Mosikou Historical and Cultural Street (Tuoling Ancient Road)

Overview of Mosikou Historical and Cultural Street (Camel Bell Ancient Road)

Mosikou Historical and Cultural Street is located around Mosikou Street in Shijingshan District, Beijing. It is an important node of the ancient Western Beijing Trail, known as "Jingxi Tuoling Ancient Road," "Tuoling Ancient Road," or "Tuoling Ancient Path," historically called "Moshikou." Legend has it that during the Western Zhou period, this area was rich in whetstones, hence the name "Moshikou." Since ancient times, it has been a crucial route connecting Beijing city with the Western Hills, Shanxi, Zhangbei, and other regions. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it served as a key transit hub for coal, leather goods, and other materials from western Beijing, earning the reputation as the "Western Gateway of the Capital."

The street was built along the mountain terrain into an approximately 1,500-meter-long "S-shaped dragon path," running east-west. The middle section is a pedestrian street, while both ends allow vehicle access. It served as a village barrier and historically functioned as a military road, commercial route, and incense trail. During the Ming and Qing periods, merchants gathered here and camel caravans came and went continuously, giving rise to the name "Camel Bell Ancient Road." In Lao She’s novel Rickshaw Boy (《骆驼祥子》), the route where Xiangzi leads a camel to escape back to Beiping is believed by many scholars to be based on this path, giving Mosikou a place in modern Chinese literary history.

In the late Qing and early Republican era, Mosikou was among the first to undergo modernization, becoming one of Beijing’s earliest villages to have electricity, running water, and street lamps, earning the title "Beijing’s first electrified village." Due to its role as a model for "standardized construction," "Moshikou" gradually evolved into today’s "Mosikou."

Today, the Mosikou Historical and Cultural Street is undergoing comprehensive renovation while preserving the original texture of the dragon-shaped ancient road and numerous historical relics. These include the remains of the overpass building, Fahai Temple, Longquan Temple, Cheng’en Temple, Tian Yi’s tomb (Shijingshan Stone Carving Museum), and the China Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall. The area also features cultural spots like Jingxi Bookstore, Cat and Bookstore, Gudao Sicun (Mosikou Historical and Cultural Folk Exhibition Hall), Shimen Academy, as well as various cafes and creative spaces. Unlike highly commercialized areas such as Qianmen, Dashilan, and Nanluoguxiang, Mosikou still hosts many residents, with local service shops lining the street—such as Tongshengyuan Grain Store, Braised Meat Shop, Vegetable Stalls, Tofu Stalls, Happiness Cake Shop, and Millet Pancake Stalls. It combines the authentic everyday life atmosphere of old Beijing with a trendy, artistic vibe. Many locals affectionately call it "Little Nanluo of Western Beijing," but overall it is quieter, more local, and better suited for a leisurely city walk.

The architecture mainly consists of old houses with blue bricks and gray tiles, featuring tiger windows, wooden signboards, red lanterns, camel sculptures, rooftop ceramic cats, and painted murals, creating a unique landscape. Through folk exhibitions like "Gudao Sicun," visitors can systematically understand the historical evolution from "Moshikou" to "Mosikou." The Stone Carving Museum, Glacier Relics Hall, Fahai Temple, and Cheng’en Temple form a narrative chain within just over one kilometer, linking geological natural history with Ming and Qing court history and local folk history. This makes Mosikou a truly "living" historical and cultural street rather than a simple replica commercial street.

Every Spring Festival, the "Floral Mosikou" New Year Lantern Festival and "Mosikou New Year Carnival" decorate the entire Camel Bell Ancient Road into a river of lights. Over 4,000 red lanterns and twelve themed lantern displays shine together, accompanied by lion dances, folk flash mobs, spring performances, Golden Snake Blessings/Horse Year Market, God of Wealth parades, and Lantern Festival night parades. The festive atmosphere is extremely strong, with many authors calling it the "ultimate Beijing New Year vibe" and "the street with the richest New Year atmosphere in Beijing." Here, whether for deep cultural tours, family outings, photography walks, or combined day trips with Shougang Park, visitors can enjoy experiences rich in both cultural depth and warm local life.

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Best Travel Seasons and Times

Winter: The Peak of "New Year Atmosphere" from Laba Festival to Lantern Festival

The Modekou Historical and Cultural District is suitable to visit year-round, but the overall best time is concentrated around the Spring Festival period from the Laba Festival to the Lantern Festival each year. For example, the 3rd "Floral Modekou" Spring Lantern Festival in 2026 lights up from January 26th and continues until after the Spring Festival. The lighting hours are approximately 17:30–21:30, adjusted slightly according to sunset time. During this period, combined with the "Modekou Spring Carnival" and other activities, including:

• Lion Dance for the New Year (Modekou Park)
• Folk Flash Mob (Wanquan Temple Ruins Park)
• Spring Awakening Performances (Dragon King Temple Square)
• Stamp Collection and Check-in Activities
• Golden Snake Blessing Market / Year of the Horse Market
• God of Wealth Parade
• Lantern Festival Lantern Parade

With over 4,000 red lanterns, twelve themed light displays, and various folk performances throughout the district, the entire ancient street is immersed in a rich New Year atmosphere for nearly a month from Laba to Lantern Festival. Winter nights are cold, especially from dusk to night when the wind picks up, so it’s recommended to wear down jackets, hats, gloves, and use heat packs. For photos, consider wearing dark-colored or red-accented modern Chinese, hanfu, or vintage-style outfits to better match the lantern ambiance.

Spring: Blossoming Streets and Quiet Cultural Tours

Spring brings warmer temperatures and more flowers in the district, some grown by residents and others planted in planned arrangements, making it ideal for daytime city walks. Visitor numbers are relatively low, especially around the Qingming Festival, making it a great time for a quiet experience of history and culture. Recommended visits include:

• Fahai Temple and its Mural Art Museum (advance reservation required for original artwork sessions)
• Yanjing Eight Wonders Museum inside Cheng'en Temple
• Shijingshan Stone Carving Museum (Tian Yi Tomb)
• China Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall

Spring days are mild, perfect for strolling, visiting exhibitions, and enjoying coffee, with a relaxed overall pace.

Summer: Shaded Ancient Streets and Coffee Shops for “Cooling Mode”

Summer days are sunny and hot, but Modekou Street is shaded by trees, with many cafes, tea spaces, and bookstores along the way, allowing for a mix of indoor and outdoor exploration. Suggestions:

• Avoid the midday heat by visiting in the morning or evening
• Focus on indoor/semi-indoor attractions during the day, such as Cheng'en Temple, Fahai Temple, Stone Carving Museum, and Glacier Exhibition Hall
• Take breaks intermittently at spots like Cat & Bookstore, Stone Garden, and Chengzhitang Creative Tea Space

The summer evening blue hour is also great for photography, with dimming light and lanterns just lit, offering cool breezes and a cozy atmosphere—perfect for family strolls and night photography.

