Laobiangou Scenic Area7.1
Best Things to Do
Located in Nanyingfang Village, Dongyingfang Township, Benxi Manchu Autonomous County, Benxi Laobiangou Scenic Spot consists of three tourist areas: Yongluo…
Laobian Gutter, Benxi, China
From £ 8
Benxi Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com
Benxi
Trending in Benxi
Benxi's hills ablaze with northern fall colors@Wunvshan Scenic Spot
Soak in Liaoning's hot springs amid red maples@Silapu Spa Town
Diverse top spots for fall color in Northeast China@The First Bay of Longjiang
De-stress with thrilling aerial adventures at Benxi Grand Canyon@Benxi Grand Canyon
Benxi Guanshan Lake: First Fall Foliage Stop, Easy Mountain-and-Lake Escape@Guanshan Lake
About Benxi
14℃
14°Cloudy
17° / 5°
- 10/25TomorrowCloudy17° / 5°
- 10/26Mon
Clear13° / 2° - 10/27TueClear7° / -3°
- 10/28WedClear14° / 0°
- 10/29ThuCloudy16° / 6°
- 10/30FriClear11° / -3°
Recommended length of visit
2-3 days
Local currency
CNY
Must-visit attractions in Benxi
Looking for things to do in Benxi? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
Best Things to Do
Family-friendly
Fall Viewing
Hot Springs
Recommended stays in Benxi
Discover the most popular places to stay in Benxi, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers
Benxi Railway Station
Benxi Long-Distance Bus Station
Guest User: Very reasonable and good service It also allows foreigners to stay
No. 4 Shengli Road
From £ 20
Sam and Lee: Room standards are the same but breakfast has improved. Great stay!
No. 29 Jiefang North Road
From £ 10
Guest User: The hotel is right next to the high-speed rail station, just a few steps away. The room is clean and sanitary, worth recommending. There are buses to the water cave and the small market nearby, which is very convenient. There is also a pedestrian street opposite with many snacks.
No. 1 Jiefang South Road
From £ 15
Guest User: The facilities at this new hotel are excellent – clean and tidy, with spacious elevators. The parking lot is huge with plenty of spaces. Breakfast is clean and hygienic, and they even have freshly made wontons and beef noodles. We stayed in a river view room, and the view was lovely too.
Building 108-1, Yuming Road
From £ 27
Guest User: Very clean and comfortable hotel. Very good breakfast too
No. 143 Jiefang North Road
From £ 23
Guest User: Good location, the rooms are okay sufficient for short stay travellers 👌
Building 138-22, Yuming Road
From £ 14
Must-try food in Benxi
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Benxi dishes and foodie spots.
Quick bites
Barbecue
Bakery
Recent events and experiences in Benxi
Benxi itinerary ideas
Traveller photos and experiences
6-Day 5-Night Changbai Mountain Autumn Foliage Trip (October 4)
As autumn deepens, it is the perfect time to head into the mountains. We departed on time at 8:30 AM from the Atour Hotel in Changchun. With the cool mountain autumn breeze, we kicked off our full-day Changbai Mountain autumn foliage tour. It was a three-hour drive heading east, chasing the autumn romance and surprises hidden deep in the Jilin mountains. Our first stop was Diaoshuihu National Forest Park. The autumn colors here were brilliant—reminiscent of Laobiangou in Liaodong, which I visited last year—but with a unique, serene tranquility. Stepping into the forest felt like stumbling into nature's overturned palette. The mountains were ablaze with color, with deep reds, warm yellows, and vibrant greens intertwined, stretching into a vast, colorful forest. A mountain stream gurgled nearby, clear springs trickled over volcanic rocks, and the breeze rustled through the trees, sending leaves dancing. Walking along the trail beside the stream, every step revealed a new autumn scene, every glance felt gentle. The mountain air was refreshing and healing, blowing away all the fatigue of the journey. At noon, we stopped for a simple meal of Northeast-style dumplings. The steaming, homemade, savory flavors warmed both stomach and heart, recharging us for the afternoon. After a short rest, we headed to Longwanqun National Forest Park – Sifangding. Compared to the crowded, trendy tourist spots, this place was exceptionally quiet and uncrowded, allowing us to enjoy the vastness and peace of the forest all to ourselves. We took the scenic shuttle up the mountain, then rode the elevator directly to the 10th-floor observation tower, easily reaching the summit to take in the panoramic mountain views. We were incredibly lucky today, encountering the most healing autumn wonderland at Sifangding. Looking out from the high tower, the mountains stretched out in layers, with clouds and mist gently rolling and flowing between them. A beam of golden light pierced through the thick clouds, softly illuminating the rolling landscape, creating a scene of dappled light and swirling mist. The distant mountains appeared and disappeared in the thin haze, ethereal and magical. Standing there at that height, I felt truly moved and healed, as if I had stumbled into a fairyland on earth. After soaking in the sea of clouds and autumn mountains, we drove another three hours to Erdaobaihe Town and checked into the Regina Hot Spring Hotel on the north slope of Changbai Mountain. We spent the day traversing mountains and taking in the stunning autumn scenery, leaving the evening for pure relaxation. Soaking in a volcanic hot spring washed away the day's fatigue, followed by an authentic Northeast-style bath and massage. Autumn in Changbai Mountain is worth it!
