Longtan Grand Canyon (Longtan Daxiagu) is a national AAAAA-rated gorge in Xin'an County, Luoyang, Henan Province, China, and the core scenic area of the Wangwushan–Daimeishan UNESCO Global Geopark. Its U-shaped canyon runs about 12 km, lined with purplish-red quartz sandstone cliffs formed roughly 1.2 billion years ago; the narrowest sections are only 1–3 m wide while depths reach 100–300 m. Cascading waterfalls, emerald pools, and quirky geological phenomena such as 'water flowing uphill' have earned it a reputation as one of China's finest canyons.
A red-rock gorge of 1.2-billion-year-old purplish-red quartz sandstone cliffs running some 12 km
Plank-walkway (zhandao) trekking between cliffs where the canyon narrows to 1–3 m with 100–300 m depths
A water route of stacked waterfalls and emerald pools, including the Five Dragon Pool (Wulongtan)
'Six natural mysteries' geological sights such as 'water flowing uphill' and the 'stone book of heaven'
Popular summer retreat, 3–6°C cooler inside the canyon; the only Henan site on CNN's '40 Beautiful Places in China'
Good to know
SafetyThe canyon lies in a flash-flood-prone area, so heavy rain is dangerous. It is periodically closed and only reopens after safety inspections, so before visiting confirm whether it is open that day, check weather alerts, and postpone if rain is forecast.
SafetyThere are many narrow cliff-mounted plank walkways (zhandao) and wet rock sections where slips are a real risk. Hold the handrail (usually on the left), and don't run or lean out over the railing.
SeasonInside the canyon it is humid and cool. Even in summer bring a light jacket and long trousers, and wear grippy sneakers or hiking shoes. Some sections invite wading, so a change of clothes and waterproofing for valuables are handy.
RulesTicket prices, opening hours, and free/discount categories (children, seniors, military, students, etc.) differ by peak (Apr–Oct) vs off-season and change often, so confirm via official channels right before you go. A full visit typically takes 3–5 hours over a roughly 7 km trail, so entering in the morning is best.
CautionWatch for overpricing at parking lots, restaurants, souvenir stalls, and water-play gear near the entrance. Check prices in advance, and pay add-ons like shuttle buses or boat rides at the official ticket office at posted rates.
Practical info
About 60–70 km north of Luoyang city. Reach it by direct shuttle (morning departures) from Luoyang railway/bus stations, by bus via Xin'an County, or self-drive via the Lianhuo Expressway Xin'an exit onto S246 (roughly 1 hour). Full visit 3–5 hours over about 7 km on foot. Verify current fees and hours before you go.
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