Autumn: Ginkgo and Red Walls – The Most Photogenic Season

Autumn is the peak season for both beauty and culture in Modekou. The Cheng'en Temple courtyard is carpeted with yellow ginkgo leaves, complemented by red walls and the western Beijing mountain scenery, making it perfect for photography. The hillside where Fahai Temple is located shows rich autumn colors, with the ancient temple appearing faintly among the colorful forest. The weather is pleasant and crowds are moderate, making it an ideal time for history buffs and photography enthusiasts.

Off-Peak and Peak Seasons & Crowd Patterns

• Absolute Peak Season: During the Spring Festival Lantern Festival, especially on weekends and public holiday evenings, crowds increase noticeably
• Relatively Stable Periods: Outside the Spring Festival, weekends in spring, summer, and autumn see moderate crowds. As a "local favorite old street," Modekou is never as crowded as Nanluoguxiang even on weekends
• Recommendations:
  • For the ultimate New Year atmosphere: choose weekday evenings from Laba Festival to Lantern Festival
  • For quiet exhibition visits: weekdays during spring and autumn daytime
  • For cool summer strolls: mornings or evenings in summer

Overall, if your goal is the lantern festival and New Year atmosphere, winter from Laba to Lantern Festival is the best time; for a deep cultural experience, spring and autumn weekdays during the day offer the most comfortable visit.

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Transportation and Arrival Methods

Location and Street Layout

The Mosikou Historic and Cultural District (模式口历史文化街区) is located on Mosikou Street in Shijingshan District, Beijing. The district runs east to west, with entrances and exits at both ends. It is an open area without fences and is open 24/7. The core pedestrian section restricts motor vehicles during certain hours. The middle section is a stone-paved pedestrian street, while vehicles can still pass at both ends. If driving, you need to park outside the district and enter on foot.

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Metro Routes (Preferred Method)

1. Metro Line 11, Mosikou Station (模式口站)

This is the most convenient way to reach Mosikou, recommended by almost all travel guides:

• Exit A:
  • Leads directly to the west entrance, ideal for exploring from west to east
  • About 100 meters straight from the exit, you’ll see the large camel sculpture at the west entrance, a classic starting point
• Exit B:
  • Closer to the east section, Jingxi Bookstore (京西书局), and the Tourist Service Center
  • Suitable for exploring from east to west, convenient for visiting Cheng’en Temple (承恩寺), Jingxi Bookstore, and other spots
• Exit D:
  • Also on one side of the district; follow on-site signs for a few minutes’ walk to enter the ancient path

Line 11 connects with Line 6 at Jinanqiao Station (金安桥站), making it easy to reach from various parts of the city.

2. Metro Line 6, Jinanqiao Station (金安桥站)

• Transfer to Line 11 at Jinanqiao Station, one stop to Mosikou Station
• Alternatively, exit at Jinanqiao Station and take a taxi or bus, about 10 minutes to the district

3. Examples from Major City Hubs

• Beijing Railway Station → Mosikou:
  • Line 2 (Beijing Station → Chaoyangmen) → Line 6 (Chaoyangmen → Jinanqiao) → Line 11 (Jinanqiao → Mosikou), total about 50–60 minutes
• Beijing West Railway Station → Mosikou:
  • Line 9 (Beijing West → Baishiqiao South) → Line 6 (Baishiqiao South → Jinanqiao) → Line 11 (Jinanqiao → Mosikou), or taxi about 30 minutes depending on traffic
• Beijing South Railway Station → Mosikou:
  • Line 4 (Beijing South → Ping’anli) → Line 6 (Ping’anli → Jinanqiao) → Line 11 (Jinanqiao → Mosikou), taxi about 40 minutes
• Capital Airport / Daxing Airport → Mosikou:
  • Take the Airport Express Line / Daxing Airport Line into the city, transfer to Line 2 or Line 10, then Line 6 to Jinanqiao, and finally Line 11 to Mosikou Station

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Bus Routes

There are multiple bus lines serving both ends and surrounding areas of Mosikou:

• Bus 527:
  • Get off at “Mosikou Dongli” (模式口东里) stop, walk a few hundred meters to the east entrance
• Bus 336 / 941 / 597:
  • Get off at “Shougang Community” (首钢小区) stop near Mosikou Street, walk to the middle section of the district
• Other Lines:
  • Lines 311, 325, 370 stop at “Mosikou Dongli” and “Mosikou Nanli” stations; use real-time maps to choose the best route

Buses are suitable for visitors who are not in a hurry and want to enjoy the street scenes along Jingxi.

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Driving and Parking

1. Navigation Keywords

When driving, you can search for these keywords in navigation apps:

• “Mosikou Historic and Cultural Street” (模式口历史文化街)
• “Mosikou Street” (模式口大街)
• “Mosikou Street No.3 Parking Lot” (模式口大街3号停车场)
• “Mosikou East Entrance Parking Lot” (模式口东口停车场)
• “Mosikou Cultural Street” (模式口文化街)

2. Parking Lots and Prices

There are several parking lots inside the district and at the east entrance of Mosikou Street:

• Common parking lots include:
  • No.1 Ground Parking Lot
  • No.3 Parking Lot
  • East Entrance Parking Lot
• Some information indicates:
  • Parking fees around ¥4/hour (~$0.60 USD)
  • Others charge about ¥10/hour (~$1.50 USD), possibly different lots or times
• No.3 Parking Lot has fewer and narrower spaces; it’s already difficult to find parking on weekday mornings, so arriving early is recommended

3. Traffic Restrictions and Advice

• During Spring Festival and Lantern Festival, the pedestrian section of Mosikou Street is closed to vehicles from 10:00 to 20:00
• It is recommended to park outside and enter on foot
• The old district roads are narrow; illegal parking during holidays may result in fines or towing
• Considering traffic and parking costs, it is strongly recommended to use metro or bus during holidays and festivals

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Walking Routes Inside the District

Mosikou Street is about 1–1.5 km long, with a pedestrian street in the middle and vehicle access at both ends. Common walking routes:

• Route 1: West to East
  • Exit A of Metro Line 11 Mosikou Station → West entrance with large camel sculpture → walk east along the main street → pass Longwang Temple Square and the neighborhood committee area → reach Tourist Service Center and east entrance → take bus from east entrance if needed
• Route 2: East to West
  • Park at East Entrance Parking Lot or take bus to Mosikou Dongli → Tourist Service Center (east entrance) → Jingxi Bookstore → outside view of Cheng’en Temple → walk west along main street → pass the street gate ruins and Shimen Academy → west entrance → exit via Metro Mosikou Station Exit A

The district has gentle slopes, suitable for slow walking, pushing strollers, or accompanying elderly visitors. All main attractions can be visited on foot without any internal transportation.

