Things To Do
in Longshan
Longshan is a hillside town on the edge of Guizhou’s rugged karst country. Its streets weave between traditional houses, modern cafes, and lively markets that spill onto scenic lanes. Visitors come for bold Guizhou flavors, riverfront views, and quick access to nearby nature.
The pace is relaxed, but the culture runs deep in every corner you explore.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Longshan Temple, where the intricate architecture and vibrant atmosphere set the tone for your exploration. Join the locals in morning prayers, and take time to appreciate the delicate carvings and statues within the temple's walls. As the sun rises, the surrounding streets come alive with the scent of incense and offerings being prepared.
Stroll through the nearby historic district, where traditional buildings house quaint shops and local eateries. Stop for lunch at a family-run restaurant, sampling authentic Taiwanese beef noodle soup or dumplings. Afterward, visit the National Museum of Taiwan Literature to delve into the rich literary history of the region.
As night falls, explore Huaxi Street Night Market, known for its vibrant street food scene. Try various local delicacies, from stinky tofu to bubble tea, while mingling with locals and fellow travelers. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the river, soaking in the illuminated skyline.
Start your day with an invigorating hike up the nearby Elephant Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of Longshan and the surrounding area. As you ascend, take moments to pause and capture photos of the lush forest and distant city skyline. The morning sun casts a golden glow over the landscape, making the experience even more magical.
After descending, enjoy a picnic lunch at Taipei 101's observatory park, where the views continue to amaze. Spend some time exploring the surrounding area, visiting boutiques, and perhaps indulging in a little shopping. Don't forget to try the famous pineapple cake from a local pastry shop.
Return to the city center for dinner at a rooftop restaurant, where you can savor gourmet Taiwanese cuisine while enjoying stunning panoramic views. As the sun sets, the city lights begin to twinkle, creating a romantic atmosphere. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets, taking in the nightlife and vibrant energy.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🧃Soft drink or bottled water | $1-2 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket | $0.50-1 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-70 |
| 🎟️Museum admission | $3-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant, affordable food scene
- Close access to Interesting nature and karst scenery
- Friendly locals and easy-to-navigate streets
- Language barrier in rural areas
- Humidity and heat in summer
- Some attractions may have limited English signage
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪儿？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡吗？" - Can you swipe card?
Places to Visit in Longshan
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic city views with surrounding karst hills; best at sunrise or sunset.
Reflections, boats, and ambient lights along the riverbank; great for golden-hour shots.
Textured walls, lanterns, and narrow lanes ideal for moody street photography.
Soft morning light on temple gates and courtyards for serene compositions.
Food in Longshan
Longshan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sour fish soup made with tomato or local sour ingredients, bright, tangy, and deeply flavorful.
Must-Try!
Crispy chicken tossed with dried chilies and Sichuan-style spices for a fiery, fragrant dish.
Guizhou-style beef noodles from the Huaxi region, rich broth, tender beef, and chewy noodles.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling night market offering sour soup fish, dumplings, grilled skewers, and regional snacks.
Street stalls along a busy road serving smoky grilled meats, pickled vegetables, and river fish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show respect to elders, greet with a smile, and avoid loud behavior in quiet streets and religious sites.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or intimate ceremonies.
Dress modestly, remove hats, and follow local rules when entering temples or shrines.
Safety
Tipping in Longshan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not commonly expected in casual eateries; in higher-end places a small tip is appreciated if service is good.
Cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely used; many venues also accept cards in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures with blooming flowers; bring a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
Warm and humid with frequent showers; stay hydrated, seek shade, and carry a compact umbrella.
Mild and dry with clear skies; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Cool to mild; evenings can be chilly; layer clothing and enjoy cozy indoor comforts.
Longshan at Night
Hiking in Longshan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day trip area with scenic viewpoints and forested trails; longer drives from the city center but accessible by tour or self-drive.
Airports
How to reach Longshan by plane.
Main international airport serving Guiyang; roughly 25-30 km from city center; accessible by taxis, airport shuttles, and public transit.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Growing middle class with rising interest in travel, cafes, and weekend getaways.
Nearby universities bring student activity and affordable dining options; a youthful vibe in the city.
Residents who value markets, temples, and riverside leisure.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and community centers; local courts are common in urban neighborhoods.
Widely played in clubs and parks; courts can be found in community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Longshan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Guizhou dishes rely on meat; ask for 素菜 (vegetarian dishes) or 菜盘 (vegetable platters). Look for 豆制品 (tofu/bean products) and fresh vegetables; some sour soups can be made without fish stock.