Longshan Forest Park

　　Longshan Forest Park was established in 1992 with provincial approval on the foundation of the former state-owned Longshan Forest Farm. This beautiful, richly forested, and majestic mountain features 48 peaks shaped like a giant dragon, covering an area of 30 square miles. It borders Xinshao and Shuangfeng counties and is located 35 kilometers from Lianyuan City. Towering and precipitous, the park is filled with deep valleys, lush forests, and spectacular landscapes. Yueping Peak is the highest point, standing at an elevation of 1,513.6 meters. It is uniquely majestic and offers enchanting scenery. The surrounding terrain is mostly flat, with elevations below 200 meters. However, the mountain rises sharply at a slope of 20 to 40 degrees from the flatlands, thrusting straight into the sky, which is why its main peak, Yueping Peak, enjoys an exceptionally broad view. From the summit, visitors can gaze across a hundred miles to take in the splendid landscapes of Shaoyang, Loudi, Lianyuan, Shuangfeng, and Xiangxiang—making it an ideal spot for enjoying panoramic views. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including 83 families and 258 species of woody plants, over 500 species of herbaceous medicinal plants, and more than 60 kinds of wild birds and animals. Throughout the year, the forest echoes with birdsong and floral fragrance. Rare plants and animals are abundant here, as are valuable medicinal herbs scattered across the mountainsides. Seven mountain streams flow through the park, their waters crystal clear and glistening like strings of pearls. Scenic views unfold along both banks. With a forest coverage rate exceeding 80%, and some secluded valleys having nearly 100% canopy closure, the park remains refreshingly cool even during the hot summer months, making it a long-established summer retreat in central Hunan. Notable sites include the Medicine King Temple at Yueping Peak and the Phoenix Temple at Cai Feng Lake. Other attractions include the “Fighting Stone Oxen,” “Little Jade Pool,” “Gem-Crescent Moon,” “Summer Paradise,” “General Rock,” “Monkey Head Rock,” “Guanyin Rock,” “Lover’s Rock,” “Immortal Rock,” and numerous streams and waterfalls.