A forested mountain range in southern Ningxia's Guyuan prefecture with hiking trails, waterfalls, and cool summer temperatures, historically significant as a Red Army rest stop during the Long March.
Liupanshan National Forest Park covers a forested mountain range in Jingyuan County, part of Guyuan prefecture in southern Ningxia, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and cool summer temperatures that stand in sharp contrast to the arid desert landscapes found elsewhere in the region. Beyond its scenery, the park holds historical significance as a rest stop for the Red Army during the Long March in 1935, and a memorial and related sites within the park commemorate that history alongside the natural attractions. Marked trails wind through pine and broadleaf forest past streams and small waterfalls, with several routes suited to a half-day hike and connecting viewpoints looking out over the surrounding ridgelines. The park's elevation and forest cover keep summer temperatures noticeably cooler than the Yinchuan plain, making it a popular warm-season escape for visitors from lower-lying parts of the region, while September brings a shift to autumn foliage color across the hillsides. A half-day visit is typical for covering one or two of the main trails and a stop at the Long March memorial sites; a full day allows for longer hiking routes deeper into the park. Hours and site access can be reduced or partially closed in winter, so it is worth confirming conditions before planning a visit outside the main April-to-October season.
| Admission | Adult ¥60 (approx $9) · Child Discounted for students and seniors |
|---|---|
| Hours | 8:00AM-6:00PM in peak season; hours reduced or site partially closed in winter, verify before visiting |
| Typical visit | Half day |
| Best time | June-August for cool green hiking; September for autumn colors |
| Getting there | About 60km southeast of Guyuan city center; taxi or tour vehicle |
| Address | Liupanshan National Forest Park, Jingyuan County, Guyuan, Ningxia, China |
Location
Liupanshan National Forest Park, Jingyuan County, Guyuan, Ningxia, China
35.7156, 106.2197 View on map
Highlights
- Forested hiking trails with streams and small waterfalls
- Cool summer temperatures relative to the surrounding Ningxia desert plains
- Red Army Long March memorial sites within the park
- Autumn foliage across the mountain hillsides in September
Tips for visiting
- Verify current hours before visiting in winter, when the site may be partially closed
- Visit June through August for the coolest hiking temperatures relative to the rest of Ningxia
- Wear proper hiking shoes for the forest trails, which include uneven and sloped sections
- Consider a September visit for autumn foliage if hiking is a lower priority than scenery
When to visit
June through August offers the coolest hiking weather relative to the rest of Ningxia; September brings autumn foliage across the hillsides.
Accessibility
Most trails involve uneven, sloped forest terrain that is not wheelchair accessible; some memorial and visitor areas near the entrance are more level.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Liupanshan take?
A half day covers one or two of the main trails and the memorial sites; a full day allows for longer hikes.
Is Liupanshan worth visiting with kids?
Families with children who enjoy hiking generally do well here, though trail difficulty varies and some routes are more suited to older children.
Is photography allowed in the park?
Yes, photography is allowed throughout the trails and memorial sites.