It's the start of autumn todayand myscreen is just filled with all these gorgeous autumn colors❤️
#fallcolors Can you believe it’s already autumn? My feed is basically *overflowing* with jaw-dropping fall colors right now! The most colorful season has landed, and trust me—China in autumn hits totally different. 🎨✨ Forget just the basic brown-and-yellow vibes. Here, you’ll catch layers of color: deep yellows, soft golds, fiery reds, burnt oranges, moody greens, even pops of pink and crimson. China’s autumn palette is basically nature showing off! Since Xiaohongshu lets us share those swipe-all-day photo dumps, here’s my personal gallery of autumn scenes from all across China. Scroll on and let your retinas get *wrecked* by this color explosion:— Jiuzhaigou Five Flower Lake (10.30) 🌏 Jiuzhaigou County, Aba, Sichuan TIP: Visit between September–early November for those epic mirror-like colors! Open 7:00–18:00 daily. Taxkorgan County Golden Grassland (9.30) 🌏 Taxkorgan, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang Best visited late September/early October for that dreamy golden grass under the clearest blue sky. Dandong Tiangiao Gou Colorful Forest (10.15) 🌏 Kuandian, Dandong, Liaoning Known for its bright reds and oranges—open 8:00–17:30. Pro tip: The air here is crisp af! Benxi Laobian Gou (10.12) 🌏 Benxi, Liaoning Stunning layers of color covering the hills. Pack a light jacket—it gets chilly in the evenings. Jiuhong Grassland Scenic Road (10.29) 🌏 Near Tonghua, Jilin Rent a bike for that K-drama autumn romance vibe as you cruise under falling leaves! Open 24/7. Siguniang Mountain Colorful Forest (10.27) 🌏 Xiaojin County, Aba, Sichuan Fresh mountain air + forests ablaze with autumn hues = total bliss. Entry hours: 7:00–18:00. Bazhong Guangwu Mountain Colorful Forest (11.4) 🌏 Guangwu Mountain, Bazhong, Sichuan Super famous for its maple-red forests—catch the best colors from late October to mid-November. Nanjing Meiling Palace Autumn Color Necklace (12.11) 🌏 No. 1-7 Meiling Road, Xuanwu, Nanjing Rows of ginkgo trees turn the whole street into a golden tunnel! Usually pops in mid–late November. Guangzhou Cultural Center Pink Kapok (10.20) 🌏 No. 37, Xianlie South Road, Yuexiu, Guangzhou Not your usual autumn shade—but those pink kapok flowers are a must-see! Center open 9:00–17:00. Huangling Autumn Persimmon Drying (10.6) 🌏 Huangling, Wuyuan, Jiangxi The bright orange persimmons look unreal hanging out to dry—like autumn confetti everywhere! Xi’an Ancient Guanyin Chan Temple Ginkgo (11.1) 🌏 1781 East Huancheng Road, Xi’an Thousands of golden ginkgo leaves blanket this ancient temple courtyard—breathtaking! Suzhou Yipu Three-Color Archway (12.5) 🌏 No. 26, Yipu Road, Gusu, Suzhou Yellows, reds, and greens all collide for the most photogenic archway ever. Gardens open 7:30–17:30. Huqiu Lengxiang Pavilion Maple Leaf Long Stairs (12.6) 🌏 Tiger Hill, Suzhou Climb up the stairs surrounded by red and gold maple leaves—totally worth the workout! — Hey friends from all over the world—come see for yourself! China’s autumn isn’t just pretty, it’s straight-up legendary. Each city brings its own unique fall style, from glacier lakes to golden ginkgos, colorful forests to epic grasslands. Ready to pack your bags? Grab your camera and your comfiest sneakers, and let’s chase autumn together! 🍂📸 #ChinaAutumn #Fal|Colors #ChinaTravel #Jiuzhaigou #AutumnInChina #Ginkgo #MapleLeaves #VisitChina #Fal|Foliage #ChinaDestinations
National Day reverse travel: Wunü Mountain Great Wall, enjoy a secret landscape all to yourself!
🍂 Avoid the crowds to see the "Underwater Great Wall," budget travel can also capture stunning photos 🏞️ Visually stunning: A timeless legend at the birthplace of Goguryeo ⛰️ Wunü Mountain is not an ordinary peak, but a massive flat-topped mountain fortress. The summit is flat as a table, while the surroundings are vertical cliffs, making it a natural fortress. This was once the first capital of the Goguryeo people (Heseong), and it is steeped in deep historical significance. 🌊 The most unique landscape is the combination of the Great Wall and water. The ancient city wall winds down along the mountain, extending directly into the rippling Hunjiang River (Huanlong Lake). During the dry season, you can see the spectacular sight of the city wall submerged in water; during the wet season, it creates a scene of "a city floating on water." 🍁 If you choose to visit in early October, this is the ultimate spot for autumn foliage in the Northeast. The mountains are covered with maple and oak leaves starting to change color—red, yellow, and green intertwined—set against the gray-white ancient city wall and the blue river water. The color saturation is incredibly high, and every shot looks like an oil painting. 🧗♀️ Itinerary: A deep dive into the summit and ancient history 🛤️ The scenic area features both well-maintained stone steps and primitive wild paths. We recommend taking the main gate stone steps up the mountain. Although you need to climb 999 steps (symbolizing longevity), the vegetation along the way is lush and the air is fresh. For those with good stamina, you can choose a loop route, descending via the back mountain path to experience more of the wild terrain. 🏰 Once you reach the summit, be sure to explore the stone-built palace ruins and the remains of the barracks. Standing on the command platform and looking down, the entire Huanlong Lake is in full view. The lake surface is like a mirror, dotted with islands. That feeling of desolation and magnificence coexisting is something you won't find at other famous mountains and rivers. 📸 Photography spot recommendations: · Mid-mountain platform: This is the best angle to shoot the "city wall entering the water," which captures a great sense of depth. · West side of the summit: In the evening, the sunset spills onto the lake, creating a sparkling effect—a perfect time to capture stunning silhouette photos. 💡 Pro tips and practical advice 🎫 Tickets and shuttle: Wunü Mountain scenic area tickets are a great value. If you don't want to climb the mountain, you can purchase a round-trip shuttle ticket (the bus takes you directly to the mountainside), which saves energy while still allowing you to enjoy the fun of reaching the summit. 🧥 Clothing guide: The mountain climate is changeable, especially with significant temperature differences between morning and evening. Even if you visit in summer, bring a windproof jacket. If you visit during the National Day holiday, you must bring a shell jacket or a thin down jacket; the wind at the summit is strong, so staying warm is the priority. 🔋 Equipment advice: Mobile signal on the mountain may be unstable in some areas, so we recommend downloading offline maps in advance. Additionally, although the distance isn't long, the steps are steep, so wearing a pair of comfortable, non-slip sports shoes is crucial.
