Mozikou · Fahai Temple

Mozhikou·Fahai Temple Overview

A Small but Remarkable Ming Dynasty Imperial Temple

Fahai Temple is located at No. 28 Mozhikou, on the southern slope of Cuiwei Mountain in Shijingshan District, Beijing. It is a typical "small temple with great power" from the Ming Dynasty and serves as the spiritual high ground of the entire Mozhikou historical and cultural district. The temple was first built in the 4th year of the Ming Zhengtong reign (1439), initiated and funded by Li Tong, a favored eunuch of Emperor Yingzong Zhu Qizhen and a supervisor for five reigns. Craftsmen came from the Ministry of Works’ construction bureau, with 169 craftsmen and 15 court painters involved. Construction took about five years and was completed in the 8th year of Zhengtong (1443). Emperor Yingzong personally bestowed the name "Fahai Chan Temple" (法海禅寺), where "Fahai" means the Buddhist Dharma is as vast as the sea, unrelated to the legendary "Monk Fahai" from the folk tale Legend of the White Snake.

The temple is built along Cuiwei Mountain, facing the city with the mountain at its back, surrounded by pines and cypresses, creating a serene environment. It represents a high-level integration of religious architecture and imperial art in western Beijing. The layout follows a central axis from south to north: the mountain gate, Hall of Heavenly Kings, Mahavira Hall, and Medicine Buddha Hall, with the Sutra Library located at a higher position in the rear. Side halls, bell and drum towers, and stele pavilions are arranged symmetrically. Unlike bustling urban temples with heavy incense offerings, Fahai Temple feels more like an "open cultural and museum space," renowned for its murals, ancient trees, ritual instruments, and architectural artistry, with a quiet and reserved atmosphere.

One of China’s Three Great Mural Art Treasures

Fahai Temple holds a very high status in art history. Inside the Mahavira Hall are some of the best-preserved authentic Ming Dynasty court murals in China, covering about 236.7 square meters. These murals are distributed on the north wall, the fan-shaped walls behind the Buddha statues’ niches, and the east and west side walls. The murals depict Avalokitesvara (Guanyin), Manjushri, Samantabhadra bodhisattvas with their retinues and mounts, the Twenty Heavenly Deities, flying celestial maidens, Buddhas from the ten directions, emperors and empresses, donors, animals, flowers, landscapes, and auspicious clouds. The compositions are grand, the figures dignified, the linework exquisite, and the colors bright.

The most famous is the "Water Moon Guanyin" image, draped in a veil as thin as cicada wings, covered with hexagonal snowflake patterns, each about 2 square centimeters, made up of approximately 48 ultra-fine gold threads, totaling over 20,000 lines as fine as spider silk. The murals employ multiple complex techniques such as powder layering with gold, gold outlining, mixed gold application, gold scraping, layered shading and baking, and mica inlay. Nearly all pigments are mineral-based, and after nearly 600 years, the colors remain vivid and the layers distinct. Fahai Temple’s murals, along with those at Dunhuang Mogao Caves and Shanxi Yongle Palace, are known as China’s three great mural art treasures. They are often praised as the "finest Ming Dynasty murals" and even called the "Sistine Chapel of China." They are priceless for studying Ming court painting, religious art, and craft techniques.

The "Five Wonders" and Mountain Forest Environment

Besides the murals, Fahai Temple has the "Four Treasures," which together with the murals are called the "Five Wonders": the "Four Cypresses and One Arch Bridge" (Luoguo’er Bridge) outside the mountain gate, two thousand-year-old white bark pines (White Dragon Pines) planted symmetrically east and west in front of the Mahavira Hall, a Ming Dynasty dragon-knobbed ancient bronze bell, and the mandala coffered ceiling atop the Mahavira Hall. These cultural relics and ancient buildings together form a three-dimensional "heavenly palace world," giving Fahai Temple a very high status among ancient architecture enthusiasts.

The Mozhikou area where the temple is located was the prototype for "Moshikou" in Lao She’s Rickshaw Boy (骆驼祥子). It was once the "Camel Bell Ancient Road" leading to the northern frontier during the Ming and Qing dynasties and was also "Beijing’s first electrified village." Today, it has been developed into the Mozhikou Historical and Cultural District, integrating history, culture, ecology, and commerce. At the foot of the mountain are cultural sites such as the preserved ancient path (Laoye Temple), Tian Yi’s Tomb (Stone Carving Museum), China’s Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall, Cheng’en Temple (Yanjing Eight Wonders Museum), Jingxi Bookstore, and Shimen Academy. On the mountain are Fahai Temple, Yongji Temple, Fahai Temple Forest Park, and the Western Hills Greenway, with hiking routes to Badachu and Xiangshan. For travelers who love ancient architecture, murals, intangible cultural heritage crafts, hiking, and hutong culture, this is one of Beijing’s most popular yet still relatively niche citywalk and cultural deep-tour destinations in recent years, perfect for dedicating a full day to savor.

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Best Travel Seasons and Seasonal Highlights

Spring (March–May): Fresh Green Mountains + Easy Hiking

• Climate and Scenery: Temperatures warm up, with fresh greenery sprouting on Cuiwei Mountain. The pines, koelreuteria, and surrounding forests inside and outside Fahai Temple (法海寺) turn tender green, and the air is fresh.
• Experience Focus: Ideal for combining a visit to Fahai Temple with Fahai Temple Forest Park and Fahai Temple Leisure Trail for light hiking or family strolls. Spring sees fewer crowds, and the atmosphere on Modekou Street (模式口大街) is quiet, perfect for focusing on appreciating murals, photographing ancient buildings, and street scenes.
• Clothing Advice: Spring winds can be strong and it feels cool on the mountain. It’s recommended to bring a windbreaker or light shell jacket, and add a thin sweater or sweatshirt for mornings and evenings for extra comfort.

Summer (June–August): Cool Mountain Temple Retreat

• Climate and Environment: The forest is lush, and the temple is built into the mountain with ancient trees providing shade, creating a cool environment. The Daxiong Baodian Hall (大雄宝殿) maintains a constant temperature of about 23℃ (~73°F), making it very comfortable even in the heat. It’s a lesser-known summer retreat in western Beijing.
• Experience Focus: Suitable for scheduling indoor activities like viewing original artworks, the Medicine Buddha Hall (药师殿), and the Sutra Library (藏经阁) during the hottest hours. Stroll slowly and enjoy snacks on Modekou Street in the morning or evening. Summer is also a great time for families to visit the Glacier Exhibition Hall for educational purposes.
• Notes: The forest has many mosquitoes; many travel notes suggest bringing your own mosquito repellent or floral water. Afternoon thunderstorms and strong convective weather are common; on rainy or extreme weather days, mural viewing may be temporarily adjusted or closed. Check the latest notices from “Shijingshan Cultural Tourism” (石景山文旅) before going.

Autumn (September–November): Widely Recognized as the Best Season

• Scenic Advantages: Autumn is widely regarded as the best travel season for Modekou and Fahai Temple. The koelreuteria, ginkgo, white bark pine, and red walls with golden tiles create a rich color palette. The autumn colors inside Fahai Temple and the ginkgo trees in Cheng’en Temple (承恩寺, when open) are especially beautiful.
• Neighborhood Atmosphere: Modekou Street is often called the “old street you fall in love with again and again in autumn.” Locals come here specifically in autumn for city walks, photography, and coffee. The soft light and cool temperatures make it perfect for a full-day deep tour combining “Modekou Street + Fahai Temple + Forest Park hiking.”
• Photography Tips: On crisp autumn days, photographing the millennium-old white bark pines, the eaves of Daxiong Baodian Hall, the Four Cypress One Hole Bridge (四柏一孔桥), and the red lanterns on the old street yields excellent shots. Bring wide-angle and medium-telephoto lenses.

Winter (December–February): Festive Atmosphere + Prime Hiking Season

• Festive Vibe: Many travel notes mention that “winter has the strongest New Year atmosphere on Modekou Street.” Near the Spring Festival, red lanterns hang along both sides of the Camel Bell Ancient Road (驼铃古道), with camel sculptures, cat motifs, New Year paintings, and intangible cultural heritage markets blending together for a rich atmosphere. During the 2026 Bingwu Horse Year, Modekou hosts themed folk performances, fortune-seeking fairs, camel bell New Year greetings, stamp-collecting check-ins, New Year camel bell markets, God of Wealth parades, and Lantern Festival lantern parades (Feb 17–23 and Mar 3), making it perfect for families and couples to experience a “New Year on the old street.”
• Hiking Conditions: Winter is the prime season for Fahai Temple Forest Park, Shangri-La Firebreak Trail, Western Hills Greenway, and Fahai Temple to Badachu crossing: most trails face the sun, with dry dirt paths and firebreak trails that are not muddy, offering excellent visibility and distant views of the Shougang Big Jump Platform and Western Hills snow scenes.
• Warmth Tips: The mountain is windy and feels colder than the city. It’s recommended to wear a windproof down vest or jacket, layered with warm innerwear, and bring a hat, gloves, and scarf, especially if planning long hikes.

