Longcanggou

What are the most recommended things to do in Longcanggou?

At Longcanggou, visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails surrounded by lush forests, clear streams, and breathtaking mountain views. The area is perfect for nature lovers and photographers, with opportunities for birdwatching, exploring waterfalls, and experiencing local culture. Visitors can also engage in eco-tourism activities like camping and fishing, and experience the region's biodiversity up close.


Introducing Longcanggou

Longcanggou National Forest Park is located on the western edge of the Sichuan Basin, in the central part of Ya'an City, 175 kilometers from Chengdu. It belongs to the Emei Middle Mountain area in the geomorphological zoning. Its topographic location is at the southern end of the Longmen Mountain Fold Belt and north of the eastern remnant of the Daxiangling Mountains. Its terrain is high in the south and low in the north.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a subtropical humid monsoon climate with distinct four seasons, mild weather, and abundant rainfall. The forest vegetation type is subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting


Yangsituo Scenic River Section

The Yangsituo River section is located in the former logging site of Longcanggou National Forest Park. It has numerous waterfalls, clear streams and a high forest vegetation rate.


Natural Bridge

Tiansheng Bridge is a natural bridge formed by geological structures. Upstream is a waterfall and a scenic river section, rich in vegetation and dotted with a variety of rhododendrons. The stream flows under the bridge and then drops 20 meters, creating a "stone bridge waterfall" landscape.


Dujuangou

Dujuangou is located in the Macao River Basin of Longcanggou National Forest Park. It is home to 11 species of rhododendrons, including Magnoliaceae rhododendron, Rhododendron rex, Rhododendron sparse-leaved, Rhododendron wrinkled, Rhododendron sponge, Azalea, Rhododendron glandularis, Rhododendron purpurogenum, Rhododendron yellow, Rhododendron pointed-leaved, and Rhododendron early spring. Among them, Rhododendron rex is a national third-level protected plant.

Various wild rhododendrons are widely distributed in Dujuangou, and the flowering period is from April to May, and the flowering period of each rhododendron is different.


The Huangsha River Basin, located in Fazhan Village, Longcanggou Town, comprises the Huangsha, Baisha, Longcanggou, and Marcao River systems. The scenic stretch of the Huangsha River boasts beautiful scenery and a rich and diverse ecosystem, with evergreen broad-leaved forests, sclerophyllous forests, and coniferous forests distributed along the ascending elevation. The artificial lake formed by the Huangsha River's hydropower station diversion has created Ya'an's only water-based deadwood landscape.

There are about 80,000 mu of Davidia involucrata, also known as the Chinese pigeon tree, distributed in the Huangsha River Basin (Renminggou, renamed Davidia involucrata gully). It is the largest wild Davidia involucrata community in the world to date. Davidia involucrata trees are mainly distributed in the 10-kilometer mountain range on both sides of the road along Renminggou, Dashiba, Xiaozhonggang and Dazhonggang.

Menghuo City

Menghuo City is located at the confluence of the Huangsha River and the Baisha River, covering an area of ​​about 4 square kilometers. It has man-made stone walls and stone mills. Legend has it that it is the site of an ancient city built by Menghuo during the Three Kingdoms period. In the last century, a large number of Yi people came here to trace their ancestors.

Tickets

30 yuan

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Longcanggou

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

Longcanggou is a picturesque valley in Sichuan, Ya'an, known for its rich natural resources and historical significance as a traditional farming area. The region is important for its biodiversity and is a popular destination for eco-tourism, offering visitors a chance to experience a blend of natural beauty and local culture.

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

Longcanggou is located in Ya'an, Sichuan Province. To reach Longcanggou, you can take a bus or taxi from Ya'an city center, which is about 40 minutes away. There are no metro connections, but the area is accessible by road, with well-maintained routes leading to the valley.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Longcanggou is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (April to June and September to November), when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. The summer months can be humid, while winter may be cold and less conducive for outdoor activities.

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

There is a nominal entrance fee for Longcanggou, which can be purchased at the entrance or through local tourism websites. The fee varies depending on the season and any special activities or tours available. It's recommended to check online for any discounts or group rates.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not typically necessary unless you're visiting during peak tourist seasons. For group tours or special events, it's advisable to book a few days in advance to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Longcanggou typically takes 2 to 3 hours, especially if you are hiking the trails and exploring the scenic spots. For those interested in photography or birdwatching, you may want to allocate additional time to fully experience the area's natural beauty.

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

The must-see highlights of Longcanggou include the crystal-clear streams, waterfalls, and mountain views. The hiking trails offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and forests, while the local flora and fauna make it a top spot for eco-tourism enthusiasts.

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

Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. Some tour guides may offer basic English explanations, but it’s best to confirm in advance if you require an English-speaking guide. Audio guides may not be available, so booking a tour in advance is recommended for non-Mandarin speakers.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are along the hiking trails, especially near the waterfalls and the mountain summits. There are also beautiful photo opportunities near the streams, where the clear water reflects the surrounding greenery. Sunrise and sunset provide perfect lighting for photography in the valley.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a short walk along the lower trails to get a feel for the area, then proceed to the main hiking route leading to the waterfalls. Afterward, explore the higher viewpoints for panoramic views. Be sure to take breaks at scenic spots to enjoy the surroundings and take photos.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available at Longcanggou, as it is primarily a daytime destination focused on nature and outdoor activities. However, special group tours or seasonal events may be offered, so it's worth checking with local tour operators for additional opportunities.

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

Longcanggou can be relatively crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in peak tourist seasons. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon. Visiting during off-peak months (e.g., winter) can also provide a quieter experience.

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

Basic facilities, such as toilets, are available at key spots along the trails. There are limited food options inside Longcanggou, so it's advisable to bring your own snacks and water for the hike. Rest areas are available along the trails for breaks, but there are no large shops or commercial areas in the valley.

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

Longcanggou is mainly focused on outdoor activities like hiking, so the attraction may not be fully accessible for elderly visitors or those with mobility challenges. The trails can be steep and uneven, which may make it difficult for disabled visitors. Children may enjoy the area, but parents should be cautious on the more rugged trails.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted in the area, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely used. It is advisable to have both cash and mobile payment options available to ensure flexibility during your visit.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants near the entrance to Longcanggou, offering traditional Sichuan cuisine. These include dishes like hot pot and noodle soups. There are also a few small cafes serving snacks and drinks for visitors.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants, though vegan and halal food options may be more limited. It’s best to check with restaurants in advance if you have specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels in Ya'an city, about 40 minutes away from Longcanggou. For more luxury options, visitors can stay in Chengdu, which is about 2 hours by car and offers a wide range of accommodations.

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

Nearby attractions include the Bifengxia Giant Panda Base and Mount Emei, which are both within a short drive from Longcanggou. These can be easily combined in a day trip to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are a few small souvenir shops near the entrance to Longcanggou, selling items such as local crafts, tea, and snacks. The most popular souvenirs are locally made products like bamboo crafts and herbal teas.

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

After visiting Longcanggou, the best transportation options are taxis or buses back to Ya'an city or Chengdu. If you are heading to nearby attractions like Mount Emei, private transportation or tour buses are ideal for convenience.