Longdaogou Scenic Area | Drive halfway up the mountain and enjoy a secluded paradise with a sea of red leaves all to yourself
If you are tired of the crowds during the maple viewing season and want to find a truly quiet, pristine place to enjoy autumn, Longdaogou will definitely surprise you. As the "first stop" for maple viewing in Benxi, the level of development here is just right, preserving the purity of the mountains while providing convenience for visitors. Most importantly, you can drive your own car deep into the scenic area, which is extremely friendly for seniors with limited mobility or families with children. 🚗 Drive directly to the destination, a blessing for relaxed travelers · Worry-free parking: Unlike other scenic areas that require long hikes, Longdaogou allows private cars to drive inside (some sections have many curves, so drive carefully). You can drive directly to the waterfall halfway up the mountain, saving most of the hiking. · Shuttle service: If you prefer not to drive, the electric shuttle service in the scenic area is very thoughtful. Even if there are only a few visitors, the staff will enthusiastically depart, and a one-way trip costs only CNY 5, available on demand. 🍁 Maple viewing at Taiyanggou, a visual feast · Colorful: "Taiyanggou" (Sun Valley) is named for its abundant sunlight throughout the day and is the core area for maple viewing. By mid-to-late October, the maple redness index here reaches the highest level, Level III. The red leaves covering the mountains and plains are like fire, and every photo you take is wallpaper-worthy. · Rich activities: In addition to viewing red leaves, there are two waterfalls and clear streams in the valley. Those with good stamina can hike up along the wooden boardwalk to a large lawn at the top; those with average stamina can stroll around the suspension bridge and waterfalls to take in the best scenery. 🎫 Tickets and practical information · Ticket price: Adult ticket is CNY 50/person. Seniors aged 60–69 can get half-price tickets (CNY 25) with valid ID, and seniors over 70 are free; children under 1.3 meters are free. · Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM. · Best time for maple viewing: October 1 to October 20 each year. If the temperature drops, the maple leaves will display a "five-flower mountain" spectacle of intertwined green, yellow, orange, and red, which is very dreamy. 🍜 Dining and accommodation · Affordable dining: There are farmhouses near the scenic area parking lot with very friendly prices, similar to market prices outside, so you don't have to worry about being overcharged. · Shanlijia Homestay: For a deeper experience, we recommend "Shanlijia Homestay" inside the scenic area. Open the window to see the lakes and mountains. Staying here includes free scenic area tickets, and they provide barbecue grills so you can enjoy a barbecue under the stars at night. Longdaogou lacks heavy commercial vibes, offering only enthusiastic staff and pure natural scenery. If you want to avoid the crowds, quietly watch the red leaves covering the mountains, or spend a relaxing weekend with your parents, this is definitely a hidden gem that won't disappoint you.
Laobiangou Valley photography route
📸 [How to shoot this route] The key to shooting Laobiangou is water paired with red leaves. After entering the valley, start with close-ups near the stream bends: red leaves on branches, splashes on stream rocks, and colorful forests in reflections are all great angles for photos. When you reach open areas, switch to medium shots, framing the layers of red leaves on the hillside with people on the trail to add depth. If you have the energy, head up to the waterfall area. Capturing the water flow and red leaves in the same frame makes for the most memorable shot. 📷 [Camera tips] The light is best from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, making the red leaves look translucent. Afternoon slanted light is perfect for capturing dappled light and shadows on tree trunks and the ground. To shoot the stream, slow down the shutter speed (use night mode or long exposure on your phone) to create a silky water effect, which adds more movement to the image. ☀️ [Composition advice] Don't fill the frame entirely with red. Leave some space for the sky or stream to give the photo room to breathe. Use stone paths or branches as foreground elements to instantly add depth. Standing at a high vantage point and using a telephoto lens or zooming in on your phone allows you to compress the stream bends and red leaves into a single frame, creating strong lines. 📌 [Gear reminder] The boardwalks are damp, so wear non-slip shoes and carry a lightweight bag. Phone lenses often get wet from mist, so keep a soft cloth handy. Batteries drain quickly in low temperatures, so don't forget a backup power bank. Remember to back up your photos before heading back and save enough storage space for sunset shots. The status of the red leaves and opening arrangements are subject to the scenic area's daily announcements.
