Escape to the mountains for some stunning views—Luoding is just top-tier.

Don't want to deal with the Mid-Autumn Festival crowds? Come to Luoding, Guangdong, to cover 3 routes in 1 day. It's a self-drive trip with no backtracking, only 10,000 steps, and it's a breeze! 🥳 This triangular route includes Julong Cave in the morning, Wenta (Literary Pagoda) at noon, the former residence in the afternoon, and Jinyin Lake along the way. The entire drive is under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a short trip itinerary! 📍 Route Overview: Julong Cave → Wenta → Former Residence of Cai Tingkai → Jinyin Lake, a loop with no backtracking. We recommend arriving at Julong Cave by 8:30 AM to avoid the crowds. 📸 Must-Visit Spots 1. Julong Cave: Hidden at the foot of the Pingtang Peak Forest, the light is soft in the morning, and it's less crowded. The "Dragon Palace" scenery inside the cave is incredible. Large stone curtains hang from the cave ceiling like palace drapes, and stalagmites are scattered like dragon thrones and altars, making it feel like you've stumbled into a dragon palace. The boardwalk is flat, and you can finish the walk in 40 minutes without getting tired. Outside the cave entrance is the best viewing platform for the Pingtang Peak Forest, where rice paddies spread out and peaks are scattered like a giant bonsai. Every photo is a masterpiece. Be sure to arrive early to enjoy the place all to yourself! 2. Luoding Wenta: A Ming Dynasty brick pagoda and a landmark by the river. The spire towers high when viewed from afar. Up close, the pagoda is sturdy, with a spiral staircase and observation windows on each floor. The 3rd floor faces the bend of the Longjiang River, and the 6th floor offers a panoramic view of the old town. The iron spire on the top floor weighs 7 tons, and looking up, you'll be amazed by the wisdom of the ancients. The banyan tree path under the pagoda is cool, and nearby are remnants of the ancient city wall, where old bricks and tree roots intertwine, perfect for atmospheric photos. Grab lunch in the city. You must try the Luoding fish tofu—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Many small shops fry it fresh, and you can even buy some as souvenirs. 3. Former Residence of Cai Tingkai: A famous anti-Japanese general and commander of the 19th Route Army who led the Battle of Shanghai. The residence displays many old photos and artifacts, and the gray and ceramic sculptures on the building are well-preserved, with fascinating details. You can climb the watchtower in the backyard, and the view of a corner of Jinyin Lake from the window is beautiful. Allow 1.5 hours to stroll around and soak in the history. 4. Jinyin Lake: Stop by the lake on your way; the water is clear and reflects the mountains. Sit on a rock to rest, let your fatigue melt away, and end your trip on a perfect note. 🚗 Transportation: Self-drive the whole way. The longest drive between attractions is 30 minutes. The roads are good, parking is easy, and it's beginner-friendly. 💡 Practical Tips: It's slippery inside Julong Cave, so wear non-slip shoes. The stairs to the top of Wenta are narrow and steep, so elderly people and children should proceed with caution. The former residence is free, but check the opening hours in advance to avoid a wasted trip.