General Recommendations

• If your focus is on murals and ancient buildings, all seasons are suitable, with overcast days actually better for photographing architecture and street scenes.
• If you want to combine hiking and mountain scenery, late spring to early autumn (April–October) is recommended for comfortable temperatures and rich forest landscapes.
• To experience “New Year atmosphere + ancient road + intangible cultural heritage markets,” the best time is from late lunar year to Lantern Festival, which can be combined with Modekou’s Spring Festival events for a day trip.
• Holidays and weekends are peak times with tight reservations for original murals; off-season weekdays offer better chances for early visits and fewer crowds for a better experience.

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Transportation Methods and Arrival Guide

1. Metro: Line 11 Modekou Station is the Top Choice

1. From Line 11 Modekou Station → Modekou Street → Fahai Temple

• Nearest Station: Metro Line 11 "Modekou Station", the closest metro station to Modekou Street and the most recommended arrival method in most travel guides.
• Exit Options:
  • Exit A: Turn right immediately after exiting to reach the west entrance of Modekou Street, ideal for directly entering the old street;
  • Exit B: Walk a few minutes following signs to the main street, more convenient for connecting to Tianyi Tomb, Gudao Sicun, and other spots.
• Example Walking Route to Fahai Temple (about 1.5 km, 20–30 minutes):
  1. Exit from Modekou Station Exit B, walk east along Modekou Street;
  2. Reach the intersection of Tianyi Tomb (Stone Carving Museum), decide whether to visit based on your time;
  3. Continue to Gudao Sicun (Laoye Temple), turn left here to go uphill into Modekou North Street;
  4. Walk uphill along Modekou North Street, passing Wanquan Temple Ruins Park, Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum, and Sibai Yikong Bridge;
  5. Continue uphill for about 10–15 minutes to arrive at Fahai Temple’s mountain gate and ticket office.

2. Transfer Options from Major City Areas

• From Xidan/Dongdan/Guomao and other city centers:
  • Take Line 1 or Line 6 to "Jinanqiao" or "Pingguoyuan" stations;
  • Transfer to Line 11 and get off at Modekou Station.
• From Beijing Railway Station:
  • Take Line 2 to Jianguomen Station;
  • Transfer to Line 1 to Jinanqiao Station;
  • Then transfer to Line 11 to Modekou Station, total about 50–60 minutes.
• From Beijing West Railway Station:
  • Metro option: Take Line 7 to "Wanzi" or "Daguan Ying" → transfer to Line 1 to Jinanqiao → transfer to Line 11 to Modekou Station, about 45–60 minutes;
  • Taxi option: Direct taxi to "Modekou Historical and Cultural Street Area Parking Lot 4", about 30 minutes (depending on traffic).
• From Capital Airport:
  • Take the Airport Express Line to Sanyuanqiao Station;
  • Transfer to Line 10, then at Guomao or Shuangjing transfer to Line 1 → Jinanqiao → transfer to Line 11 to Modekou Station, total about 1.5 hours;
  • Or take a direct taxi to Modekou Street area, about 50–70 minutes.

2. Bus: Suitable for Visitors Who Prefer Fewer Transfers

There are multiple bus lines around Modekou Street, suitable for those who want to avoid frequent metro transfers or start nearby:

• Common drop-off stops: "Modekou North Station", "Modekou South Station", "Shijingshan Amusement Park", etc.;
• Common routes (check real-time maps): 336, 327, 959, 958, 941, etc.;
• After getting off, walk into Modekou Street, then follow Modekou North Street or signs uphill to reach Fahai Temple.

Bus routes may change due to city traffic adjustments, so it’s recommended to use a map app to search for “Fahai Temple” or “Modekou Historical and Cultural Street Area” for real-time route planning before traveling.

3. Driving and Parking: Remember P4 is the Closest Parking to the Temple

1. Navigation Suggestions

• If your focus is shopping:
  • Navigate to "Modekou Street" or "Modekou Historical and Cultural Street Area P1/P3 Parking Lots";
• If your focus is Fahai Temple and Glacier Museum:
  • Navigate to "Modekou Historical and Cultural Street Area Parking Lot 4" or "Fahai Temple Forest Park P4 Parking Lot", the closest parking to Fahai Temple.

2. Parking Lot Locations and Suitable Scenarios

• P1, P3 Parking Lots:
  • Location: Near the east section of Modekou Street, Cheng’en Temple, and Jingxi Bookstore;
  • Suitable for visitors planning to shop first in the east section of the old street, Cheng’en Temple, Jingxi Bookstore area, then hike up to Fahai Temple.
• P4 Parking Lot (Modekou Historical and Cultural Street Area Parking Lot 4 / Fahai Temple Forest Park P4):
  • Location: Near Fahai Temple, China Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall, and the Fahai Temple Forest Park trailhead;
  • Suitable for trips focused on Fahai Temple, Glacier Museum, and Forest Park hiking, as it is the nearest parking for hiking and temple visits.
• P2 Parking Lot:
  • Mentioned in multiple travel notes as currently unavailable, not recommended for navigation when driving.

3. Walking Distance and Pedestrian Street Hours

• Walking from P4 Parking Lot to Fahai Temple ticket office is about 100+ meters, passing the iconic Sibai Yikong Bridge along the way;
• Modekou Street is a pedestrian street from 10:00 to 20:00, no private vehicles allowed inside, so cars must be parked in outer parking lots before walking in;
• If you have booked an early session for original murals (e.g., 9:30), you can drive into the area closer to the mountain before 10:00, then walk down to the parking lot after visiting.

4. Walking and Hiking Connection Suggestions

1. Modekou Station → Fahai Temple (Culture + Mountain Path Combination)

• Recommended walking route:
  1. Exit Modekou Station from Exit B, enter the west section of Modekou Street;
  2. Pass cultural spots like Tianyi Tomb, Gudao Sicun, Guojielou Ruins, Longwang Temple Square;
  3. Near Gudao Sicun, turn left into Modekou North Street, with clear signs uphill;
  4. Pass Wanquan Temple Ruins Park, Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum, Sibai Yikong Bridge;
  5. Finally arrive at Fahai Temple mountain gate and ticket office, about 20–30 minutes of walking and sightseeing.

2. Fahai Temple → Forest Park → Xishan Greenway → Badachu

• Enter the Fahai Temple Forest Park internal road from the back entrance of Fahai Temple, walk uphill along cement and wooden plank paths;
• After joining the Xishan Greenway, you can choose to:
  • Take the 4–5.5 km Forest Park small loop, at Shambhala Fire Prevention Trail and Hutoushan Viewing Platform enjoy views of Shougang Big Jump and Yongding River;
  • Or continue along forest dirt paths to complete the Fahai Temple → Badachu approx. 7.3 km crossing, entering the main scenic road from behind Xiangjie Temple in Badachu, finally reaching the Badachu main gate.

5. Time Allocation and Safety Tips

• Visits to the original murals are strictly organized by time slots, late arrivals will not be admitted. It is recommended to reserve at least 20–30 minutes walking time uphill from the metro station or parking lot;
• In winter or rainy/snowy weather, roads can be slippery. Although the uphill path alternates between cement and stone slabs, it is recommended to wear non-slip hiking shoes or sports shoes;
• Shops selling water and snacks along Modekou Street and Fahai Temple Forest Park are limited, especially after entering the forest park and fire prevention trails where supplies are almost nonexistent. Please purchase enough water and snacks in the old street beforehand to carry with you.

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Tickets and Reservation Details

1. Fahai Temple Regular Ticket

• Price:
  • Regular ticket: ¥20 per person;
  • Discounts: Students and seniors over 60 years old get half price (¥10), subject to on-site announcements.
• Includes:
  • Fahai Temple mountain gate and courtyard;
  • Exterior view of the Mahavira Hall (does not include interior visit to the original murals);
  • Real scenes such as the millennium-old white-barked pine (White Dragon Pine), Ming Dynasty dragon-knob bronze bell, Four Cypresses One Bridge, etc.;
  • Replicas of murals and historical exhibitions inside the Medicine Buddha Hall and Sutra Library.
• How to Buy:
  • Usually no online reservation needed; tickets can be purchased on-site at the Fahai Temple ticket window;
  • Suitable for visitors who cannot book the original mural viewing session or have a limited budget but still want to experience the temple atmosphere and mural replicas.

