01Nature Escape
Dongjiang Lake Scenic Area
东江湖旅游区
All Ages
Admission
Ticketed scenic area; mist-viewing and lake-cruise cave routes are priced separately.
Typical Visit
Half day to full day
Quick Facts
Ticket
Included in applicable Dongjiang Lake Scenic Area route tickets; there is no separate standalone city access ticket.
Hours
Plan for daytime after the Xiaodongjiang morning mist; scenic transport follows Dongjiang Lake route schedules.
Transport
No metro. Enter through Dongjiang Lake Visitor Center and take scenic-area transport to the canyon entrance.
Duration
30-60 minutes for the short loop; longer if climbing the extended route
Best Time
Warm months and after periods with better water flow
Visitors
All ages
How to Visit
1
Take scenic-area transport to the canyon entrance
Travel from Dongjiang Lake Visitor Center to the canyon entrance. It usually fits well after the Xiaodongjiang morning mist.
Tip:The canyon is a practical follow-up because it uses the same scenic-area transport system.
2
Choose the short loop first
The short loop is relatively brief, and the waterfalls, pools, and stream views are concentrated along this section.
Tip:Most visitors get the best balance of scenery and effort from the short loop.
3
Treat the long loop as optional
Only consider the longer loop if you have strong legs and are willing to climb steps. If you mainly want scenery, the short loop saves time.
Tip:The longer route can feel more like stair climbing than relaxed sightseeing.
4
Slow down at the waterfalls and pools
Pause at the main waterfalls and pools for photos, then return to the transport point via the floating bridge or exit route.
Tip:This keeps the visit focused on the canyon's strongest scenery without adding unnecessary walking.
5
Protect the rest of your Dongjiang Lake schedule
If you still plan to take a boat or visit Doushuai Lingyan the same day, control your time in the canyon so the afternoon route is not squeezed.
Tip:Longjing Canyon is easy to enjoy as a compact stop, but it can take over the day if you extend the walk.
Highlights
- The short loop connects the most concentrated waterfalls and pools, so you can see the key scenery in a short time.
- The canyon is humid and cool, making it pleasant for a slow summer walk.
- Longjing's waterfall group is the core attraction, especially when the water level is good.
- Yuanyang Waterfall and the floating bridge are easy short stops without requiring a hard hike.
- For families, this is easier to fit into the day than a long climbing route.
Insider Tips
✦Stone steps and waterside sections may be slippery, so non-slip flat shoes are important.
✦In dry periods, some waterfalls may have much less water, so keep expectations realistic.
✦Supplies inside the canyon are limited. Carrying a bottle of water is a good idea.
✦The second half of the long loop feels more like stair climbing. Avoid forcing it with older travelers, children, or a tight schedule.
✦Morning is quieter and cooler, making the canyon a natural follow-up after mist viewing.
More Chenzhou Attractions
02City Guide
Xiaodongjiang
小东江
All Ages
Admission
Ticket required through Dongjiang Lake Scenic Area route tickets.
Typical Visit
2-3 hours
03City Guide
Xiaodongjiang Fog Viewing Platform
小东江观雾台
All Ages
Admission
Ticket required through Dongjiang Lake Scenic Area route tickets; mist-focused routes may be enough if you skip longer lake projects.
Typical Visit
1.5-3 hours
04City Guide
Doushuai Lingyan
兜率灵岩
All Ages
Admission
Requires a Dongjiang Lake route ticket that includes the boat and cave visit.
Typical Visit
1.5-2 hours on the island, plus boat and transfer time
05City Guide
Bailang Scenic Area
白廊景区
All Ages
Admission
Free entry to the lakeside area; boats, island visits, and some photo projects may charge separately.
Typical Visit
2-4 hours; longer with a lakeside stay
06City Guide
Gaoyiling Scenic Area
高椅岭旅游区
Adults Focused
Admission
Ticketed scenic area; online booking is recommended, and concession tickets may be available.
Typical Visit
3-4 hours for the main walking route