A Must-Visit Spot for Photography — Longshan Scenic Area

Introduction and Travel Guide to Taiyuan Longshan Scenic Area
Overview
Taiyuan Longshan Scenic Area is located on the summit of Longshan Mountain, 20 kilometers southwest of Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province. It belongs to a branch of the Lüliang Mountains and is adjacent to scenic spots such as Jinci Temple, Tianlong Mountain, and Mengshan Giant Buddha. It is a tourist destination that combines natural scenery with cultural landscapes. The core of the scenic area is centered around "One Path, One Buddha, One Valley, Two Gorges" — "One Path" refers to the Longshan Grottoes, the largest and best-preserved pure Taoist grotto group in China; "One Buddha" is the Northern Qi Tongzi Temple Giant Buddha and the oldest stone lantern tower in China; "One Valley" is the Jinxiu Valley, covered with red leaves; "Two Gorges" are the Lilac Valley and Peach Blossom Valley, famous for spring flower viewing. Autumn (October) is the best time to visit, when the hills are covered with yellow smoke trees and red leaves, blending beautifully with pine and cypress, earning it the title of one of the "Eight Ancient Scenic Spots of Jinyang."
Recommended Core Attractions
Longshan Grottoes
Introduction: The largest existing pure Taoist grotto group in China, carved in the early Yuan Dynasty and led by Quanzhen Taoist priest Song Defang. It currently has 8 niches with over 40 statues, featuring themes such as the Three Pure Ones and the Seven Sons of Quanzhen. The carving style is simple and solemn, distinct from Buddhist grottoes, making it an important relic for studying Taoist art and history (National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit).
Tongzi Temple Ruins
Introduction: Built in the seventh year of the Northern Qi Tianbao era (556 AD), it now preserves the Northern Qi Buddhist pavilion ruins, cliff carvings, and the stone lantern tower. The stone lantern tower is a hexagonal stone structure over 1,400 years old, one of the oldest stone lantern towers in China, with high scientific and artistic value.
Haotian Temple
Introduction: Located in the center of the scenic area, it was the core of the Taoist architectural complex during the Yuan Dynasty. Existing structures include the bell tower, ancient trees, and renovated temples. The ancient tree branches under the steps are robust, making it a landmark cultural site on the mountain trail.
Jinxiu Valley
Introduction: The core area for red leaf viewing, dominated by yellow smoke trees. In autumn, the hills are covered in red leaves. Hiking along the winding mountain road offers a panoramic view of the colorful forest, making it a must-visit for photography enthusiasts.
Lilac Valley and Peach Blossom Valley
Introduction: Spring flower viewing hotspots. Lilacs bloom in April, and peach blossoms cover the valleys in March. The valleys are fragrant with flowers, and the trails are gentle, perfect for leisurely walks.
Practical Guide
Tickets: Peak season (April 1 - October 31) 20 RMB/person, off-season (November 1 - March 31) 15 RMB/person; half price for students and seniors over 60 with valid ID; free admission for children, disabled persons, active military personnel, etc.
Opening Hours: Summer 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Winter 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (currently November is winter hours).
Transportation:
By car: Navigate to "Longshan Scenic Area Parking Lot 1/2." The East Entrance (Parking Lot 1) requires climbing more steps; the West Entrance (Parking Lot 2) is less strenuous.
By bus: Take Bus 308 to "Horticulture School" stop, then walk 2 kilometers to the ticket office.
Travel Tips:
The full tour takes about 4 hours. It is recommended to wear sports shoes. The mountain trail is 1.1 kilometers long (over 1,200 steps), taking 20-30 minutes to reach the summit.
Smoking and pets are prohibited in the scenic area. Wild animals may appear in autumn (October to February), so please be cautious.
Nearby Food Recommendations
Jinyuan Food Street: Try sorghum flour kaolao (handmade hollow noodles dipped in sauce, chewy and flavorful).
Taiyuan City Old Brands: Guoyou Rou (crispy outside, tender inside, with a strong vinegar aroma), Sweet and Sour Meatballs (crispy outside, tender inside, with a balanced sweet and sour taste).
Special Snacks: Wantuo (made from buckwheat flour, served cold in summer and hot in winter, appetizing and refreshing).
Notes
The best time to enjoy the red leaves is mid to late October; early November still offers views of the remaining red leaves.
Some statue heads in the grottoes are damaged; please do not touch or climb during visits.
No food or drink sales inside the scenic area; it is recommended to bring water and snacks. There is a rest area near Haotian Temple at the summit.
Longshan Scenic Area combines a strong sense of history with natural wilderness. Whether exploring ancient sites or hiking to enjoy the views, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the cultural and natural beauty of Taiyuan’s mountains and waters.