Benxi Laobiangou Red Leaf Season
🌿【Why here】Hidden deep in the mountains of Benxi, Liaoning, Laobiangou is a famous spot on the Benxi maple viewing map. When you walk into the valley in autumn, the maple, oak, and birch trees on the slopes blend together in layers of red, orange, yellow, and green. With the sound of the babbling stream at your feet and sunlight filtering through the canopy above, the entire valley looks as if it has been splashed with paint. Unlike the "check-in" style of visiting a single scenic spot, the advantage of Laobiangou is that you can "see as you walk": the boardwalk is built along the stream, offering a new view every few steps. It doesn't require much physical exertion, making it easy for seniors and children to keep up. 【How to plan your visit】After entering the valley, follow the main boardwalk upstream against the current. First, enjoy the close-up views of the stream intertwined with the colorful forest, then head to the open areas to see the sea of red leaves covering the entire hillside. If you have the energy, walk to the waterfall area deep in the valley before turning back. The morning light hits the red leaves from the side, making their colors the most vibrant, so arriving early is recommended. 🍜【Dining tips】There are farm-style restaurants at the entrance and around the scenic area. You can try local Benxi specialties like sour soup noodles (suantangzi) and stewed river fish along the way. It is cooler in the mountains than in the city, and there is a significant temperature difference between day and night, so bring a jacket. 📌【Quick tips】The peak time for red leaves varies each year, so check the official scenic area announcements before you set off. The boardwalk can be slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. There are rest pavilions along the main boardwalk, so you can take breaks as you go. The vegetation in the valley is dense, and there may be more mosquitoes in the evening, so bringing some mosquito repellent will give you peace of mind. Admission tickets and opening hours are subject to on-site notices.
3 days in Benxi: Guanmenshan vs. Laobiangou
How to make the most of Benxi in late October? This 3-day itinerary connects Guanmenshan, Laobiangou, and Benxi Water Cave, with a budget of 900–1,400 yuan per person. It is designed for those who want to see the red leaves of Liaodong and are willing to spend time exploring the colorful forests! 😎 The bottom line: For great photos, I recommend Guanmenshan! The reflection of red leaves on the lake creates incredible depth 📸. For peace and quiet, I recommend Laobiangou; it has fewer tourists, and you can walk along the stream for a long time—it is truly healing. I have visited both, so check out the differences below 👇 🌟 Why late October is worth it After the Frost Descent solar term, the red leaves in the Liaodong mountains are nearing the end of their season. This week, the red leaf index at Guanmenshan is still around 60%, with a mix of maple, oak, and birch trees creating deep red hues 🍁. In downtown Benxi, it is 13°C during the day and 2°C in the morning and evening, with temperatures in the mountains being 2–3 degrees lower. After the National Day crowds subside, Laobiangou is basically empty in the mornings! Guanmenshan's parking lot fills up after 10:00 AM on weekends, and there might be early snow in the mountains the following week, so if you want to see the colorful forests, hurry up! 🏃 📍 Quick overview Best for: Red leaf photography 📷 / People who love streams and valleys / Fans of autumn colors in Northeast China Recommended duration: 3 days, 2 nights | Physical intensity: Moderate, about 5 hours of hiking per day Average cost: 900–1,400 yuan (excluding round-trip transportation) 🗺️ 3-day itinerary breakdown Day 1: Guanmenshan | Morning: Guanmenshan National Forest Park (90 yuan, start at Longmen Gorge at 7:30 AM) → Colorful Lake; Afternoon: Maple King → Moon Bay; Evening: Stay in Benxi County Day 2: Laobiangou | Morning: Laobiangou Scenic Area (80 yuan, opens at 8:00 AM, hike upstream along the stream boardwalk); Afternoon: Xiaoshi Lake → Yongge River; Evening: Return to downtown for lamb soup 🍲 Day 3: Caves and hot springs | Morning: Benxi Water Cave (165 yuan including boat ride, 12°C inside the cave); Afternoon: Soak in the hot springs at Hot Spring Temple (approx. 120 yuan); Evening: Return trip 🍜 Hidden gem food (where locals go) ① "Laobaijia Lamb Soup" in Xiaoshi, Benxi County: Lamb soup with sesame flatbread, 35 yuan per person. A local breakfast staple; the soup is milky white and not gamey—one sip and you will be hooked! 🔥 ② Grilled chicken rack stall at Yongfeng Snack Street in the city: 20 yuan per person. A popular late-night spot for locals, perfect with local beer 🍺 ③ "Changhai Iron Pot Stew" in Xiaoshi: Iron pot stewed river fish, 70 yuan per person. A go-to for locals when hosting guests; the corn cakes lining the pot are the soul of the dish! 😍 ⚠️ Mistakes I made (hard-learned lessons) ① I tried to visit Guanmenshan and Laobiangou on the same day, but the two scenic areas are 50 km apart, so I spent the whole time rushing and could not enjoy the scenery 😭 ② The shuttle bus at Guanmenshan costs extra! I did not buy a ticket the first time and had to walk for 2 hours to reach the core area. I recommend buying a round-trip ticket. ③ The boardwalk at Laobiangou is slippery. I wore flat shoes the first time and almost fell. Non-slip hiking shoes are a must! ④ It is a constant 12°C inside Benxi Water Cave. I wore a short-sleeved shirt and was shivering. Ladies, remember to bring a jacket 🧥 ⑤ The signal in the mountains is weak. I got separated from my companion the first time and spent half an hour looking for them. Agreeing on a meeting point is very important! ⑥ Some homestays close after the National Day holiday. Call to confirm before you leave, so you do not end up like me, arriving only to find no rooms available 😂 💰 Cost breakdown (per person) Tickets 335 yuan (Guanmenshan 90 + Laobiangou 80 + Water Cave 165) | Shuttle bus 30–40 yuan | Hot springs 120 yuan | Chartered car 250–350 yuan/day | Accommodation 150–300 yuan/night | Meals 35–80 yuan/meal | 3-day total 900–1,400 yuan 💡 Practical tips 🚗 Transportation: About 1.5 hours by car from Shenyang to Benxi, and another 1 hour to Guanmenshan 🏨 Accommodation: Stay in Benxi County if you want to get an early start in the mountains; stay at Hot Spring Temple if you want to soak in the hot springs 👗 Clothing: It is 13°C during the day and 2°C in the morning and evening in late October. A windbreaker and non-slip hiking shoes are essential! 