2. Original Ming Dynasty Mural Viewing Ticket

• Price and Composition:
  • Original mural viewing ticket: ¥100 per person per visit;
  • This price includes the Fahai Temple regular ticket, so no need to buy the ¥20 ticket separately;
  • Some travel notes break it down as “ticket ¥20 + original mural ¥100 + art gallery ¥10 = ¥130,” but the official statement is “original mural ticket ¥100 (including regular ticket).” If you want to visit the Fahai Temple Mural Art Gallery at the foot of the mountain, you need to buy a separate art gallery ticket.
• Viewing Sessions and Quotas:
  • Official schedule given in many travel notes lists 7 sessions daily, common times are:
    • 9:30, 10:30, 11:40, 12:50, 14:00, 15:00, 15:50;
  • Quota per session: Most notes say “15 people per session,” some say “around 20,” but recently 15 is the upper limit; group reservations are handled separately;
  • Duration per session: about 20–30 minutes (including explanation and entry/exit time), actual timing depends on the on-site guide.
• Reservation Platform and Process:
  • Reservation platform: WeChat official account “Shijingshan Culture & Tourism” (石景山文旅);
  • Path: Enter the official account → “Micro Services” → “Venue Reservation” → “Beijing Fahai Temple Cultural Relics Preservation Office Reservation Area” → select “Original Mural Viewing”;
  • Reservation period: Most notes say “reserve 7 days in advance, tickets released daily at 6:00 AM,” some say “5 days in advance.” It’s recommended to prepare alarms for “sessions within 7 days, tickets released at 6 AM”;
  • Reservation method: Real-name system, must fill in visitor’s name, ID number, phone number, etc. After submission, a confirmation SMS will be received;
  • On-site ticket exchange: After successful reservation, report your name and time slot at Fahai Temple ticket office, scan QR code to pay and exchange for a paper ticket. Keep the paper ticket carefully; it will be checked before entering the hall.
• Late Arrival and Entry Rules:
  • Many notes emphasize “late arrivals are invalid”: doors will be locked once the explanation starts, no waiting for latecomers;
  • It is recommended to gather at the Mahavira Hall entrance at least 10 minutes early, allowing time for queuing, bag storage, putting on shoe covers, etc.;
  • During the visit, all visitors must store bags (phones, cameras, and all electronic devices are prohibited inside), wear shoe covers, and wear masks. Photography and use of any electronic devices inside the hall are strictly forbidden.

3. Fahai Temple Mural Art Gallery

• Location: On the way up the mountain, about a 5-minute walk from Fahai Temple, located around No. 47-1 Jiakou Street (模式口大街甲47-1号).
• Features and Content:
  • 4K digital mural displays, allowing close-up viewing of details such as the Water Moon Guanyin’s veil, mythical beast fur, Heavenly King armor, lotus halo effects, etc.;
  • Dome theater film “Dream · Fahai,” ticket about ¥20 per person per viewing;
  • Extensive graphic and multimedia explanations of mural themes, techniques, and historical background;
  • On-site café space, suitable for resting between visits.
• Ticket Prices:
  • Regular ticket: ¥98 per person;
  • Holiday ticket: ¥138 per person;
  • Early or special events sometimes offered “art exhibition ¥10” pricing, currently subject to on-site announcements.
• Reservation and Purchase:
  • Can be reserved via the “Shijingshan Culture & Tourism” WeChat official account or purchased on-site;
  • During peak times (holidays, weekends), some time slots may have visitor limits, so plan ahead.

4. Yongji Temple and Nearby Venues Ticketing

1. Yongji Temple

• Location: About 200 meters above Fahai Temple, accessible via the Fahai Temple tourism leisure trail.
• Ticket: Currently free admission;
• Exhibition: Hosting the exhibition “Wall Paintings Dialogue — Fahai Temple and Pilu Temple Murals,” previously scheduled until October 31. Future exhibition arrangements depend on official announcements.

2. Cheng’en Temple (Beijing Yanjing Eight Wonders Museum)

• Ticket Types:
  • Regular ticket: ¥30 per person;
  • Ticket with guided tour: ¥50 per person, about 1 hour duration.
• Reservation:
  • Book visiting times via the “Shijingshan Culture & Tourism” WeChat official account;
  • Some time slots may be “temporarily closed for renovation,” so confirm opening status before visiting.
• Visit Nature: Focuses on the “Yanjing Eight Wonders” court crafts exhibition. Original murals inside the temple are not open to the public, only replicas are displayed. Best visited with the mindset of a “craft museum.”

3. Tian Yi Tomb (Shijingshan District Stone Carving Museum)

• Ticket: ¥8 per person, no reservation required;
• Content: Tomb complex of eunuch Tian Yi from the Ming Wanli era, including Lingxing Gate, stone statues, Huabiao pillars, stele pavilion dragon coffered ceiling, underground tomb chambers, scattered stone carvings, with free guided tours. The underground palace exhibits an unnamed mummy dressed in a dragon robe.

4. China Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall

• Ticket: Free, no reservation required;
• Nature: A natural science museum built on Quaternary glacier relics, the only one of its kind in China and Asia, suitable for family science education.

5. Opening Hours and Stamp Collection Info

• Fahai Temple Opening Hours:
  • Generally 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM, ticket sales stop at 4:00 PM;
  • Closed on Mondays (usually open on holidays that fall on Monday), subject to the latest announcements from “Shijingshan Culture & Tourism.”
• Original Mural Viewing Times:
  • Specific sessions and times are announced daily by the official source; it is recommended to check the official WeChat account in advance.
• Stamp Collection Points:
  • Fahai Temple, Yongji Temple, and Fahai Temple Mural Art Gallery all offer free stamp collection;
  • Stamps can be collected next to the Fahai Temple security checkpoint without needing to buy tickets or enter the courtyard, ideal for stamp collectors planning themed routes.

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Suggested Visit Duration and Itinerary Levels

1. Quick Check-in: 2–3 Hours (Focused on the Murals)

Ideal for visitors with limited time whose main goal is to see the authentic murals of Fahai Temple (法海寺). The itinerary can be compressed into half a day:

• 0.5–1 hour: Ascend the Mountain and Enter the Temple
  • Start from Metro Line 11, Moxikou Station (模式口站) or the P4 parking lot, walk up Moxikou North Street (模式口北街), pass the Four Cypresses and One Arch Bridge (四柏一孔桥), take some quick photos, then enter Fahai Temple (法海寺);
• 0.5–1 hour: Yakushi Hall and Replica Murals
  • First, view the 1:1 collotype replica murals in Yakushi Hall (药师殿) to get an overall understanding of the composition and character placement of the Shipu murals, serving as a “preview” before seeing the originals;
• 0.5 hour: Authentic Murals Viewing Session
  • Enter the Mahavira Hall (大雄宝殿) at the reserved time slot, follow the guide, and use a flashlight in complete darkness to appreciate the authentic murals one by one;
• 0.5 hour: Quick Courtyard Tour
  • Briefly visit the millennia-old white bark pine, ancient bronze bell, mountain gate, etc. If time permits, climb the Sutra Pavilion platform for a distant view of the Western Hills before leaving.

If you skip Moxikou Street and only stay on the mountain, 2–3 hours is enough for a “quick mural tour” experience.

2. Standard Visit: About 4–6 Hours (Temple + Old Street)

Suitable for first-time visitors who want to balance Fahai Temple and representative spots in the Moxikou Street (模式口大街) area.

• 1–1.5 hours: Citywalk on the West Section of Moxikou Street
  • Exit from Moxikou Station Exit B, walk along the west section of the street, passing Tian Yi’s Tomb (田义墓, open for about 1–1.5 hours), Gudao Sucun (古道斯存), the ruins of the pedestrian bridge, Dragon King Temple Square (龙王庙广场), etc.;
• 1–1.5 hours: Ascend the Mountain and Visit the Art Museum
  • Walk up Moxikou North Street, pass Wanquan Temple Ruins Park (万泉寺遗址公园), Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum (法海寺壁画艺术馆, reserve about 1 hour depending on interest), Four Cypresses and One Arch Bridge, then reach Fahai Temple’s mountain gate;
• 2–2.5 hours: In-depth Fahai Temple Visit
  • Preview with Yakushi Hall replicas → authentic murals session → after exiting the hall, revisit Yakushi Hall to review details → visit the ancient bronze bell, mandala coffered ceiling replica, Sutra Pavilion documentary and history exhibition;
• 0.5–1 hour: Yongji Temple or Additional Street Exploration
  • If energy allows, hike up the leisure trail to Yongji Temple (永济寺), visit the “Wall Paintings” exhibition, then descend the same way; or return directly to Moxikou Street for dining and light shopping.

Overall about 4–6 hours, with flexibility to skip Tian Yi’s Tomb or the mural art museum depending on personal interest.

3. Deep Exploration: A Full Day or Multiple Visits

Perfect for mural enthusiasts, ancient architecture lovers, intangible cultural heritage fans, and hiking aficionados who want to fully explore the entire Moxikou area.

