Discover Jiulong Bay (Kowloon Bay) in Ulanqab, a stunning gorge where nine dragon-like ridges meet lush forests. Hike pristine trails, ride the glass rafting, and experience the "Little Guilin of the Northern Frontier."
Jiulong Bay: Where Legends Carve the Landscape
Deep in the Daqing Mountains of Zhuozi County, a spectacular canyon winds through the landscape like nine giant dragons. This is Jiulong Bay (九龙湾)—a place where rugged cliffs, dense birch forests, and crystal-clear streams combine to create one of Inner Mongolia's most breathtaking natural wonders. Known locally as the "Little Guilin of the Northern Frontier," this hidden gem offers international travelers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, serene beauty, and cultural discovery.
A Canyon Shaped by Dragons
According to local legend, nine dragons were sent by the Jade Emperor to protect an ancient army. After their mission succeeded, they fell in love with this beautiful valley and received permission to stay, their bodies transforming into the nine winding mountain ridges you see today. Whether you believe the myth or not, walking through Jiulong Bay feels like stepping into a living landscape painting—with towering peaks, dramatic rock formations, and water features including the serene Longquan Pool (Dragon Spring Pool) and the narrow "One-Line Sky" gorge where cliffs nearly touch above your head.
Adventures for Every Traveler
Jiulong Bay isn't just about scenery—it's about experience. Here's what awaits you:
Hike Through Pristine Forests: Follow trails that wind along the canyon floor, through birch and pine forests that carpet the mountainsides. The air is fresh and clean, offering a perfect escape from city life.
Thrill-Seeking on the Glass Walkway: For an adrenaline rush, step onto the glass-bottom walkway suspended above the canyon. It's a heart-pounding way to appreciate the scale of this magnificent landscape.
Aerial Glass Rafting: Soar down the mountainside on the aerial glass water slide—a unique attraction that combines breathtaking views with an exhilarating ride.
Cliff Swings: For the truly adventurous, the cliff swing launches you out over the canyon for a moment of pure flight.
Culture on the Mountain
jiulong Bay sits within the Shengshuiliang area of the Daqing Mountains, a place rich with cultural history. You can explore the ruins of the Zhao Great Wall, an ancient frontier defense system dating back over 2,000 years. The area is also dotted with sacred sites where local herders have gathered for centuries to pray and make offerings at traditional Oboo (shamanic altars) .
Experience the Grasslands—Without Leaving the Mountains
One of Jiulong Bay's most delightful surprises is its high-altitude meadows. Unlike the flat, endless grasslands of typical Inner Mongolia images, here you'll find lush alpine meadows nestled among forested peaks. It's a landscape some visitors compare to Xinjiang or even the Swiss Alps. You can explore these meadows on:
Horseback riding through the mountain pastures.
Camel rides for a truly desert-meets-mountain experience -
A charming mini train that winds through the scenic area—perfect for families or those who prefer a more relaxed pace.
Plan Your Journey to Jiulong Bay
Location: Yingzhen Town, Zhuozi County, Ulanqab City, Inner Mongolia (about 1.5 hours by car from Hohhot)
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM daily
Best Time to Visit: June through October—summer offers cool mountain escapes, while autumn paints the birch forests in brilliant golds and reds.
What to Bring: Even in summer, mountain weather can change quickly. Pack a light jacket and rain gear, as afternoon showers are common
From its dragon-shaped ridges to its heart-stopping glass attractions, Jiulong Bay offers a side of Inner Mongolia few international travelers ever see. Come discover the legend for yourself.