big pine bay

Introducing Big Pine Bay

The Dasongwan Ancient Road is located in Longguan Township, Haishu District. It is one of the ten ancient roads in Ningbo. In ancient times, it was the main transportation route into Siming Mountain. Via the Dasongwan Ancient Road, you can reach the Jiaokeng Grand Canyon in Banshan Village.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Grand Canyon winds its way through the canyon, where streams cascade down cliffs, swirling silver waves. The canyon boasts eight waterfalls, large and small, including the White Dragon Pool, the Green Dragon Pool, and the Spiral Waterfall. Along the winding, gurgling path, visitors can admire the natural beauty of verdant cypresses and pines, chirping birds and fragrant flowers, towering peaks, and serene valleys.

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Most Popular FAQs for big pine bay

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

The Da Song Wan Ancient Path (also known as Jiaokeng Ancient Path) lies in Ningbo’s Yinzhou District, Longguan Town, Zhejiang Province. According to historical records, the path existed before the Ming dynasty Wanli era (1573) and served as an important mountain route into the 四明山 region. It is listed among the “Ningbo Ten Ancient Paths”.

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

It is located in Longguan Town (龙观乡), Yinzhou District (鄞州区), Ningbo City, Zhejiang. Getting there:

• By taxi from Ningbo city centre: hitch to Longguan Town / Dragon-Watch village; easier if self-drive.
• By bus: For example the city bus 616-2 stops at “龙峰村/Long Feng Village” near the trailhead.
• Once you arrive at the trailhead, you walk into the forest path and creek area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours: As a natural trail, there is no strict gate-closing time; best to begin in daylight and finish before dusk. Best times to visit:

• Late spring to summer: warmer weather makes creek-wading pleasant.
• Autumn: the forest scenery, turning leaves and cooler air make the hike especially comfortable.

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

The path appears to be free or only a minimal local fee; no widely published standard ticket price found. It is advisable to check signage or local website for the most recent information.

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

Because this is mainly a natural trail rather than a heavily-commercialised attraction, advance booking is generally not required. If you plan a large organised group or visit during a peak holiday, checking ahead is wise.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

The full out-and-back hike along the ancient path is about 12 km (return) and can take around 4 hours for the standard route. If you intend to stop, wade in the creek, picnic, or take a slower pace, allow half-a-day (5-6 hours).

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

• The stone-paved ancient path (鹅卵石铺设) through the forest.
• The clear stream and rock pools / waterfalls (交坑峡谷段) plentiful for creek-wading.
• The ancient tree cluster near the path: includes camphor and gingko trees, some over 400 years old.

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

There is no widely published information about formal multilingual audio guides. Visitors typically explore independently. If you prefer guided service you may need to book via a local tour operator in Ningbo in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• A point along the creek where sunlight filters through the bamboo/forest canopy falling on turquoise rock-pools (frequently shared on social media).
• The ancient tree group at the “半坡亭” rest pavilion, a shaded spot ideal for portraits under the old trees.
• A high point along the path where you look back along the gorge and see the twisting stream and forested ridge.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Suggested route:

• Start at the trailhead near the reservoir or “牌楼” sign → follow the cobbled ancient path upward into forest.
• Enter the gorge segment → descend to the stream side, stop at a rock-pool or waterfall.
• Reach the furthest practical point and then return the same way, or loop if a side trail exists.

This gives both trail walking and creek-wading experiences.

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

No publicly documented night-light shows or special nighttime tours are listed. The area is a natural trail and best visited during daylight for safety.

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

As a more “hidden gem” natural trail rather than a major tourist facility, it is less crowded than big commercial scenic spots. The least crowded times are: weekday mornings, non-holiday periods. During hot summer weekends it may attract many outdoor-enthusiasts.

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

Facilities along the path are relatively basic:

• Rest benches/pavilions (e.g., “半坡亭”) along the trail.
• Snack/tea stalls may exist near the trailhead or village entry; but fewer amenities inside the gorge.
• Carry your own water and snacks; suitable footwear needed for trail and creek.

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

The route involves natural terrain, stone steps and creek-beds. For children and fit elderly: manageable with caution and good shoes. For visitors requiring mobility-aid access: some sections may be difficult; check locally for flatter trail sections if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

In rural Zhejiang outdoor areas, mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay) are widely accepted by local vendors, but small snack stalls may still prefer cash. It’s advisable to carry a little cash and have mobile payment setup.

What restaurants or cafés are available inside or nearby?

Near the trailhead village (Longguan/龙观乡) you will find local eateries offering Zhejiang countryside cuisine and snacks. Inside the trail area there are fewer establishments — food and drinks may be limited.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian-friendly: Yes — local vegetable, tofu, mushroom dishes are commonly available. Vegan may require specifying “no meat or eggs”. Halal: Not guaranteed in this rural setting; if strict halal required, seek dining options in larger town or city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Yes — there are guest-houses/homestays in the nearby village and countryside around Longguan Town; staying overnight allows early start and less crowded trail experience.

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

• 五龙潭风景名胜区 (Five Dragon Pool Scenic Area) nearby in Yinzhou: waterfalls, forest and stream features.
• 它山堰 (Ta-Shan Weir) – historic water-diversion structure in the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes — at the village or trail-entry you may find small shops offering local handmade crafts, forest tea leaves, or snack-foods (dried items). Souvenirs tend to be modest.

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

• Return by taxi/rideshare to Ningbo city or onward destination.
• If self-driving, you can continue to other nearby scenic areas (e.g., Five Dragon Pool, forest parks) or rural guest-houses for overnight.