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The Ruoliao primeval forest area is 50 kilometers away from Songyang County. The scenic area covers an area of nearly 10,000 acres. It has dangerous mountains, strange rocks, and unique trees, and the natural landscape is unique. To the northwest of the main peak at an altitude of 1,500 meters, an extremely huge towering rock rises from the ground. On the steep cliff, dragon-like pines stand out, and it seems that a long roar is echoing in the mountains and valleys.
The Hericium erinaceus is widely distributed, blooming profusely in May each year, a truly remarkable sight. There are hundreds of Fagus sylvatica trees over 300 years old, with a diameter at breast height exceeding 0.5 meters. Some, known as the "King of Fagus in East China," have a diameter of 1.46 meters. Deep within the breathtakingly beautiful Ruoliao forest lie countless unusual rocks and boulders, including the towering Stone Man Rock, the lifelike Little Bear Looking Out at the Pine Tree, Sister-in-law Rock, Thirty-Six Kitchens, and Guanyin Lake, among dozens of other key attractions.
Over 30 streams and waterfalls are scattered throughout the area, including the spectacular Dajibei Waterfall, which cascades over 70 meters in three tiers. The area boasts comprehensive amenities, including a hotel, cabins, and parking. It is a natural eco-tourism destination integrating scientific research, cultural education, summer vacation, sightseeing, conferences, and artistic creation.
It has a mid-subtropical monsoon climate and is most famous for its thousand-acre Hericium erinaceus (blooms in May and June every year, with good and bad years), known as the "Ten-mile Sea of Flowers".
About 1 day
70 yuan/person
7:00-16:00
Ruoliao Virgin Forest Area is an ecologically significant site in Lishui, Zhejiang. It preserves native flora and fauna and is recognized for its biodiversity and role in environmental conservation.
Located in Lishui, Zhejiang. Visitors can reach the forest by taxi, local bus, or private car. Walking is necessary to explore the trails within the forest area.
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn are the best times for visiting due to comfortable weather and lush scenery.
Entrance fees are generally moderate and can be purchased on-site. Limited online booking may be available via local tourism websites.
Booking in advance is usually not required unless visiting with a large group or during peak tourist seasons.
2–4 hours are recommended to explore the main trails and scenic spots.
Guided tours are occasionally available in Chinese; audio guides are generally not offered.
Follow the main entrance trail, visit waterfalls and observation decks, loop through the central forest area, and exit through a secondary trail.
Night visits are not recommended; no light shows are organized, but occasional eco-tour events may be held.
Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded; weekends and public holidays attract more visitors.
Basic facilities include toilets and rest areas. Small snack vendors may be available near the entrance; bring your own water and food for longer hikes.
Some trails are uneven or steep, making access limited for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy easier paths under supervision.
Cash is recommended for small purchases, although some vendors may accept mobile payments.
Local restaurants near the entrance serve regional Zhejiang cuisine; cafes are limited within the forest area.
Vegetarian options are generally available at nearby restaurants; halal food options are limited.
Guesthouses and small hotels are available in nearby Lishui town; larger hotels are located in the city center.
Souvenir stalls near the entrance sell local handicrafts, forest-themed items, and postcards.
Taxi, ride-hailing services, or local buses are convenient to reach other nearby attractions or the Lishui city center.
