Most foreign travelers need a visa for China. Check with your local embassy.

Is English widely spoken?

Not widely. Learn basic Chinese phrases or use a translation app.

What currency is used?

Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted in hotels but cash is needed for small vendors.

Can I drink tap water?

No, drink bottled or boiled water.

Yes, in Fengning county town, but not in remote grassland areas.

Comfortable hiking shoes, warm layers (even in summer), sunscreen, and a hat.

Is the grassland accessible year-round?

Yes, but some roads close in heavy snow. Summer is best for full access.

Fengning

CityHebei, China

Fengning is a CITY in Hebei, China.

Fengning, nestled in the northern reaches of Hebei Province, is a captivating blend of vast grasslands and rugged mountains. Known as the 'North Garden of Beijing,' it offers a refreshing escape from urban life. The Fengning Bashang Grassland stretches endlessly, dotted with wildflowers in summer and blanketed by snow in winter. Visitors can gallop across the plains on horseback, explore the ancient Great Wall remnants at Datan, or hike through the serene Qianjiadian Forest. The region is also famous for its vibrant Mongolian culture, with yurt stays and traditional music performances. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or a taste of nomadic life, Fengning's unspoiled landscapes and crisp mountain air provide an unforgettable retreat into nature's embrace.

Best time to visit Fengning

The best time is June to September when the grasslands are lush and temperatures are mild (15-25°C). July and August offer vibrant wildflowers and cultural festivals. Winter (December-February) is ideal for snow sports and photography, but temperatures can drop to -20°C. Spring and autumn are less crowded but can be windy.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 0-15°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Autumn colors, fewer tourists

Know before you go

Getting there

PEK

Beijing Capital International Airport

International

250 km away

PKX

Beijing Daxing International Airport

International

280 km away

Getting around

"Getting around Fengning is best by private car or taxi, as public buses are infrequent. Many hotels arrange tours to the grasslands. Renting a car with a driver is common and affordable. For short distances, local minibuses connect villages. Bicycles are available for rent in the county town. Note that roads to scenic spots may be unpaved."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and county town cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Fengning bus station from $3

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Generally safe; be cautious with horseback riding and remote hiking.

Night safety

7/10

Generally safe; be cautious with horseback riding and remote hiking.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Fengning is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, be cautious when hiking or horseback riding—use reputable guides. Roads can be icy in winter and dusty in summer; drive carefully. Scams are rare but watch for overpriced souvenirs. Keep valuables secure and avoid remote areas after dark. Always inform your hotel of your itinerary when exploring the grasslands."

Police

110

Ambulance

120

Fire

119

Entry and health

Health information

"Travelers should carry basic medications for colds, digestive issues, and altitude sickness as local pharmacies may be limited. The nearest major hospital is in Fengning County town, but serious cases may require transfer to Beijing. Drink bottled or boiled water, and be cautious with street food. Sunscreen and insect repellent are essential for outdoor activities. Altitude on the grasslands can reach 1,500m, so stay hydrated and avoid overexertion."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect local Mongolian customs: greet with a nod, avoid pointing your feet at people or religious objects, and accept tea or food with both hands. Dress modestly when visiting temples. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service. Bargaining is common at markets but keep it friendly. Remove shoes before entering yurts or homes."

Mandarin (official)CantoneseShanghaineseHokkienHakkaUyghurTibetanMongolianZhuangKoreanMandarin Chinese

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs ~$3-5

Hotels

$20-50 | budget hotels range $20-50/night

Local transport

$0.50 | local bus ride ~$0.50

Cost notes

Prices are lower than Beijing; luxury resorts on the grasslands cost more.

Timezone

Asia/Shanghai
Local time 03:56

More facts

Population

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Dage, Fengning, Fynnin, Ta-ko, Ta-ko-chen, Ta-kou-chen, Ta-ku-chen, da ge, feng ning, 丰宁, 大阁, 丰宁满族自治县, Fengning Manchu Autonomous County, 펑닝 만주족 자치현, 丰宁;Fengning, ᡶᡝᠩᠨᡳᠩ ᠮᠠᠨᠵᡠ ᠪᡝᠶᡝ ᡩᠠᠰᠠᠩᡤᠠ ᠰᡳᠶᠠᠨ, 丰宁县, 豐寧滿族自治縣, 펑닝현, Дагэчжень, Phong Ninh, ᡶᡝᠩᠨᡳᠩ, 当地人大多都说的是普通话，会说满语的人很少，请不要在主要名称的tag上面添加满语, Most locals speak Mandarin, and very few people can speak Manchu. Please do not add Manchu to the main name tag., 豐寧縣, Fēngníng Mǎnzú Zìzhìxiàn, Fēngníng Xiàn

Major HubGrasslandHikingCulturalFamily-FriendlyHorseback Riding