Longmen Mountain

Introducing Longmen Mountain

Longmen Mountain, which spans the three cities of Pengzhou, Shifang and Mianzhu in Sichuan Province, is a world-famous mountain with a 5,000-year history of civilization and a 3.7 billion-year history of geological development.

Legend has it that Dayu, the earliest Chinese hero in flood control, was born in Longmen Mountain. In commemoration of Dayu's "digging the Dragon Gate, casting the Nine Cauldrons, and controlling floods," it is also known as Longmen Mountain.

The Longmenshan Scenic Area, with its steep peaks and deep canyons, is characterized by grandeur, danger, wonder, seclusion, and charm. It boasts birds, beasts, flowing springs, waterfalls, canyons, plank roads, grotesque rocks, rainbows, magical lanterns, Buddha lights, and exotic flowers and plants. It is the closest alpine canyon scenic spot to major cities.

Climate and best time to travel

Pengzhou is known as the Flower Mountain of Western China. Every April, a peony festival is held here. Pengzhou has become the largest peony viewing center in Western China.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Longmen Mountain

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

Longmen Mountain is historically significant for its ancient Buddhist temples and its role as a cultural site in the region. It has been a center for spiritual practices and is linked to Chinese Buddhism and Taoism.

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

Located in Chengdu, Sichuan, Longmen Mountain can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transportation options may include buses, but taxis are more convenient for visitors unfamiliar with the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Longmen Mountain is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and hiking.

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

The entrance fee is approximately ¥40. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through local ticket platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but during peak seasons or weekends, it’s advisable to buy tickets ahead of time to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It will take around 2-3 hours to explore Longmen Mountain, including time for hiking and visiting the cultural sites such as temples and scenic viewpoints.

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

Must-see highlights include the ancient Buddhist temples, scenic viewpoints, and the tranquil natural surroundings that offer a peaceful retreat. The hiking trails leading to the summit provide stunning views of the Chengdu plains.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English audio guides may be available, but it’s advisable to check in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are found along the hiking trail, especially near the temples and summit, where visitors can capture panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Chengdu's plains.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route begins with a visit to the main temple complex, followed by a scenic hike up the mountain. It’s best to finish the day with a visit to the top for panoramic views before descending.

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

Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Longmen Mountain. However, visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the mountain during daylight hours, making it ideal for daytime visits.

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

The site can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

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

Facilities include toilets, drinking water stations, and rest areas. There are also small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs, but the food options are limited within the scenic area itself.

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

While the main temple and certain areas are accessible, the hiking trails can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. It’s best to consult with the staff for specific accessibility options.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payment methods (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted at the site. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller shops or stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small local eateries and restaurants near the entrance where you can enjoy Sichuanese cuisine, but options inside the scenic area are limited.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, but vegan and halal food options may be limited. It’s advisable to check the menu in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses are available in Chengdu city center, which is about an hour’s drive from Longmen Mountain. Budget accommodations are also available closer to the site.

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

Nearby attractions include Mount Qingcheng, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. Both sites can be easily combined into a day trip from Longmen Mountain.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available near the entrance, offering local crafts, Buddhist artifacts, and traditional Sichuanese goods such as tea and incense.

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

The best options are to return to Chengdu by taxi or private car. Public buses are available, but taxis offer more convenience, especially for travelers continuing their trip to other destinations in the region.