The Great Wall of the South: Jinlong Great Wall and the Dragon of Luodai

The "Dragon" of Chengdu's Backyard

1.Located within the Jinlong Lake Scenic: Area in Luodai Town, Longquanyi District, approximately 28 kilometers from downtown Chengdu, the Jinlong Great Wall (also known as Luodai Great Wall) offers a unique blend of hiking, history, and nature. Unlike the ancient defensive walls of northern China, this structure is a modern architectural marvel built between 2000 and 2002. Originally constructed as a protective barrier for the Jinlong Lake reservoir, it was later transformed into a scenic attraction, earning the title of the largest imitation Great Wall in China. Spanning a length of 1,680 meters, with a height of 4 meters and a width of 3 meters, the wall winds along the ridge of Jiuyuan Mountain (or Baimao Mountain) like a giant dragon. With its five majestic beacon towers and grey brick facade, it provides a visually striking experience that combines the grandeur of ancient architecture with the lush greenery of the Sichuan basin.

A Challenge for the "Hero"

2.The ascent of the Jinlong Great: Wall is a popular fitness challenge for locals and tourists alike. The path is paved with green bricks and stone strips, featuring steep slopes and winding turns that test the endurance of climbers. The journey from the entrance archway to the summit typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Along the way, visitors pass through beacon towers that serve as resting points and viewing platforms. From these vantage points, one can gaze upon the rolling green hills and the shimmering Jinlong Lake below. The climb culminates at the "Good Man Square" (Hao Han Guang Chang) at the top, a reference to the famous saying "He who does not reach the Great Wall is not a true man." Here, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Chengdu plain and the satisfaction of conquering the "Great Wall of the South".

One Temple, One Lake, One Wall

The scenic area is defined by the unique combination of "One Temple, One Lake, and One Wall." At the foot of the wall lies Jinlong Lake, a serene reservoir with a capacity of 1.2 million cubic meters. Surrounded by flowers and fruit trees, the lake is perfect for boating and relaxing, reflecting the winding wall and the sky above. At the summit sits the historic Jinlong Temple (Golden Dragon Temple). With a history dating back to the Han Dynasty, this Buddhist temple is a spiritual anchor for the area, attracting pilgrims who come to pray for peace and safety. The temple grounds feature ancient statues and the legendary "Dragon Eye Well," adding a layer of historical depth to the modern wall.

Modern Fun meets Hakka Culture

Beyond hiking and history, Jinlong Great Wall has evolved into a hub for outdoor leisure. The area now features exciting modern attractions such as a jungle coaster, a dry slide for a quick descent, and a "Rainbow Slide." For those seeking a closer connection to nature, the Beacon Fire Campsite offers camping opportunities to watch the starry sky at night. The attraction is also deeply connected to the nearby Luodai Ancient Town, known as the "No. 1 Hakka Town in the West." The dragon culture here is vibrant, with the wall symbolizing a soaring dragon and local festivals often featuring the spectacular "Liu Family Dragon Dance." Whether you are looking to test your physical limits, explore Buddhist heritage, or enjoy a family weekend outing, Jinlong Great Wall offers a diverse and energetic escape just outside Chengdu.