Beijing's ancient camel stop revived as tourism hot spot

Moshikou resident An Licheng, 79, remembers well the sound of camel bells ringing as the pack animals traversed the mountain pass in Beijing's western region making their way to the city's downtown.

He said when he was a youngster he could hear the bells sounding from as early as 4 am.

"There was only one road to cross from the western Mentougou district to downtown Beijing, with a large mountain pass on the west side of the road," said An.

"The camel team, which included at least five and up to seven camels, walked across the road to carry coal or groceries to the city's downtown, and returned in the afternoon at around 3 or 4 pm.

"Those camels didn't stop to rest. Their endurance was strong, and they only stopped to drink water from a well in the middle of our village to replenish their strength."

Located in Shijingshan district, what today is officially known as Moshikou Historical and Cultural Block, has seen a large influx of visitors over the past two years due to its renovation. The block was recently chosen as part of the fourth group of national-level tourist spots by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Early last century, Moshikou was characterized by muddy roads and irregularly placed power poles. Over the decades, it has undergone a modernization process, but maintained its cultural traditions and characteristics.