Longgang Waterfall龙岗瀑布
Longgang Waterfall, in Nanao Sub-district of Shenzhen's Longgang District, is one of the best-preserved natural waterfalls in the city's east. Its stream rises in the primeval forest of Qiniang Mountain and plunges from a cliff tens of metres high into a deep pool below, trailing mist through old-growth trees and clean mountain air. Free to enter, it is one of the finest natural escapes and oxygen-rich outings around Shenzhen.
Shenzhen · Visitor Guide2026-10-18
Quick Answer
Is Longgang Waterfall worth visiting?
A natural waterfall in eastern Shenzhen, about 30-40 m high and fed by Qiniang Mountain. Free and open all day, fullest June-September; allow 2-4 hours via bus E11 and M232.
Quick facts
| Ticket | Free admission |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Recommended duration | Allow 2-4 hours |
| Best time to visit | Summer (June-September), when the flow is fullest and the falls most spectacular; also good after rain |
| How to get there | Bus E11 to Nanao Sub-district Office, then M232 to Longgang Waterfall stop; driving or a chartered car is recommended |
| English signage | No |
| Wheelchair accessible | No |
| Height | About 30-40 m |
| Location | Nanao Sub-district, Longgang District |
| Type | Natural waterfall |
| Water source | Qiniang Mountain |
| Admission | Free |
What to expect
Longgang Waterfall lies at the foot of Qiniang Mountain in Nanao Sub-district, Longgang District, Shenzhen — among the best-preserved natural waterfalls in the city's east. Its stream rises in Qiniang Mountain's primeval forest and drops from a cliff tens of metres high, a curtain of water into a dark pool below, wreathed in spray. The surrounding ecosystem is intact: towering old trees, tangled vines, birdsong and air thick with negative ions. Trails lead to vantage points above and below the falls for different views. In the wet season the waterfall thunders; in the dry months it narrows to a quieter, more secluded charm.
At 869 m, Qiniang Mountain is Shenzhen's second-highest peak and the heart of an important nature reserve, its large tracts of secondary forest rich in biodiversity — a favourite with the city's outdoors crowd. Longgang Waterfall is a key waypoint on the Qiniang Mountain hiking routes, usually combined with the main-peak science trail. From the waterfall trailhead, a 2 km climb along the stream reaches Longyan Ancient Temple, and beyond it the summit of Qiniang Mountain — one of Shenzhen's classic hikes through wild, photogenic country.
Wear hiking shoes or grippy trainers; some sections are steep and slippery. Carry plenty of water and snacks. In summer, mind the sun and the mosquitoes. The falls are fullest in the rainy season — especially around typhoons — but flash floods and landslides are a real risk then. From central Shenzhen, drive or charter a car (1.5-2 hours). Pair the trip with the Dongchong and Xichong beaches nearby for a sea-plus- waterfall day.
How to get there
Bus E11 from Shenzhen to Nanao Sub-district Office, transfer to M232 and alight at Longgang Waterfall, then about a 20-minute walk. By car from central Shenzhen, navigate to Longgang Waterfall — via the Yanba Expressway to the Kuiyong exit and on through Nanao, about 1.5 hours.
Best photo spots
- Directly beneath the falls, with the water curtain behind
- The top of the falls, looking down into the pool
- The stream-side boardwalk
- The Qiniang Mountain hiking trail
- The primeval forest around the falls
Tips
- Summer brings the fullest flow — the best season to visit
- Wear non-slip shoes; parts of the trail stay wet
- Bring enough water — there are no supply points nearby
- Combine with the Dongchong and Xichong beaches
- Take care in the rainy season; avoid going right after heavy rain
Scams to avoid
- No notable scams
Frequently asked questions
Does Longgang Waterfall charge admission?
No — entry is free.
How does the waterfall relate to Qiniang Mountain?
The falls sit at the foot of Qiniang Mountain and are a highlight of its hiking routes; the two are usually visited together.
Can you swim there?
There is a deep pool below the falls, but swimming is not advised — the water is deep and the bottom conditions unknown.
Can you drive there?
There is a parking area, but spaces are limited — arrive early. Expect congestion on holidays.
Read next
Other things to do in Shenzhen
Dameisha Beach Park
Shenzhen's most famous beach: about 1,800 m of sand, free to enter, with parking reservations required in peak season. Metro Line 8 to Dameisha Station Exit A. Allow 3-6 hours; best June to September.
Happy Valley Shenzhen
Shenzhen's best-known amusement park, home of the Snow Dragon coaster — once Asia's longest — across 10 themed zones. Tickets about CNY 230; a hit with families and young travelers.
Meilin Temple
One of Shenzhen's oldest temples, founded in the Tang dynasty over 1300 years ago; free entry 08:00-18:00, about 15 minutes on foot from Meijing Station on Metro Line 9.
Coastal Farmland (Haishang Tianyuan)
Shenzhen's largest eco-agriculture park, pairing farmhouse fun with water activities. Admission about CNY 60 — fishing, fruit picking and hands-on farm experiences for the whole family.
Nanshan Book City
One of Shenzhen's largest bookstores at about 20,000 sqm, mixing reading, creative goods, coffee and exhibitions; free entry, open 10:00-22:00, no minimum spend to sit.
Splendid China & Chinese Folk Culture Village
One of Shenzhen's best-known theme parks: miniature landmarks plus ethnic folk shows. Tickets about CNY 220 — tour China's famous sights in a day, with lively village performances. Great for families.
Shenzhen Safari Park
Shenzhen's only large safari park, rich in species, with a vehicle zone for close-up animal encounters. Admission around CNY 180; a firm favorite for family trips.
Sea World Shenzhen
Shenzhen's waterfront leisure landmark around the Minghua cruise ship; free entry, bar street from about 11:00 to 02:00, on Metro Line 2 at Sea World Station.
Shenzhen Bay Park
Shenzhen's most beautiful waterfront park — free entry, about 15 km of coastline for cycling, birdwatching and gazing across at Hong Kong. Superb sunsets and a hugely popular photo spot.
Shenzhen Museum
Shenzhen's largest comprehensive museum, free with ID or reservation, covering ancient history and the reform era — the best single introduction to the city, past and present. Allow 2-3 hours.
Window of the World
One of Shenzhen's best-known theme parks: a miniature world of scaled-down landmarks — the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, pyramids and more. Tickets about CNY 220; great for families.
Overseas Chinese Town East (OCT East)
Shenzhen's best-known hillside resort park, pairing Knight Valley thrill rides with Tea Stream Valley tea gardens. Entry from CNY 200; the forest train is the signature ride — good for families.
Xili Lake
Shenzhen's largest man-made lake, ringed by a roughly 30 km greenway made for cycling, with birdwatching and fishing along the way. Free to enter, next door to Shenzhen Safari Park.