Nestled in the heart of Jiangsu Province, Longchi Mountain (龙池山) stands as a testament to the natural beauty and biodiversity that can be found in China’s landscapes. This picturesque mountain, with an elevation of 488 meters, is home to the Longchi Mountain Scenic Area and serves as a designated forest nature reserve. Spanning over 1,800 acres, Longchi Mountain boasts a remarkable average annual temperature of 15.7℃ and an awe-inspiring forest cover of 95%. It is renowned for its rich and diverse flora, earning it the monikers “Natural Plant Kingdom” and “Green Oxygen Oasis.”
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Longshi Mountain
- Vlog about Longchi Mountain
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in Yixing
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Half a day |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 16.00 |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0510-87345110 0086-0510-87348662 |
Location and Transportation
Longchi Mountain Scenic Area is situated in the Mingling Township, approximately 35 kilometers southwest of Yixing City in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province. This enchanting natural destination is part of Jiangsu Province’s designated forest nature reserve.
The most convenient way to reach Longchi Mountain is by taking bus 229. Once you disembark at Longchi Mountain Station, you’ll be just 1.9 kilometers away from the scenic area. Simply head south on foot from the bus stop, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the natural beauty of Longchi Mountain.
Highlights of Longshi Mountain
Botanical Transition
Longchi Mountain’s unique location on the northern fringe of the subtropical zone allows for a fascinating botanical transition. Here, you will encounter not only tropical plant species but also temperate ones typically found in northeastern and northern China, often leading to the formation of distinct subspecies. The mountain showcases a remarkable blend of evergreen and deciduous plants, defying traditional regional classifications.
Longchi Pond
One of the highlights of Longchi Mountain is its namesake, the Longchi Pond, situated at its summit. From this vantage point, visitors can revel in breathtaking views, including the shimmering sails of the vast Taihu Lake in the distance. Watching the sunrise from here is a spectacle that rivals even the famed Mount Tai in its grandeur.
Longchi Temple
Adding to the mountain’s allure is the presence of the Longchi Temple (龙池庵), also known as the Yumen Zen Temple. Established in the second year of the Song Dynasty’s Xianchun era (1266 AD), this temple has a rich history. During the Ming Dynasty, it was endowed with a collection of sacred texts, a statue of the Golden Guanyin, and a golden offering basket by Empress Dowager Ciren Taihou, while Emperor Chengzu of the Ming Dynasty presented a Qingbai porcelain bowl. These precious artifacts remain in the temple’s possession to this day. In the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty, it was renamed “Chengguang Temple.”
In ancient times, Chengguang Temple was divided into three levels: upper, middle, and lower, making it a prominent Buddhist complex in southern China. Legend has it that during their respective lifetimes, notable figures such as Tang Dynasty statesman Lu Xisheng, Zen master Jianzhen, and Qing Dynasty Emperor Qianlong spent extended periods in meditation at Chengguang Temple, leaving behind poems and records that continue to be celebrated and shared.
Vlog about Longchi Mountain
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Hiking Routes:
- Longchi Mountain Scenic Area offers two main hiking sections. The first section is relatively simple, with two routes leading to the temple. One route involves stairs (the shorter route), while the other is a mountain path.
- The second section involves a challenging mountain trail. Those planning to hike this segment should prepare adequately in advance.
Bicycle Park:
- Longchi Mountain has a bicycle park, and there is no separate entrance fee. However, if you wish to rent a bicycle, there is an additional fee. They offer regular bicycles, electric-assist bicycles, and electric scooters.
- Note: Women are advised not to wear skirts while renting bicycles, as they might be refused. Bicycles must be returned by 3:50 PM, so be mindful of the time.
Tea Plantation:
- The tea plantation is picturesque, especially in April when tea workers are harvesting tea leaves. It’s interesting to observe. The tea picking season lasts for around 20 days, typically ending by mid-April. If you plan to witness this activity, check the specific timing in April.