Morning: Culture + Mural Main Route

• Route A (Street first, then temple): Moxikou Station → Tian Yi’s Tomb → Gudao Sucun → Moxikou North Street → Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum → Fahai Temple (including authentic murals, replicas, exhibitions), about 4 hours;
• Route B (Temple first, then street): Moxikou Station → Moxikou North Street straight up to Fahai Temple → authentic murals session → Yongji Temple → descend to visit the Glacier Exhibition Hall → Cheng’en Temple (承恩寺) → east section of Moxikou Street → Jingxi Bookstore (京西书局), about 4–5 hours.

Afternoon: Hiking or In-depth Citywalk

• Choose a hiking route:
  • Fahai Temple Forest Park 4–5.5 km Loop: suitable for families and beginners, reserve 2–3 hours;
  • Fahai Temple → Badachu 7.3 km Traverse: for those with good stamina, reserve about 2–2.5 hours;
• Or do an in-depth citywalk on Moxikou Street, checking in at Jingxi Bookstore, Cheng’en Temple (when open), Gudao Sucun, Shimen Academy (石门书院), various cafes and snack shops, and collect stamps along the way, reserving 2–3 hours.

4. Time Planning for Combinations with Nearby Attractions

• Half-day combo: Fahai Temple (including authentic murals) + west section of Moxikou Street (Gudao Sucun, Tian Yi’s Tomb, Camel Bell Ancient Road), suitable for family and elder-friendly trips, about 4 hours;
• Full-day combo option 1: Entire Moxikou Street line (Jingxi Bookstore → Cheng’en Temple → Gudao Sucun → Tian Yi’s Tomb) + Fahai Temple + Glacier Exhibition Hall, about 7–8 hours;
• Full-day combo option 2: Fahai Temple + Yongji Temple + Forest Park hike + Badachu traverse, return via Bajiao Amusement Park Metro Station (八角游乐园站), about 6–8 hours.

5. Small Time Reservation Tips

• The authentic mural viewing sessions require strict punctuality. It is recommended to arrive at Fahai Temple ticket office at least 30–40 minutes before the reserved time to avoid delays due to traffic or queues;
• If planning to visit Fahai Temple, the Mural Art Museum, Yongji Temple, and Moxikou Street all in one day, it’s best to allocate a full day to avoid a rushed experience;
• For visitors especially interested in murals and ancient architecture, Fahai Temple itself is worth multiple visits (N times), as different seasons and different guides’ perspectives will bring new discoveries.

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Must-See Highlights and Core Attractions

1. Authentic Ming Dynasty Murals in the Mahavira Hall of Fahai Temple (法海寺大雄宝殿明代壁画真迹)

• Scale and Status:
  • The best-preserved authentic Ming Dynasty palace murals in China, covering approximately 236.7㎡, completed in the 8th year of the Ming Zhengtong reign (1443);
  • Alongside the Dunhuang Mogao Caves murals and Shanxi Yongle Palace murals, it is considered one of China’s three great mural art treasures, hailed as the "finest Ming Dynasty murals" and "China’s Sistine Chapel."
• Main Content:
  • Depictions of the three great bodhisattvas Guanyin, Manjushri, and Samantabhadra, along with their retinues and mounts;
  • Twenty Heavenly Kings, Buddhas from the ten directions, emperors and empresses, and donors;
  • Flying celestial maidens, auspicious beasts, animals, flowers, landscapes, auspicious clouds, and earthly plants.
• Signature Work: “Water Moon Guanyin”:
  • Guanyin’s veil is as thin as cicada wings; from afar, it looks like a sheer veil, but up close, it is covered with hexagonal snowflake patterns;
  • Each snowflake pattern is about 2 square centimeters, made up of approximately 48 ultra-fine gold threads, with a total of over 20,000 threads, as fine as spider silk;
  • Under yellow flashlight illumination, the gold threads shimmer subtly, creating a sparkling “blingbling” effect.
• Detail Highlights:
  • Capillaries in the fox’s ears are clearly visible, as if blood is flowing;
  • The fur of auspicious beasts is painted with alternating black and gold, giving a strong three-dimensional effect; their eyes seem to contain a small swallow, showing compassion rather than ferocity;
  • The wood grain on the pipa held by the Eastern Guardian King is exquisitely realistic;
  • The gold-painted dragons and phoenixes and hidden patterns on the emperor and empress’s garments appear and disappear with changing light angles;
  • Lotus petals are layered and shaded, nine in total on both sides, creating an astonishing three-dimensional effect;
  • The earthly world section features plants such as peonies, lingzhi mushrooms, spotted bamboo, and banana trees from various regions;
  • The highlights and iris details in the pupils of the child figures are so meticulous that up close they evoke a slightly “creepy” realism.
• Craftsmanship and Techniques:
  • A complex combination of advanced techniques including powder layering with gold, mixed gold application, gold outlining, gold scraping, layered shading and baking, and mica inlay;
  • Line drawing employs multiple methods from the Chinese painting “Eighteen Line Techniques,” with smooth and elastic lines for clothing folds, hair strands, and ornaments;
  • Almost all pigments are mineral-based, retaining vivid colors and clear layers after nearly 600 years.
• Visiting Experience:
  • To protect the murals, the Mahavira Hall maintains constant temperature and humidity and avoids light exposure, making the interior almost completely dark;
  • Visitors must store bags, wear shoe covers and masks, and under the guide’s direction, use cold or yellow flashlights to view the murals one by one over about 20–30 minutes;
  • Many visitors describe this as an immersive “candlelight night tour” experience.

2. Mandala Coiled Ceiling: A Three-Dimensional “Cosmic Mandala”

• Location and Nature:
  • One of Fahai Temple’s “Five Wonders,” located at the top of the Mahavira Hall;
  • Built in a mandala structure symbolizing the cosmic order, with layers folding inward, creating a strong three-dimensional effect.
• Artistic Features:
  • From the outer rings of lotus petals, cloud patterns, and auspicious flowers, the design converges inward to the central canopy and lotus pedestal, forming a 3D “heavenly palace”;
  • Together with the murals on the four walls, it creates the spatial sensation of “being at the center of the universe inside the hall.”
• Viewing Method:
  • The original ceiling is inside the Mahavira Hall and can be seen by looking up during the visit, but photography is prohibited inside;
  • 1:1 replicas are displayed in the Medicine Buddha Hall and the Sutra Library for close-up observation of composition and details.

3. Millennium-Old White-Barked Pine (White Dragon Pine)

• Location and Basic Info:
  • Located on the east and west sides in front of the Mahavira Hall, planted as a pair;
  • Nearly 600 years old, over 30 meters tall, with a trunk circumference of about 5 meters;
  • Called “White Dragon Pine” because its silver-white bark resembles dragon scales.
• Rarity:
  • There are only four white-barked pines over a thousand years old in Beijing; the other two are at Tanzhe Temple and Jietai Temple, making this paired planting unique to Fahai Temple;
  • Known as the “King of White-Barked Pines” in Beijing, a genuine “living cultural relic.”
• Viewing Value:
  • In autumn and winter, the white trunks contrast sharply with the red walls and golden tiles, creating a strong visual impact;
  • Standing on the front steps and looking up, the two white-barked pines frame the hall’s eaves and blue sky, forming an iconic scene.

4. Ming Dynasty Dragon-Head Bronze Bell

• Location and Specifications:
  • Located in the east side hall or exhibition room of the Mahavira Hall;
  • Cast in the 12th year of the Ming Zhengtong reign, about 1.75 meters tall, weighing approximately 1068 kilograms.
• Shape and Decorations:
  • The bell’s handle is formed by the tails of two Pulao dragons intertwined; Pulao is one of the “Nine Sons of the Dragon,” said to roar loudly when struck, hence often cast on bell handles;
  • The bell’s interior and exterior are inscribed with about 7,000–8,000 characters in Chinese, Sanskrit, and Tibetan, including 1,154 Chinese names recording all donors; Tibetan inscriptions are on the inner wall.
• Cultural Significance:
  • An important religious ritual object and a precious artifact for studying Ming Dynasty casting techniques and multi-ethnic cultural exchanges.

5. Four Cypresses and One Arch Bridge (Hunchback Bridge 罗锅儿桥)

• Location and Shape:
  • Located on the main uphill path, between Fahai Temple’s mountain gate and the P4 parking lot;
  • A small stone bridge just over one meter long with a slight arch, commonly called the “Hunchback Bridge.”
• Uniqueness:
  • Each corner of the bridge grows an ancient cypress tree, whose roots penetrate the stone crevices, symbiotically merging with the bridge;
  • The stone bridge and cypresses depend on each other, forming a symbolic “threshold,” representing crossing into the temple and entering another world.
• Photo Spot Value:
  • A landmark scenic spot for entering Fahai Temple, many visitors take photos here to commemorate their “moment of entering the mountain.”

