Wolong Valley

What are the most recommended things to do in Wolong Valley?


• Walk along the gorge trail, following the stream and waterfalls through the valley — you'll pass key scenic spots such as Wolong Pool (卧龙潭), a suspension bridge, Qidi Spring (七堤泉) and the Water-Curtain Waterfall.

• Experience the thrilling suspension bridge section (Konghou Bridge) and the wooden plank boardwalk near the top of the mountain to reach the Bailong Waterfall (>100 m drop).

• Enjoy the natural environment: lush forest (forest coverage rate >95%), abundant waterfalls, clear streams, rock formations and a canyon atmosphere often described as the “Western Henan Landscape Gallery”.

• Photo-op at the valley in different seasons: spring flowers, summer waterfalls, autumn red leaves, winter ice-falls.

• For less strenuous options: use the cable car (one way ~15 minutes) for descent to overlook the scenery from above.


Introducing Wolong Valley

Wolong Valley is located in the heart of the 800-li Funiu Mountain Scenic Area. To the west, it borders Baiyun Mountain, a "paradise on earth," and to the east, it faces Muzhaling Mountain, a "unique beauty of the Central Plains." To the north, high-level tourist roads connect to tourist areas such as the Yihe River Rafting, Tianchi Mountain, and Luhun Reservoir. National Highway 311 passes through the scenic area, making it a prime location with convenient transportation.

Wolong Valley, named after Emperor Guangwu of the Han Dynasty, Liu Xiu, spent the night here inspecting his troops and was well-received by the people, is a deeply faulted granite landform formed by crustal movement during the late Yanshanian period at the end of the Zhongtiao period. The scenic area covers over 30 square kilometers and boasts over 200 scenic spots. Located in the transition zone from the subtropical to the north temperate zone, it enjoys a cool, humid climate with abundant rainfall, four distinct seasons, and a forest coverage rate exceeding 95%.

The scenic area is lush with forests and abundant grass, with pristine vegetation. There are more than 1,900 species of plants, more than 1,400 species of Chinese medicinal herbs, and more than 200 species of rare birds. In addition, there are gurgling streams, towering mountains, steep cliffs, strange rocks and sea of ​​clouds, waterfalls and secluded pools. There is also the legendary story of Wang Mang chasing Liu Xiu and the beautiful mythological legend of Qinglong blessing the people with the moral tone of promoting good and suppressing evil. Together, they constitute a complete landscape system with profound cultural connotations and magical and beautiful scenery. Therefore, it is praised as the "Western Henan Landscape Gallery".

Climate and best time to travel

Enjoying a temperate monsoon climate, Wolong Valley offers a changing landscape with each season. In spring, the mountains burst into vibrant green, flowers bloom, and azaleas bloom like blood, creating a sea of ​​blossoms. In midsummer, waterfalls hang high, pools are deep, and the climate is pleasantly cool. In autumn, the mountains are blanketed in red, and the fragrance of wild fruits wafts through the air. In midwinter, the valley is blanketed in snow, with icefalls, icicles, and rime resembling ice sculptures, exquisitely carved and translucent, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Perfect for a visit in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Lotus Terrace and Guanyin Peak;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

42 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

07:00-19:00


Most Popular FAQs for Wolong Valley

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Wolong Valley is located in the hinterland of the 800-li Funiu (伏牛) mountain scenic belt in western Henan. According to the description, the valley was named after Emperor Guangwu of the Han Dynasty (刘秀) who once stayed here to review his troops, gaining the support of the people.
Geologically, it is a deep fault granite landform formed by crustal movement in the late Yanshan period (end of Zhongtiao period). It features rich forest vegetation (>1900 plant species) and rare birds (>200 species) and sits in the transition zone from subtropical to north temperate zones.
Its significance lies in natural scenic value (waterfalls, streams, canyon landscape, high forest cover) and cultural legend (historical figure, local myth of the Blue Dragon blessing the people) making it a blend of nature + culture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The valley is located in Song County (嵩县), Luoyang (洛阳) in Henan Province, China. It’s in the valley of Funiu Mountains.
Transport options:

  • By car/self-drive: From Luoyang city, drive toward Song County/车村镇/水磨村, following Provincial Highway or National Highway 311. The area is accessible by highway.
  • By public transport: There are buses from Luoyang to Song County (嵩县) or 车村镇, then local transport to the valley. (Note: details may vary, check local schedule.)
  • Within the scenic area: walking along the trail up the valley, some steeper or boardwalk sections; a cable car available for descent.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours: According to one source, 08:00–17:00. Another source lists 08:00–19:00.
Best times to visit:

  • Summer – to enjoy the waterfalls and cool forest canyon environment.
  • Autumn – for red leaves and dramatic colour change in the forest.
  • Winter – ice waterfalls and snow-scapes form another kind of beauty (though may be more challenging).

