Qinglongtan

Introducing Qinglongtan

Qinglongtan, located south of Sisi Village in Yanqing District, Beijing, is one of the 72 scenic spots in Yanqing's Guangou Valley. The pond sits at the upper end of the valley, and on the summit stands the Qinglong Temple, built during the Tang Dynasty. Next to the temple stands a huge rock, which rattles when the wind is strong, earning it the nickname " Wind-Moving Rock . "

Qinglongtan is home to numerous springs, whose water overflows and flows down the mountainside, but never out of the valley. Local legend has it that the Qinglong sucks the water back in. During droughts, when the people nearby are starving, the Qinglong releases the spring water to save them. Consequently, a Qinglong Temple was built beside the pond to honor the Qinglong.

A folk legend tells of a hidden puzzle within Qinglongtan, the solution of which will lead to the discovery of hidden treasure. A popular folk song goes, " East cannot cross the river, west cannot cross the road, nine jars of silver, eighteen cellars , " referring to the location and quantity of the hidden treasure. Treasure hunters have flocked to Qinglongtan in every dynasty, only to return empty-handed. Even today, many tourists still visit Qinglongtan for this fascinating puzzle and its hidden treasure.

Climate and best time to travel

There are many strange peaks and rocks here, and the average temperature is 5-10℃ lower than that in Beijing . The icefall here is one of the earliest icefalls formed in Beijing.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

10 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Qinglongtan

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

Qinglongtan is a historic and scenic location in Beijing, known for its serene lake and surrounding natural beauty. The area is significant for its role in local leisure and as a popular destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.

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

Qinglongtan is located in the western part of Beijing. To get there, you can take metro Line 4 and stop at Xiyuan station, then take a short bus ride or taxi to the park. Walking is also an option for those who enjoy a longer walk through the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Qinglongtan is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be quieter and offer the best light for photography.

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

The entrance fee for Qinglongtan is generally around ¥10-¥20. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and there are no online ticketing options available currently.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, as tickets can be bought on the spot. However, if you plan to visit during holidays or weekends, it’s advisable to arrive early to avoid the crowds.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Qinglongtan generally takes 1-2 hours, depending on whether you want to take a boat ride or simply enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake and gardens. For a more relaxed experience, 3 hours could be ideal.

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

The must-see highlights include the serene lake, surrounding lush greenery, and the picturesque walking paths. The main area is the lake itself, offering opportunities for boat rides and photography.

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

There are no regular guided tours or audio guides available at Qinglongtan. However, private tours can be arranged with a local guide. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but the main language is Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography are by the lake, where you can capture the reflections of trees and pavilions in the water. Sunset and sunrise are particularly beautiful times to take photos. The walking paths and pavilions also provide great framing for pictures.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by walking along the lake’s edge, take in the surrounding nature, and explore the walking paths. You can then take a boat ride to fully appreciate the lake. End your visit by relaxing near the pavilions or in one of the tranquil rest areas.

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

Qinglongtan is primarily a daytime attraction, and night visits or light shows are not available. However, the area is beautifully lit in the evening, making it a peaceful place for an evening walk.

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

Qinglongtan can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays or in the early morning when the park is quieter.

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

Qinglongtan has basic facilities like toilets, rest areas, and food stalls offering light snacks and drinks. However, there are no large restaurants or extensive shopping areas within the park.

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

Qinglongtan is accessible for elderly visitors and children, with paved paths and accessible rest areas. However, those with mobility issues may find certain areas, such as the lakeside, a bit challenging due to uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cash is also accepted for small purchases, but cards may not be accepted everywhere.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small food stalls near the entrance of the park offering basic snacks and drinks. For more extensive dining options, visitors can head to the nearby Xicheng district or other areas in central Beijing.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available at the food stalls, though vegan and halal options may be limited. It’s advisable to check with the vendors about specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several mid-range hotels and guesthouses near the Shichahai area, as well as more luxurious accommodations in central Beijing, which is a short distance from Qinglongtan.

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

Nearby attractions include the Summer Palace, Shichahai Lakes, and the famous Houhai Bar Street. These can be easily combined with a visit to Qinglongtan for a full day of sightseeing.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Small souvenir shops around Qinglongtan offer traditional Chinese crafts, postcards, and paintings. Typical souvenirs include hand-painted fans, tea sets, and silk products.

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

After visiting Qinglongtan, you can take a taxi, metro, or bus to continue your journey. The nearby Shichahai metro station is a good starting point for further exploration of Beijing.