6. Medicine Buddha Hall and 1:1 Mural Replicas

• Location and Function:
  • Located behind the Mahavira Hall as a rear hall space;
  • Houses 1:1 collotype reproductions of murals, serving as an important auxiliary space for understanding the composition and details of the originals.
• Main Content:
  • The three great bodhisattvas (Guanyin, Manjushri, Samantabhadra);
  • Paintings of Indra, Brahma, and other protectors worshipping the Buddha;
  • Scenes of Buddha assemblies, etc.
• Viewing Value:
  • Well-lit and photography allowed, ideal for “previewing and reviewing” before and after visiting the originals;
  • Allows close observation of details such as the hexagonal floral patterns on Guanyin’s veil, auspicious beast fur, gilded armor of the Heavenly Kings, and lotus shading.

7. Sutra Library and Fahai Temple History Exhibition

• Location and Views:
  • Located at the highest point of the temple, accessible by continuing up the central axis stairs;
  • The front platform offers distant views of the Western Hills and western Beijing cityscape; on clear days, the outline of the Shougang Big Air Ski Jump is visible.
• Exhibition Content:
  • Displays Fahai Temple-related artifacts and historical materials;
  • Continuously screens the documentary “National Treasure Archives: Exploring Ancient Beijing Temples—Rescuing Fahai Temple Murals,” detailing the mural restoration and protection process.

8. Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum

• Location:
  • Located at No. 47-1, Modekou Street at the foot of the mountain, about a 5-minute walk from Fahai Temple.
• Core Highlights:
  • 4K digital mural displays that magnify details difficult to see on the originals;
  • Dome theater “Dream·Fahai,” which reconstructs mural scenes through immersive imagery;
  • Systematically presents the themes, composition, techniques, and historical background of Fahai Temple murals, ideal for art enthusiasts seeking in-depth study.

9. Yongji Temple and “Wall Paintings Dialogue—Fahai Temple and Pilu Temple Murals” Exhibition

• Location and Status:
  • About 200 meters above Fahai Temple, accessible via the Fahai Temple tourism leisure trail;
  • Currently open free of charge; exhibition periods subject to official announcements.
• Exhibition Features:
  • Concentrates on high-definition reproductions of murals from Fahai Temple, Shanxi Pilu Temple, and other ancient temples;
  • Allows simultaneous comparison of Buddhist mural art from different regions and styles, helping build a broader perspective on Chinese mural history.

10. Fahai Temple Forest Park and Western Hills Hiking Routes

• Internal Park Roads:
  • Newly built wooden plank paths alternate with stone slab roads, gentle slopes, shaded by pine and cypress trees, suitable for family walks and light hiking;
• 4–5.5 km Small Loop:
  • Fahai Temple → cement road → large platform → left turn into forest → dirt road → Shangri-La firebreak P10 → Hutoushan viewing platform → return by same or dirt road;
  • Total about 4–5.5 km, elevation gain about 250m, suitable for all ages, no special equipment needed;
• Fahai Temple → Badachu 7.3 km Traverse:
  • Highlights: completely free, total elevation gain only about 150m, beginner-friendly, with views of the Shougang Big Air Ski Jump and Yongding River along the way;
  • The endpoint enters the main scenic route from behind Xiangjie Temple at Badachu, finally reaching the Badachu main gate; one of the popular traverse routes in western Beijing.

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Practical Tips and Important Notes

1. Reservations and Time Planning

• Fahai Temple (法海寺) is closed on Mondays (except public holidays). Regular opening hours are generally 9:00 AM–4:30 PM, with ticket sales ending at 4:00 PM. It is recommended to check the daily opening status on the “Shijingshan Cultural Tourism” WeChat public account before your visit.
• Viewing the original murals requires advance reservation via the “Shijingshan Cultural Tourism” WeChat public account, usually 7 days in advance, with tickets released daily at 6:00 AM. Popular weekend slots sell out quickly, so set an alarm to secure your spot.
• It is recommended to prioritize booking the early session (e.g., 9:30 AM): fewer visitors, softer lighting, and after 10:00 AM, the pedestrian street on Mosikou Street (模式口大街) is closed off, making it easier for drivers to park near the P4 lot before the early session.
• When scheduling the original mural viewing, be sure to allow at least 30–40 minutes to walk uphill from the metro station or parking lot to avoid delays due to distance and queues.

2. Original Mural Viewing Procedure and Hall Rules

• On the day of your visit, you must first report your reservation name and time slot at Fahai Temple’s ticket office, scan the QR code to pay, and exchange for a paper ticket. The paper ticket is your entry pass—please keep it safe.
• It is recommended to gather at the entrance of the Mahavira Hall (大雄宝殿) 5–10 minutes before your reserved time. Late arrivals will not be admitted, and the hall doors will be locked once the guided tour begins.
• Before entering the hall, everyone must:
  • Store all electronic devices such as phones and cameras in the designated bag area; no electronics are allowed inside.
  • Put on disposable shoe covers and wear a mask.
  • Receive a cold or warm light flashlight and follow the instructions of staff and guides.
• The hall is almost completely dark, with steps and uneven ground. Please watch your step, avoid pushing, and take care of elderly and children.
• Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited inside the original mural hall, including turning on phone screens. Please respect the cultural relic protection rules.

3. Viewing Order and How to “Fully Appreciate the Murals”

• Before your trip, you can watch the documentary "National Treasure Archives: Exploring the Ancient Temple in the Capital—Rescuing Fahai Temple Murals" (~14 minutes) at home to gain a basic understanding of the murals’ history and restoration.
• Upon arrival, it is recommended to visit in the following order:
  1. First, visit the Medicine Buddha Hall (药师殿) to see the 1:1 replica murals and familiarize yourself with the overall composition and character positions of the ten murals.
  2. Enter the Mahavira Hall at your reserved time to see the originals, focusing on details such as powder gold layering, gold line patterns, hair and blood vessel details, and the veiled Water Moon Guanyin.
  3. After exiting, return to the Medicine Buddha Hall to “review” and deepen your memory by comparing the details you just saw.
  4. If time permits, visit the Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum (法海寺壁画艺术馆) for further study of details through 4K magnification and multimedia explanations (see the “Highlights” section for details).
• When viewing the originals, you can first use white light for a quick overall scan, then focus the yellow light on gold lines, shading, and hidden patterns. Yellow light better reveals color layers and the shimmering effect of gold lines.

4. Clothing and Equipment Recommendations

• The uphill path mainly consists of cement roads, stone slabs, and some dirt paths. Comfortable, non-slip sports shoes or light hiking shoes are recommended, especially after rain or snow.
• Spring and autumn have large temperature differences between morning and evening, and the mountain wind is stronger than in the city. It is recommended to use layered clothing: quick-dry base layer + warm middle layer + windproof outer layer for easy adjustment.
• In summer, there are many mosquitoes and insects in the forest. Be sure to bring mosquito repellent or floral water, especially if you plan to hike the forest park, Shangri-La fire prevention trail, or Xishan greenway.
• There are almost no sales points along the hiking routes, so purchase enough drinking water and snacks in advance on Mosikou Street. It is recommended to carry at least 500–1000 ml of water per person.
• In winter, pay attention to wind protection and warmth during hikes. Prepare small warm accessories like hats, gloves, and neck gaiters, and avoid staying long at windy ridge spots.

5. Avoiding Crowds and Managing Your Itinerary

• Mosikou Street and Fahai Temple are crowded on weekends and holidays, and original mural viewing slots are harder to book. If possible, choose weekdays for a quieter experience.
• Winter days are shorter, so it is recommended to schedule Fahai Temple and mural viewing in the morning, then do hiking or city walks in the afternoon to avoid walking mountain paths after dark.
• Mosikou Street is a pedestrian street from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Drivers who want to park close to Fahai Temple should book early sessions and enter the P4 parking lot before 10:00 AM.

6. Hiking Safety and Route Selection

• Fahai Temple Forest Park and Xishan Greenway are generally easy and suitable for beginners and families. However, dirt paths and steps become slippery after rain or snow, so watch your step and slow down if necessary.
• The Fahai Temple → Badachu (八大处) crossing allows free entry to Badachu, but once inside the scenic area, you must follow park rules. Pets must be leashed at all times and owners must clean up after them, and avoid entering temple buildings.
• Mobile signal on the mountain is generally good, but it is still recommended to hike in groups, especially on forest dirt paths, to avoid going alone into remote areas.
• Avoid staying long on ridges or high viewing platforms during summer thunderstorms. Descend promptly if severe weather occurs.

7. Photography and Equipment Tips

• Photography is prohibited inside the original mural hall, but you can take photos of replicas and digital murals at the Medicine Buddha Hall, Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum, and Yongji Temple (永济寺).
• When photographing the millennium-old white pine and Mahavira Hall, a wide-angle lens better captures the tree height and building proportions, while a mid-range lens is suitable for details and portraits.
• The Four Cypresses and One Hole Bridge (四柏一孔桥) is ideal for wide-angle or smartphone ultra-wide shots, composed from the side or oblique front to highlight the “tree-bridge symbiosis” marvel.
• The “blue hour” light on Mosikou Street in the evening is soft and perfect for portraits and street scenes near the “Cat and Bookstore,” camel sculpture, and the ruins of the pedestrian bridge. Patiently wait for gaps between pedestrians to capture clean shots.

