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Enjoy hiking through the lush forest trails, visit the scenic viewpoints for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, and relax by the peaceful lakes. You can also explore the park's diverse flora and fauna, and take part in nature photography. The park is a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Longchi Forest Park is located in Dujiangyan City, Chengdu, Sichuan Province. It is located in the transition zone between the western Sichuan Plain and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. It is one of the 20 key national forest parks in China.
The landform structure of Longchi Scenic Area was formed in the late Triassic period 190 million years ago. Fossils of ancient organisms such as trilobites, corals and brachiopods can be seen everywhere here. Endangered tree species known as "living fossils" such as Davidia involucrata, Lotus tree, Silver Magpie and Round-leaved Magnolia thrive here. Wild animals here include golden monkeys, giant pandas, antelopes, golden pheasants and rock cattle. It is praised by Chinese and foreign experts as a "wild plant gene bank" and a "natural animal paradise."
The scenery here is stunning, with the park boasting a secluded forest, surrounded by verdant peaks, and the rippling Dragon Pond Rock, a unique blend of lake, rock, forest, and waterfall. Key attractions include the Dragon King Temple complex, which comprises the temple gate, the rain-praying platform, the main hall, and auxiliary halls. The park has been closed for renovation since 2005 and has not reopened.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
The forests and lakes here are beautiful in all seasons. In winter, you can also participate in the Longchi Ice and Snow Festival.
Sunshine Rock Waterfall
The Sunshine Rock Waterfall scenic area is located to the left of the forest park entrance. It's named Sunshine Rock because the rock faces west and is directly illuminated by sunlight. The waterfall cascades down the mountainside, about 100 meters high and 20 meters wide, splashing into a deep pool. The water overflows the pool and cascades down to the foot of the mountain, creating a truly spectacular sight. A further waterfall, about 60 meters above the falls, cascades down a rocky cave, creating a vast water curtain cave. In rainy days, the thunderous roar of the waterfall is even more magnificent.
Dragon Pond
Dragon Pond, meaning the place where the white dragon spits water, boasts a crystal-clear surface, reflecting the beauty of the lake and mountains. Migratory birds visit the waters every year, including swans, yellow ducks, bamboo partridges, mandarin ducks, and over a dozen other rare species. These birds are said to be very protective of the water's cleanliness, carrying any fallen leaves or debris they find on the surface and discarding them in the forest. This is why the waters of Dragon Pond remain as clear as a mirror.
Royal Dragon Garden
Yulong Garden is a relic of the Himalayan orogeny that formed six or seven million years ago. When winter comes, there is a four-month-long Longchi Ice and Snow Festival. Skiing, skating, ice sculptures, snow sculptures, sledding and other rich activities will make you linger.
Recommended 2-day tour
Off-season (April-November): 20 yuan
Peak season (December to March): 50 yuan
The park suffered severe geological disasters such as mudslides during the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake. It is currently being cleaned up and is not officially open to tourists, but tourists can drive to the scenic area.
Longchi Forest Park is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. It is a vital green space near Chengdu, offering a serene escape from the city. The park is also significant for its role in environmental conservation and offers a glimpse of Sichuan's mountainous landscapes.
Longchi Forest Park is located in the Longchi Township, approximately 60 kilometers north of Chengdu. You can reach the park by taxi, private car, or public bus from Chengdu. There is no direct metro access to the park.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is lush and vibrant. Avoid visiting during the summer holidays, as the park can get crowded.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It's advisable to check for any online ticket availability during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not required but recommended during busy periods like holidays. It’s best to book tickets at least a few days in advance if you're visiting during peak seasons.
To fully explore Longchi Forest Park, plan for 3 to 4 hours. This includes hiking the main trails, visiting the viewpoints, and enjoying the natural surroundings. If you want to explore every trail and area, you might want to spend a full day.
The main highlights include the beautiful forested trails, the panoramic viewpoints, and serene lakes. The park's lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere make it a fantastic spot for relaxation and photography.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are generally not offered, but a local guide can provide an in-depth explanation of the flora and fauna of the park.
The best viewpoints are located along the hiking trails, offering expansive views of the mountains and valleys. The lakes also provide excellent photography opportunities, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is perfect.
Start with a visit to the main entrance and take a short hike to one of the viewpoints. Continue along the primary trails to explore the forest, stopping at the lakes for a rest. You can end the visit with a quiet walk around the park’s serene areas.
There are no special night visits or light shows at Longchi Forest Park. The park is best visited during daylight hours to appreciate its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
The park can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, especially early in the morning. The park is generally less crowded in the off-season, like winter or early spring.
There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas throughout the park. However, food options are limited within the park itself, so it's a good idea to bring your own snacks and water. There are small local shops selling drinks and souvenirs near the entrance.
The main paths and viewpoints are accessible to elderly visitors and children. However, some of the trails can be steep and may not be suitable for visitors with limited mobility. It’s advisable to check with the park about accessibility before visiting.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Credit cards may not be accepted in some of the smaller shops and stalls, so it’s good to have mobile payment options ready.
Inside the park, food options are limited, with a few small snack stalls. For a broader selection, you can head to Chengdu, where you will find various local restaurants offering Sichuan cuisine.
Vegetarian food is available at some restaurants in Chengdu. However, vegan and halal options are less common inside the park, so it's better to plan accordingly and check availability in advance.
There are a few guesthouses near the park, but for more options, you can head to Chengdu city where there is a wider range of hotels, from budget to luxury accommodations.
Nearby attractions include the Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. Both are UNESCO World Heritage sites and can be combined with a visit to Longchi Forest Park for a full day trip.
There are small souvenir shops near the park entrance where you can buy local crafts, tea, and snacks. The typical souvenirs include tea leaves, handmade crafts, and items related to the Sichuan region.
After visiting the park, you can take a taxi or bus back to Chengdu. Alternatively, if you are planning to visit other attractions in the area like Mount Qingcheng, a private car or taxi is recommended for convenience.
