The 6501 Scenic Area, also known as the Linxiang Mountain Water Scenic Area (临湘山水景区), is located on the southern bank of the Yangtze River in the northern part of Hunan Province, China. It is conveniently situated near major transportation routes, including the Jingguang Double Track Railway, National Highway 107, and the Jingzhu Expressway, making it a vital gateway for travelers from East and Central China into Hunan. This area features three key attractions: the 6501 underground military project, the Jiangnan Desert, and Longtan Lake.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of 6501 Scenic Area
- Other Attractions in Yueyang Suburbs
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 98 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0730-3666501 |
Location and Transportation
The 6501 Scenic Area is located in Zhongan Town, Linxiang City, Yueyang, Hunan Province, China. Specifically, it can be found along Provincial Road 301, which makes it easily accessible for visitors traveling within the region. To get there, you can take bus Linxiang 19 and get off at 6501 Scenic Area Stop (6501景区站).
Highlights of 6501 Scenic Area
The 6501 Military Project
The most remarkable feature of the 6501 Scenic Area is the 6501 underground military project, a massive and mysterious facility constructed secretly during the 1960s. Construction began in 1965 and spanned a decade, costing several hundred million yuan at the time. The project comprises five entrances and two exits, structured in a tiered manner with upper, middle, and lower levels. Countless caves of various sizes branch off, creating a labyrinthine network of tunnels and chambers. This complex system is both fascinating and intimidating, earning the title of “the largest artificial cave in Central and Southern China.”
The first and second levels of the project contain 25 halls (rooms) and 17 ventilation shafts, stretching over 17,000 meters in length. Visitors to the 6501 Scenic Area can engage in several experiential projects, including simulated launches of the Long March rocket and Dongfeng missiles, as well as rides on amphibious vehicles, providing a unique insight into military technology and operations.
Jiangnan Desert: An Unexpected Sandy Oasis
While Hunan is not a coastal province, it boasts a remarkable sandy beach known as the Jiangnan Desert, located in Linxiang City, Yueyang. Contrary to natural deserts, this sandy expanse is a byproduct of modern industrial activities. It was formed from the leftover mining sands of the Taolin Lead-Zinc Mine, which was a key mineral development project during China’s Second Five-Year Plan. Covering over 3,000 acres and reaching depths of more than 50 meters, the Jiangnan Desert has a sand reserve of nearly 100 million cubic meters, making it the only desert landscape in Central and Southern China. Each morning and evening, the sands glisten under the sun, earning it the name “Silver Beach.”
Longtan Lake: A Thrilling River Experience
The scenic area also features Longtan Lake, known for its thrilling river rafting experience. Stretching 4.8 kilometers, the river offers a natural drop of approximately 124 meters, with a rafting duration of about two hours. The river’s course is characterized by numerous height changes, presenting a mix of steep cliffs and strange rock formations that rise majestically above the water. As rafters navigate the rapids, they are treated to a combination of roaring cascades and tranquil, meandering streams, flanked by ancient pine and cypress trees. The experience is exhilarating, with powerful currents at times propelling adventurers down the river, while at other moments, the serene environment allows for a moment of peaceful reflection amidst the stunning natural scenery.
