Yanqi Night Valley (Trout Valley)
雁栖不夜谷(虹鳟鱼一条沟)
A folk tourism strip along the Yanqi River, lined with farmhouse guesthouses one after another. Grilled rainbow trout, stove-pot fish stew, and bonfire parties are the signature attractions.
In the 1980s, villagers around Shentangyu succeeded in raising rainbow trout using mountain spring water. Over time, hundreds of farmhouse restaurants and folk guesthouses grew up along the Yanqi River. The area became known as 'Rainbow Trout Gully,' and in summer its lights stay on late into the night, which is why it's also called 'Yanqi Night Valley.' Visitors can fish for themselves or choose a trout to be cooked on the spot. Common dishes include grilled rainbow trout, sashimi, and fish stewed in a wood-fired pot. Many farmhouses also offer bonfire parties, open-air movies, and barbecues. It's ideal for a weekend trip combining Yanqi Lake, Shentangyu, and Hongluo Temple, with a farmhouse stay. Prices vary from place to place, so it's best to ask in advance. The coordinates point to Shentangyu Village.
Opening hours
All day (farmhouse inns' hours vary)
Nearby sights
- Shentangyu Valley
- Hongluo Temple
- Yanqi Lake
- Qinglong Gorge
- Great Wall at Mutianyu
- Shengquan Mountain
- Yougu Shentan Valley
- China Film City (Huairou)