Longqing Gorge (龙庆峡), often referred to as a hidden gem near Beijing, offers an escape into nature with stunning landscapes and refreshing coolness. A boat ride between towering mountains feels like stepping into a scene from Guilin, leaving the hustle and bustle of Beijing behind. This day trip guide is perfect for those who enjoy nature’s wonders and are in good physical condition. Although the hike isn’t too long, the steep steps combined with hot weather can still make for a tiring experience, so be prepared!
Ticket Information
- Admission Fee: 40 RMB
- Shuttle Bus: 10 RMB one-way (1.5 km, optional)
- Boat Ride: 100 RMB round-trip (a must-do activity)
- Cable Car: 50 RMB round-trip (optional)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
How to Get to Longqing Gorge
- By Car: About 1.5 hours from Beijing city center.
- By High-Speed Train: From Beijing city center to Yanqing Station, it takes around 30 minutes by high-speed train.
- By Suburban Railway (S02 Line): Takes about 1.5 hours from Beijing to Yanqing Station, followed by a 1.2-hour bus ride (Y40, Y43, Y15) or a 30-minute taxi ride (approximately 30 RMB).
Recommended Route
Longqing Gorge has a well-planned route, and you won’t need to backtrack at any point. The scenic area has been designed to guide visitors through the most picturesque locations in an efficient manner. Here’s the recommended route to follow:
- Start with the Dragon-shaped Elevator: Begin your adventure by taking the dragon-shaped elevator, which offers stunning views as it takes you up to the first level.
- Boat Ride to Jingang Temple Dock: From the elevator, board a boat to the Jingang Temple Dock, which offers a serene start to your visit.
- Hike to Jingang Temple & Dream Pavilion (First Viewing Point): After disembarking at the dock, climb up the mountain to visit Jingang Temple and the Dream Pavilion. These locations offer panoramic views and are ideal for taking in the beauty of the area.
- Return to Moon Bay Dock: Once you’ve enjoyed the view, head back down and take the boat back to the Moon Bay Dock, where you’ll embark on your next leg of the journey.
- Boat to Cable Car Station: From here, board another boat heading to the cable car station. The cable car will take you to the halfway point of the opposite mountain.
- Hike to the Fairy Palace: After riding the cable car, hike up to the Fairy Palace. If you’re up for it, continue climbing for another 20 minutes to reach the second highest point, which offers even more spectacular views.
- Return by Cable Car: After taking in the views, return to the cable car station, ride back down, and make your way past the water dam on your way out of the scenic area.
This route will take about 5 to 6 hours to complete.
Other Important Tips
- No Need for ID: You don’t need to bring your ID, as the tickets are scanned via QR code.
- Distance from the Parking Lot to the Ticket Booth: There’s a 1.3 km walk from the parking lot to the ticket booth. You can either walk or take a shuttle bus for 10 RMB. If you’re taking a tourist bus, it will likely drop you directly at the ticket booth.
- Boat Ride is a Must: The boat ride is highly recommended! It’s the highlight of the trip, offering exceptional views from the water. Both viewing points from the boat ride provide fantastic photo opportunities.
- Stairways are Steep: Be prepared for steep stairs throughout the area, but the overall hike isn’t particularly strenuous. If you’re visiting during the summer, the cool breezes and shady spots will make the walk more pleasant.
- Affordable Prices: The prices for snacks and drinks at the base are very reasonable. For example, a bottle of water is only 3 RMB.
- Not Overcrowded During Holidays: While many tourist spots around Beijing are crowded during the holidays, Longqing Gorge remains a hidden treasure with relatively fewer visitors. It’s perfect for those looking to avoid large crowds.