Location & Access

Longtan Waterfall, also called Jade Dragon Falls, sits in the heart of Laoshan Scenic Area in Qingdao, Shandong Province. It’s tucked along the upper Ba Shui River, just 1 kilometer north of the historic Taoist temple Shangqing Palace. To reach it, visitors can take a taxi or bus to Shi Jian Martyr’s Statue within Laoshan, then hike along a scenic trail that winds through forests and streams. The waterfall’s GPS coordinates make it easy to pin on maps, and its proximity to major attractions means it’s a perfect day-trip stop.

Natural Wonders: The Waterfall

Longtan Waterfall is a showstopper. Fed by mountain streams from Tiancha Ding (Heavenly Tea Peak) and Beitianmen (North Heaven Gate), water rushes down a 30-meter cliff, roaring like a white dragon. The waterfall’s unique shape—straight at the top, then twisting mid-air—creates a mist that earns it the nickname “Dragon Pool’s Misty Rain.” This is one of Laoshan’s Twelve Famous Scenes, and the splashing water sends rainbows dancing on sunny days. Surrounded by jagged peaks and emerald pines, the setting feels straight out of a fantasy movie.

Cultural Touches: Art & History

Beyond nature, Longtan Waterfall has cultural flair. Above the falls, the cliffside bears two giant calligraphy characters—“龙吟” (Dragon’s Roar)—carved in 1981 by famous artist Huang Miaozi. These bold, 1-meter-wide letters draw crowds for photos. Below, a flat-topped rock offers the perfect picnic spot. Sit here, and you’re eye-level with the waterfall’s plunge into Dragon Pool, a crystal-clear basin surrounded by moss-covered stones. Local legends say the pool’s name reflects the waterfall’s dragon-like energy—fierce yet beautiful.

Hiking & Relaxation

The area around Longtan Waterfall is made for explorers. Trails lead to viewpoints where you can snap photos of the waterfall framed by towering peaks. For a deeper adventure, hike upstream to see where the Ba Shui River begins, or follow signs to nearby Beijiu Waterfall for more dramatic scenery. Afterward, relax on the giant rock by Dragon Pool—it’s a favorite spot for travelers to soak in the mist while listening to the waterfall’s roar.

Practical Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and lush greenery. Summer brings heavier crowds but cooler temperatures near the waterfall.
  • What to Bring: Sturdy shoes for hiking, a waterproof jacket (the mist gets you wet!), and a camera.
  • Food & Restrooms: Small stalls near the entrance sell snacks and drinks, and there’s a public restroom by the parking lot.

A Must-See Experience

Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture buff, or just someone who craves epic views, Longtan Waterfall delivers. The combination of thundering water, misty rainbows, and ancient calligraphy makes it a bucket-list spot. Don’t forget to bring cash for souvenirs—local artisans sell handcrafted dragon-themed jewelry and paintings inspired by the falls. Come early to avoid the midday crowds, and stay late to watch the sunset paint the cliffs in gold. Trust me, this is one waterfall you’ll never forget!