Longqing Gorge: A Symphony of History and Nature in Beijing’s Back Garden
A Journey Through Time and Geological Wonder in Yanqing District
For travelers seeking a perfect mix of history, nature, and adventure near Beijing, Longqing Gorge ( Dragon Valley) is a hidden gem. Though less famous than the Great Wall, this 7-kilometer canyon boasts imperial history and UNESCO-recognized geological wonders. As part of the Yanqing Global Geopark, it’s one of the most scenic escapes just beyond Beijing’s urban edge.
History: From Imperial Retreat to Cultural Landmark
The story of Longqing Gorge stretches back over a millennium. Originally called Gucheng Jiuzu (“Ancient City’s Nine Bends”), the gorge was once a summer retreat for emperors of the Liao, Jin, and Yuan dynasties. Empress Dowager Xiao of Liao is said to have built garden palaces here, while Yuan Emperor Renzong named the region Longqing Prefecture, a title that endures today.
By the Ming Dynasty, poets and scholars inscribed verses onto its cliffs, blending human creativity with nature’s grandeur. In 1973, the construction of the Longqing Dam transformed the site, forming the emerald-green reservoir surrounded by cliffs up to 100 meters high, earning it the nickname “The Little Guilin of the North.” Now listed as a National AAAA Tourist Attraction, it exemplifies the harmony between history and the natural world.
Top Things to Do in Longqing Gorge
1. Boat Cruise: The Poetry of the Northern “Little Li River”
The most iconic way to experience Longqing Gorge is the 40-minute boat ride across its jade waters. Towering limestone cliffs rise on both sides, creating reflections so clear they resemble ink paintings. Along the route, you’ll pass Phoenix Crown Island, Crescent Moon Bay, and the famous “Buddha Gazing at the Mountain” rock formation — a natural sculpture shaped like a meditating monk.
💡 Travel Tip: Sit on the right-hand side of the boat for the best panoramic photos as you glide through the gorge entrance.
2. Ascend the Dragon Ladder: Asia’s Longest Outdoor Escalator
Skip the exhausting climb — take the 258-meter-long Dragon Escalator, Asia’s longest outdoor escalator. Shaped like a golden dragon spiraling up the cliff face, it whisks visitors 90 meters upward in three minutes while revealing a breathtaking view of the lake and mountains. A marvel of modern engineering, it perfectly complements the gorge’s ancient landscape.
3. Explore Ancient Temples: Finding Zen on the Cliffs
- Shenxian Temple : Perched on a misty peak, this Ming-era temple feels straight out of a martial arts film. Visitors can ascend via cable car or hiking path, with panoramic views from the summit.
- Jingang Temple : Built during the Liao Dynasty, this secluded sanctuary sits between the North and South Jingang Mountains. Surrounded by ancient pines and drifting incense, it radiates serenity.
4. Seasonal Adventures: From Summer Cool Breezes to Winter Magic
- Summer Escapes: Longqing Gorge is about 6°C cooler than Beijing, making it the ideal retreat. Try rafting or hike Yudu Mountain, nicknamed the “Beijing Swiss Alps.”
- Winter Wonders: The Longqing Gorge Ice Lantern Festival transforms the area into a shimmering kingdom of ice and light — giant sculptures and glowing tunnels evoke scenes from Frozen.
Longqing Gorge Travel Guide
Getting There
- By Car: About 1.5 hours from central Beijing via Badaling Expressway. Parking ¥10/day.
- By Public Transit: Take Bus 919 from Deshengmen to Yanqing, then transfer to Bus Y10 to reach the scenic area directly.
Tickets & Fees
- Package Ticket: ¥140 (includes entrance + round-trip boat).
- Cable Car: ¥50 one-way (to Shenxian Temple).
Best Visiting Times
- Spring (April–May): Mountain flowers bloom.
- Autumn (Sept–Oct): Vibrant red and golden foliage.
- Avoid: Crowded summer weekends and icy roads in mid-winter.
Local Food & Accommodation
- Must-Try: Yanqing Tofu Feast, roasted lamb, and local farmhouse meals.
- Stay: Gorge-view hotels or boutique minsu homestays nearby offer peaceful night views under the stars.
✨If you love scenic escapes like Longqing Gorge, be sure to check out our guide to Gubei Water Town — another cultural gem set along the Great Wall. Looking for more inspiring Beijing getaways and nearby adventures? Explore our Beijing Collection for curated itineraries, hidden gems, and detailed travel guides.
Why Longqing Gorge Captivates the World
The magic of Longqing Gorge lies in how one canyon tells the story of a thousand years of Chinese civilization and geological evolution. It’s not just a tourist spot — it’s a living poem carved by nature and time. From the meditative stillness of cliffside temples to the thrill of riding the Dragon Escalator, this place embodies both the boldness and serenity of northern China.
Whether you’re chasing mountain sunrises, exploring ancient legends, or capturing reflections on the emerald water, Longqing Gorge invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover the harmony between humanity and nature.
Next stop — Longqing Gorge, Beijing’s hidden paradise. 🌄✨