8. Money-Saving and Route Combination Suggestions

• If your budget is limited but you are interested in murals, consider the combination: standard ticket ¥20 + Medicine Buddha Hall replicas + Yongji Temple “Wall Paintings” exhibition + Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum digital exhibition.
• Most travelogues agree that the ¥100 original mural ticket is “one of the best cultural spends in Beijing.” If time and budget allow, prioritize the original mural session.
• The China Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall and Tian Yi Tomb have low or free admission and can be combined with Fahai Temple for a high-value cultural day trip.
• Many shops and venues on Mosikou Street offer free stamps. Stamp collectors can plan a “zero-ticket stamp route” to collect stamps conveniently during sightseeing breaks.

9. Other Small Reminders

• Some venues like Cheng’en Temple (承恩寺) may be temporarily closed for renovation or adjustments. Always check opening status on “Shijingshan Cultural Tourism” or official channels before departure to avoid wasted trips.
• Original mural viewing requires real-name registration. Reservation information will be verified on-site, so bring your ID card or valid documents.
• Parking is tight on Mosikou Street during holidays. Drivers are advised to arrive early or prioritize metro travel.
• The Tian Yi Tomb underground palace and mummy exhibition can be somewhat eerie. Those sensitive to this may choose not to enter the underground palace or visit with companions, and prepare children mentally in advance.

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Food Guide Around Fahai Temple and Mosikou Street

I. West Section: Traditional Snacks and Energy Boost Zone

1. Fahai Temple Fried Cake King / FA HAI Temple Fried Cake (法海寺炸糕王 / FA HAI寺炸糕)

• Location: No. 204 Mosikou Street (inside Fahai Temple morning market, east side of Qianxi Sugar-Roasted Chestnuts), near the middle-west section of the street, not far from the uphill entrance;
• Signature: Glutinous rice/Yellow rice fried cake with red bean paste filling;
• Price: About ¥3 each (~$0.45 USD);
• Specialty: Crispy outside, sticky inside, with smooth and dense red bean paste filling. Many travel blogs call it one of the “top queue kings” on the whole street. Freshly fried, the crust is fragrant and the filling hot—an ideal energy boost before heading uphill.

2. Xinyang Hu’s Lard Bun / Xinyang Lard Bun (信阳胡氏猪油馍 / 信阳猪油馍)

• Location: No. 138 (1–2) Mosikou Street, mid-west section of the street;
• Signature: Stuffed baked flatbread with a crispy, fragrant crust; fillings include pork belly with scallions, beef, etc.;
• Price: About ¥10 each (~$1.50 USD), varies slightly by flavor;
• Recommended Flavor: Pork with preserved mustard greens, highly recommended by multiple bloggers;
• Tip: Extremely popular with long queues; often sells out by 3–4 PM. To enjoy, try to visit in the morning or early afternoon.

3. A Popular Large Fried Dough Stick (Cangzhou Snack · Beijing Main Store)

• Location: West section of Mosikou Street, near Mosikou Metro Station;
• Specialties: Traditional fried dough sticks, “Fried Tiger” stuffed with beef and double eggs, etc.;
• Price: Beef double egg about ¥10 per serving (~$1.50 USD);
• Flavor Profile: Generally light and mild, suitable for those who prefer less oil and salt; great as breakfast or a light snack.

4. Shandong Jianbing Stall

• Location: Mid-section of Mosikou Street, near Fahai Temple morning market area;
• Specialty: Made fresh on site, jianbing rolled with egg, vegetables, and other fillings. Alongside Fahai Temple Fried Cake and Xinyang Lard Bun, it ranks among the “top three queues” on the street;
• Price: Usually around ¥10 per serving (~$1.50 USD), subject to on-site pricing;
• Ideal For: Visitors needing a relatively filling simple meal before heading uphill or hiking.

5. Le Roasted Sweet Potato

• Location: No. 203-3 Mosikou Street, right next to Fahai Temple Fried Cake;
• Background: Established in 1992, specializing in freshly roasted electric-baked sweet potatoes;
• Specialty: Plump, sweet sweet potatoes with a fragrant taste. Holding a warm roasted sweet potato while strolling the old street in winter is a beloved seasonal experience for many locals.

6. Qianxi Sugar-Roasted Chestnuts

• Location: East side of Fahai Temple Fried Cake on Mosikou Street;
• Specialty: Uses Qianxi chestnuts, plump and sweet with a strong roasted sugar aroma. Perfect for eating while walking or packing to go.

II. Middle Section: Western Food, Bookstores & Specialty Coffee

7. Grandma’s Kitchen Western Restaurant

• Location: Mid-section of Mosikou Street, second floor facing the street;
• Ambiance: Vintage Western restaurant style with warm yellow lighting and wooden furniture. Window seats overlook the entire ancient street;
• Recommended Dishes:
  • Ham Double Pizza: Crispy and fragrant crust, great for sharing;
  • Cheese and Ham Baked Potato Skins: Stretchy cheese with rich flavor;
• Average Cost: Around ¥80–120 per person (~$12–18 USD);
• Suitable For: Couples’ dates, friend gatherings, or a relatively formal Western meal between shopping and sightseeing.

8. Cat & Bookstore (猫与书店)

• Location: Mid-west section of Mosikou Street, near the old street center;
• Nature: Primarily a bookstore, also serves coffee and simple drinks;
• Atmosphere: Rustic storefront, weathered walls, with a cute camel sculpture sitting at the entrance. One of the most artistic photo spots on the street;
• Recommended Experience: Order a pour-over or latte, sit by the window flipping through books while watching pedestrians pass along the Camel Bell Ancient Road. The blue hour at dusk makes for a highly atmospheric photo opportunity at the door.

9. Demon King Coffee Shop (魔王咖啡商店)

• Location: Near No. 37 Mosikou Street, close to Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum;
• Specialties: Self-roasted specialty coffee beans and creative signature drinks;
• Recommended Drinks:
  • “Van Gogh Orange Latte”: Citrus aroma blended with coffee, refreshing taste;
  • “Rock Charm Mountain Hawthorn”: Hawthorn-flavored cold brew, sweet and sour to refresh and relieve fatigue, perfect before or after hiking;
• Ideal For: Coffee lovers and hikers needing a quick energy boost.

III. East Section: Artistic Coffee, Tea by the Hearth & Day-to-Night Bars

10. Gudao Sucun Courtyard Coffee (Zip Coffee×Mosi, Gudao Coffee)

• Location: Inside courtyard at No. 78 Mosikou Street (Gudao Sucun Siheyuan);
• Ambiance: Traditional siheyuan courtyard combined with exhibition space, simple and quiet interior;
• Specialty: Enjoy coffee while exploring Mosikou’s history and folk exhibitions—a peaceful retreat from the bustling old street;
• Suitable For: Mid-visit rest, summer cooling or winter warming, and learning about Mosikou’s local history.

11. Meishan No. 51

• Location: No. 51 Mosikou Street;
• Nature: Duplex siheyuan café open until late night;
• Offerings: Coffee, light meals, and alcoholic drinks. The interior has rich layers and a strong courtyard vibe;
• Specialty: Perfect for nighttime gatherings or a drink after your day. The café also offers free stamp collection, popular among stamp collectors.

12. Jingxi Escort Agency · Escort Agency Tea Drinks (京西镖局·镖局茶饮)

• Location: No. 60-3 Mosikou Street;
• Theme: Tea shop themed around the “Escort Agency,” decorated with martial arts and escort agency elements;
• Products: Tea drinks, coffee, and cultural creative merchandise;
• Stamp Benefit: Offers 5 free stamps inside. Spend over ¥30 (~$4.50 USD) to get two color-layered stamps. An important stop on the stamp collection route.

13. Yao Family Courtyard · Yao Coffee (瑶家小院·瑶咖啡)

• Location: No. 200 Mosikou Street;
• Style: Mediterranean-style white walls and green plants courtyard, fresh and bright décor;
• Offerings: Coffee, tea drinks, and light snacks;
• Specialty: Great for photo check-ins, especially on sunny days. Portraits taken among white walls and greenery are very photogenic.

14. You Shi Garden (有石花园)

• Location: No. 222 Mosikou Street;
• Space: New Chinese-style terrace with wide views;
• Highlight: Offers tea brewing around the hearth in autumn and winter, complete with charcoal fire, tea sets, and snacks—a very popular social activity in recent years;
• Extras: Stamps available for collection, perfect for chatting around the hearth while completing your stamp route.

