Huma Longtoushan Scenic Area

　　The Longtoushan Scenic Area is situated near the confluence of the Huma River and the Heilongjiang River. A steep, towering mountain lies across the river, and its shape strikingly resembles China’s totem—the head of a dragon. The dragon’s head stretches southward, reflected in the surging river waters, embraced by majestic green mountains. It’s as if a “hidden dragon lies in the water, a flying dragon soars in the sky,” evoking the mystery and extraordinary presence of a “dragon seen only by its head, never its tail.” This is the Longtoushan Scenic Area.

　　The area around Longtoushan is surrounded by deep mountains and valleys, offering serene and picturesque scenery. The scenic area is also known as the “Longtoushan Grand Canyon.” Along the riverbanks of Longtoushan, there are vast pebble beaches. Visitors can camp by the river and fully admire the beauty of Longtoushan on the opposite bank, experiencing the unique charm of the Heilongjiang River region.

　　The Longtoushan Scenic Area is located near Hutong Town in Huma County and is one of the renowned scenic spots along the upper reaches of the Heilongjiang River. Traveling by boat downstream from the upper Heilongjiang, after passing famous attractions within Huma County such as Yingmen Lazi, Smoke Mountain, and Painted Mountain, visitors will see from afar, at the Huma River’s confluence with the Heilongjiang near Hutong Town, a steep mountain lying across the river on the Russian side of the left bank. Its shape resembles China’s totem—the head of a dragon. The dragon’s head stretches southward, reflected in the surging river, embraced by towering green mountains—like “a hidden dragon in the water, a flying dragon in the sky”—evoking the mystery and awe-inspiring presence of a “dragon seen only by its head, never its tail.” This is the Longtoushan Scenic Area.

　　The local name for this mountain—“Longtoushan” (Dragon Head Mountain)—likely stems from the profound influence of China’s millennia-old dragon culture on its people. Since ancient times, the Chinese have held the dragon in high reverence, and its image has permeated every corner of society. Common phrases like “proud as a dragon and vigorous as a tiger” or “a carp leaping over the Dragon Gate” symbolize good fortune. The dragon also represents unity, the spirit of benefiting humanity, striving for progress, and harmony with heaven. People in Heilongjiang believe that the dragon, as an auspicious and benevolent mythical creature, will surely bring continuous happiness and good luck to those living along the river. For thousands of years, the dragon’s influence has touched all cultural levels and taken on diverse forms. Across China’s provinces and regions, there are numerous dragon-related landmarks, mountains, and lakes, each with its own beautiful legends.

　　Travelers can drive over 20 kilometers from Huma Town to reach the Huma River mouth in Hutong Town, Huma County. The Huma River mouth is where the Huma River flows into the Heilongjiang River, and it’s also the location of the Longtoushan Scenic Area. The Huma River is a major right-bank tributary of the upper Heilongjiang. Located in northwestern Heilongjiang Province, it was called the “Humas River” or “Kumas River” during the Qing Dynasty. Stretching 524 kilometers in length, it originates from the Dabai Mountain in the Huzhong District of the Greater Khingan Mountains. It flows eastward through the Huzhong District, Xinlin District, and Tahe County before entering Huma County, where it passes through Hanjiayuan Town, Baiyinnuo, Xinglong, and Xinghua Township, eventually joining the Heilongjiang River at the southeastern part of Huma Town. The river is 50–350 meters wide, with a depth of 1–3 meters, and a drainage area of 31,000 square kilometers.

　　At the Longtoushan Scenic Area, visitors can witness the magical and magnificent moment when the Huma River flows into the Heilongjiang. Standing by the river, you see the waters of the Huma River, having traversed countless mountains and rivers from west to east, flowing quietly with silver ripples. After overcoming all obstacles, it resolutely merges into the embrace of the Heilongjiang, the mother river. The Heilongjiang opens her vast arms, joyfully welcoming her distant child. In an instant, the two merge into one eternal flow. The river then flows majestically eastward beneath the sheer cliffs of Longtoushan.

　　Since ancient times, the Heilongjiang River has been celebrated for its clear waters, lush trees, and peculiar rocks—truly, “every river is enchanting, every mountain a tapestry.” Those who haven’t been to the banks of the Heilongjiang cannot truly appreciate its unique beauty. In summer, boating along the Heilongjiang reveals that Longtoushan is covered in green grass and dense woods, its deep greens blanketing the mountain like an emerald brocade, exuding vitality. The river water is crystal-clear and turbulent, with green mountains reflected in its depths. Surrounded by trees and dotted with vegetation on the water’s surface, the green mountains and blue waters remind us of Cao Cao’s poetic lines: “Lofty islands stand steep, / The river flows with a gentle sheen.” The endless river complements the serene and profound Longtoushan, creating vivid, fresh, and naturally stunning views. Together, they add a dynamic, soaring energy, making this stretch of the upper Heilongjiang a breathtaking sight. Here, one can’t help but marvel at nature’s artistry—the grand river, vast forests, and beautiful landscapes resemble a pure, elegant ink painting, intoxicating and immersive. It creates a Black Water Culture that rivals the Yellow River and Yangtze River cultures.

