Longbeishan Forest Park (龙背山森林公园) lies in Xinjie Subdistrict, on the northern side of Yixing in Jiangsu province, China, and serves as the city's closest everyday hill walk. The park takes its name from a ridge whose outline resembles a dragon's back, and its wooded slopes rise gently above the surrounding urban fringe. Reaching the trailhead is simple: a taxi from central Yixing costs about CNY 20 to 25 (approx. $3 to $4 USD), and local city buses also run into Xinjie, followed by a short walk to the park entrance. Parking is generally available near the gate for visitors with a car, and no hiking permit is required. Routes within the park total roughly 3 to 5 km and take 1.5 to 2.5 hours at an unhurried pace, with an elevation gain of around 100 m. Technical difficulty is low, and the paths are well established. The surface is a mix of paved walkways, stone steps and compacted earth, with some sections becoming slippery after rain. Tree cover is substantial, so shade is common on the ascent, although the summit area and a few clearings are more open. Exposure to drops or cliffs is minimal. Landmarks include the forested ridge line, small pavilions used as rest points and viewpoints looking back across the Xinjie area and the surrounding farmland and lakes of the Taihu plain. A natural turn-around is the highest pavilion or viewpoint, after which most walkers descend by the same route or follow a loop path where one is signed. Drinking water is not reliably available on the hill, so visitors typically bring bottles from the city. There are no refuge huts, only pavilions that give brief cover from showers. The park is especially popular with local residents for early morning exercise.
| Distance | 3-5 km |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1.5-2.5 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Taxi about CNY 20-25 (approx. $3-4 USD) |
| Best season | Spring and autumn |
| Address | Longbeishan Forest Park, Xinjie Subdistrict, Yixing (宜兴市新街街道龙背山森林公园) |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Xinjie Subdistrict
What to bring
- Walking shoes
- Water
Location
Longbeishan Forest Park, Xinjie Subdistrict, Yixing (宜兴市新街街道龙背山森林公园)
31.3260, 119.8069 View on map
Highlights
- Wooded ridge walk named for its dragon-back outline
- Pavilions and viewpoints over Xinjie and the surrounding plain
- Short, gentle ascent of around 100 m
- Cheap and quick taxi ride from central Yixing
- Shaded paths that suit spring and autumn walks
Tips for visiting
- Bring water from the city, as supplies on the hill are limited
- Walk early in the morning when local residents exercise and the air is cooler
- Wear shoes with grip, since steps get slippery after rain
- Agree a return taxi in advance or use a ride-hailing app, as pickups on the hill are scarce
- Avoid the hill during heavy rain or thunderstorms
When to visit
Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures and clearest views. Early mornings are best in summer to avoid heat and humidity.
Accessibility
The park has paved sections near the entrance, but the ridge routes use steps and slopes, so wheelchair access to the viewpoints is limited. Strollers can manage the lower paved paths only.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the walk at Longbeishan Forest Park?
Routes total about 3 to 5 km and usually take 1.5 to 2.5 hours, including stops at the viewpoints.
How much does a taxi to the park cost?
A taxi from central Yixing costs about CNY 20 to 25. Ride-hailing apps are an alternative for the return trip.
Is the hike difficult?
No. The elevation gain is around 100 m on established paths and steps, which suits beginners and casual walkers.