The Longtan River Scenic Area (龙潭河风景区), encompassing the Longtan River and the Tiger Leopard Gorge, is a picturesque destination located in the vicinity of Shiyan City. Stretching 20 kilometers from east to west and 12 kilometers from north to south, it stands as one of the few areas around Shiyan offering stunning waterfalls, scenic views, and a retreat from the summer heat. The main attractions within the scenic area include One-Line Sky, Undersea Dragon Palace, Gongye Ancient Residence, Dragon King Temple, Dragon Head Incense, Chuanlong Cave, Longquan Eye, and Peacock Waterfall.
Longtan River boasts numerous waterfalls, with all water sources originating from a stone cave on the steep cliffs known as the “Dragon Eye.” Legend has it that, regardless of the season, the water never dries up. Looking down from the “Dragon Eye,” the entire Longtan River Scenic Area unfolds as a verdant world with towering mountains, enticing valleys, cascading waterfalls, swift-flowing rivers, hanging stalactites, and rugged pathways.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Half a day |
| Ticket Price | 42 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 18.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0719-6316888 |
Location and Transportation
The Longtan River Scenic Area is situated in Yangwei Town, Yunxi County, Shiyan City, Hubei Province, China. It is approximately 50 kilometers east of Yunxi County’s urban center, 16 kilometers west of the city center of Baima County in Shaanxi Province, and it borders the Han River to the south.
To reach the Longtan Scenic Area, start by taking a long-distance bus from the Sanyan Bus Station in Shiyan City to Yunxi Bus Station. Upon arriving at Yunxi Bus Station, transfer to another long-distance bus heading to Yangwei Town. The transportation cost per person for this journey is generally within 100 yuan.
Folklore Tale about Longtan River
The name “Longtan River” traces back to a folklore tale. It is said that the Dragon King of the Western Sea, in charge of heavenly rainfall, once had a bet with Tan Banxian, a fortune-teller residing in Yangwei. To win the bet, the Dragon King secretly altered the Heavenly Emperor’s decree for rain in the mortal realm. Although successful in defeating Tan Banxian, the Dragon King violated celestial rules. To evade punishment from the Heavenly Emperor, the Dragon King sought refuge in the Longtan River with the protection of Tan Banxian, eluding the pursuit of heavenly forces. In gratitude for Tan Banxian’s assistance, the Dragon King used his magical powers in the area, bringing abundant rain and blessings to the people. The region flourished with favorable weather, ensuring bountiful harvests.
In appreciation for the Dragon King’s help, locals constructed the Dragon King Temple at the site, where incense is offered year-round. The Dragon King, pleased with the people’s devotion, embellished his sanctuary, creating the captivating landscape known today as the “Longtan River.”
