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Quansheng Gorge is known for its stunning natural scenery. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the gorge, exploring caves, and admiring the lush vegetation. The area is perfect for photography and nature walks.
Quansheng Gorge is named after the Quanshengzhuang Grand Canyon. Legend has it that Qiu Chuji once practiced Quanzhen Taoism in Qingxu Mountain and lived here, hence the name Quanzhenzhuang. During the Anti-Japanese War, the Japanese army came here to "mop up" the area, but the Eighth Route Army defeated the Japanese army and won the victory, and then the name was changed to Quanshengzhuang.
temperate monsoon climate
(1) White Makuwan
Baipi Ma Ku Bay is located near the Nantou Mountain Gate of the Quansheng Gorge Scenic Area, close to the Baipi Ma Natural Village. Established around 1890, Baipi Ma was named after the white-skinned hemp produced there. Baipi Ma Ku Bay is a key point in the Quansheng Gorge Scenic Area, known as "the reservoir can hold a thousand horses, but only a single boat can sail through it." The winding bay stretches for 300 meters, only 3.5 to 20 meters wide. The waters are clear, emerald green, and bottomless. A gentle breeze sways the surrounding weeping willows, creating ripples on the surface. Boat trips, winding paths, swimming, fishing, and diving are all available, creating a truly captivating experience. This is the most scenic spot in the Quansheng Gorge Scenic Area.
(2) Welcoming Pine at the bottom of the cliff
Enter the mountain gate and walk a hundred meters, and you can see a tall cypress tree standing proudly on a hundred-foot cliff. The circumference of the tree is more than an arm's length. After hundreds of years of wind and frost, it is still lush and leafy. Its descendants are lush under the tree, just like a tall old man with his descendants, with a strong sense of nostalgia, leaning forward and nodding to welcome tourists over the years.
(3) Sansheng Spring
Sansheng Spring, originally named "Three Holy Springs," is said to have been the site of Qiu Chuji's alchemy practice. He traversed the mountains in search of holy springs and discovered three springs, known for their warmth in winter and coolness in summer. The water, sweet and refreshing, was said to relieve summer heat, clear the lungs and dissolve phlegm, promote longevity, and enhance the skin's appearance. This spring was designated a sacred source for Taoists to use in alchemy, cooking, and tea. Local villagers have since used the water to make tea, cook, and irrigate their fields. Despite the severity of drought, the spring never dried up, maintaining a constant flow of pure water. Locals who drank from the water enjoyed health and safety, becoming a local holy water known for its ability to ward off illness and disaster. It was said to bring success, fame, wealth, and longevity. Later, after the anti-Japanese forces and civilians defeated the Japanese "sweep-up" campaign here with a resounding victory, the spring was renamed "Sansheng Spring."
(4) Spring Guardian
Not far north of Sansheng Spring stands a massive stone statue, the Guardian Vajra. Legend has it that the miraculous properties of Sansheng Spring's water attracted dignitaries and commoners from a hundred miles away, who flocked to seek the holy water. To protect the spring from pollution, the Jade Emperor sent the Vajra God down to earth to guard it, maintain order, and encourage people to share the holy water and live in harmony. Over time, the Guardian Vajra became a fossil, but it still stands by the spring, faithfully guarding the water.
(5) Phoenix Terrace Dragon Gate
South of the mouth of the West Longmen Valley, a steep cliff faces numerous stalactites, resembling auspicious clouds and Ganoderma lucidum. A small stream meanders down to the cliff's base, forming a cool pool of water. This is Longmen Shuang. Southeast of Longmen Shuang, along the canyon's edge, stands a stone platform formed by two stacked boulders, known as Phoenix Terrace. Legend has it that in ancient times, the Dragon King and his wife, Phoenix, were delighted by the scenic beauty of this area, especially the exceptional coolness of Longmen Shuang. They often visited the terrace to cool off, bathe, and rest. To prevent prying eyes, the Dragon King commanded the Phoenix to patrol the terrace, summoning auspicious clouds and Ganoderma lucidum to envelop it, adding to the refreshing and pleasant atmosphere. Locals therefore consider this spot auspicious, dragon-phoenix-inspired geology, and unmarried couples often come here to worship and pray for a happy marriage.
(6) Xilongmen Xihong (West Lake)
A hundred meters to the west of Longmen Gorge lies West Lake, similar in shape to Baipi Maku Bay. However, its secluded location makes it appear even more secluded, tranquil, mysterious, and holy, like a dazzling, curved pearl tumbling into Quansheng Gorge. Furthermore, the lake boasts the time-worn Heguang Cascade Waterfall, offering visitors opportunities for water skiing and surfing.
(7) Jilaimen
Zilai Gate is the second gate into Quansheng Canyon, also known as the "Inner Gate." As its name suggests, Zilai Gate is naturally formed, no more than 6 meters wide, and its shape is dignified and impeccable. On both sides are steep peaks with hundreds of sharp edges, steep and rugged, with a narrow opening leading deep into the canyon.
(8) Fengshui Dingyan
Walking into the Dashimen, you will see a long peak standing tall. From here, you can climb up to the Longmen Terrace and look down at the peak. The top of the peak is flat and square, just like a huge inkstone. This is the legendary Feng Shui inkstone.