📷 Photography: The reflection at Colorful Lake in Guanmenshan is super clear in the morning when there is no wind; remember to bring a tripod for long-exposure shots of the streams at Laobiangou ⏰ Avoid crowds: Fewer people from Monday to Wednesday; on weekends, it is recommended to arrive before 7:30 AM 🙋 Finally, I want to ask you Between these two Liaodong red leaf spots, do you prefer to take photos or enjoy the peace and quiet? Let me know your choice in the comments section! 👇
Liaodong's hidden autumn foliage gem: Five lakes and four waterfalls reflecting red maples
Who can resist the romance of autumn in Northeast China! Escape the crowds of Laobiangou and Guanmenshan at Benxi's Dashihu. It's a hidden spot with lakes, waterfalls, and mountains covered in red maples. The blue pools paired with red maples create a stunning contrast. It's the top choice for a short autumn foliage road trip, offering a less crowded, pristine natural experience. 🍂 Autumn highlights & best viewing period 1. Best time for foliage Late September: The forest begins to change color, a mix of yellow, green, and red. Fewer tourists, quiet and peaceful. Oct 7–Oct 20: Peak foliage season. The entire valley is covered in vibrant colors, perfect for photos. Late October: Leaves begin to fall, creating a cool, atmospheric vibe, perfect for moody, artistic shots. 2. Unique autumn scenery Five lakes and four waterfalls connect to clear pools, with red maples reflected on the water's surface. Sunlight piercing through the mist often creates rainbows. The 300-year-old Maple King is ablaze with red branches, and the wooden boardwalk is covered in fallen leaves that crunch underfoot. The valley is rich in negative oxygen ions, making for a healing and stress-relieving hike. 3. Travel-friendly The wooden boardwalk is flat and easy for seniors and children to walk on. Compared to popular Benxi attractions, the crowds are halved, so you won't have to fight for photo spots. 🚗 Transportation guide (road trip recommended) Road trip (recommended) · From Shenyang: 2 hours direct. Take the highway and the Benhuan Maple Leaf Avenue, with red foliage scenery all along the way. · From Benxi Xiaoshi: 1.5 hours. Navigate to Dashihu Scenic Area. · Parking: Parking lot outside the scenic area is CNY 10/time. Plenty of parking spaces during the foliage season. Public transportation Shenyang direct bus: Departs from Huigong Square. Round trip is CNY 120, including admission, suitable for those without a car. High-speed train to Benxi Station → carpool from Xiaoshi Passenger Station. It costs about CNY 30 per person to go directly to the scenic area, but departures are infrequent. 🎫 Admission & opening information · Adult ticket: CNY 48–60 if booked online in advance, CNY 60 on-site. A combo ticket for Dashihu + Laobiangou is more cost-effective. · Discount policy: Half-price for students aged 6–18 and seniors aged 60–69. Free admission for children under 1.3m and seniors over 70. · Sightseeing bus: CNY 20 round trip. A must-buy for those who prefer convenience or are traveling with seniors/children. It goes directly to the core five lakes and four waterfalls, saving you a 2km walk on flat ground. · Opening hours: 7:30 AM–5:00 PM. Last entry at 4:30 PM. It gets dark early in Northeast China, so try to enter in the morning for better lighting for photos. 📸 9:16 vertical photo spots (autumn exclusive) 1. Wulong Lake Waterfall Viewing Platform (9:00 AM) Morning light hits the waterfall mist, and the lake reflects the red maples on the mountains. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the mountains and water together; it comes with its own filter. 2. Fengwangping A 300-year-old ancient maple tree with a full red canopy. Wear light-colored clothing and stand under the tree for legendary portraits. 3. Binglingxia wooden boardwalk The trail is wrapped in red leaves on both sides, with fallen leaves covering the ground. A top-down shot of the forest path creates a perfect atmosphere. 4. High-altitude glass skywalk Overlook the entire valley's colorful forest sea. Great for panoramic shots. If you're brave, you must try it. 5. Yuping Lake surface The lake surface is calm and ripple-free, perfectly reflecting the red leaves. Great for atmospheric shots from behind. Two tour routes, choose as needed Route 1 | Family-friendly leisure route (3–4 hours, suitable for all ages) Scenic area entrance → Sightseeing bus directly to Wulong Lake → Level 1 to Level 4 waterfalls (Feilong Waterfall, Tiannv Feipu) → Fengwangping → Dragon King Temple → Return. The entire route is a downhill wooden boardwalk, no mountain climbing required. Check off the essential lakes, waterfalls, and red maples in one go. Easy and relaxing. Route 2 | In-depth hiking and foliage viewing route (4.5–5.5 hours, for hiking enthusiasts) Entrance → Sightseeing bus → Five lakes and four waterfalls → Climb Binglingxia → Mulan Valley → Xiangshui Lake → Yuping Lake. The deeper you go into the valley, the denser the maple forest becomes. Very few tourists, niche and quiet. Reaching the summit offers a view of the entire colorful valley. 