Frozen Waterfalls in Taoyuan Xiangu in Beijing

Taoyuan Fairy Valley Scenic Area, also known as Taoyuan Fairy Valley or Taoyuan Xiangu Natural Scenic Spot, is a picturesque destination about 100 km (60 mi) northeast of Beijing in Miyun County. The forest in the valley is dense, the waterfalls are numerous, and the mountains are majestic. A few dozens of various landscape shapes will keep hikers busy— a lake, waterfalls, deep pools, a spring and ponds are all scattered across the valley.

In winter, Tao Yuan Xian Gu becomes a world of ice and snow where you can see the scenes of ice, frozen waterfalls, frost flowers, and ice caves. At that time, the icy waterfalls here attract not only regular tourists but also outdoor X-sports fans. Many people come here to enjoy frozen waterfall climbing on two large human made falls in the valley.

Every year roughly from late December through February, the valley welcomes cold winter days when the falls freeze. Those willing to climb the frozen waterfalls, may rent professional climbing equipment and choose the climbing routes of different levels. The frozen Taoyuan Waterfall is about 50 meters (165 feet) high and dozens of meters wide. Professional ice climbers can choose the steeper eastern side while the beginners may prefer the flatter western side.

There is another frozen waterfall climbing area in the fairy valley named Longquan Waterfall. This is a training area for frozen falls climbing fans. The area provides a 20-meter (65-feet) wide and 40-meter (130-feet) high climbing space for training as well as a 6-meter (20-feet) wide and 30-meter (100-feet) high surface for children as an entertainment climbing area.

The winter fairy-tale is beautiful but cold, so make sure to wear warm clothes. As it might take a while to explore all the highlights, bring packed lunch or instant noodles (they provide hot water at the food stall over there). You can get there with your own car or join an organized tour. In any case, be prepared to pay an entrance fee.