Stone Bear Leaping Cliff is nestled in Longqing Gorge Scenic Area, Gucheng Village, Yanqing District, Beijing—a 90-minute drive northwest of downtown. The area sits along the Conceptual River (Ji’an River), surrounded by steep cliffs and lush forests. To get there, you can:
- Drive via G6 Beifenghe Expressway, exit at Yanqing, then follow signs to Longqing Gorge (parking available).
- Public transport: Take bus 919 from De胜men to Yanqing, then transfer to a local shuttle for Longqing Gorge.
- Train: A scenic bullet train from Beijing North Station to Yanqing Haoyuan Station (~35 minutes), followed by a short taxi ride.
Natural Wonders
The heart of Stone Bear Leaping Cliff lies in its dramatic landscapes. This iconic rock formation looks like a giant bear leaping off a cliff, created by millions of years of wind and water erosion. Nearby, you’ll find other jaw-dropping sights:
- Zhenshan Buddha: A towering rock shaped like a seated Buddha, guarding the gorge.
- General’s Rock: A pillar resembling an ancient warrior in armor.
- Nine-Linked Caves: A series of natural tunnels carved into the cliffside.
- Horse’s Hoof Pool: A crystal-clear pond传说 shaped by a divine horse’s step. The best time to visit is autumn (red leaves) or winter (ice waterfalls)!
Cultural Highlights
Beyond nature, Stone Bear Leaping Cliff offers a glimpse into local history:
- Ruins of Jingang Temple: An ancient Buddhist site dating back to the Tang Dynasty, now a peaceful spot for meditation.
- Jigong Mountain: Named after a legendary monk, this peak holds hidden caves and old carvings.
- Frontier Fortress Vibes: The rugged terrain once served as a northern defense wall, giving the area a wild, untamed charm.
Practical Tips
- Facilities: The scenic area has clean restrooms, snack stands, and souvenir shops. Rent a bike or take a boat tour along the river for a relaxed experience.
- Hiking: Trails range from easy paved paths to steep climbs—wear comfy shoes!
- Photo Ops: Sunrise/sunset casts golden light on the cliffs. Use a zoom lens to capture details of rock formations.
- Tickets: Around ¥100-¥150, cheaper off-season. Check weather—foggy days add mystery but limit views.
Why Visit?
Stone Bear Leaping Cliff is perfect for anyone craving adventure away from city crowds. Families love the boat rides and kid-friendly trails, while photographers and hikers will find endless inspiration. Pro tip: Combine it with a visit to nearby Sihaiwa Pass (Great Wall) for a full northern Beijing adventure!