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Ticket price: One source states ~ 55 RMB per person. Another states ~ 42 RMB per person.
Discounts: Students and 60 + years old with valid ID can pay reduced price (20 RMB in that source) for the 55 RMB list price.
Purchase: Tickets can be bought offline at the scenic area; to avoid queues or for promotions, check for online purchase or official platform (some sources mention online booking recommended).

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is recommended to check ahead and perhaps book online because some promotion days or capacity control may apply. For example, some free-ticket periods required real-name online reservation.
Recommendation: Book at least a day ahead (especially in peak season or holiday weekends) to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for about 3 – 4 hours for the main trail (up and down) if walking steadily. If you take your time, stop for photos, rest, it could extend to 5 – 6 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?


• Wolong Pool (卧龙潭) — scenic stream pool area.

• Suspension bridge (Konghou Bridge) ~50 m long and ~30 m high.

• Bailong Waterfall (白龙瀑布) at the top, >100 m drop.

• Boardwalk and wooden plank path near the top for panoramic views.

• Streams, waterfalls, forest gorge, rocks: the general canyon environment is also a highlight.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

There is no specific confirmed information found about official guided tours or audio guides in multiple languages for this scenic area. It appears to be self-guided walking.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?


• The suspension bridge section offers dramatic canyon views and is very photo-worthy.

• The top section near the Bailong Waterfall for sweeping vistas of the valley.

• Stream and waterfall areas (especially the Water-Curtain Waterfall) where water, rocks and forest combine.

• In autumn, the red foliage of the forested slopes makes for great wide-angle landscape shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Typically: Start at valley entrance → walk up along the stream → pass Wolong Pool → cross suspension bridge → climb wooden plank boardwalk to the top → view Bailong Waterfall → descend (either by same route or by cable car).
Optional: Hike up, then take the cable car down to save knees and enjoy bird’s-eye view.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

No specific information found about night visits, light shows or special tours at this valley. It appears to operate in daylight hours only.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The scenic area is popular especially in summer and fall. To avoid crowds, visit on a weekday rather than a holiday or weekend. Early morning arrival is recommended.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as rest areas, toilets and possibly small shops/food stalls near the entrance are available (typical for Chinese scenic areas). However, in-valley restaurants may be limited — bringing water/snacks is advisable. One source warns that nearby food options may be limited.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The trail involves walking along streams, climbs, suspension bridge and boardwalks. Elderly or children should take care and perhaps use cable car for descent. Some parts may be slippery in wet or winter conditions. It may be less suitable for those with serious mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most scenic areas in China now accept mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and card payments, but it’s wise to bring some cash for small shops, local transport or in case of mobile-network issues.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Near the valley (in the village or town nearby) there are likely local “农家乐” (farm-style restaurants) serving local cuisine. One source mentions local rural restaurants near the valley.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

No specific information found. If you have special dietary needs, you may need to check with the local restaurant or bring your own snacks. Local rural restaurants may offer simple dishes (vegetables, tofu) but halal certification is unlikely unless explicitly noted.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are accommodation options in the valley region such as mountain guesthouses, farm-stay (“农家乐”) lodges near Song County or the valley’s vicinity. One source mentions “山间民宿” and “农家乐” in the area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Since the valley is in Song County / western Henan near the Funiu Mountains, it’s feasible to combine with other scenic spots in the region such as:

  • 木札岭风景区 (Mu Zha Ling Scenic Area) – nearby in Song County.
  • 白云山国家森林公园 – also in the region, good for mountain forest hiking.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Typical souvenirs in scenic Chinese valleys include local handicrafts, herbal / forest products, postcards, magnets. Near rural restaurants and hotel areas you may find local specialties (wild mushrooms, wild herbs, local snacks). I did not locate specifics for this valley.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After your visit you can either drive or take a bus back to Luoyang city, or continue by road to other nearby scenic spots in the Funiu Mountain area. If using public transport, check bus schedules ahead. If self-drive, you have flexibility to move on to other nearby nature sites.