Longquan

Introducing Longquan

Longquan City is located in the southwest of Zhejiang Province. It is a city with mountains, streams and beautiful scenery. There are 110 peaks with an altitude of more than 1,500 meters in the city.

Fengyang Mountain, known as the "Natural Park", is a national nature reserve. Its main peak, Huangmaojian, is 1,929 meters above sea level, making it the "highest peak in Jiangsu and Zhejiang."

Longquan is renowned for its swords and celadon. The production of Longquan celadon dates back to the Three Kingdoms and Jin dynasties, reaching its peak during the Song and Yuan dynasties. The Ge and Di kiln porcelains, known for their clarity like the autumn sky and tranquility like the deep sea, are renowned both domestically and internationally. The Ge kiln is considered one of the five famous Song Dynasty kilns, along with the renowned Guan, Ru, Ding, and Jun kilns. The Dayao and Yuankou celadon kiln sites, both nationally recognized, and the Niumengang ruins, are also a magnet for archaeology enthusiasts.

Climate and best time to travel

Longquan City belongs to the mid-subtropical monsoon climate zone, which is warm and humid, with distinct four seasons, abundant rainfall and pleasant climate.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Longquan Mountain Scenic Area

Located within the Fengyangshan Baishanzu National Nature Reserve in Longquan City, Zhejiang Province, Huangmaojian, its main peak, stands at 1,929 meters above sea level, the highest peak in Jiangsu and Zhejiang. With an average annual temperature of 12 degrees Celsius, the area borders the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, creating numerous plateau natural wonders, including plateau lakes, alpine meadows, and seas of clouds and misty pines. Currently, six scenic areas are open to the public: Longquan Grand Canyon, Wilderness Villa, Cliff Strange Pines, Qixingtan, Huangmaojian, and Oujiang Source. The unique pines and rocks, deep pools and waterfalls, the Buddha's halo on the cloud-top, and the thousand-meter-tall, naturally formed Longquan Giant Buddha are all breathtaking.

Yuankou Kiln Site

Located approximately 3 kilometers northwest of Yuankou Village, Daotai Township, the site was excavated in 1982. The dragon kiln is approximately 97 meters long. Other excavations revealed four workshop sites, 12 washing pools, 10 pottery pits, four unglazed kilns, house foundations, and drainage ditches.

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

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Most Popular FAQs for Longquan

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

Longquan, in Lishui, Zhejiang, is renowned for its ancient sword-making tradition and rich cultural heritage. The city has been a center for traditional metalwork for centuries and preserves significant historical architecture, temples, and folk culture, making it an important cultural destination.

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

Longquan is located in the southwest of Lishui City, Zhejiang Province. Visitors can reach it by bus or train from Lishui city center. Local taxis and private cars are convenient for traveling within the city and surrounding scenic areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions are open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, offering mild weather and vibrant scenery.

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

Entrance fees vary by site, usually between 20–80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased offline at attractions; some popular sites may offer online booking through local tourism websites.

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

Booking in advance is generally not necessary except during holidays or peak seasons. In such cases, booking 3–7 days ahead is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 days are usually sufficient to visit the main attractions, workshops, and scenic areas in Longquan.

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

• Longquan Sword Museum and traditional sword-making workshops.
• Qingyuan Mountain scenic area.
• Ancient streets and local markets.
• Historic temples, including Confucian and Buddhist sites.

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

Guided tours are mostly in Chinese. English or other language tours may be available upon request at major attractions or through private tour operators.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Qingyuan Mountain overlooks and hiking trails.
• Ancient streets and traditional markets.
• Workshops showcasing sword-making craftsmanship.
• Temples and historical buildings for cultural photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Morning: Visit sword-making workshops and museums.
• Afternoon: Explore ancient streets, local markets, and temples.
• Optional: Hike nearby scenic areas for panoramic views.

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

Night visits are limited. Some cultural festivals or special events may offer evening activities or performances.

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

Longquan is generally not crowded except during national holidays. Weekdays and off-peak seasons offer the quietest experience.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, food stalls, and souvenir shops are available near main attractions.

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

Main streets, markets, and museums are accessible. Some temples or hiking areas may involve steps or uneven terrain, which could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used. Credit card acceptance may be limited in smaller shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local restaurants serving Zhejiang cuisine and regional specialties.
• Cafes and teahouses along ancient streets.
• Small eateries near scenic areas for snacks and refreshments.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available. Vegan and halal options may be limited and should be verified at specific restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses and small hotels in town.
• Mid-range hotels near the city center.
• Homestay options for an authentic local experience.

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

• Qingyuan Mountain scenic area for nature walks.
• Other cultural and historical sites in Lishui region.
• Nearby villages preserving traditional Fujian-Zhejiang architecture.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available in tourist areas. Typical items include swords and metal crafts, local tea, traditional snacks, and handicrafts.

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

Buses and taxis are convenient for nearby towns and scenic spots. Private car hire is useful for exploring surrounding areas or returning to Lishui city.