A scene in the Yunmeng Mountain Photo: Courtesy of Bureau of Culture and Tourism of Miyun district

As a northeastern outskirt district in Beijing, ­Miyun has been famous for both its natural sceneries and Chinese culture of red and revolution themes. To embrace the upcoming Qingming Festival in early April, this story will introduce three most iconic places within the district, with 10 "Qingming themed" traveling routes. These routes are specially picked by the local government for tourists.

Miyun Reservoir

As the largest reservoir in Asia, it has played an indispensable role in balancing the ecosystem around Beijing, which is as also the main water supply for the locals. In addition to its practical function, the place is also known for its lush forests and a perfect site for bird watching. 

The reservoir is surrounded by a 110-kilometer-long ring road where tourists can climb on and appreciate the view from above. 

As the place has an average of 3 C lower than the temperature in the center of the town, Miyun Reservoir can be colder during early springtime, and one should always remember to put on some more layers before their departure.  

Yunmeng Mountain

It's one of the most picturesque mountains in suburban Beijing. It's covered with over 90 percent of towering lush trees, shaped with deep valleys and gushing springs. 

The mountain used to have an interesting name - could dream - as the peaks are always surrounded by thick clouds and mist, casting itself with a veil of mystery.

With two hours' drive from the city center, tourists can reach to the bottom of the mountain where private cars will be replaced by shuttle buses taking tourists to the site. On top of the mountain also lies the only hotel in the area, where hikers can rest their feet during the night to enjoy a beautiful sunset and starry night.

Gubeikou Town

The town is famous for several things: The Great Wall, the ancient water town, and the history of the Chinese revolution. The town was an important site during the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression (1931-45). 

The town has a public cemetery, which was built in 1934 to commemorate those who died in the war. In addition, the Great Wall Gubeikou War of Resistance Memorial Hall was built on the west side next to the public cemetery in 2009.