Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
cloud of Beijing frequently makes it out to Xiangshan—though I have to say the air
quality still is definitely a bit better than in the city.
WHAT'S IT LIKE TO LIVE IN XIANGSHAN?
During the week (except in the touristy season) life around Xiangshan is more laid-
back than in the city center. The locals meet in the morning at the marketplace, where
fruits, vegetables, and clothes are being sold. There are loads of small noodle and
dumpling places, as well as two Western-style cafés.
The highlight is Xiangshan Park, which has various tracks leading to the peak
of Xiangshan (Fragrant Mountain) and Biyun Temple. The countryside is beautiful
and has many hiking trails around the actual Xiangshan to discover. It's nice coming
home from hectic Beijing in the night and seeing a light on the top of the mountain
and sometimes even the stars in the sky.
WHAT ARE YOUR NEIGHBORS LIKE?
Most of them were originally farmers, but many of them now run different businesses
in the tourism industry.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE DRAWBACKS TO LIVING THERE?
In the “golden leaves season” and sometimes on the weekends, when loads of tourists
flock to Xiangshan, it can get very noisy, and the streets and hiking trails become
packed with people. It's also quite a long way to the city center, which is inconveni-
ent, especially during rush hour. This is further exacerbated during the “golden leaves
season,” when it can take a long time to get in and out of the area in general.
WHAT'S YOUR APARTMENT LIKE AND WHAT ARE THE LIVING COSTS?
It's quite basic. I live in a simple room with basic furniture and a bathroom. It doesn't
have central heating so it can get very cold in winter. It was built by a farmer, who
added this extension onto the top of his own one-story house, and from my window
I have a wonderful view.
WHAT KIND OF PEOPLE DO YOU THINK ARE SUITED TO LIVING IN XIANGSHAN?
Well, you're in the wrong place if you want to meet Westerners—there are only a
handful living up here so far. I think this place suits people who don't have to work
