Why go south of the Yangtze River when you can discover Longnan?

Hidden among the mountains of Dangchang County, Longnan, Gansu Province, lies a secret realm known as "Little Jiuzhaigou"—Guangegou. Here, you'll find no bustling crowds, only the tranquility of primeval forests, the dynamism of turquoise waterfalls, and the magnificence of snow-capped mountains and canyons. Stepping into Guangegou is like stepping into a flowing landscape painting, where every scene speaks to the wonders of nature. A Symphony of Canyons and Waterfalls The beauty of Guangegou first stems from its water. As you walk along the valley, crystal-clear streams sometimes rush and sometimes flow gently, shimmering like emeralds in the sunlight. Dozens of waterfalls of varying sizes are scattered throughout the valley, some cascading like silver chains, others splashing like pearls. The most spectacular of these is Guange Tian Waterfall. Water plunges down from a cliff hundreds of meters high, its roar echoing through the valley, and the mist creates a scene reminiscent of a fairyland. The canyon walls on both sides rise steeply, with layers of rock recording traces of hundreds of millions of years of geological changes. Near the Luren Tibetan Village, the reddish-brown Danxia landforms contrast sharply with the verdant forests, resembling a natural oil painting from afar. A Feast of Colors Through the Seasons Each season in Guangegou offers a unique charm. In spring, the mountains are ablaze with colorful flowers, azaleas and wild apricots bloom, dotting the tender green forests. In summer, it becomes a haven from the heat, with dense forests, cool streams, and the air filled with the fragrance of pine. In autumn, the forests turn vibrant shades of red and yellow, reflecting in the clear waters, like an overturned artist's palette. In winter, the waterfalls freeze into ice, the snow-capped mountains stand majestically, and the entire valley is covered in silver, serene and holy. A Touch of Tibetan and Qiang Culture Guangegou is not only a natural paradise but also a cultural treasure. Tibetan and Qiang villages are scattered throughout the valley. Rustic wooden houses, fluttering prayer flags, and melodious mountain songs add a unique charm to this landscape. In Luren Tibetan Village, you can savor authentic Tibetan cuisine, such as butter tea, tsampa, and yak meat, and experience the rich folk culture. A Hiker's Paradise The essence of Guangegou lies in exploring it on foot. Walk along the wooden plank road, through primeval forests, and across streams, encountering different scenery with every step. If your stamina allows, you can hike all the way to the foot of Leigu Snow Mountain, where snow accumulates year-round and clouds and mist swirl, resembling a mythical sacred mountain. Guangegou is like a fairy hidden deep in the mountains, unadorned yet breathtakingly beautiful. It remains largely undeveloped, preserving its pristine natural beauty. Here, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city, listen to the mountain winds, flowing water, and birdsong, and experience the purest gifts of nature.