Daqinggou Nature Reserve
大青沟
A deeply incised green gorge in the Horqin Sandy Land, a primeval broadleaf forest growing in the desert, and a national-level nature reserve.
Daqinggou lies in the southern part of Horqin Left Back Banner, about 110 km south of the urban area. It is a gully about 20 km long and tens of meters deep in the Horqin Sandy Land. Spring water in the ravine feeds streams and lakes, supporting large stands of primeval broadleaf forest, including Manchurian ash and Mongolian oak. The contrast with the dunes outside the valley is striking, earning it the name 'desert oasis.' The scenic area is a national nature reserve and a 4A-level tourist attraction. You can ride a sightseeing shuttle or walk down the boardwalk to the valley floor, and you can also take a boat on the lake or go sand sliding and camel riding on the dunes. A visit takes about half a day. Ticket and shuttle prices follow the scenic area's announcements, and some activities close in winter. There are many steps on the valley floor, so bring insect repellent.
Opening hours
08:00–17:30 (shorter in winter)