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Ticket and Opening Hours Information

The District Itself

• Mosikou Historic and Cultural District (Tuoling Ancient Road) is an open-air district, open all day, free admission, no tickets or reservations required.
• Free areas include:
  • Entire Mosikou Street / Tuoling Ancient Road
  • Longwangmiao Square
  • Guojielou Ruins
  • Street sculptures and light installations
  • Chinese New Year Lantern Festival viewing areas
  • Chinese New Year market and stamp-check-in points

Free Venues and Exhibitions

1. Gudao Sicun (Mosikou Historic Cultural and Folk Exhibition Hall)

• Nature: Small courtyard-style free folk museum
• Content: Displays the history of the Western Beijing ancient road, Mosikou’s development, caravan culture, etc.
• Visiting method: Walk-in access, usually no reservation needed

2. China Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall

• Nature: Geological natural museum built on actual glacier relics
• Tickets: Free admission, no reservation required
• Entry: Register with a valid ID card at the entrance to enter
• Guided tours: Usually two free tours on weekends at 10:30 and 14:30 (subject to on-site announcements)

3. Chinese New Year Lantern Festival

• Taking the 2026 3rd “Floral Mosikou” Chinese New Year Lantern Festival as an example:
  • Tickets: Free
  • Lighting hours: Approximately 17:30–21:30, adjusted slightly according to sunset time

Paid/Reservation Required Attractions

1. Fahai Temple / Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum

• Nature: Ming Dynasty royal temple, famous for the “Ten Mural Panels of Fahai Zen Temple”
• General visit:
  • Tickets about ¥20 per person, includes temple buildings and mural replicas
  • Ticket purchase: On-site purchase, generally no reservation needed
• Original mural special viewing:
  • Requires advance reservation through official channels such as the “Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum”
  • Price usually several hundred yuan per person, exact price subject to official announcement
  • Daily visitor limits, holiday slots are tight, early planning recommended

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

• Nature: Ming Dynasty royal temple, now the “Yanjing Eight Wonders Museum”
• Exhibits: Over 400 pieces including gold lacquer inlay, filigree inlay, cloisonné, ivory carving, jade carving, carved lacquer, Beijing embroidery, palace carpets, and ancient wood, root, and stone carvings representing the “Yanjing Eight Wonders” crafts
• Tickets and hours (based on recent info, subject to official confirmation):
  • Tickets about ¥30 per person, with some periods charging ¥80 per person
  • Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9:00–12:00, 13:00–16:00, last entry at 15:30
  • Closed on Mondays (except public holidays)
• Reservation:
  • Book time slots via official WeChat accounts or mini-programs of “Yanjing Eight Wonders Museum” or “Shijingshan Culture & Tourism”
  • Recommended to reserve at least 1 day in advance

3. Shijingshan Stone Carving Museum (Tian Yi’s Tomb)

• Nature: Themed museum based on the tomb of Ming Dynasty eunuch Tian Yi and the Cixiang An site
• Tickets: About ¥8 per person
• Reservation: Usually no advance reservation needed, tickets available on-site
• Opening hours: Generally daytime hours, closed on Mondays, subject to on-site announcements

4. Other Small Venues

• Shimen Academy: Mainly exhibits Song Dynasty literati furniture “Yan Ji”, some time periods free or nominal fee, subject to on-site notice
• Mosikou Park, Longwangmiao Square display boards, etc.: Open public spaces, free to use

Discounts and Special Notes

• During the Spring Festival, the Stone Carving Museum has offered themed promotions such as “Free admission for those born in the Year of the Horse” and “Find the ‘Horse’ check-in to win prizes,” with specific eligibility and rules announced annually
• The district has hosted photography and short video contests themed “Mosikou Lantern Viewing & Shijingshan New Year,” free to participate, with prizes for submissions featuring the Mosikou Chinese New Year Lantern Festival
• Since ticket prices and opening hours may change annually, especially for Fahai Temple mural special viewings and Yanjing Eight Wonders Museum, it is recommended to verify the latest information through official channels such as “Shijingshan Culture & Tourism,” “Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum,” and “Yanjing Eight Wonders Museum” before visiting

Overall, the Mosikou district itself and many venues offer free or low-cost admission, making it a highly cost-effective cultural experience and an excellent choice for budget-friendly, in-depth cultural travel.

Suggested Duration and Pace for Visiting

1–2 Hours: Quick Night View or Atmosphere Flash Visit

Ideal for visitors with limited time, those passing by after work, or anyone who just wants to get a feel for the atmosphere of the Tuoling Ancient Trail (驼铃古道). Key activities include:

• Strolling along the main pedestrian street in the evening or at night
• Enjoying the lantern street scenes and some light installations
• Sampling 1–2 street snacks casually

If your main goal is to take photos during the blue hour, it’s recommended to arrive about 30–40 minutes before sunset and spend around 1–2 hours for a “light check-in” experience.

3–5 Hours: Standard Half-Day Tour (Recommended for Most Visitors)

This duration is perfect for first-time visitors to Mosikou (模式口), allowing you to balance cultural sites with leisurely shopping and snacking. Suggested itinerary:

• Arrive in the afternoon and visit 1–2 museums or temples first
• Then take a slow city walk along the ancient trail, stopping by bookstores and cafes
• Capture the lantern festival or night views during the blue hour at dusk
• Enjoy street snacks while strolling at night

Typically, arriving around 2:00 PM and leaving before 8:00 PM, spending 4–6 hours provides a fairly complete experience.

6–8 Hours: Full-Day In-Depth Tour

Suitable for history and culture enthusiasts, photography lovers, or those wanting a systematic understanding of “Half of Shijingshan’s History.” A full day can be paced as “morning culture + afternoon leisure + evening night views”:

• Morning focused visits to the Stone Carving Museum, Ancient Trail relics, Glacier Relics Museum, etc.
• Lunch and rest at a proper restaurant within the district
• Afternoon visits to key cultural sites like Fahai Temple (法海寺) and Cheng’en Temple (承恩寺)
• Return to the main street at dusk to wait for the lights, capturing blue hour and lantern festival night scenes

If combining with Shougang Park (首钢园) for a “two-destination one-day” itinerary, adjust or prioritize Mosikou’s internal sites based on your stamina and interests.

Time Suggestions for Combining with Shougang Park

• Deep exploration of Shougang Park in the morning or afternoon
• Taxi from Shougang Park to Mosikou around 5:00–5:30 PM, about 10 minutes
• Spend 2–3 hours in Mosikou focusing on blue hour night views and the lantern festival

Overall recommendations:

• Just street scenes and lantern festival: At least 2 hours
• Want to include small venues and food: Recommend half-day (3–5 hours)
• Want a systematic experience of historical and cultural context: Recommend full day (6–8 hours), and plan/ book site visits in advance.