15. Jing · No. 199 Courtyard (境·199号院)

• Location: No. 199 Mosikou Street;
• Positioning: Siheyuan “day coffee, night bar” space;
• Daytime: Focus on coffee and tea drinks, suitable for quiet work or reading;
• Nighttime: Transforms into a small bar offering craft beers and cocktails with an intimate atmosphere;
• Reservation: Strict guest control, advance reservation recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

IV. Full Meals and Family-Friendly Restaurants

16. Grandma Yan’s Korean Restaurant (延奶奶朝鲜族饭店)

• Location: Near Mosikou Street (frequently mentioned in travel blogs as “went again to Grandma Yan’s Korean Restaurant”);
• Cuisine: Korean ethnic minority style;
• Ambiance: Clean and spacious interior, suitable for families or large groups;
• Recommended Dishes: Cold noodles, stone pot bibimbap, spicy kimchi stir-fried pork belly, kimchi stew, and other classic Korean dishes with rich flavors that go well with rice;
• Ideal For: Families wanting a warm, hearty meal on the old street.

V. Bookstore + Light Meals: Jingxi Bookstore & Cultural Creative Space

17. Jingxi Bookstore (京西书局)

• Location: No. 2 Courtyard, Mosikou Street, near the east entrance of the street;
• Nature: A multi-functional space combining bookstore, café, and light meals;
• Ambiance: Chinese-style courtyard with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and green plant walls. Window seats overlook the street scene;
• Food & Drink: Offers coffee, tea, light meals, and desserts—great as a start or end point for your day’s itinerary;
• Extras: Free stamps available at the service desk, an important node on the stamp collection route.

VI. Other Cultural Creative Shops and Snack Spaces

• Yao Family Courtyard, Yinquge, Chengzhitang, Liubiju, Xia’er, Store Next to Yisongyang, and unnamed shops nearby:
  • Mostly cultural creative spaces offering drinks or snacks. Some provide free stamps (e.g., Liubiju offers 2 free stamps, Chengzhitang free stamp, Yinquge 17 free stamps, store next to Yisongyang 2 free stamps);
  • Perfect for stamp collectors to casually check in while strolling the neighborhood, and to enjoy a drink or snack break.

VII. Dining Rhythm Suggestions

• It is recommended to divide Mosikou Street into:
  • West Section “Traditional Snack Energy Zone”: Fahai Temple Fried Cake, Xinyang Lard Bun, Shandong Jianbing, Le Roasted Sweet Potato, Qianxi Sugar-Roasted Chestnuts, etc., ideal for energy replenishment before heading uphill;
  • Middle Section “Western Food + Bookstore + Specialty Coffee Zone”: Grandma’s Kitchen, Cat & Bookstore, Demon King Coffee, etc., suitable for lunch or afternoon breaks;
  • East Section “Artistic Coffee + Hearth Tea + Night Bar Zone”: Jingxi Bookstore, Meishan No. 51, Jingxi Escort Agency, Yao Family Courtyard, You Shi Garden, Jing · No. 199 Courtyard, etc., perfect for a leisurely end to your itinerary.
• If planning a hiking day, it is suggested to eat well at the west section snack stalls before going uphill, and after hiking, relax with a meal or coffee in the east section or a Western restaurant, creating a “morning fuel + evening reward” dining rhythm.

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Accommodation Guide Around Fahai Temple (法海寺) and Mosikou (模式口)

1. Nearby Guesthouses and Small Inns: Staying Between the Ancient Path and the Mountain Temple

• Locations:
  • Along the uphill road to Fahai Temple (法海寺上山路);
  • Alleys on both sides of Mosikou North Street (模式口北街);
  • Courtyard spaces within the side lanes of Mosikou Street (模式口大街支巷).
• Features:
  • Mostly small-scale siheyuan (traditional courtyard houses) or renovated residences, with limited rooms and a relatively quiet atmosphere;
  • Within walking distance to Fahai Temple and Mosikou Street, ideal for visitors focused on the murals who want to book early sessions without rushing early in the morning;
  • Some travel notes mention “simply staying at a nearby guesthouse, so no need to get up early,” indicating there are indeed a few guesthouses available on or near the mountain.
• Booking Tips:
  • Search major platforms using keywords like "Mosikou Guesthouse (模式口 民宿)" or "Fahai Temple Guesthouse (法海寺 民宿)" and check maps to confirm walking times to Fahai Temple’s mountain gate and the metro station;
  • Carefully review whether the accommodation has legal credentials, hygiene standards, soundproofing, etc., prioritizing listings with high ratings and many reviews;
  • During peak seasons and holidays, rooms are tight—book at least 1–2 weeks in advance.

2. Mid-range Chain Hotels: Around Shijingshan Amusement Park (石景山游乐园) and Bajiao Amusement Park (八角游乐园)

• Recommended Area:
  • Around Metro Line 1’s Shijingshan Amusement Park Station (石景山游乐园站) and Bajiao Amusement Park Station (八角游乐园站);
  • About a 10–15 minute drive to Mosikou Street and Fahai Temple, with convenient metro plus walking options.
• Common Brands:
  • Mid-range chains like All Seasons Hotel (全季酒店), Orange Crystal (桔子水晶), Home Inn Business (如家商旅), Jinjiang Inn (锦江之星), Hanting (汉庭), etc.;
  • Some business districts may also have upscale or apartment-style hotels, suitable depending on your budget.
• Suitable For:
  • Families or couples seeking a balance between price and comfort;
  • Visitors who want to dine and shop around Shijingshan Wanda Plaza or Shijingshan Amusement Park in the evening;
  • Self-driving tourists who want a “fixed base” for exploring western Beijing.

3. Around Transportation Hubs: Jin’anqiao (金安桥) and Pingguoyuan (苹果园) Areas

• Location Advantages:
  • Jin’anqiao is the interchange for Metro Lines 1, 6, S1, and 11, while Pingguoyuan is a major western Beijing transport hub;
  • From Jin’anqiao or Pingguoyuan, it’s just one stop on Line 11 to Mosikou Station, with short metro commute times and convenient taxi options.
• Hotel Types:
  • Business hotels, apartment-style hotels, and some mid-range chains;
  • Prices are generally slightly lower than comparable hotels in the city center, offering good value.
• Suitable For:
  • Visitors planning multiple days touring western Beijing (such as Shougang Park, Mentougou, Tanzhe Temple, Jietai Temple, Badachu, Xiangshan, etc.) who want a “Western Beijing base”;
  • Business travelers or combined work-and-travel visitors who require frequent metro transfers and prioritize transport convenience.

4. High-Star Hotels in the City Center: Treat Fahai Temple as a “One-Day Western Beijing Cultural Tour”

• Recommended Areas:
  • Financial Street, Xizhimen, Zhongguancun, Guomao, and other business and commercial hubs;
  • These areas have a dense concentration of high-star hotels, including international brands like Westin, Marriott, Hilton, as well as high-end local hotels.
• Transportation:
  • Take Metro Line 1 + Line 11 to Mosikou, about 40–60 minutes one way;
  • Alternatively, taxis or ride-hailing services depending on your exact location, approximately 40–70 minutes one way.
• Suitable For:
  • First-time visitors to Beijing who also plan to visit central city attractions like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, National Museum, Shichahai, etc.;
  • Those who value hotel quality and city nightlife/shopping experiences, and want to include Fahai Temple and Mosikou as a “Western Beijing cultural day” in their itinerary.

5. Budget Accommodation and Hostels

• Alleys Around Mosikou:
  • There may be a few family-run guesthouses or youth hostels, generally cheaper but with varying facilities and soundproofing;
  • Before booking, carefully check photos and genuine reviews, paying attention to hygiene, security, and whether there is a private bathroom.
• Around Shijingshan Amusement Park and Bajiao Amusement Park:
  • Economy chains like Home Inn, 7 Days Inn, Super 8, etc., with direct metro access to Mosikou Station, offering good value;
  • Suitable for students, backpackers, or budget-conscious travelers who want convenient transport.

6. Location Strategy and Overall Suggestions

• Focus on Fahai Temple Murals and Mosikou Citywalk:

  • Prioritize accommodations around "Mosikou—Shijingshan Amusement Park—Bajiao Amusement Park" areas, with easy taxi or metro access to Fahai Temple;
  • Booking a guesthouse near Mosikou or Fahai Temple can greatly reduce early wake-up and uphill walking time, perfect for deep enthusiasts aiming for early viewing of the original murals.

• Planning to Visit Multiple Western Beijing Attractions (Badachu, Xiangshan, Shougang Park, etc.):

  • Choose accommodations near transportation hubs like Jin’anqiao or Pingguoyuan, leveraging multiple metro and bus lines to reach surrounding scenic spots;
  • Self-driving visitors can also use these areas as a fixed base for multi-day tours.

• Emphasizing City Life and Shopping Experience:

  • Stay within mature commercial areas inside the 2nd or 3rd Ring Roads, and take Metro Line 1 + Line 11 to Mosikou for a day trip;
  • Enjoy more dining and nightlife options in the city at night, treating Fahai Temple as a “cultural island” within your itinerary.