2 itinerary plans One-day trip (round trip from Shenyang/Benxi on the same day) 07:30 AM Depart and take the Maple Leaf Avenue, snapping photos of the autumn road scenery along the way. 09:00 AM Enter the park and take the sightseeing bus to check out the core lakes, waterfalls, and the Maple King. 12:00 PM Eat Northeast wild mountain vegetables at a farmhouse restaurant near the entrance. 1:30 PM Light hike in Mulan Valley, go kayaking on the lake. 4:00 PM Return, stop by for Xiaoshi lamb soup on the way. Two-day light vacation (in-depth foliage viewing) Day 1: Drive from Shenyang → Dashihu afternoon session (afternoon light is soft, rainbows are more likely at the waterfall) → Stay in a nearby Manchu farmhouse with a heated kang bed. Day 2: Shoot morning mist and red leaves in the scenic area at dawn → Stop by Laobiangou, a 20-minute drive away, on the way back. 🏡 Accommodation recommendations (high value for autumn) 1. Tongjiangyu Manchu Farmhouse (top choice) Heated kang rooms are CNY 80–120 per person. Independent courtyard, self-service barbecue available. You can see the starry sky in the mountains at night. The owner provides local travel tips. 2. Lakeside wooden cabins in the scenic area Open the window to face the lake view. Wake up to see the red leaves and morning mist. Suitable for couples. Price: CNY 180–260/night. 3. Xiaoshi Town hotels Well-equipped with many dining options, suitable for tourists who want to try all the local Benxi delicacies. 🥘 Must-eat Benxi specialties in autumn 1. Xiaoshi lamb soup Milky white rich soup served with flatbread. As the temperature drops in the mountains in autumn, a bowl of hot soup dispels the chill. A local staple. 2. Farmhouse iron pot stew Stewed goose/free-range chicken, served with corn flatbreads that soak up the flavorful broth. 3. Wild mountain vegetable set Stinging nettle, wild spinach, and wild mushrooms. Pure natural forest ingredients, refreshing and light. 4. Snacks: Roasted chestnuts, freshly roasted walnuts, and fried river fish. Affordable and delicious at stalls near the entrance. ⚠️ Autumn-exclusive tips to avoid pitfalls 1. Huge temperature difference: Daytime is 18–25°C, suitable for long-sleeved sweatshirts. Mornings and evenings can drop to 5°C, so you must bring a windproof jacket/light down jacket. 2. Clothing and shoes: The entire wooden boardwalk is damp with many fallen leaves, so wear non-slip sneakers. White, off-white, and light khaki clothing provide the best contrast for photos with red leaves. 3. Prepare supplies: There are few shops inside the scenic area, so prepare drinking water, snacks, and mosquito repellent in advance. 4. Shooting timing: Enter the park before 8:00 AM to avoid crowds. The soft light after 3:00 PM is stunning, and the waterfall mist easily refracts rainbows. 5. Road trip reminder: The Benhuan Highway has many curves, so slow down and drive carefully. Some sections of the valley have no mobile signal, so download offline maps in advance.
Benxi Guanmenshan: Once you've seen these maples, you won't want to see them anywhere else | The ultimate guide to maple viewing
They say, "Once you've seen the maples at Guanmenshan, you won't want to see them anywhere else!" Benxi Guanmenshan is the premier maple-viewing spot in China's "Maple Leaf Capital." It only has a short 3-week peak season for red leaves, where the mountains are covered in layers of color—red, orange, yellow, and green—like stepping into a palette overturned by nature✨ Many people visiting Benxi can't tell the difference between Laobiangou and Guanmenshan. Guanmenshan wins for its grand, open scenery, combining mountains, water, red leaves, and lakes with complete facilities. It's the top choice for beginners and families—no long hikes required, just an easy way to unlock the stunning autumn maple scenery of Northeast China. 📸 Must-visit spots ✅ Yuetaizi Colorful Lake: The lake reflects the red leaves covering the mountains. With the water and maples in the same frame, it's the most popular photo spot in the entire scenic area, offering an incredible atmosphere. ✅ King and Queen Maples: The signature of the scenic area! These ancient trees have rich, layered maple colors. A must-visit when you come to Guanmenshan. ✅ Little Huangshan Loop: The forest boardwalk winds through the maple forest, allowing you to enjoy the view as you walk and climb to overlook the entire colorful valley. 💡 Essential travel tips Best viewing period: Late September – mid-October. Check the Benxi maple red index before you go to avoid missing out. The scenic area is huge, so be sure to buy a sightseeing bus ticket to save energy. We recommend taking the bus up the mountain and walking down along the stream trail. We suggest entering the park before 9:00 AM to avoid the National Day crowds. The morning light is soft, and you can take photos without the crowds. Admission is CNY 88, and the sightseeing bus is CNY 20. The total visit takes about 4 hours. 🍂 Outfit & travel tips There is a huge temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, so bring a windbreaker or a light jacket. Light-colored clothing pairs well with the red leaves and looks great in photos. Do not step on the vegetation; please protect the maple forest. There are still mosquitoes in the mountains, so bring mosquito repellent. After your visit, you can go to Xiaoshi for a bowl of lamb soup. A hot bowl will chase away the mountain chill. A fleeting autumn limited-time experience. Head to Guanmenshan and immerse yourself in the stunning red leaves of Northeast China🌄 💬 Question: For maple viewing in Benxi, do you prefer Guanmenshan or Laobiangou? Let us know in the comments! Colorful Lake Little Huangshan
A 3-day slow-paced tour of Benxi's China Maple Leaf Avenue: Unlock the romance of autumn in Liaoning!
