Ningcheng County Eco-Culture Tour

Ningcheng County, Chifeng, Inner Mongolia — where Liao culture sites coexist with primeval forests. A 2-day 1-night itinerary exploring canyon secrets and a millennium-old ancient city.

1000+ Years
Liao Dynasty History
National Reserve
Heilihe
4A Scenic Spot
Daoxugou
Key Cultural Relic
Liao Zhongjing Site
Heilihe scenery in Ningcheng County
Autumn Colors of Heilihe Nature Reserve
One of the best-preserved primeval forest areas in North China

Ningcheng County Two-Day One-Night Eco-Culture Tour

Primeval forest + canyon secrets + Liao Dynasty ruins, feel the dialogue between nature and history

Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
Main Destinations
Heilihe, Daoxugou, Liao Zhongjing
Suitable For
Nature lovers, history explorers, photography enthusiasts
Budget per Person
¥500 - ¥800
01
Nature Exploration
Heilihe + Daoxugou Eco Tour
Highlights

Full day immersive experience of primeval forest and canyon landscapes

Attractions
Heilihe National Nature Reserve
One of the best-preserved primeval forest areas in North China, known as the "Emerald Beyond the Great Wall," home to over 700 plant species, serving as an important ecological barrier.
Daoxugou Tourist Scenic Area
National 4A scenic spot, featuring granite canyon landforms and primary secondary forests, with waterfalls and streams everywhere, average summer temperature only 22°C.
Practical Information
Travel Tips
  • No open flames in the forest area
  • Wear non-slip hiking shoes
  • Bring rain gear
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Heilihe Resort
  • Ningcheng County Hotel
  • Farm Stay Experience
02
Cultural Discovery
Exploring the Liao Zhongjing Site
Highlights

Morning visit to one of the five Liao Dynasty capitals

Attractions
Liao Zhongjing Site
National key cultural relic protection unit, the site of the Central Capital among the Liao Dynasty's five capitals. Existing city walls, pagodas and temple remains bear witness to the splendor of Khitan culture.
Ningcheng Liao Zhongjing Museum
A thematic museum focusing on artifacts unearthed from the Liao Zhongjing site, systematically introducing Khitan history and culture, with thousands of precious artifacts in its collection.
Practical Information
Experience Suggestions
  • Do not climb in the site area
  • Hiring a guide recommended
  • Visit the museum for deeper understanding
Return Advice
  • Purchase Liao culture souvenirs
  • Allow ample time for return trip

Must-Try Foods in Ningcheng County

Ningcheng Kill-the-Pig Casserole

A local specialty farmhouse feast, using free-range black pork with wild mountain vegetables and homemade blood sausage, reflecting Northeast rural traditional food culture.

Wild Mushroom Feast

A mountain treasure feast made from various wild mushrooms native to the Heilihe forest area, presented through stewing, stir-frying and hot pot cooking methods.

Ningcheng County Travel Tips
Best Season
  • June-September: Best for summer retreat
  • September-October: Charming autumn colors
  • April-May: Blooming mountain flowers
Special Reminders
  • Protect the natural environment
  • Strictly no open flames in forest areas
  • Respect site protection regulations
Transportation
  • Direct buses available from Chifeng city
  • Self-driving recommended for flexibility
  • Drive carefully on some sections