If you’re searching for the perfect November day trip in Beijing, Shijingshan District offers one of the city’s most unforgettable combinations: world-class ancient art and glowing mountain forests. At Fahai Temple and the nearby Fahai Temple Forest Park, you’ll step from a quiet Ming-dynasty treasure hall straight into one of Beijing’s most colorful November landscapes.
It’s cultural, peaceful, and beautifully seasonal—all in one easy trip.

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First Stop: The Breathtaking Art of Fahai Temple

Fahai Temple is not just another historic temple—it’s home to one of China’s greatest art treasures. Hidden inside its main hall are the Fahai Temple murals, often described as “China’s Sistine Chapel.”

Why It’s Special

These Ming-dynasty murals are over 570 years old, and yet the colors remain shockingly bright. That’s because the artists used ground gemstones, natural pigments, and real gold leaf.
The most famous piece, the Water-Moon Guanyin, is so delicate and serene that it almost feels alive.

A Unique Way to Experience Art

Because these murals are national treasures, visiting them feels intimate and special:

• You join a small guided tour
• Bags and phones stay in lockers to protect the artwork
• The guide uses a single flashlight to reveal each part slowly

At first, the rules feel strict, but once you’re inside the dark hall, the experience is almost spiritual. For 20 minutes, everything goes quiet as the ancient paintings glow in the soft beam of light.

Official website (CN): https://www.beijing.gov.cn/renwen/rwzyd/bwg/fhs/202301/t20230112_2898238.html

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Next Stop: Fahai Temple Forest Park

Once you step outside the temple gate, you’re already inside the peaceful Fahai Temple Forest Park. And in mid-November, this place is pure magic.

Why Autumn Is the Best Time to Visit

The forested hills explode into shades of gold, orange, and red.
The air is crisp and fresh.
And the views across the valley feel untouched and serene.

You can stroll along paved paths, wander deeper into the woods, or simply sit on a bench and enjoy the light filtering through golden leaves.

It’s the perfect balance to the quiet intensity of the temple murals.

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Your Perfect Autumn Day Plan

📍 Address

Fahai Temple & Forest Park (法海寺 & 法海寺森林公园)
No. 28 Fahaosi Street, Moshikou, Shijingshan District, Beijing (北京市石景山区模式口大街28号)

🎫 Tickets & Opening Hours

Fahai Temple

• General Admission: ¥20
• Mural Tour: ¥100 (highly recommended!)
• Hours: 09:00–16:30
• Closed on Mondays

Fahai Temple Forest Park

• Free Entry

🚇 How to Get There

Take Line 11 to Moshikou Station.
From there, it’s a scenic 10–15 minute walk through the charming Moshikou Historical Block, or a quick taxi ride to the temple entrance.

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🌳 Why Mid-November Is the Best Time

• Peak foliage across the entire hillside
• Cool weather, perfect for both walking and exploring
• Fewer crowds if you visit on a weekday
• Great photography, especially in the late afternoon light

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Pro Tips for Your Visit

1. Book the Mural Tour in Advance
   Tickets are limited daily. Reserve through platforms like WeChat (法海寺壁画艺术馆)or 大众点评 (Dianping) so you don’t miss out.
2. Wear Comfortable Shoes
   The temple is cool inside, and the forest walk can warm you up—layering is ideal.
3. Enjoy Moshikou Street
   There are cozy cafes and restaurants nearby, making it easy to turn your visit into a relaxing half-day outing.
4. Bring Water and a Light Snack
   The forest park is peaceful, and it’s nice to sit and relax while enjoying the scenery.

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