Autumn in Liaoning🍂 begins as Benxi slowly turns red! Known as the "China Maple Leaf Road," the Benhuan Highway starts to paint the mountains in shades of red and orange every late September~ Visit before the peak foliage season for fewer crowds and lower prices‼️ You can explore underground wonders and drive through colorful forests. Save this 3-day slow-paced itinerary now✨ 🚗Transportation Guide High-speed rail goes directly to Benxi Station, taking only about half an hour from Shenyang—super convenient for intercity travel~ For an in-depth tour of the Maple Leaf Road, self-driving or hiring a car is recommended; you can reach the mountainous area in about 1 hour. There are many viewing platforms along the Benhuan Highway, so you can pull over to take photos whenever you see beautiful scenery📸 If you don't have a car, you can book a car at Benxi High-speed Railway Station for about 300 yuan per day—worry-free and easy~ 🏨Accommodation Tips Prioritize Xiaoshi Town! It has a prime location, just a ten-minute drive to Benxi Water Cave and Guanmenshan. The town's "Lamb Soup Street" is nearby, offering plenty of food options~ For an immersive experience of the quiet mountains, you can stay at a village homestay at the foot of Guanmenshan, where you can wake up to autumn colors right outside your window🌄 Late September is the shoulder season, so accommodation prices are friendly, but rooms can be tight on weekends, so remember to book in advance! 🗓️3-Day Relaxed Itinerary Day 1 | Explore Benxi Water Cave Buy a combo ticket for about 150 yuan, which includes the scenic area shuttle bus~ Take a boat tour through the 3,000-meter underground river, where stalactites illuminated by colorful lights make you feel like you've entered a fantasy dragon palace✨ The cave has a constant, cool temperature, so remember to bring a light jacket; the ground is damp, so wear non-slip shoes! Day 2 | Benhuan Highway Self-drive + Guanmenshan In the morning, drive along the Benhuan Highway—this is the famous China Maple Leaf Avenue🍁 There are scattered viewing platforms along the way, so stop whenever you like to take great photos📸 In the afternoon, head to Guanmenshan Scenic Area, with an admission ticket of 79 yuan. Walk along the trails into the mountains, accompanied by clear streams, red maple leaves, and small waterfalls~ In late September, the maple leaves at the mountain peaks turn red first, creating a rich, layered effect! Day 3 | Light Mountain Hike + Town Food Finale Spend the morning strolling around Xiaoshi Town, or go for a light hike at Laobiangou/Dashihu~ In late September, the red leaves are just starting to appear, making it quiet and uncrowded. Stroll through the forest and listen to the sound of the stream💦 For lunch, have a bowl of authentic Benxi lamb soup, and head home after a satisfying meal—a perfect end to the trip! 💰Money-saving Tips The Benxi Water Cave combo ticket includes the shuttle bus ticket, so don't buy it twice! Students get half-price tickets at Guanmenshan, and seniors over 70 years old get free admission~ Traveling off-peak in late September means accommodation is much cheaper than during the National Day holiday; by mid-October, when the foliage is at its peak, tourist numbers surge and prices will rise📈 🍜Must-try Food in Benxi 🥘Xiaoshi Lamb Soup: Rich, milky-white lamb soup + crispy sesame flatbread—the soul of the locals' breakfast, warming you up with every sip! 🥞Nianhuoshao: Crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, with a sweet red bean filling—an authentic local snack~ 🍄Stewed Chicken with Hazel Mushrooms: Fresh seasonal mountain produce, savory and flavorful—a must-eat when visiting Northeast China! 🍬You can't eat frozen pears in autumn yet, but you can buy pear syrup candy, which is sweet, refreshing, and great for the throat~ ⚠️Travel Tips The maple leaves across the mountains won't be fully red until mid-to-late October. Late September is the early stage of the foliage season, with the mountain peaks turning red first, creating a rich variety of colors in the forest🍂 The Benhuan Highway is prone to traffic jams around the National Day holiday, so try to travel off-peak if your schedule allows! The temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is huge, and temperatures can drop to around 10°C, so be sure to bring a light down jacket🧥 In just three days, get a head start on enjoying Benxi's autumn foliage, drink some heartwarming lamb soup, and experience the unique charm of autumn in Liaoning🍁
What people are saying about Benxi
Laobiangou Scenic Area
The scenic area was fantastic! I explored two different routes. The shuttle bus service was excellent and very convenient; it's free after you buy your ticket. The tour guides were also very responsible, reminding me of weather changes and recommended tour times. Thumbs up! I would definitely recommend the shuttle bus service to other friends.
Anonymous userBenxi Water Cave
Arrive early to avoid peak hours and opt for a guided tour at the ticket gate inside the cave. This will save you time queuing for the boat tour, and the guide will explain everything as you see it. It's definitely worth a visit.
Anonymous userGuan Men Shan National Forest Park
Guanmenshan is a great place to see autumn leaves, and I flew here specifically to see them, but unfortunately, most of the leaves had already fallen. The trails were well-maintained, paved with wooden planks supported by steel bars, making each step feel springy and preventing damage to the paint. The weather in the mountains is extremely changeable. While the nearby small town enjoyed clear skies, suddenly thunder rumbled in the mountains, followed by a downpour and hail.
天高云淡静Dashihu Scenic Area
The scenic area was fantastic! Because of the season, it wasn't too crowded, making for a very enjoyable visit. The tourist shuttle bus was especially convenient, and the tour guide was very responsible and friendly. Thumbs up to the scenic area, the tourist shuttle bus, and the tour guide!
