Introduction
“I can’t imagine you hiding away in an office, your head buried in ledgers. Life should be viewed as an adventure—let the jewel-like flames burn brightly in our hearts, take risks as human beings, and face challenges with ease.” – Author Maugham
The endless beauty of summer is truly known only by the mountains and rivers. When the breeze blows, leaves gently sway, and brilliant sunlight filters through the gaps. Tender green grass carpets the land, the meadows shimmer with emerald hues, and fresh sprouts flourish all around. The faraway places we once dreamed of traveling to—ideally around the world, escaping boredom for new experiences—start to feel less essential.
Eventually, we realize that happiness doesn’t require traveling far.
▲ Neighborhood Camp outside Shentangyu Circle © Xingxin Construction
Yingji Island, a neighborhood just outside the circle, lies near the Jiuqu Tingqin Pedestrian Trail in Shentangyu, Huairou, Beijing. In line with the “rural revitalization” strategy, the village committee encourages transforming self-built rural houses into unique campsites and supporting service facilities. Our approach strives to preserve the original terrain and architectural forms as much as possible, while constructing a waterfront platform that respects the river’s ecology.
Here, children are free to embrace nature—running, playing, flying kites on the grass, and enjoying wild adventures. Setting up tents by the stream, pitching canopies, arranging small tables and stools—it all forms a personal paradise.
▲ Concept Map of Neighborhood Camp outside Shentangyu Circle © Xingxin Construction
Following the owner’s guidelines, the site is divided into four main zones. To the left of the entrance, the Mountain Language Restaurant and the Wine and Meat Convenience Store offer convenient refreshment points for visitors exploring the boardwalk. To the right, a reception desk, waterfront bar, mountain stage, and waterfront staircase platform host open-air activities such as concerts, bonfire performances, and mountain sharing events.
Further inward, more private camping sites and organic farms invite visitors to relax. Above the boardwalk, small parking areas, restrooms, and open grasslands provide space for outdoor games and sports. Original rubble walls and vegetation are preserved within the landscape, with minimal road surface renovations to maintain the authentic northern mountain scenery and reduce artificial elements.
Mountain and River Camping: Embrace Nature Fully
Most children today grow up in cities, rarely having the chance to engage with nature. Unlike our childhoods, spent climbing trees, exploring rivers, and picking wildflowers, we now spend less time playing freely without toys.
▲ Neighborhood Camp outside Shentangyu Circle © Xingxin Construction
Green mountains, clear waters, winding paths, fragrant flowers—morning bird songs, sunset views, mountain breezes, freshly brewed beer, and flavorful barbecues.
This peaceful, beautiful life reflects the leisurely essence described in Tao Yuanming’s poetry and the simple, friendly “ancestral village” in Meng Fuzi’s writings.
Exploring the Flavors of Mountain Language Restaurant
Rainbow trout swim in crystal-clear waters, while the natural aroma of mountain vegetables refreshes the palate of those weary of city cuisine. Freshly picked fruits, dining tables set beside the stream, and wine served with care create moments that make life feel worthwhile.
The tree shadows cast on the Mountain Language Restaurant’s window © Xingxin Construction
▲ Outdoor dining area of Shanyu Restaurant © Xingxin Construction
▲ Mountain Language Restaurant bathed in afternoon light and shadow © Xingxin Construction
▲ Indoor dining area of Mountain Language Restaurant © Xingxin Construction
Don’t rush—simply sit and let time pass. The mountain sun signals the end of work. Embrace the cool breeze in nature, bring the mountains and seasons to your dining table, and savor a day in paradise.
▲ Mountain Language Restaurant in the evening © Xingxin Construction
Convenient Wine and Meat at the Foot of the Great Wall
At the foot of the Wild Great Wall, bonfire dances, mountain concerts, and outdoor screenings take place. Gather with friends to enjoy self-service grilled meat and fine wine, sharing relaxed and joyful moments. This autumn, the experience becomes even more romantic—no need for distant travels, just an impromptu camping trip on the lush lawns of Yingji Island, where your mind can unwind amid the vibrant greenery.
▲ Wine and Meat Convenience Store © Xingxin Construction
Here, only freedom and happiness are for sale. Sunshine filtering through the forest fills your glass, while mountain breezes add ice to sparkling water. After witnessing much scenery and traveling many cities, set up your tables and canopies here. Listen to the wind, relax with wine and meat—at this moment, emotions soar freely, and time stands still.
Students sketching in the mountains © Xingxin Construction
▲ Light and shadow play at the waterfront bar © Xingxin Construction
During the day, sunlight filters through green leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground. Pure white tents nestled in the mountains resemble delicate oil paintings. As night falls, camping lights slowly illuminate, gently swaying in the breeze. Lying on the lawn, open your eyes to the Milky Way or close them to feel cozy and at peace.
Gazing at the Starry Night Sky
Night descends quickly in the mountains. Under the interplay of light and dark, the earth seems to guard the night. After a satisfying meal and drink, crawl into your tent, gaze at the twinkling stars, and listen to the quiet conversation between the moon and stars. This experience fulfills a deep desire to return to simplicity, reconnect with nature, and let the soul find tranquility on a peaceful night.
▲ Night view of Neighborhood Camp Island outside Shentangyu Circle © Xingxin Construction
The longing for mountains and rivers runs deep within our DNA. Breathing in the countryside air, smelling fragrant grasslands, and gazing at the pure sky help us forget the ordinary. The bonfire continues to burn, stars grow brighter, and the stream sings softly—accompanying those who don’t want to sleep, quietly awaiting the sunrise.
Let’s go—it’s time to go camping!
Project Drawings
▲ General plan of Neighborhood Camp outside Shentangyu Circle © Xingxin Construction
▲ Section view of Mountain Language Restaurant © Xingxin Construction
▲ Sectional view of waterfront bar © Xingxin Construction
Project Information
Project Name: Beijing Shentangyu Project, Neighborhood Outside the Circle
Designer: Xingwei Xinzhu (Beijing) Technology Co., Ltd
Design Year & Completion: 2023
Lead Creators and Design Team
Main Creators: Wang Zhenjun, Hou Chan
Team Members: Ma Zihan, Bi Yankai
Project Location: Shentangyu, Beijing
Building Area: 6,000 square meters
Photographer: Li Shengyang
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