If I had known about Longnan, why bother going to Jiangnan!

Who says Gansu only has deserts? This high mountain barrier lake hidden deep in the mountains is truly a fairyland on earth!

Hidden in the deep mountains of Longnan, Gansu, lies a "mountain emerald"—Longnan Tianchi (also known as Wenxian Tianchi or Yangtang Tianchi). It is one of China's four major Tianchi lakes, with crystal-clear water, surrounded by primeval forests. The best part is that it’s less crowded, the scenery is beautiful, and the ticket price is very cost-effective!

🌿 Must-visit highlights of Tianchi

▪️ Stunning lake and mountain scenery: Tianchi is shaped like a gourd, featuring 9 large bays and 108 bends. The lake water shows a charming tranquil blue, changing with the seasons and light—sometimes as clear as a mirror, sometimes shimmering with waves.

▪️ Boat tours: Take a wooden boat or a cruise boat to sail on the lake, with a gentle breeze and rippling water, feeling like "traveling in a painting."

▪️ Hiking the lakeside boardwalk: Stroll along the approximately 5 km lakeside boardwalk, weaving through towering pine and cypress forests, with scenic views at every step. The corner at Pier 5 is a hidden perfect photo spot.

▪️ Climb the viewing platform for a panoramic view: Climb up the viewing platform to overlook the entire Tianchi. On clear days, you might even see a spectacular sea of clouds.

🍃 Different beauty in each season

· Spring and summer: Rhododendrons and hundreds of flowers bloom by the lake, the mountains look like ink paintings, with an average temperature of 22°C, making it an excellent summer retreat.
· Autumn and winter: In autumn, the forests are dyed in layers of color, with red leaves reflecting on the water; in winter, the landscape is covered in silver, but the lake does not freeze, offering a unique charm.

🚗 Transportation and itinerary suggestions

· Self-driving: Navigate to "Wenxian Tianchi Scenic Area." The latter part of the mountain road has many curves, so beginners should be cautious.
· High-speed rail + shuttle: Take the high-speed train from Chengdu East Station to Longnan Station (about 3.5 hours), then carpool or charter a car to the scenic area.
· Recommended visit duration: 1-2 days. You can combine the trip with a visit to the nearby Tielou Tibetan Township to experience the unique Baima Tibetan culture.

💡 Helpful tips

· Tickets: Peak season (May-October) about 85 RMB per person (including sightseeing bus).
· Accommodation: Cost-effective homestays inside the scenic area (about 100-200 RMB/night), with mountain and starry sky views from the window.
· Food: Try local specialties like high mountain wild vegetables and chicken stewed with potatoes at the farmhouse restaurants near the entrance.
· Essentials: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, lightweight hiking shoes; bring a jacket as temperatures vary greatly between morning and evening.

Longnan Tianchi aftereffect: After returning home, your mind will be filled with that tranquil blue lake, fresh air, and surrounding green mountains—you’ll dream of going back! 💤

Don’t come lightly! Otherwise, you’ll be thinking about this earthly paradise every day! 😭

📍 Location: Tianchi National Forest Park, Wenxian County, Longnan City, Gansu Province
📸 Based on the latest information in 2025, bookmark it now!