Legend has it that long ago, the Jade Emperor dispatched the two stars, Wenqu and Wuqu, to Earth to create beautiful mountains and rivers. The two stars descended from the clouds and landed beside the feng shui inkstone. Wenqu drew the scene, creating thirty-six landscapes according to the number of the Celestial Gangs, while Wuqu carved the canyon with an axe. Overnight, this miraculous canyon landscape was created. Because Quansheng Gorge is shaped like a golden chair, the feng shui inkstone is perfectly situated in front of it, creating a perfect place for sitting, writing, and working. Feng shui masters predicted that this location would produce a distinguished scholar. Thus, the inkstone became a sacred feng shui site in the area, and scholars visiting the area would pay homage to it. Locals call it the "Feng Shui Ding Inkstone."
(9) Canyon Galaxy Three-Dimensional Stream
Climbing the sixty-six steps, you enter the canyon's "Silver River" section. The canyon's "Silver River" stretches over 150 meters long, 2-5 meters wide, and 30 meters deep. It's perpetually flooded, with depths ranging from 3 to 10 meters. The canyon walls are not only rocky but also lush, attracting numerous birds to nest. Looking up, the canyon's canopy shades the sky, while unknown wildflowers quietly bloom, creating a deep and tranquil scene. A winding aerial plank road winds its way through the cliffs of the canyon, allowing boats to sail above. This creates a three-dimensional transportation system for both pedestrians and boats, creating a magnificent painting: a thread of sky (a thread above), a bridge (a thread in the middle), and a stream of water (a thread of water below), all intertwined like a magnificent scroll painting. During flood season, the water overflows the dam and plunges 10 meters to the valley floor, forming a waterfall that creates a stunning backdrop against the sixty-six steps.
Magpies chirp and fly across the Milky Way, a place said to be the site of the bridge of magpies that once crossed two stars. Every July 7th, stand at the foot of a cliff, by the stream, and listen intently, for the whispers of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, their secret rendezvous, their hearts spun. Hence, this spot is also known as the River of Love, or the Thread of Love.
(10) The long waterfall of heaven and earth, the long waterfall of people and waterfalls
When Yu the Great controlled floods, he created three waterfalls based on the principles of heaven, earth, and man, symbolizing the eternity of heaven, earth, and harmony of people. Both Tianchang Waterfall and Dijiu Waterfall are hanging waterfalls, with a drop of 30 to 40 meters. The cascades cascade from the sky, creating a scene that elicits a sense of peace and tranquility. The Renhe Waterfall and Renhe Waterfall cascade down the canyon in a V-shaped formation, creating a spectacular icefall in winter.
38 yuan/person
Quansheng Gorge is famous for its picturesque landscapes, offering a blend of lush greenery, cliffs, and waterfalls. The gorge has been a natural attraction for centuries and is popular for its unique rock formations and serene beauty.
Quansheng Gorge is located in Baoding, Hebei. To get there, you can take a bus or taxi from Baoding city center. The nearest train station is Baoding Railway Station, from where you can take a taxi to the gorge.
The gorge is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak.
The entrance fee is around 40 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online during peak seasons to avoid long queues.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless visiting during peak seasons or public holidays. It’s advisable to book tickets 1-2 days ahead during these times.
To fully explore the gorge, including hiking and photography, plan for 2-3 hours. If you want to relax and take in the scenery, you could easily spend 4-5 hours.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be offered in Mandarin, but English guides are not always available.
The best viewpoints are near the main waterfall and the cliffs overlooking the gorge. Early morning or late afternoon light provides excellent conditions for photography.
Start at the main entrance, take the hiking path towards the waterfalls, and explore the caves. Afterward, head to the viewpoint at the top of the gorge for panoramic views before returning.
Currently, Quansheng Gorge does not offer night visits, light shows, or special night tours. It is best visited during the day.
Quansheng Gorge can get crowded on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon on non-holiday weekdays.
There are basic facilities available, including toilets, food stalls, and rest areas near the entrance. You can buy water and snacks, but there are limited dining options in the area.
While the main paths are paved, some areas, particularly around the cliffs and caves, may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. Children will enjoy exploring, but it’s advisable to supervise them closely near the cliffs.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted. It's advisable to carry some cash as well, especially if you plan to buy food or souvenirs from small local vendors.
There are local food stalls near the entrance, serving simple meals and snacks. For more dining options, you can head back to Baoding city where you’ll find a variety of restaurants.
Vegetarian food options are available at the food stalls near the entrance. For vegan or halal food, you’ll need to visit restaurants in Baoding city.
There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels near Quansheng Gorge. For more options, Baoding city offers a range of accommodations, from budget to mid-range hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Western Qing Tombs, a popular historical site. You can also visit the famous Daci Temple in Baoding city or explore the natural parks in the area.
There are small souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, tea, and postcards. Typical souvenirs include traditional Chinese crafts and locally made items.
After visiting Quansheng Gorge, taxis are the best option to continue your trip to nearby attractions or back to Baoding city. Public buses are also available for longer trips.
