Yangyuan County in Hebei Becomes Weekend Destination for Beijing Residents via High-Speed Rail

Key summary

The archaeological park of Nieheowan in Yangyuan County, Zhangjiakou City, Hebei Province, is emerging as a popular weekend destination for residents of Beijing. Accessible by high-speed rail from Beijing to Zhangjiakou (approximately one hour) followed by a drive on the expressway to the southwest, the site features a history spanning 2 million years. Visitors and students can explore ancient human lifestyles through stone tools and soil evidence. The wetlands along the Sagan River have recovered biodiversity following local water restoration and greening efforts; in spring 2026, various bird species returned, including migratory cranes and Dalmatian pelicans. The integration of sports, culture, and tourism has transformed scattered attractions into diverse routes for sightseeing, birdwatching, ancient site painting, and river cycling, boosting local economic opportunities. Liu Haiching, who converted his former home into a homestay, reports that rooms are nearly full during peak seasons with about half of guests arriving from Beijing. Tourists often visit Nieheowan in the morning before proceeding to Kaiyang Fortress, built during the Warring States period. This model connects historical heritage and natural resources with modern tourism, making millions of years of civilization accessible while creating new opportunities for local communities.