In summary, Fahai Temple and Mosikou, as cultural highlights of western Beijing, have convenient surrounding transportation. There’s no need to insist on staying right at the temple gate. Based on your budget, itinerary structure, and personal preferences, flexibly choose among guesthouses near Mosikou, Shijingshan commercial areas, Jin’anqiao/Pingguoyuan hubs, or high-star city center hotels, then reach your destination easily by metro or short taxi rides for a smooth one-day or multi-day in-depth visit.

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One-Day Itinerary Example: In-Depth Exploration of Mosikou·Fahai Temple (Including Murals + Old Street + Light Hiking)

Suitable for first-time visitors who want to experience the authentic Fahai Temple murals, Mosikou Old Street, and mountain forest scenery all in one day. Activities can be adjusted flexibly based on season and physical condition.

08:30–09:00 Arrival at Mosikou Station / Parking Lot

• Metro: Take Line 11 to Mosikou Station Exit B (模式口站B口), and quickly organize your gear;
• Self-driving: Park at Mosikou Historical and Cultural Street Area Parking Lot No. 4 (P4), then walk about 100 meters to Fahai Temple ticket office;
• It’s recommended to have a light breakfast on the way or reserve time to grab snacks at food stalls on the west section of Mosikou Street.

09:00–09:30 On the Way Up: Four Cypresses and One Arch Bridge & Mountain Gate

• For those starting from Mosikou Station:
  • Walk east along Mosikou Street to soak in the old street atmosphere without deep stops;
  • Near Gudao Sicun, turn left into Mosikou North Street (模式口北街) and ascend the slope;
• Approaching Fahai Temple, you’ll pass the iconic Four Cypresses and One Arch Bridge (Si Bai Yi Kong Qiao, 罗锅儿桥):
  • Stop for 5–10 minutes by the bridge to photograph the unique “tree-bridge symbiosis” scene;
• Continue uphill to the Fahai Temple Mountain Gate and Ticket Office, preparing for the authentic mural visit.

09:30–10:00 Yaoshi Hall: 1:1 Replica Mural Preview

• After confirming your authentic mural appointment time at the ticket office, enter Yaoshi Hall (药师殿) first:
  • Spend about 30 minutes viewing the 1:1 collotype replica murals to familiarize yourself with the general composition and character locations of the Ten Shops murals;
  • Focus on remembering the positions and rough images of key scenes like “Water Moon Guanyin,” the Three Great Bodhisattvas, and the Twenty Heavenly Deities to prepare for the authentic murals visit later;
  • Feel free to take close-up photos of details for later reference.

10:00–10:40 Mahavira Hall: Authentic Murals “Candlelight Night Tour”

• Gather 5–10 minutes early at the Mahavira Hall entrance (大雄宝殿门口):
  • Follow staff instructions to store bags, put on shoe covers, and wear masks;
  • Receive a flashlight and enter the hall orderly under the guide’s direction;
• During the 20–30 minute visit:
  • Follow the guide’s light beam and narration to appreciate murals of Water Moon Guanyin, the Three Great Bodhisattvas, the Twenty Heavenly Deities, emperors and empresses, auspicious beasts, and more;
  • Pay special attention to details such as the hexagonal snowflake pattern on Water Moon Guanyin’s veil, the fine blood vessels on the fox ears, the alternating black and gold fur of auspicious beasts, the wood grain on the Heavenly King’s pipa, and the subtle patterns on the emperor and empress’s clothing;
  • Look up to notice the Mandala Caisson Ceiling (曼陀罗藻井)’s altar city structure, feeling the “three-dimensional universe” spatial atmosphere.

10:40–11:20 Courtyard and Sutra Pavilion: Ancient Trees, Ritual Instruments & Documentary

• After exiting the hall, retrieve your belongings and stroll slowly in the courtyard:
  • Closely observe the millennium-old white bark pines (Bailong Pines, 白龙松) on the east and west sides in front of the Mahavira Hall, photographing the trunks framed with the hall eaves from different angles;
  • Visit the eastern side annex of the Mahavira Hall to see the Ming Dynasty dragon knob ancient bronze bell, noting the Pu Lao dragon-shaped bell knob and the dense Chinese, Sanskrit, and Tibetan inscriptions on the bell body;
• Continue uphill along the central axis stairs to the Sutra Pavilion (藏经阁):
  • From the pavilion’s front platform, enjoy views of the Western Hills and western Beijing cityscape; on clear days, you can see the outline of the Shougang Big Air Ski Jump;
  • Enter the pavilion to view the Fahai Temple history exhibition and the documentary “National Treasure Archives: Exploring the Ancient Temple of the Capital—Rescuing Fahai Temple Murals”, learning about mural restoration and protection (optional depending on time).

11:20–12:00 Yongji Temple: “Dialogue of Wall Paintings” Exhibition

• Continue uphill about 200 meters along the Tourism Leisure Trail behind Fahai Temple to reach Yongji Temple (永济寺):
  • Free admission to the exhibition “Wall Paintings on the Wall—Dialogue between Fahai Temple and Pilu Temple Murals”;
  • Compare high-definition replicas of murals from Fahai Temple and Shanxi’s Pilu Temple and other ancient temples, experiencing different regional and stylistic Buddhist mural arts;
  • For mural enthusiasts, this is an excellent opportunity for “horizontal comparison” beyond the authentic murals.

12:00–13:30 Descend + Lunch on West Section of Old Street

• Return downhill the same way to the west section of Mosikou Street:
  • Buy freshly fried glutinous rice or millet cakes at Fahai Temple Fried Cake King (法海寺炸糕王);
  • Depending on queue length, choose Xinyang Hu’s Lard Bread (信阳胡氏猪油馍) or Shandong Pancake Stall (山东煎饼摊) as main dishes, paired with snacks like Le Roasted Sweet Potato (乐烤红薯) and Qianxi Sugar-Roasted Chestnuts (迁西糖炒栗子);
• Find a street bench or quiet corner to enjoy your food while soaking in the lively old street atmosphere and take a short rest.

13:30–15:30 Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum + Stroll Middle Section of Mosikou Street

• Walk from the west section to the Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum (around No. 47-1, Mosikou Street):
  • Spend about 1–1.5 hours exploring the 4K digital mural displays and multimedia exhibition areas, magnifying the details you glimpsed in the authentic halls earlier for a thorough look;
  • If interested, purchase tickets to watch the dome theater film “Dream·Fahai” for an immersive visual experience;
• After visiting, stroll slowly along the middle section of Mosikou Street:
  • Stop at Cat and Bookstore (猫与书店) for a coffee or drink, and photograph the camel sculpture at the entrance and the old street storefronts;
  • Depending on your mood, enjoy a pizza or baked potato skins at Grandma’s Kitchen Western Restaurant (祖母的厨房西餐厅) as a snack or afternoon tea.

15:30–17:30 East Section Old Street Citywalk & Wrap-Up

• Continue eastward, checking in at:
  • Gudao Sicun (Old Master Temple, 古道斯存): Learn about Mosikou’s history and folk customs; the courtyard café is a good spot for a short break;
  • Ruins of the Overpass Building (过街楼遗址): Photograph the only remaining overpass building and the small stone lions under the battlements;
  • Dragon King Temple Square (龙王庙广场): Visit the “Beijing’s First Electrified Village” themed exhibition hall to feel Mosikou’s transformation from camel bell ancient road to electrified village;
  • If time and energy permit, climb north from the square to visit the China Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall (中国第四纪冰川遗迹陈列馆) to learn about glaciers and geology;
• Arrive at the east entrance of the old street at Jingxi Bookstore (京西书局) by evening:
  • Find a seat between the Chinese-style courtyard and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, order a coffee or tea, and browse books about Beijing or Shanxi murals to quietly conclude your day;
  • Don’t forget to stamp your collection book with the Jingxi Bookstore seal at the service desk for a sense of “ritual.”

Optional Extension: Hiking or Evening Gathering

• If you have enough energy and it’s spring or autumn, you can adjust the afternoon as follows:
  • 13:30–16:30 Take a 4–5.5 km small loop hike in Fahai Temple Forest Park, enjoying views of the Shougang Big Air Ski Jump and Western Hills ridge from the Xiangbala fire prevention trail and Hutoushan viewing platform;
  • After 17:00, return to Mosikou Street and gather for tea or drinks around a stove at shops like Meishan No. 51 (美山51号), Youshi Garden (有石花园), or Jing·199 Courtyard (境·199号院) to experience the old street atmosphere by night.

With this itinerary, you can fully experience in one day:

• A Ming Dynasty royal temple and top-tier court mural art;
• The historical texture and lively life of Mosikou Old Street;
• Mountain forest trails and western Beijing city views;
• And a diverse culinary memory from fried cakes and lard bread to coffee and stove-side tea gatherings.

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