Longquan Baoci Scenic Area

Longquan Baoci Scenic Area

Longquan Baoci Scenic Area is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction.

Longquan Baoci Scenic Area is located within Baoci Township in Longquan City, with its core area centered around Xitou Village in Baoci Township. The scenic area features scattered ancient villages, simple folkways, and an outstanding ecological environment, earning it the titles “Natural Oxygen Bar” and “Place to Bathe in Mineral Water.”

China’s Longquan Baoci Scenic Area is located in Baoci Township, Longquan City, about 50 kilometers from the city center. Its core area is Xitou Village, the town center of the township. Baoci Township is situated in the western part of Longquan City, bordering Fujian Province, and administers 11 administrative villages with a total population of over 7,600 people and an area of 148 square kilometers. Ancient villages are scattered throughout, featuring simple folkways and top-tier ecology, hence the titles “Natural Oxygen Bar” and “Place to Bathe in Mineral Water.” The township has been honored with several awards including “Nationally Recognized Beautiful Environment Township,” “Zhejiang Provincial Sanitary Township,” “Zhejiang’s Most Beautiful Ecological Township,” and “Model Town for Water Treatment.” In 2014, it was awarded the “China Habitat Environment Example Award” by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, and in 2016, it successfully became a “Nationally Recognized Sanitary Township,” showcasing remarkable achievements in ecological and cultural development. The area boasts the picturesque and serene Piyun Mountain, which stands at an elevation of 1,680 meters and is the source of three major rivers (the Ou River, Min River, and Qiantang River) as well as a sacred site of Taoism. Baoci has a profound cultural heritage, where the culture of celadon dragon kilns, bamboo architecture, folk traditions, and revolutionary history coexist and shine together. The scenic area adheres to the principle of balancing protection and development. Through scientific planning, rational layout, and meticulous construction, it has created a “cultural grand garden” with comprehensive services and rich content. Therefore, visiting Baoci is not only an eco-wellness journey but also a cultural experience and heritage journey.

The Eternal Kiln Flame – Baoci is the birthplace of modern Longquan celadon. By the end of the Qing Dynasty, Longquan celadon was nearly lost, but Baoci’s ceramic artisans struggled to keep the craft alive. When celadon production was resumed in 1957, Baoci’s artisans played a key role and made significant contributions. Baoci preserves nine well-maintained dragon kilns (seven of which are in Xitou Village), making it the largest surviving ancient dragon kiln complex in the world. Some of the dragon kilns are still in use today, serving as the only living specimens of the traditional Longquan celadon firing technique, a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.

The Charm of Bamboo – In 2013, the International Bamboo Architecture Biennale was held in Xitou. Eleven renowned designers from eight countries created 16 unique bamboo structures, perfectly embodying the concept of “spirit of place, vernacular architecture.”

The Nostalgic Ancient Village – Xitou Village retains well-preserved ancient streets, alleys, and old houses, transporting visitors back in time. The weathered rammed earth walls, polished cobblestone paths, creaking water-powered mills, and curling cooking smoke – do they stir the homesickness of travelers? The exquisitely decorated homestays maintain the style of traditional residences and blend seamlessly into the ancient village, offering an immersive experience of folk life.

Red Memories – Baoci is a revolutionary base area, located at the heart of the guerrilla stronghold in southwestern Zhejiang. In March 1935, the Red Army Advance Detachment led by Su Yu and Liu Ying fired the first shots upon entering Zhejiang in Xitou Village. Baoci Township is the birthplace of the CPC Southwestern Zhejiang Special Committee, the CPC Longpu County Committee, and the CPC Longquan County Committee, as well as a long-term base for the CPC Chushu Special Committee and the CPC Min-Zhe Border Committee. The area preserves numerous revolutionary sites and is home to widely told stories such as “Su Yu’s Six Entries into Piyun Mountain” and “One Family, Six Revolutionary Martyrs.”

Step into Baoci Scenic Area, experience the unique “Clouds, Water, and Kilns,” listen to the dialogue between tradition and fashion, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip.

❖ Address:

Baoci Township, Longquan City, Lishui

❖ Transportation:

From Longquan City – via Provincial Highway 53 – to Longquan Baoci Township

❖ Ticket:

Free

❖ Opening Hours:

8:00-17:30

❖ Nearby Attractions:

Dragon kiln cluster, Red Army Pavilion Revolutionary Site, etc.

❖ Nearby Accommodation:

Guyanli Homestay, etc.

❖ Nearby Dining:

Bashuge Farmhouse Restaurant, Yumantang Farmhouse Restaurant, etc.