　　Autumn brings a unique charm to Longtoushan. In early autumn, the leaves of Longtoushan’s many tree species turn varying shades of red, yellow, and green. Compared to summer’s lush water plants, the river becomes gentler and shallower, with large areas of the riverbank exposed. Smooth, round pebbles lie scattered across the beach. The river’s flow reduces significantly, and with the autumn dryness causing the mountain trees to wither, Longtoushan’s true form becomes more visible to visitors: most of its steep cliffs are exposed, their yellowish rock faces appearing as if carved by knives. Bathed in the autumn sun, Longtoushan displays a riot of colors, reflected in the calm, shallow waters. In late autumn, as the sun sets, the bare Longtoushan turns deep yellow. The silent river seems to patiently await winter’s arrival. Everything quiets down, and Longtoushan reveals a sense of solitude and time-worn mystery, gaining a touch of solemnity and primitive allure. The dragon’s head stretches southward, lying quietly on the river’s surface, as if gazing at the waters. The surrounding deep mountains and valleys cannot block its contemplation. Perhaps it yearns for the majestic power of the Heilongjiang’s source, or the vastness of the sea, or silently prays for the happiness of the people along the Heilongjiang. Mountains and waters are intertwined with enduring affection. For centuries, Longtoushan has silently witnessed the turbulent history of the Heilongjiang.

　　The area around Longtoushan is surrounded by deep mountains and valleys, offering serene and picturesque scenery. The scenic area is also known as the “Longtoushan Grand Canyon.” On our side of the river, across from Longtoushan, there are vast pebble beaches. Visitors can camp by the river and fully admire the beauty of Longtoushan on the opposite bank, experiencing the unique charm of the Heilongjiang River region. Summer and autumn are the best seasons to visit. Arriving by car and stepping onto the riverbank, the beautiful scenery of the Longtoushan area comes into full view: surging river waters, birdsong, floral fragrances, emerald-green mountains, and dragons probing the water. Along the riverbank, there are expansive, dense willow forests stretching for miles, as if adorning the Heilongjiang with a green lace trim. Lush vegetable gardens and melon orchards cultivated by local farmers lie just hundreds of meters from the river, presenting a delightful pastoral scene. A refreshing breeze brushes your face, invigorating the spirit. This scene recalls Tao Yuanming’s poem “Drinking Wine”: “My house is built amid the world of men, / Yet no clamor of carriage or horse do I hear. / You ask me how this is possible: / With the mind detached, one finds peace anywhere. / I pluck chrysanthemums under the eastern hedge, / And gaze afar toward the southern hills. / The mountain air is lovely at dusk, / And flocks of flying birds return together. / Within these things lies a truth profound; / I want to explain, but words fail me.”

　　The pure, crystal-clear river water welcomes visitors from afar. Wading in barefoot, a cool sensation quickly spreads through your body. The river water is so clear that the little fish swimming along the bottom are clearly visible. Playing with these adorable fish is also a great joy. If you’re lucky enough to encounter fishermen by the river, you can even taste the freshness of the river fish. Heilongjiang fish are tender and delicious, comprising precious cold-water species. A campfire on the riverbank with a pot boiling river fish cooked in the river water is a rare delicacy. While enjoying the river, don’t forget to admire the uniquely shaped, beautiful stones on the riverbank. The stones here differ greatly from those on the seashore. Seashore stones, smoothed by strong waves, are usually small and oval-shaped. The river stones, however, vary in size, color, and shape. They are smooth, round, crystal-clear, and particularly endearing. Picking up a few favorite pebbles to take home will leave you with wonderful memories. Of course, if you know how to swim, the Heilongjiang is the perfect natural swimming spot. Challenge the rolling waves, let the pure river water wash away the summer heat, and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of nature. Nestled within deep mountains and valleys and wandering among green waters and lush mountains, one enjoys a paradise-like life, forgetting all worldly worries.

　　In the Longtoushan Scenic Area, not only can you enjoy the beautiful scenery, but you can also admire the foreign landscape of Russia on the opposite bank at any time. The same mountains, rivers, flowers, trees, and open skies—but different countries. The vast Sino-Russian border river—the Heilongjiang—divides the rushing waters into two parts along the main channel, and the distance between this shore and the other becomes the boundary between China and Russia. From afar, you can see a Russian border outpost built on Longtoushan, with the Sino-Russian border marker written in red letters at the mountain’s base. In the scenic area, you might also spot Russian border patrol boats cruising the river. The speeding boats part the waters, and moments after they pass, waves crash continuously onto the riverbank, strongly lapping against the pebbles. It takes several minutes for the river to calm down again. Our side also has border troops stationed in Hutong Town. In summer, Sino-Russian patrol boats shuttle back and forth on the Heilongjiang, occasionally disrupting its tranquility. In winter, when the frozen river is covered in snow, Chinese border guards patrol on foot across the ice. Despite the bone-chilling winds and bitter cold, nothing can stop their loyalty in defending the nation. Today, the Heilongjiang River area presents a scene of peace and tranquility. China and Russia are friendly neighbors connected by a narrow strip of water, and the deep friendship between their peoples will flow endlessly like the ever-lasting river.

　　Hutong Town is a small town in Huma County that has existed through the late Qing Dynasty, the Republic of China, and the puppet Manchukuo period. The village is built along the mountains, resembling a fishbone in shape, with Russia’s Far Eastern Kumara Town on the opposite bank. Historically, Hutong Town was not always peaceful. During a certain period of the Qing Dynasty, the Qing government fought multiple fierce battles against Tsarist Russian invaders near Hutong Town. After the signing of the Sino-Russian Treaty of Nerchinsk, relations between the Qing and Russia normalized, the border stabilized, and trade flourished. Civilian trade between Hutong Town and the Russian Kumara Town across the river was bustling, making it a trade hub along the river. In the early years of the People’s Republic, border disputes occurred between the local military-civilian population of Hutong Town and the Soviet Union across the river. Each time, the Chinese people fought bravely and refused to yield an inch of land. Today, the people living here still rise with the sun and rest at sunset. As the wheels of history roll forward, the people’s beautiful aspiration for a peaceful and happy life remains unchanged forever.

　　Longtoushan lies alongside the ancient Heilongjiang River. The river is mighty, and the dragon is serene. The magical and beautiful Longtoushan Scenic Area warmly welcomes visitors from afar.