230***66Benxi Grand Canyon
You can spend a whole day there. It is recommended to bring some food, as the food there is not very tasty. You can bring less water because there are a lot of people buying water. Anyway, it is very fun. I will come again next time. There are many places to take photos and check in, but there are a lot of people
_We***69Guanshan Lake
The scenery at the scenic area: The air was crisp after the rain, a sea of green, and the maple leaves on the mountain were quietly turning red. Enjoyments: There were many activities, but there were almost no signage. We took a lot of detours. The sightseeing bus charges a one-way fee, and you had to buy a new ticket after getting off. The line for the airship was long and not very interesting. The boat only boarded at pier 1 and disembarked at pier 2. 🚢 From the upper deck, you could stand by the fence to enjoy the scenery; sitting down, your view was blocked and you couldn't see anything. You had to row the bamboo raft yourself, which was a pleasant experience. The smell of the airplane was strange. The high-altitude glass rafting was fun, a bit thrilling, with many twists and turns, and a moderate incline. The flying magic carpet ascended slowly, and the rainbow slide descended quickly, which was very exciting. I didn't see the 9D because I didn't plan my route well. Hike Experience: The slopes were not very steep until the Savage Valley, so it was easy. Then the winding mountain road was very steep. The climb to the top was very refreshing.
M58***94Xiaoshi Yizhuang
Surrounded by mountains and water, this "Little Jiangnan of the North" boasts numerous photo-worthy spots, including a misty forest wonderland and a light-and-shadow old street. It combines local delicacies like mutton soup and Manchu farm cuisine with activities such as forest water slides, pet interactions, and bonfire and fireworks shows. Visitors can also experience Hanfu dress-up, interact with NPCs to win prizes, and enjoy a one-stop experience for family trips, friends' getaways, and more.
可爱的旅游生活89Wunvshan Scenic Spot
With the added prestige of a World Heritage Site, the ruins of the 2000-year-old Goguryeo capital city are nestled amidst the surrounding landscape of Huanlong Lake. The rammed earth city walls and narrow gorges offer a blend of historical grandeur and natural charm, while the free museum provides an immersive experience. Visitors can also explore the mountain trails, the mountaintop ruins, and the viewing platform, combining sightseeing with a sense of discovery.
可爱的旅游生活89Dabinggou National Geological Forest Park
During the May Day holiday, my partner and I took a road trip, spending four hours exploring. Overall, it was a great experience. The trees weren't fully green yet, and the icefalls on the mountain hadn't melted, giving us a glimpse of the spectacular waterfalls in summer. The attractions weren't crowded, the management was excellent, and the service center was busy but organized. The sightseeing bus covered about 2.5 kilometers, followed by a 2-kilometer hike uphill. The hike wasn't tiring, and the leisurely pace was quite pleasant. The downhill walk along the boardwalk, following the babbling brook, was also easy. Overall, it's worth a visit—a less-traveled spot with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery.
M22***19Tiecha Mountain
Every year, when the autumn air is crisp and clear, it is the best time to visit Tiesha Mountain. I make sure to come here every year at this time to enjoy the fun of mountain climbing, appreciate the colorful scenery, and absorb the spiritual energy of this first sacred mountain outside the Great Wall. I immerse myself in the rich Taoist atmosphere and remember the clear and pure Taoist heart of the patriarch who secluded himself here and recited the Yellow Court Classic at night.
当地向导逍遥遊Benxi FAQ
Destinations near Benxi
Recommended
Popular destinations
- Batam Travel Guide
- Jiuzhaigou Travel Guide
- Shantou Travel Guide
- Guangzhou Travel Guide
- Chongqing Travel Guide
- Shenzhen Travel Guide
- Shanghai Travel Guide
- Harbin Travel Guide
- Mohe Travel Guide
- Chengdu Travel Guide
- Hangzhou Travel Guide
- Nanning Travel Guide
- Xiamen Travel Guide
- Foshan Travel Guide
- Phu Quoc Island Travel Guide
- Jinta Travel Guide
- Wadi Jezzine Travel Guide
- Giethoorn Travel Guide
- West Coast Travel Guide
- Chatsworth Travel Guide
Popular attractions
- Universal Studios Singapore Tickets
- S.E.A. Aquarium Tickets
- Jiuzhai Valley National Park Tickets
- Gardens by the Bay Tickets
- MuTianYu Great Wall Tickets
- National Stadium Tickets
- Wild Wild Wet Tickets
- Shanghai Astronomy Museum Tickets
- Yulong Snow Mountain Tickets
- LEGOLAND Malaysia Tickets
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Tickets
- Gu Long Xia Tickets
- Shanghai Disney Resort Tickets
- Hong Kong Disneyland Tickets
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Tickets
- Parco Acquarossa Tickets
- Hirschman's Pond Trail Tickets
- Via Molin Nascosto Tickets
- Domaine Louis Latour Tickets
- Fingerprint Sculpture Tickets
Popular events
- Canton Fair Autumn 2026 (140th Session)
- Pomorie Travel Guide
- Salvador Travel Guide
- San Remo Travel Guide
- Arcadia Travel Guide
- Tohoku region Travel Guide
- Metropolitan City of Naples Travel Guide
- St Brelade Travel Guide
- Cobb County Travel Guide
- Eastern Townships Travel Guide
- Julian Travel Guide
- Island Township Travel Guide
- Craon Travel Guide
- Norfolk Travel Guide
- Isleton Travel Guide
- Monroe County Travel Guide
- Carrara Travel Guide
- Abuja Travel Guide
- Terre-de-Haut Travel Guide
- Guangxi Travel Guide