China Millennium Ginkgo Valley

Introducing China Millennium Ginkgo Valley

Located in Luoyang Town, Suizhou City, Hubei Province, China's Millennium Ginkgo Valley is a National AAAA-level tourist attraction and one of the world's four largest densely populated ancient ginkgo communities. Covering 17.14 square kilometers, it encompasses attractions such as the "One Mother and Nine Sons" (a traditional Chinese myth), the Hu Family Ancestral Hall, and the hometown of Emperor Ming Yuzhen of the Xia Dynasty.

Home to 308 ginkgo trees over a thousand years old, over 17,000 over a hundred years old, and over 5.1 million planted ginkgo trees, the area boasts the densest and best-preserved ancient ginkgo community in China, and perhaps even the world. In 2003, it was designated a National Nature Reserve, and in 2014, it was approved by the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine for geographical indication product protection. It's known as the "Ten-mile Gallery of Millennium Ginkgo Trees, the Purest Place in the World."

Climate and best time to travel

Ginkgo Valley enjoys a mild subtropical monsoon climate, with ample sunshine, abundant heat, and abundant rainfall. The average temperature is 16°C, the average annual accumulated temperature is 5,100°C, the frost-free period is 250 days, the average annual sunshine hours are over 2,400 hours, and the average rainfall is approximately 1,200 mm. Summer temperatures range from a high of 38°C to a low of 23°C, with a diurnal temperature difference of 15°C, making it ideal for summer escapes. It is one of the most ecologically suitable areas for ginkgo trees and offers a typical valley-like rural landscape.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

China Stone Mill Museum

The China Stone Mill Museum was established by a renowned local collector who spent years collecting over 1,300 stone mills of varying sizes and materials from across the country. The largest of these millstones reaches a diameter of 1.1 meters and weighs 300 kilograms, while the smallest is only about 10 centimeters in diameter. These millstones have been paved into paths and placed along the sides of the roads, creating a landscape featuring millstone buildings, millstone plazas, millstone benches, and millstone sculptures. The scenic area's walking trails are paved with millstones donated voluntarily by millions of households in more than a dozen provinces across China, symbolizing the movement of time.

"Five Old Trees" Square

The Five Old Trees Square is formed by the intertwined roots of five thousand-year-old ginkgo trees, which have withstood the vicissitudes of time. According to legend, Confucius once asked Laozi about etiquette here.

Tickets

The ticket price for the Millennium Ginkgo Valley scenic area is 78 yuan

Free admission: Children under 1.2 meters tall (not including 1.2 meters) are exempt from admission. Active-duty military personnel, persons with disabilities, and persons aged 70 and over (including 70) are exempt from admission by presenting their officer ID, soldier ID, or ID card. Discounted admission: Children between 1.2 meters and 1.5 meters tall (not including 1.5 meters) are eligible for discounted tickets, which must be purchased at the scenic spot. Specific information is subject to the scenic spot's announcement on the day of admission.

Attraction opening hours

Open all day (ticket collection time: 9:00-17:00)

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Most Popular FAQs for China Millennium Ginkgo Valley

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

China Millennium Ginkgo Valley is dedicated to preserving ancient ginkgo trees, some over a thousand years old. It highlights the ecological, cultural, and medicinal importance of ginkgo trees and showcases traditional practices of local communities in Suizhou.

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

The valley is located in Suizhou, Hubei province. Visitors can reach it via taxi or private car from Suizhou city center. Local buses and tour shuttles are available during peak tourist seasons.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours are generally 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Autumn is the best time to visit for vibrant fall foliage, while spring offers lush greenery.

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

Tickets cost approximately CNY 80–120 depending on the season. They can be purchased at the entrance or online through official tourism platforms and travel apps.

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

It is recommended to book 1–3 days in advance during weekends, holidays, and autumn foliage season. Weekday visits usually do not require advance booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically spend 3–5 hours exploring the ginkgo forests, cultural exhibitions, and scenic trails.

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

• Ancient ginkgo tree groves, including millennium-old trees.
• Ginkgo Culture Museum and exhibition halls.
• Scenic ponds, gardens, and walking trails.
• Observation decks and photography spots with panoramic views.
• Seasonal flower and leaf-viewing areas.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, with limited English-language guides or informational materials. Audio guides may be available in Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Panoramic viewpoints overlooking the ginkgo forest canopy.
• Footpaths lined with ancient ginkgo trees, especially during autumn.
• Near ponds and gardens reflecting the golden leaves.
• Traditional bridges and wooden observation decks within the park.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the entrance and visit the Ginkgo Culture Museum.
• Follow main trails to the millennium-old ginkgo trees.
• Walk along scenic ponds and gardens, stopping at observation decks.
• Attend cultural exhibits or seasonal festivals if available.
• End at souvenir shops or rest areas before exiting.

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

Night visits are limited. Special events such as seasonal leaf-viewing festivals may include evening lighting or cultural performances.

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

The park is busiest on weekends, national holidays, and during autumn foliage season. Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded.

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

Facilities include restrooms, snack stalls, water stations, benches, tea houses, and souvenir shops.

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

Main walking paths are suitable for children and elderly visitors. Some elevated trails may be challenging for visitors with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments and credit cards are widely accepted, though small vendors may prefer cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Restaurants inside and nearby offer local Hubei cuisine, snacks, and tea houses for light refreshments.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available. Halal options are limited, so planning ahead is advised.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotels in Suizhou city center, 10–15 km away.
• Local guesthouses and resorts near the valley.
• Eco-lodges catering to nature tourists.

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

• Suizhou Ancient Tombs
• Ginkgo-themed parks or gardens nearby
• Local rivers and scenic areas for hiking

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include ginkgo leaf-themed products, herbal medicine items, local handicrafts, and postcards.

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

Visitors can take taxis, private cars, or local buses to Suizhou city or other nearby attractions. Tour buses are convenient for day trips to nearby scenic sites.