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Must-See Highlights and Unique Experiences

1. The Millennium Camel Bell Ancient Road Itself

• S-shaped “Dragon-shaped Ancient Road”: Modekou Street stretches about 1,500 meters, built along the mountain terrain in an S-shape, earning the name “Dragon-shaped Ancient Road.” It runs east-west, with the middle section as a stone slab pedestrian street and both ends open to vehicles.
• Western Beijing Trade Hub: During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was a key transfer hub for coal, leather goods, and other materials from western Beijing. Camel caravans traveled day and night, giving rise to the name “Camel Bell Ancient Road.”
• Literary Prototype Site: The road where Xiangzi leads a camel to escape back to Beiping in Lao She’s Camel Xiangzi is believed to be based on this ancient road, adding literary charm to the site.

2. East Entrance and Visitor Service Center

• East Entrance Archway: As an important gateway to the district, the archway is decorated with a “snow accumulation crystal” sculpture on top during the Spring Festival, creating a magical atmosphere under nighttime lighting.
• Modekou Miniature Relief Wall: Located near the east entrance, this relief wall depicts historical scenes of the Western Beijing ancient road and Modekou village, serving as a quick “visual and textual guide” to the district’s story.
• Visitor Service Center: Offers Modekou-themed cultural and creative products, paper maps, postcards, etc. It’s an ideal starting point for a city walk and convenient for route planning.

3. Iconic Sculptures and Festival Light Installations

• Large Camel Sculpture at West Entrance: Located at the west entrance, it is one of Modekou’s most representative landmarks and often featured on travelogue covers.
• Little Red Horse Sculpture: The little red horse beside the ancient road is considered a symbol of good luck. Many visitors come during the New Year to take photos and “wish for good fortune.”
• “Galloping Camel Bells” Installation: A Year of the Horse-themed sculpture featuring camels and horses together, symbolizing “dragon-horse spirit,” reinforcing the “Camel Bell Ancient Road” theme.
• Camel Patrol Sculptures: Small camel sculptures distributed along the street, perfect for family-friendly photo opportunities.
• Giant Rabbit Statue: A New Year installation at a nearby school gate, cute in design and a popular spot for festive photos.

4. “Floral Modekou” Spring Festival Lantern Festival Core Displays

Taking the 3rd Lantern Festival in 2026 as an example, the overall theme is “Floral Modekou,” divided into three chapters: “Welcoming Spring with Auspicious Snow,” “Tracing the Ancient Road Blossoms,” and “Returning Hearts Filled with Blessings.” Twelve distinctive lantern groups are arranged along the street, with highlights including:

• Auspicious Horse Welcoming Spring: Located at Modekou East Entrance, a majestic Year of the Horse zodiac lantern group, one of the most popular photo backdrops.
• Big Orange on Horseback: A large orange lantern group at the Modekou Residents’ Committee entrance, a pun on “great luck and prosperity,” surrounded by dense lanterns, very popular for family and group photos.
• Smiling Faces Reflecting Spring: Emoji-shaped lanterns with playful expressions, loved by children.
• Modern Snowy Night: Near the Western Beijing Bookstore, a combination of orange-red lanterns, snowflake lights, and fireworks lights creating a “modern night scene in the old street” atmosphere.
• Snow Shining Golden Glow: At Longwang Temple Square, lighting highlights the ancient temple and plaza space, ideal for portrait and architectural photography.
• Ancient Road Shining Bright: Located on Modekou North Street, dense lanterns with strong depth, perfect for showcasing the “river of lights.”
• Full Bloom and Full Moon Lantern Group: A round archway hung with red lanterns and “Auspicious Horse Presents Blessings” characters, creating a great atmosphere for couples and family photos.
• Moonlight Camel Bell Projection: A holographic projection on the wall of the overpass ruins, showing silhouettes of camel caravans slowly moving, as if you can hear the millennium-old camel bells ringing—one of the most story-rich installations of the festival.

5. Classic Photo Spots (Street Scenes and Culture)

1. Large Camel + Lantern Tree at West Entrance

   • Location: Modekou West Entrance, about 100 meters straight from Exit A of Metro Line 11, Modekou Station (模式口站)
   • Features: Camel sculpture framed with tall trees strung with red lanterns and glowing tassels, especially stunning during the blue hour.

2. In Front of Residents’ Committee “Big Orange on Horseback” Lantern Group

   • Location: Mid-street, at the entrance of Modekou Residents’ Committee
   • Features: Large orange lantern group + dense lanterns + bustling crowd, perfect for capturing lively New Year vibes.

3. Mid-section Pedestrian Street Snack Area

   • Features: Antique-style buildings mixed with snack stalls, one of the best scenes to capture “the warmth of everyday life.”

4. In Front of Western Beijing Bookstore and Opposite Street Upward Shot Point

   • Features: Large areas of red lanterns framed with eaves, ideal for wide-angle night shots.

5. Cats and Bookstore — Shimen Academy Section

   • Features: Dense lanterns, warm indoor lighting, white walls with black tiles, bamboo shadows, often with real cats appearing, very artistic.

6. Overpass Ruins and “Moonlight Camel Bell” Projection

   • Features: Daytime shots of ancient architecture and stone lion details; nighttime shots of holographic projections combined with lanterns, creating a “time-space crossover” feel.

7. Longwang Temple Square

   • Features: Themed exhibition area for “Beijing’s First Electrified Village,” also the core venue for the lantern festival opening ceremony and New Year goods market, great for large event photography.

8. High-angle View of S-shaped Ancient Road

   • Features: From surrounding high points, the ancient road looks like a red light ribbon at night, very visually striking.

6. Cultural and Museum Nodes

• Ancient Road Heritage (Modekou History, Culture, and Folklore Exhibition Hall): Converted from a Ming Dynasty official temple, with exquisite courtyards, exhibiting the history of the Western Beijing ancient road and Modekou, an ideal starting point to understand the district’s background.
• Shijingshan Stone Carving Museum (Tian Yi Tomb + Cixiang Nunnery): Centered on the Ming Dynasty eunuch Tian Yi’s tomb, displaying stone carvings from Liao, Jin to the Republic of China, combining artistry and a sense of exploration.
• China Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall: Built atop real glacier striations, showcasing 3-million-year-old glacier relics and fossils of dinosaurs and mammoths, a uniquely featured geological natural museum.
• Fahai Temple (Fahai Zen Temple): A Ming Dynasty royal temple famous for authentic Ming Dynasty palace murals comparable to Dunhuang, praised as “Half a History of Ming and Qing Dynasties.”
• Cheng’en Temple (Yanjing Eight Wonders Museum): A Ming Dynasty royal temple now showcasing the Yanjing Eight Wonders crafts, with excellent ginkgo scenery in autumn.
• Shimen Academy and Western Beijing Old School Area: Small and exquisite academy spaces and education-themed streets reflecting Modekou’s scholarly atmosphere.

