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The Longdong Scenic Area offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking along its beautiful trails, exploring the scenic valleys, and visiting historical temples. The area is also famous for its natural rock formations, ideal for photography and nature walks.
The Longdong Scenic Area is located at the junction of Lixia District and Shizhong District in Jinan City, Shandong Province. Legend has it that during the reign of Emperor Yao of Tang, a vicious dragon caused floods here. When Emperor Yu came to capture it while trying to control the floods, the dragon escaped through the mountains, leaving behind a deep cave. Therefore, this mountain is also known as Yudeng Mountain. The area boasts a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, and by the Song Dynasty, it had become a popular tourist destination. The scenic area includes Longdong Mountain, Foyu Valley, and Mati Valley.
The mountains here are breathtakingly beautiful. To the north, Laojun Cliff and Phoenix Terrace arch like a gate, while to the south, Duxiu Peak and Sanxiu Peak rise abruptly, forming a steeply surrounded valley named "Longdong Valley." On either side of the valley entrance are Laojun Cliffs, and beneath them lies the Laojun Well, where, according to legend, the Jade Emperor once refined elixirs.
Today, the temple is in ruins, but the two ancient ginkgo trees are still lush and green. Stone tablets carved in the second and third years of Yuanfeng in the Northern Song Dynasty (1100) still exist, recording the story of the mountain's dragon god bringing rain.
Jinan has a temperate monsoon climate with obvious monsoons and distinct four seasons: dry and rainy spring, warm and rainy summer, cool and dry autumn, and cold and snowy winter.
It is recommended to play for one hour
The Longdong Scenic Area is a beautiful natural reserve located in Shandong, known for its stunning natural landscapes, including deep valleys, dramatic cliffs, and unique rock formations. It is also historically significant for its ancient temples and cultural heritage.
The Longdong Scenic Area is located in Jinan, Shandong Province. You can reach the area by taxi or private car. Public transportation options are limited, so taking a taxi from the city center or driving is recommended.
The Longdong Scenic Area is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the scenery is most vibrant.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It is recommended to buy tickets online during peak seasons to avoid long lines.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is highly recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends to secure entry and avoid waiting in long queues.
A visit to Longdong Scenic Area typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of your exploration and the time spent hiking or visiting temples.
The must-see highlights include the dramatic rock formations, the tranquil valleys, and the ancient temples. The main trail through the area offers beautiful panoramic views and a chance to experience the area's natural beauty.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there are audio guides in Mandarin as well. It's advisable to check for availability of English-speaking guides before your visit.
The best viewpoints are along the main trail, offering sweeping views of the valleys and rock formations. The area near the ancient temples is also great for photography, with a blend of nature and culture.
Start by walking along the main trail to explore the rock formations and valleys. Stop by the temples for some cultural insight and take time to enjoy the panoramic views. End your visit by hiking up to the highest point for the best photographs.
There are no night visits or light shows available at Longdong Scenic Area. It is best to visit during the daytime to fully experience the natural beauty of the area.
The area can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, preferably in the morning or late afternoon during the off-season.
The Longdong Scenic Area provides basic amenities including toilets, rest areas, and food stalls offering snacks and drinks. There are also souvenir shops selling local crafts and goods.
The main trails are accessible, but some areas with steep inclines may be difficult for elderly visitors or those with mobility challenges. Children will enjoy the easier paths and the natural surroundings.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are accepted in most areas. It’s still advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or local vendors.
There are a few local restaurants and food stalls near the scenic area offering regional Chinese cuisine. For more dining options, you can head to downtown Jinan, where there are many restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at some local restaurants, but halal food is more difficult to find in this area. Visitors may need to look for specific eateries in Jinan for halal meals.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses near the Longdong Scenic Area. For more upscale options, visitors can choose accommodations in Jinan city center and take a short drive to the scenic area.
Other nearby attractions include the Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, and the Thousand Buddha Mountain. These can easily be combined for a full day trip from Jinan.
There are several souvenir shops near the scenic area offering traditional crafts, local artwork, and products like tea, jade, and pottery.
After visiting Longdong Scenic Area, taxis, private cars, or buses are the best options to continue your trip. Jinan's public transportation network provides easy access to other attractions.
