meat
- "厕所在哪里？ (Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the bathroom?
- "可以拍照吗？ (Kěyǐ pāizhào ma?)" - May I take a photo?
Places to Visit in Fengning
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive, wind-swept grasslands with rolling hills, scattered yurts and grazing herds — excellent for sunrise, sunset and starry-sky photography.
Dramatic, steep sections of the Great Wall set against highland terrain; offers rugged wall shots and panoramic views, especially atmospheric in low light or mist.
Manchu-style rural architecture, farm scenes and seasonal activities provide intimate cultural photo opportunities.
Lush forests, wetlands and boardwalks (within reasonable driving distance) offer contrasting greenery and birdlife photography compared with the open grasslands.
Food in Fengning
Fengning Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Whole or spitted lamb roasted over coals on the grassland; available at farmhouse restaurants and grassland barbecue stalls during summer festivals.
Must-Try!
A warming stew-style hot pot featuring thinly sliced mutton, local mushrooms and pickled vegetables — common in colder months and at family-style restaurants.
A homestyle stir-fry of potato, eggplant and peppers, representing northern Chinese comfort food found in casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Markets in the county seat sell steamed buns (baozi), dumplings (jiaozi), skewers (chuan'r) and fresh dairy snacks; morning stalls are the best for local breakfast items.
Seasonal stalls near popular grassland spots offering skewers, roasted vegetables and lamb — ideal for sampling grilled flavors outdoors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness toward older residents is important — offer greetings and show deference in conversations.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially elderly villagers and local ethnic-minority community members.
Remove shoes when entering private homes or some guesthouses; hosts will indicate if shoe removal is expected.
Dress modestly in rural and religious contexts; avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting villages.
Safety
Tipping in Fengning
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most small towns and rural restaurants in China; it’s appreciated but not expected in tourist-oriented guesthouses or guides. For special services or private guides, a modest tip is acceptable.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) dominate across China, but in rural Fengning smaller vendors may prefer cash (RMB). International cards are less widely accepted — carry cash and ensure ATMs are accessible.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild, often breezy and the most popular time for grassland visits; temperatures are comfortable, ideal for camping, horseback riding and outdoor festivals. Pack layers for cool nights and sun protection for daytime.
Cooler days with crisp air and golden grasses; great for photography and fewer crowds. Early autumn brings pleasant hiking weather but prepare for rapidly falling temperatures after sunset.
Cold and snowy — temperatures can drop well below freezing, creating excellent conditions for skiing, snow activities, and stark landscape photography. Bring heavy winter gear and be prepared for some facilities to close.
Windy and variable with thawing ground; wildflowers emerge later in spring on the plateau. Roads and trails can be muddy — waterproof footwear recommended.
Fengning at Night
Hiking in Fengning
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike along rugged, less-commercialized sections of the Great Wall with steep ascents and dramatic viewpoints; suitable for prepared hikers.
Gentle treks across the grassland plains, linking small settlements and scenic plateaus — ideal for day hikes, photography and birdwatching.
Forest and wetland trails in the Saihanba area offer shaded hikes, varied wildlife and boardwalk sections; best visited in spring to autumn.
Airports
How to reach Fengning by plane.
Nearest regional airport serving Chengde; from here take a bus, taxi or arranged transfer to Fengning (driving time varies around 1–2 hours depending on route). Check scheduled flights, as services may be limited.
Major international gateways with frequent domestic connections to Hebei; expect a 2.5–4.5 hour drive or shuttle plus possible train/bus connections from Beijing to Fengning.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in the area, involved in farming, commerce and local administration.
Fengning is an autonomous county for the Manchu people; Manchu cultural traditions are still visible in festivals, cuisine and some village customs.
Smaller communities of herders and farmers who maintain traditional grassland livelihoods and seasonal patterns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional and popular activity on the Bashang Grassland, both recreationally and as part of cultural events.
Winter sports are popular when snowfall arrives; regional ski resorts and open snowfields attract locals and nearby city visitors.
Common team sports in towns and villages; pickup games are a regular social activity, especially among youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fengning.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist (stir-fried vegetables, potatoes, noodles, tofu) but are more limited in rural settings; ask plainly for 'su' (素) dishes and point to ingredients if possible.
Vegan and gluten-free choices are limited; communicate restrictions clearly, carry snacks, and consider staying in larger towns where supermarkets and specialty shops are available.
Language barriers mean it's wise to have allergy notes written in Chinese and to purchase essential medication locally before traveling deep into rural areas.