Tianmu Lake Nanshan Bamboo Sea Scenic Area

Tianmu Lake Nanshan Bamboo Sea Scenic Area

Tianmu Lake Nanshan Bamboo Sea Scenic Area is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction and a national water conservancy scenic area.

Nanshan Bamboo Sea is located in the southern mountainous region of Liyang City, under the jurisdiction of Changzhou, 18 kilometers from the national AAAA-level tourist resort—Tianmu Lake. The bamboo sea lies within a prime tourism corridor, facing Hengshan Mountain to the west, bordering Yixing, the Pottery Capital, to the east, extending southward toward Anhui’s Dongtian World, and backed by the Tianmu Lake Tourist Resort to the north.

The foothills of Nanshan are covered with undulating, densely forested peaks that rise and fall in a stunning variety of forms. The lush woods create a tranquil, deep green atmosphere, while mountain streams murmur gently. The landscape offers both the beauty of winding paths and secluded spaces, as well as a magical allure of mystery and exploration. Tens of thousands of acres of moso bamboo cling to the mountains and rocks, set against blue skies and green seas. A cool breeze rustles through the bamboo like rolling waves, creating a majestic sound and a uniquely delightful atmosphere. Wandering through the sun-sheltering bamboo sea, strolling along the water-side corridors, gliding across the emerald waters in bamboo rafts, and savoring the Nanshan Shoumei tea all bring a refreshing sense of joy and vitality.

On July 4, 2006, the Nanshan Bamboo Sea Scenic Area in Liyang, Jiangsu, was rated as a national AAAA-level tourist attraction.

Highlights of Attractions Introduction

1. Vast bamboo forests with a good ecological environment allow you to get close to nature and breathe fresh air.

2. Climb the “No. 1 Peak of the Wu-Yue Region,” enjoy panoramic views of the beautiful landscapes of three provinces, overlook the magnificent bamboo sea, and ring the bell for blessings.

3. See the bronze statue of the “No. 1 Longevity Star in China” and experience the culture of longevity at the Hall of Longevity.

Nanshan Bamboo Sea is an ecotourism area located at the junction of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui, with vegetation coverage exceeding 98%. It features attractions such as Mirror Lake, Ancient Official Path, the “No. 1 Longevity Star in China,” and the Wu-Yue “No. 1 Peak.” Visiting the “Bamboo Sea” allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, get close to nature, and breathe fresh air.

The entire Nanshan Bamboo Sea Scenic Area is shaped like a “Y.” Upon entering the gate, turning left allows you to take a small train that winds through the bamboo forest all the way to the Longevity Star Square; alternatively, you can walk right on a relatively flat path that leads to more attractions. Walking to the Mirror Lake Corridor, the calm lake reflects the green mountains and forests, creating a very soothing view. Those interested can take a bamboo raft ride on the water (20 RMB/person). Strolling along the Bamboo Sea Trail through the bamboo groves, you’ll find the “Bird Paradise,” where you can enjoy wonderful bird performances. Nearby, there is also an exquisite Bamboo Carving Art Museum displaying many fine bamboo carvings.

Continuing forward to the Longevity Star Square, a striking head sculpture of the longevity star comes into view. Standing 12.8 meters tall and made of pure copper, it is known as the “No. 1 Longevity Star in China.” The wall behind it is inscribed with the character “shou” (longevity) in various calligraphy styles—truly embodying the saying “longevity as enduring as Nanshan.” There is also the Hall of Longevity and the Worship Longevity Platform, where you can offer prayers, as well as try your luck with the Fortune Wheel and touch the Elixir Furnace to feel the magic of “a turn of fortune.”

Next is the climb to the Wu-Yue “No. 1 Peak.” The character “弟” (younger brother) is intentionally used instead of “第” (number) to signify that the sea of bamboo on the mountain forms the “bamboo” radical of the character. You can take the cable car up while admiring the magnificent bamboo sea from the air, or hike up (about 1 hour) along the winding mountain path and breathe in the fresh bamboo-scented air. From the mountaintop, you can enjoy the beautiful views of three provinces and it is the best spot to view the bamboo sea. There is also a large bell here that you can ring for blessings—it is said that you should ring it three times, representing fortune, prosperity, and longevity.

After descending back to the Longevity Star Square, taking another mountain path leads to Jiming Village, accessible only by ground cable car. In Jiming Village, you can see Qing Dynasty ancestral halls, Ming Dynasty ancient residences, and enjoy the lively Lion King performances. Nearby, there is also a Panda House and a Bamboo Culture Park. In the Panda House, you can see pandas “Aoyun” (Olympics) and “Zhuangmei” (Strong Sister), who once participated in the Shanghai Expo.

Additionally, in the bamboo forest southeast of the scenic area, there is another hiking trail—the approximately 1.5-kilometer-long Ancient Official Path. Its endpoint is Tongguan Ridge, and crossing the ridge takes you into Guangde County, Anhui. However, this path is not very easy to find. If you wish to explore it, you can inquire with the staff in advance.

Special Tips

1. Transportation within the scenic area: The one-way small train from the gate to Longevity Star Square costs 15 RMB, round trip 30 RMB; the one-way cable car from Longevity Star Square to the Wu-Yue “No. 1 Peak” costs 40 RMB, round trip 80 RMB; the one-way ground cable car from Longevity Star Square to Jiming Village costs 80 RMB round trip; there is also a combined cable car and ground cable car round-trip ticket for 120 RMB. 2. There are many walking paths in the scenic area, so it is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes. 3. There are many mosquitoes in the bamboo forest, so please take mosquito prevention measures. It is recommended to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, which provide sun protection during the day, warmth in the evening, and shield your body from mosquitoes. 4. Nanshan Bamboo Sea is close to Yushui Hot Springs, which you can visit over two days.

Address: No. 10, Xiacaiyuan, Lijiayuan Village, Dabu Town, Liyang City, Changzhou

Type: Forest, Mountain, Lake

Rating: AAAAA

Recommended Visit Duration: 0.5–1 day

Phone: 0519-87935088

Official Website: http://www.tmhnszh.com/

Opening Hours:

8:30-17:00