Luanchuan County

Introducing Luanchuan County

Luanchuan is one of the first 17 counties designated as "China's Strong Tourism Counties," and has pioneered the "Luanchuan Model," a nationally recognized tourism model. It boasts seven national AAAA-level scenic spots, a first for any county-level administrative region in China.

Luanchuan has seven national AAAA-level and above tourist attractions, including Longyu Bay, Chongdu Valley, Yangzi Valley, Funiu Mountain Ski Resort, and Baoduzhai, as well as more than ten non-A-level tourist attractions. It has initially formed a comprehensive tourism pattern with diversified business types, rich experiences, and different characteristics, consisting of Laojun Mountain landscape tour, Longyu Bay forest tour, Jiguana Cave tour, Chongdu Valley farm tour, Yangzi Valley leisure tour, Jiulong Mountain hot spring tour, Funiu Mountain ski tour, and Baoduzhai red tour. It has successively won honors such as "Top Ten Rural Resorts in the World", "International Rural Leisure Tourism Destination", and "2016 Top 100 Small Cities for Deep Breathing".

Climate and best time to travel

Warm temperate continental monsoon climate;

Suitable for spring, summer and autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended 2-day tour

Luanchuan Laojun Mountain

Laojun Mountain, the main peak of the Funiu Mountains, is said to have been the site of Laozi's retreat and cultivation during the Eastern Zhou Dynasty. Since the Northern Wei Dynasty, temples and other official buildings have been built here. The area was considered a Taoist sanctuary during the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Today, it remains a sacred site for pilgrims from Henan, Shaanxi, Anhui, and Hubei provinces. The scenic area sells local specialties and features famous landmarks such as the statue of Laozi riding a bull and the golden statue of Taishang Laojun. It is a unique scenic spot in the Central Plains region that integrates natural landscapes with Taoist culture.

Luanchuan Chongdugou Scenic Area

Named after Emperor Guangwu of the Eastern Han Dynasty, Liu Xiu, Chongdugou is renowned throughout China for its mysterious historical legends and three unique scenic features. Nestled amidst cascading bamboo forests and numerous springs, the area flows with clear water, forming trickling rivers and cascading waterfalls. Comprising multiple scenic areas, it's a perfect summer escape, offering stunning views and a glimpse into local customs.

Luanchuan Longyuwan National Forest Park

Longyu Bay, once a place where dragons bathed, is a vibrant hub of dragon culture. Streams, clear pools, and waterfalls crisscross the bay, creating breathtaking scenery year-round. Attractions include Black Dragon Pool, White Horse Pool, Fairy Waterfall, Rainbow Waterfall, and Blue Dragon Waterfall; as well as Fairy Cave, Hidden Soldier Cave, Chaste Girl Cave, and Helmet Cave. Within the bay, "Chicken Corner" (Jijiaojian) rises 2,219 meters above sea level, with sheer cliffs shrouded in mist. Nearby lies the 100-acre, thousand-year-old Taibai Rhododendron Garden, where flowers bloom in spectacular glory from April to May each year. Their fist-sized corollas blanket the mountainside, creating a breathtaking spectacle of exceptional beauty.

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Most Popular FAQs for Luanchuan County

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

Luanchuan County is part of Luoyang city in Henan Province, historically known for its natural beauty and as a gateway to central China’s mountainous landscapes. The area is significant for eco-tourism and preserving traditional Henan rural culture.

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

Located southwest of Luoyang city, Henan. Accessible by bus or taxi from Luoyang city center. Local roads and hiking paths connect scenic areas; walking is needed within forested or mountain regions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Nature reserves and trails are generally open 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Best times: Spring (April–May) for blooms and Autumn (September–October) for colorful foliage.

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

• Luanchuan Forest and scenic spots: 30–80 CNY per area, tickets can be purchased on-site.
• Some areas may offer online booking through local tourism websites.

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

Not required for most natural areas; advance booking recommended 3–5 days for weekends or peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 full days for main scenic areas, including forest hikes, mountain trails, and local village visits.

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

• Luanchuan Forest Scenic Area
• Taiyi Mountain and surrounding hiking paths
• Waterfalls and natural streams
• Traditional rural villages

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

Guided tours are limited; Mandarin-speaking guides are most common. Audio guides are rare in rural areas.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Mountain peaks for panoramic landscapes
• Autumn forest trails
• Waterfalls and river crossings
• Traditional villages with local architecture

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start with forest trails in the morning
• Visit waterfalls and streams midday
• Afternoon hike to Taiyi Mountain viewpoint
• Evening visit to local villages or rural markets

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

Night visits are generally not available in natural areas; some villages may host local cultural performances occasionally.

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

Weekdays are less crowded; weekends and public holidays see more tourists, especially in autumn peak foliage season.

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

• Basic toilets and rest areas near major entrances
• Small food stalls or local eateries in villages
• Some shops selling souvenirs or snacks

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

Many mountain trails are challenging; elderly or disabled visitors may need assistance. Village and forest entry points are more accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted in most towns and scenic entrances; cash recommended for remote villages.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Henan cuisine restaurants in Luanchuan town
• Small village eateries and snack stalls near scenic spots

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options may be available in local restaurants; vegan or halal options are limited and may require prior inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Budget and mid-range hotels in Luanchuan town
• Guesthouses and homestays near scenic areas
• Eco-lodges for forest or mountain stays

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

• Longmen Grottoes (near Luoyang)
• Yuntai Mountain scenic area
• Luoyang city historical sites

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local handicrafts, forest-themed items, tea, and traditional Henan crafts.

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

Buses and taxis to Luoyang city; private car or tour services recommended for visiting nearby mountains and Longmen Grottoes.