7. Niche Experiences and Hidden Activities

• Stamp Collection Check-in: Many small shops in the district hide dozens of free stamps; the Western Beijing Bookstore has several, perfect for completing a “Modekou Stamp Collection Map” notebook.
• Traditional Handicraft Experiences: Some craft shops and Spring Festival markets offer hands-on experiences like paper-cutting, sugar painting, and dough modeling, all intangible cultural heritage crafts.
• Reptile Pet Shop Interaction: The district has reptile-themed shops where owners introduce various reptiles to children, some can be touched up close, adding fun to family interactions.
• Robot Latte Art Coffee Machine: Some coffee spaces offer robot-made latte art, creating a tech contrast with the ancient street atmosphere.
• New Year Goods Market and “Mode Ten Items” Gift Boxes: From the Laba Festival to the Lantern Festival (January 8 to February 24, 2026), Longwang Temple Square sells traditional pastry gift boxes and classic Modekou marinated meat gift boxes.
• Photography and Short Video Contests: During the lantern festival, “Floral Modekou” themed photography and short video contests are often held, free for visitors to participate with chances to win prizes.

8. Official and Folk Activities (Sample Schedule)

Based on recent years, during the Spring Festival the district arranges:

• Lion Dance for New Year (Modekou Park): Multiple afternoon performances on fixed dates
• Folk Flash Performances (Wanquan Temple Ruins Park): Short, frequent shows
• Spring Festival Performances (Longwang Temple Square): Focused on traditional solar term culture
• Stamp Collection Check-in (Modekou History and Culture District): Open during daytime
• Golden Snake Blessings / Year of the Horse Market: Open from day to night
• God of Wealth Parade: Multiple time slots on specific dates
• Lantern Festival Lantern Parade: Multiple lantern walks on the Lantern Festival night

These activities make Modekou not only a “lantern festival site” during Spring Festival but also a vibrant stage for living folk customs.

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Practical Tips for Visiting

1. Timing and Shooting Rhythm

• During the winter lantern festival, it’s recommended to arrive around 16:00, first capture the ancient street in daylight and sunset, then wait for the lights to turn on around 17:30.
• To capture the “blue hour” with a deep blue sky, you need to finish shooting within 20–30 minutes after sunset; once it’s completely dark, the sky turns pure black and loses depth.
• For mainly cultural visits during the day, note that most museums and temples open between 9:00–16:00, with some closing from 12:00–13:00. It’s best to schedule key venues in the morning and spend the afternoon strolling the neighborhoods and exploring shops.

2. Clothing and Carry-on Gear

• Winter nights are cold, especially during the lantern festival when standing for long periods. Recommended:
  • Down jacket + warm base layers
  • Hat, scarf, gloves
  • Heat packs applied to waist, knees, and other cold-prone areas
• Shoes should be comfortable, non-slip sneakers or snow boots, as streets are mostly cobblestone and involve a lot of walking.
• Photo tips:
  • Choose clothing colors like red, wine red, navy blue, dark green to contrast warmly and coldly with the lanterns for better shots.
  • New Chinese style, Hanfu, and vintage styles work especially well against the ancient street backdrop.
• Photography equipment:
  • A smartphone is sufficient for most scenes; remember to enable night mode.
  • If bringing a camera, wide-angle lenses suit large scenes, mid-range lenses are good for portraits.
  • For night shots, increase ISO and control shutter speed; use railings or other supports to stabilize the camera if needed.

3. Crowd and Route Planning

• During the Spring Festival lantern festival, evenings until 20:00 are peak crowd times, especially around Longwang Temple Square, Jingxi Bookstore, and the community committee’s “Immediate Big Orange” lantern display.
• To avoid crowds:
  • Choose weekdays or non-peak days between Laba Festival and Little New Year.
  • Arrive before 17:00 and start shooting in less crowded areas like Shimen Academy (石门书院) or Modekou North Street (模式口北街).
  • For night photography, move slightly west or into side alleys where fewer people make framing easier.

4. Reservations and Time Management

• The Fahai Temple Mural Masterpiece Exhibition and Yanjing Eight Wonders Museum (Cheng’en Temple) require advance reservations via official WeChat public accounts or mini-programs. Holiday slots fill quickly, so secure your reservation first and plan other activities around it.
• The Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall and Shijingshan Stone Carving Museum usually don’t require reservations but are closed on Mondays. Confirm opening info via “Shijingshan Culture & Tourism” channels before heading out.
• If you just want to casually stroll, no need for detailed plans for every venue; leave some flexible time to adjust based on interest on site.

5. Photography Tips and Props

• The blue hour is the most iconic scene at Modekou (模式口). Check the sunset time in advance and arrive at your preferred spot half an hour early.
• At Longwang Temple Square and the eastern entrance tree-shadow area, try shooting upward to capture lanterns hanging from treetops with silhouetted figures for a dreamy effect.
• The cobblestone streets reflect faint light under lantern illumination; try low-angle shots to create the effect of “walking in a river of lights.”
• In winter, use props like candied hawthorn sticks, roasted pear paper bags, hot milk tea cups, fried cake paper bags—they keep you warm and add storytelling elements to photos.

6. Food and Queue Expectations

• Street snacks are moderately priced, perfect for “small portions multiple times” while walking, no need to buy a lot at once.
• Popular snacks (fried cake, mixed grain pancakes, lard buns) tend to have longer queues in the morning and evening; allow extra time if traveling with children.
• Minimize cold drinks in winter; opt for hot tea, hot milk tea, or soups. The area is dense with teahouses and cafes, so you can warm up indoors anytime.

7. Safety and Family/Elderly Friendliness

• The lantern festival draws large crowds; watch children carefully, especially under lantern trees and in square activity areas to avoid getting separated.
• Although the middle section is pedestrian-only, vehicles still pass at the east and west ends; be cautious when crossing streets.
• The streets have gentle slopes, suitable for strollers and elderly companions, but some paths to temples have steps or ramps—those with mobility issues should assess their limits.
• Modekou Park has slides, climbing walls, swings, etc., making it a “play zone” for kids while adults can rest on nearby benches.

8. Essential Apps and Information Channels

• Maps: Use Gaode Map or Baidu Map; bookmark points like “Modekou Historical Cultural Street,” “Stone Carving Museum,” “Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall,” “Fahai Temple,” and “Cheng’en Temple” for easy walking route planning.
• WeChat public accounts/mini-programs:
  • “Shijingshan Culture & Tourism” for event schedules, lantern festival times, and venue info.
  • “Fahai Temple Mural Art Museum” for mural masterpiece reservations.
  • “Yanjing Eight Wonders Museum” for Cheng’en Temple visits.
• Photography apps: Familiarize yourself with your phone’s built-in night mode or third-party camera apps with long exposure features to quickly capture great shots during blue hour.

