Yanqi lake ripples with change

The Yanqi Lake, which literally means the lake where wild geese take a rest, is nestled against mountains on three sides, offering a fantastic view and a perfect break from the hustle and bustle of city life. [Photos by Pu Xiangdong / For China Daily]

Site for 2014 APEC summit is transforming into a tourism hotspot rich with idyllic scenes, delicious food and modern architecture.

For those who want to enjoy a pleasant day trip or weekend getaway from Beijing, there is one reason to visit the Yanqi Lake, Huairou district: The 2014 APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting will be held there in November.

Recently, the area has attracted hordes of tourists after a major renovation project. For example, an ancient village street nearby is now home to more than 130 restaurants and shops after renovation in August, which are patronized by thousands of visitors on weekends. "Our village wants to take the APEC summit as an opportunity to showcase our delicious Chinese food and unique traditions to guests and help the local farmers become rich through the tourism industry," Bao Kun, a local official, told Chinese media.

The mountainous area is about 50 kilometers northeast of the heart of the city. The Yanqi Lake, which literally means the lake where wild geese take a rest, is nestled against mountains on three sides, offering a fantastic view and a perfect break from the hustle and bustle of the city life.