Jinlong (Golden Dragon) Great Wall in Longquanyi District, Chengdu

The Jinlong Great Wall, also known as the Golden Dragon Great Wall, is located in the Longquanyi District of Chengdu, Sichuan Province. It’s a scenic spot that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, resembling the more famous Great Wall of China but on a smaller scale.

Key Information:

  • Location: Longquanyi District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
  • Distance from Chengdu: Approximately 35 kilometers east of downtown Chengdu.
  • Nearby Attractions: Luodai Ancient Town, known for its rich Hakka culture, is located nearby and often visited together with the Jinlong Great Wall.

About the Jinlong Great Wall:

The Jinlong Great Wall is a reconstructed wall built to resemble the iconic Great Wall of China, winding across the ridges of the local hills. The wall is not as extensive as the original Great Wall, but it offers a peaceful hiking experience with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and the city of Chengdu in the distance.

Highlights:

  • Hiking: The Jinlong Great Wall offers a moderately challenging hike, with a combination of steep and flat sections. The entire walk along the wall can take around 2 to 2.5 hours.
  • Scenery: Enjoy panoramic views of the lush countryside, especially during spring and autumn when the landscape is particularly vibrant.
  • Historical Replica: Though not an ancient structure, the Jinlong Great Wall provides insight into China’s cultural heritage and architectural ingenuity.

Getting There:

  • By Car: The most convenient way to reach the Jinlong Great Wall is by private car or taxi. The drive from downtown Chengdu to the wall takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
  • Public Transport: You can take a bus or metro from Chengdu to Longquanyi District, then transfer to a local taxi to reach the wall. However, this option might take longer and involve more logistical planning.

What to Expect:

  • Admission Fee: There may be a small entrance fee to access the Jinlong Great Wall.
  • Facilities: Basic amenities such as restrooms and small shops are available at the entrance or nearby.
  • Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is in the spring or autumn, when the weather is pleasant for hiking and the natural surroundings are most beautiful.

Recommended Itinerary:

  • Morning: Depart from Chengdu and head to Luodai Ancient Town. Spend a couple of hours exploring the town’s Hakka culture, historical buildings, and local shops.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Hakka meal in Luodai.
  • Afternoon: Drive to the Jinlong Great Wall for an afternoon hike. After hiking and taking in the views, return to Chengdu by late afternoon.

The Jinlong Great Wall offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience for those interested in history, hiking, and the natural beauty of the Sichuan region.

1-Day Luodai Ancient Town & Golden Dragon Great Wall Hiking Tour Itinerary

Day 01: Luodai Ancient Town and Golden Dragon Great Wall Hiking

Morning:

  1. Hotel Pickup (8:00 AM):
    • Your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel lobby in Chengdu. Begin your journey to Luodai Ancient Town, located about 20 kilometers to the east of Chengdu.
  2. Arrive at Luodai Ancient Town (8:45 AM):
    • Explore Luodai Ancient Town, a historical Hakka settlement with roots dating back to the 1600s. Over 85% of the town’s residents are descendants of Hakka immigrants from Guangdong, Jiangxi, and Hubei.
    • Wander through the well-preserved old streets, and admire the ancient architecture, Hakka guildhalls, and cultural relics from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
    • Visit the Golden Dragon Temple, an important religious site in the town.
  3. Hakka Lunch (12:00 PM):
    • Enjoy traditional Hakka snacks and dishes at a local restaurant in Luodai, experiencing the unique flavors of the region.

Afternoon:

  1. Drive to Golden Dragon Great Wall (1:00 PM):
    • After lunch, embark on a short drive to the Golden Dragon Great Wall, a hidden gem nestled in the countryside near Luodai.
  2. Hiking the Golden Dragon Great Wall (1:30 PM – 4:00 PM):
    • Begin your hike along the Golden Dragon Great Wall. This section of the wall is known for its picturesque scenery, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The hike is moderately challenging and takes about 2-2.5 hours.
    • Take in the fresh air and enjoy the tranquility of this lesser-known Great Wall, away from the crowds.

Late Afternoon:

  1. Return to Chengdu (4:00 PM):
    • After descending from the Great Wall, your guide and driver will take you back to Chengdu.
  2. Arrive Back in Chengdu (5:00 PM – 5:30 PM):
    • You will be dropped off at your hotel or another preferred location in Chengdu, marking the end of your day tour.

Tour Highlights:

  • Cultural Immersion: Explore the rich history and culture of the Hakka people in Luodai Ancient Town.
  • Historical Architecture: Visit ancient guildhalls, temples, and well-preserved Ming & Qing dynasty buildings.
  • Hiking Adventure: Enjoy a scenic hike along the Golden Dragon Great Wall, offering beautiful countryside views.
  • Local Cuisine: Savor authentic Hakka snacks and dishes during your lunch in Luodai.

Tour Inclusions:

  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Private transportation
  • Entrance fees to Luodai Ancient Town and Golden Dragon Great Wall
  • Lunch featuring Hakka cuisine
  • Bottled water
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

What to Bring:

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
  • Camera or smartphone for photos
  • Personal snacks if needed during the hike

This day tour provides a perfect blend of cultural exploration and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal way to experience the historical and natural beauty near Chengdu.