Millennium Hidden Gem by National Highway 351: Listen to the Wind, Admire the Waterfalls, and Find Yourself at Longtan Ancient Temple
Here's a detailed travel guide for Longtan Ancient Temple located beside National Highway 351 in Pujiang County, Jinhua City, Zhejiang Province, combining local characteristics and practical information:
1. Introduction to Longtan Ancient Temple
📍Location: Beside National Highway 351 in Pujiang County, Jinhua City, Zhejiang (near Lengwu Village, Zhongyu Township).
Highlights:
📌Built during the Tang Dynasty, hidden in a valley surrounded by mountains with clear springs, renowned for its tranquility and ancient charm.
📌Features natural "Dragon Pool" waterfalls and crystal-clear streams, offering cool comfort in summer—an ideal place for spiritual cultivation.
📌Blends Buddhist culture with natural landscapes, perfect for prayers, hiking, and photography.
2. Transportation Guide
1. Self-drive (recommended):
🚘From Hangzhou: Hang-Jin-Qu Expressway → Pujiang exit → National Highway 351 toward Zhongyu Township, about 2 hours.
🚗From Jinhua: About 1.5-hour drive, navigate to "Pujiang Longtan Ancient Temple" (free parking available in front).
2. Public transport:
🚌Take a bus from Pujiang County to "Zhongyu Township," get off at Lengwu Village, then walk or take a taxi (about 2 km).
3. Key Attractions
1. Ancient Temple Complex:
🎯Main Hall, Guanyin Hall, etc., retain traditional architecture with towering ancient trees and incense smoke.
🎯Discover historical relics like Tang Dynasty wells and cliff carvings.
2. Longtan Waterfall:
🎯A 10-minute walk behind the temple, the 20-meter-high waterfall features emerald pools—safe for summer wading.
3. Hiking Trail:
🎯Follow the stream through bamboo forests and ancient bridges, suitable for light hiking (1-2 hours round trip).
4. Travel Tips
Best seasons:
🍃Spring-summer (Apr-Jun): Waterfalls at their fullest, lush greenery.
🍂Autumn (Oct-Nov): Vibrant foliage, ideal for photography.
⌛️Recommended duration: Half-day (extend to 1 day with nearby attractions).
🎫Admission: Free.
5. Precautions
1. Safety:
📌Slippery rocks near waterfalls; avoid crossing swift streams during rainy seasons.
2. Attire: Wear anti-slip shoes; bring mosquito repellent in summer.
3. Eco-friendly: No littering; protect the streams and forests.
4. Vegetarian meals: Occasionally available at the temple (call ahead: check local tourism bureau or temple notices).
6. Nearby Attractions
1. Lengwu Village:
📌A traditional Chinese ancient village with Ming-Qing architecture and farm stays.
2. Xianhua Mountain (30-min drive):
📌Famous for its peaks and sea of clouds, great for hikers.
3. Local cuisine:
🍜Pujiang wheat cakes, Mishai pasta, bamboo-leaf smoked ham.
7. Accommodation
🏨Pujiang County: More options (e.g., Pujiang New Century Hotel).
🏠Lengwu Village homestays: Experience mountain living (book in advance).
For specific routes or updates, check the "Pujiang Culture & Tourism" official account or local tourism bureau before your trip. Happy travels! 🌿