9. Cost Control and Value for Money

• The street area and lantern festival are completely free, making it a highly cost-effective destination for Spring Festival atmosphere.
• Most exhibitions are free or low-cost (Glacier Hall is free, Stone Carving Museum about ¥8 ($1 USD), Fahai Temple general admission about ¥20 ($3 USD)), so cultural experiences are affordable.
• If driving, consider parking fees (varies from ¥4 to ¥10 per hour depending on the lot); public transport is recommended if on a budget.
• Stamp collection activities, photo contests, and other events are mostly free to join, some with small gifts or prizes—keep an eye on bulletin boards and official accounts for updates.

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Recommended Food in and Around the Neighborhood

1. Traditional Snacks and Street Dim Sum

Fahai Temple Fried Cake King / Mosikou Fried Cake King (法海寺炸糕王 / 模式口炸糕王)

• Specialties: Fried cakes, donkey rolls (驴打滚), and other old Beijing snacks
• Highlights:
  • Praised by many local writers as one of the "best fried cakes in all Beijing"
  • Freshly fried with a golden crispy exterior and a molten red bean paste filling that is sweet but not greasy, with a soft, glutinous texture
  • Often paired with a bowl of donkey rolls for a festive New Year flavor
• Price Reference: About ¥2.5 each (~$0.35 USD)
• Opening Hours: Mainly in the morning and noon; often sold out if arriving late afternoon
• Location: Near the Guojielou Ruins and Longwang Temple Square, a must-pass spot on several walking routes

Xinyang Lard Bun (Hushi Lard Bun) (信阳猪油馍 / 胡氏猪油馍)

• Specialties: Lard buns, preserved mustard greens buns, red bean buns
• Highlights:
  • Made fresh and baked on the spot, crispy outside and fragrant inside, with a soft bun surface
  • The preserved mustard greens filling is savory and rich, while the red bean bun is sweet and glutinous
• Price Reference: About ¥7 each (~$1 USD)
• Location: Mid-section of Mosikou Street, next to a small noodle shop famous for its beef noodles, a great choice for a simple meal

Xiao Han’s Mixed Grain Pancakes (小韩家杂粮煎饼)

• Specialties: Mixed grain pancakes
• Highlights:
  • Thin and crispy, with a fragrant and chewy mixed grain pancake base
  • Generously filled, a common breakfast choice among locals
• Price Reference: About ¥8 per serving (~$1.15 USD)
• Location: Main street snack area, often recommended alongside fried cakes and lard buns

Xingfu Cake Shop (幸福蛋糕坊)

• Specialties: Traditional baked pastries
• Highlights:
  • Chocolate pies in the freezer are especially popular
  • Perfect for buying small sweets for kids during family trips
• Location: Western section along the main street, with a modest sign, a typical community-style small shop

Traditional Street Stalls

• Roasted Pears: Common during winter lantern festivals, warm roasted pears are especially comforting in the cold wind
• Sugar Paintings and Dough Figurines: Available at Spring Festival markets, great for parent-child interaction with traditional crafts
• Candied Hawthorn (Bingtanghulu): Large hawthorn berries, tasty and perfect as a photo prop
• Pancake Fruit Stalls and Small Markets: Appear on the streets in the early morning and evening, part of local daily life

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2. Full Meals and Local Flavors

Yuanzhou Impression · Ningxia Guyuan Experience Hall / Yuanzhou Impression & Guyuan Flavors (原州印象·宁夏固原体验馆 / 原州印象&固原味道)

• Cuisine: Northwest Chinese (Ningxia/Gansu)
• Highlights:
  • Beef, lamb, and native chicken sourced directly from the region
  • Beef noodles and lamb noodles are highly praised, known as "the hometown taste certified by a Gansu native husband"
  • Local specialties like native chicken are available for purchase to take home
• Location: No. 65 Mosikou Street, listed as a "gold medal merchant" in the neighborhood

Authentic Nanmen Copper Pot Hotpot (正宗南门铜锅涮肉)

• Cuisine: Old Beijing copper pot mutton hotpot
• Highlights:
  • Uses traditional charcoal copper pots, with finely sliced meat
  • Eating hotpot around the lantern festival in winter is a fixed tradition for many local families
• Average Cost: About ¥120–180 per person (~$17–26 USD)
• Suitable for: Family gatherings, friends get-togethers

Grandma’s Kitchen Western Restaurant (祖母的厨房西餐厅)

• Cuisine: Western / Homestyle Western dishes
• Ambiance:
  • A vintage Western restaurant tucked away in an ancient path, unique in Beijing
  • Warm yellow lighting and wooden furniture create a cozy "grandma’s kitchen" atmosphere
  • The second-floor terrace overlooks the entire ancient path, with excellent ambiance when lit up at dusk
• Recommended Dishes:
  • Borscht: Rich sweet and sour flavor with plenty of beef chunks
  • Baked Potato Skins: Crispy outside, soft inside, with cheese strings wrapped around ham bits
  • Dual-flavor Pizza: Parma ham + salami, with a crispy thin crust and rich truffle sauce aroma
  • Bacon Cream Pasta: Creamy and rich, sauce fully coats the noodles
• Average Cost: About ¥80–150 per person (~$11–22 USD)

Small Noodle Shop Near Jingxi Old School (京西老学堂附近小面馆)

• Specialties: Beef noodles and other simple meals
• Highlights:
  • Adjacent to Xinyang Lard Bun, the beef noodles have been praised multiple times as "especially delicious"
  • A good choice for a simple lunch

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3. Cafés and Tea Spaces

Cat & Bookstore & Liuru Cottage (No. 77 Mosikou Street) (猫与书店 & 六如小筑)

• Type: Café + bookstore + creative shop + cat lounge
• Highlights:
  • Camel sculpture at the entrance, real cats inside
  • Combines bookshelves, coffee, and creative goods, a favorite for art lovers and cat fans
  • Rated as one of the neighborhood’s "gold medal merchants"

Moshan Coffee (No. 178) & Demon King Coffee Shop (No. 37) (磨山咖啡 & 魔王咖啡商店)

• Type: Specialty coffee shops
• Highlights:
  • Artistic environment, great for photos and long relaxing breaks
  • Offers pour-over coffee, espresso, and some desserts

Youshi Garden & Chengzhitang Creative Tea Space (有石花园 & 乘之堂创意茶空间)

• Type: Tea drinks + light meals + courtyard space
• Highlights:
  • Located near Cheng’en Temple in a multi-courtyard tea space
  • Beautifully arranged courtyard, perfect for photos and afternoon tea
  • Listed as a "gold medal merchant" with a stable reputation

Feichang Wan’er (No. 67) (啡尝碗er)

• Type: Coffee + light meals
• Highlights:
  • Known for "bowl-served coffee" and light snacks
  • Suitable for visitors wanting a light bite without a full meal

Chashanji Milk Tea (茶山季奶茶)

• Type: Milk tea + gelato ice cream
• Highlights:
  • Strawberry milkshake is visually appealing with a strong strawberry flavor
  • Various gelato flavors perfect for summer refreshment
  • Drinks are visually attractive, great as photo props

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4. Suggested Foodie Walking Route

• Morning: Focus on snacks — Fahai Temple Fried Cake King + Mixed Grain Pancakes for brunch
• Noon: Choose Yuanzhou Impression · Ningxia Guyuan Experience Hall or Authentic Nanmen Copper Pot Hotpot for a full meal
• Afternoon: Rest and take photos at Cat & Bookstore, Moshan Coffee, Youshi Garden, and other café/tea spaces
• Evening: Stroll the lantern festival while enjoying fried tiger snacks, Xinyang lard buns, roasted pears, candied hawthorn, and other street snacks to end the day

Overall, the Mosikou dining scene centers on local snacks + artistic cafés + a few full-meal options, with prices ranging from a few yuan to hundreds, making it perfect for a "walk and eat" city walk experience.

Accommodation and Area Choices Around The Bund (模式口)

1. Around Mosikou (模式口) and Shijingshan (石景山)

The Mosikou historic cultural district mainly consists of residential areas and low-rise ancient buildings, with almost no formal hotels inside the district. If you want to walk or take a short trip to Mosikou, consider staying around Shijingshan District and Jin’anqiao (金安桥):

• Business Chain Hotels near Mosikou/Jin’anqiao:

  • Brands: Common chains like Home Inn (如家), Hanting (汉庭), All Seasons (全季), etc.
  • Price Range: About ¥300–500 per night (~$42–70 USD)
  • Advantages:
    • Close to Metro Line 6 and Line 11 (near Jin’anqiao Station and Mosikou Station)
    • Only 1 metro stop or about 10 minutes by car to Mosikou
  • Suitable for: Visitors whose main activity areas are Shijingshan, Shougang Park (首钢园), and Mosikou

• Design/Boutique Hotels near Shougang Park:

  • Location: Shougang Park and along the Yongding River (永定河)
  • Price Range: About ¥500–800 per night (~$70–112 USD)
  • Advantages:
    • Convenient for combining visits to Shougang Park and Mosikou
    • About 10 minutes by taxi from Shougang Park to Mosikou
  • Suitable for: Visitors interested in industrial heritage and Winter Olympic venues, planning to stay 1–2 days in western Beijing

2. Convenient Areas Along Metro Lines

If Mosikou is just one stop on your Beijing itinerary, you can choose accommodation in areas with convenient metro access via Line 6 + Line 11:

• Around Jin’anqiao Station:

  • Transport Hub: Intersection of Line 6, S1 Line, and Line 11
  • Nearby Facilities: Large shopping malls, dining options, and several mid-range hotels
  • Price Range: About ¥300–600 per night (~$42–84 USD)
  • Advantages:
    • Only 1 metro stop to Mosikou
    • Easy access to other city attractions

• Pingguoyuan (苹果园) / Gucheng (古城) Area (western end of Line 1):

  • Hotel Types: Mainly budget and mid-range business hotels
  • Price Range: About ¥250–450 per night (~$35–63 USD)
  • Getting to Mosikou:
    • Take Line 1 to Gucheng or Pingguoyuan, then transfer to a bus or taxi for about 20 minutes
  • Suitable for: Visitors who drive or don’t mind a longer commute and have a tighter budget

3. Central City Area + Direct Metro Access

For first-time visitors to Beijing who want to balance visits to classic attractions like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen, and Wangfujing, staying in the city center with metro transfers to Mosikou is a good choice:

• Xidan / Financial Street / Fuchengmen Area:

  • Transport: Lines 1 and 2 with quick connections to Line 6
  • Hotel Types: Many mid-to-high-end business and five-star hotels
  • Price Range: About ¥800–1500 per night (~$112–210 USD)
  • Advantages:
    • Convenient for visiting Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Beihai Park, and other core attractions
    • Direct access to Mosikou via Line 6 → Jin’anqiao → Line 11

• Chaoyangmen / Guomao / Sanlitun Area:

  • Transport: Intersection of Lines 2, 10, and 1
  • Hotel Options: Wide range from budget to luxury brands
  • Getting to Mosikou:
    • Take Line 2 or Line 10, transfer to Line 6 at Jin’anqiao, then switch to Line 11 to Mosikou
  • Suitable for: Visitors who want vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and plan Mosikou as a half-day or full-day “Western Beijing cultural experience”

4. Family and Child-Friendly Travel Suggestions

• If your itinerary focuses on “Mosikou + Shougang Park,” it’s recommended to choose:
  • Child-friendly hotels/apartments around Shijingshan or Shougang Park
  • Accommodations with children’s play areas and family rooms
• When traveling with elderly family members, consider:
  • Hotels near Metro Line 6 or Line 11 to reduce transfers
  • Mid-range hotels with accessible facilities and elevators
• Mosikou itself is better suited as a day-trip destination, so there’s no need to stay right next to the district. Choose accommodations near major transport hubs like Xizhimen, Dongzhimen, or Beijing West Railway Station based on your overall itinerary.

5. Booking and Important Notes

• During the Spring Festival Lantern Festival, hotels around Shijingshan and Shougang Park may experience price increases or limited availability. It’s advisable to book 1–2 weeks in advance.
• When choosing accommodation, prioritize:
  • Proximity to Metro Line 6 or Line 11
  • Availability of parking (if driving) or closeness to large parking lots
• For self-driving visitors, it’s best to park at the hotel and take the metro to Mosikou to avoid searching for parking spots and traffic restrictions in the old district.

Overall, Mosikou is more suitable as a “daytime/evening visit + return to the city center” destination rather than a place you must stay overnight next to. Based on your budget and itinerary, select a suitable hotel in Shijingshan, Shougang Park, Jin’anqiao, or the city center, and use Lines 11 and 6 for quick access to the ancient Camel Bell Trail (驼铃古道). This way, you won’t sacrifice transportation convenience and can fully enjoy the slow pace and festive atmosphere of this thousand-year-old trail.

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Sample Itinerary: Full-Day In-Depth + Half-Day Highlights Route

1. Mozikou Full-Day In-Depth Tour (Ideal for First-Time Visitors, Preferring Culture + Food Exploration)

Suggested Time: 09:30–20:30
Suitable Seasons: All year round; winter can add lantern festival night scenes

09:30–10:30 Arrival and "Ancient Road Prelude"

• Get off at Mozikou Station on Metro Line 11, exit from Exit A
• Walk to the West Entrance Big Camel Sculpture, take some photos, and soak in the "Camel Bell Ancient Road" atmosphere
• Stroll along the main street to familiarize yourself with the neighborhood layout and general directions
• Pass by street breakfast stalls for a quick snack if needed (such as multigrain pancakes; see the food section for specific shops)

10:30–11:30 Stone Carving Museum: Tian Yi’s Tomb and Stone Sculpture Art

• Follow signs to Shijingshan Stone Carving Museum (Tian Yi’s Tomb)
• Purchase tickets (~¥8 per person) and explore stone carvings from the Liao, Jin to Republic of China periods, including tomb pathway carvings
• Learn about the life of Ming Dynasty eunuch Tian Yi and burial customs, appreciating the details of stone carving art

11:30–12:30 Ancient Road Preservation and Neighborhood Exploration

• Walk to Gudao Sicun (Mozikou Historical and Cultural Folk Exhibition Hall)
• Visit the courtyard exhibition on the ancient western Beijing road and Mozikou history, clarifying the evolution from "Moshikou → Mozikou"
• After exiting, casually stroll along the main street, noticing camel sculptures, old houses, and local life scenes

12:30–13:30 Lunch and Short Rest

• Choose according to taste:
  • For local flavors: head to Yuanzhou Impression · Ningxia Guyuan Experience Hall to try beef noodles, lamb noodles, and other Northwestern dishes
  • For old Beijing taste: choose nearby noodle shops or simple meal places
  • For Western food: book Grandma’s Kitchen Western Restaurant for borscht, pizza, pasta, etc.
• After lunch, rest briefly at the restaurant to recharge for afternoon walking

13:30–15:30 Glacier Relics Museum and Fahai Temple

• Walk or take a short taxi ride to the China Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall
  • Free entry with ID registration; see glacier striations, dinosaur and mammoth fossils
  • On weekends, try to catch the free guided tours at 10:30 or 14:30
• Then visit Fahai Temple (Fahai Zen Temple)
  • For general visits, buy tickets on-site (~¥20 per person) to see temple buildings and mural replicas
  • If you have pre-booked the original mural special tour, enter at the reserved time to focus on Ming Dynasty court murals

15:30–16:30 Cheng’en Temple and Yanjing Eight Wonders

• Walk back to the eastern section of the main street and visit Cheng’en Temple (Yanjing Eight Wonders Museum)
• Enter at the reserved time to see exquisite crafts such as gold lacquer inlay, filigree inlay, cloisonné, ivory carving, jade carving, carved lacquer, Beijing embroidery, and palace carpets
• In autumn, capture photos of ginkgo trees against red walls inside the temple

16:30–17:30 Coffee/Tea Space and Preparation for Blue Hour

• Depending on energy and interest, choose:
  • Rest at Cat and Bookstore, enjoy a coffee, browse books, and pet cats
  • Or visit Youshi Garden / Chengzhitang Creative Tea Space to drink tea and chat in the courtyard
• During this time, complete some stamp collection check-ins and scout favorite photo spots for blue hour (e.g., West Entrance Big Camel, Longwangmiao Square, Jingxi Bookstore area)

17:30–19:30 Blue Hour and Lantern Festival Night Scenes

• Arrive at your chosen photo spot around 17:00 based on sunset time
• Key photo spots:
  • West Entrance Big Camel + Lantern Tree
  • Residents’ Committee “Immediate Big Orange” lantern installation
  • Overpass ruins “Moonlight Camel Bells” projection
  • Jingxi Bookstore area “Modern Snowy Night” light display
  • Longwangmiao Square “Snowy Golden Glow” scene
• After blue hour, continue strolling through the lantern festival to experience the “River of Lights” ancient road nightscape

19:30–20:30 Late-Night Snacks and Return

• Pick 1–2 snacks on the main street for a late-night bite (e.g., fried cakes, lard buns, roasted pears, candied hawthorn sticks)
• Depending on energy:
  • Take a bus from the East Entrance to leave
  • Or walk from the West Entrance back to Metro Line 11 Mozikou Station Exit A for return

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2. Half-Day Highlights Route: Shougang Park + Mozikou Blue Hour Nightscape

Suggested Time: 14:00–21:00
Suitable Seasons: Winter lantern festival period, autumn dusk

14:00–17:00 Shougang Park Industrial Heritage and Winter Olympics Atmosphere

• Head to Shougang Park in the afternoon to visit:
  • Ski jumping platform
  • Industrial relics like the No. 3 and No. 1 blast furnaces
  • Skywalk and Yongding River riverside views
• Have a simple meal or coffee break inside the park

17:00–17:30 Travel to Mozikou

• Take a taxi about 10 minutes from Shougang Park to Mozikou East Entrance
• Briefly visit the Tourist Service Center to learn about the lantern festival theme and activities

17:30–19:30 Mozikou Blue Hour and Lantern Festival Highlights

• Stroll slowly from east to west:
  • East Entrance “Auspicious Horse Welcoming Spring” lantern installation
  • Jingxi Bookstore area “Modern Snowy Night” light display
  • Residents’ Committee “Immediate Big Orange” lantern installation
  • Overpass ruins “Moonlight Camel Bells” projection
  • Longwangmiao Square “Snowy Golden Glow” scene
• Focus on photographing during the 17:30–18:00 blue hour

19:30–21:00 Late-Night Snacks and Return

• Choose some snacks on the main street for dinner supplement
• Depending on return direction:
  • Walk from West Entrance to Metro Line 11 Mozikou Station Exit A
  • Or take a bus from East Entrance connecting to Metro Line 6 or Line 1

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3. Family-Friendly Half-Day Itinerary (Science Popularization + Play)

Suggested Time: 10:00–16:30
Suitable Seasons: Winter (indoor venues), spring and autumn

10:00–11:30 Glacier Relics Museum Science Popularization

• After arriving at Mozikou, first visit the China Quaternary Glacier Relics Exhibition Hall
• Free entry with ID registration; on weekends try to catch the 10:30 guided tour
• Let children observe glacier striations, dinosaur and mammoth fossils up close

11:30–12:30 Simple Lunch

• Return to the main street and dine at Xinyang Lard Bun + Beef Noodle Shop or other simple meal places
• Rest appropriately to prepare for afternoon activities

12:30–13:30 Ancient Road Preservation and Neighborhood Walk

• Visit Gudao Sicun, use easy-to-understand panels to explain the story of the "Camel Bell Ancient Road" to children
• After exiting, slowly walk along the main street, noticing camel sculptures, cat murals, and other fun elements

13:30–15:00 Mozikou Park Playground

• Go to Mozikou Park, let children play freely on slides, climbing walls, swings, etc.
• Adults can rest on park benches or take turns buying snacks at nearby shops

15:00–16:30 Coffee/Desserts and Return

• Depending on the children’s condition, choose:
  • Drink and read picture books at Cat and Bookstore, pet cats
  • Or buy some desserts at Happy Cake Shop
• Return by metro from Mozikou Station at a suitable time

This itinerary focuses on "science popularization + play + relaxed strolling," avoiding too many temples and deep exhibitions, suitable for preschool and elementary school children.

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