Go to Wulong from Chongqing, the Wulong Karst Landscape
Wulong Tiansheng Sanqiao (武隆天生三桥): This is the world’s largest natural bridge group, featuring three spectacular stone arch bridges and two deep sinkholes. This site has been the backdrop for multiple films, including "Curse of the Golden Flower" and "Transformers: Age of Extinction"; its breathtaking natural scenery is truly remarkable.
Longshui Gorge (龙水峡地缝): As one of the oldest land cracks on Earth, the Longshui Gorge captivates visitors with its unique geographical features and stunning natural landscapes. The waterfalls and canyon views here are particularly impressive.
Transportation Options
Train + Bus: Purchase the C731 train ticket a day in advance, departing from Chongqing North at 09:19 and arriving in Wulong at 11:05. Remember to buy your return ticket in advance as same-day purchases may be difficult. After exiting the station, follow the signs downstairs to take the blue bus for 10 RMB/person🚌, which takes about 40 minutes to reach the Xian NV Town Visitor Center. Important: Whether going to the sinkhole or gorge, visiting the visitor center is required first😉. Also, this road is winding, so be sure to take motion sickness medicine in advance if you're prone to it💊.
Direct Bus: Take a direct bus from the Jiefangbei or Si Kong Li Transportation Hub in downtown Chongqing straight to the Xian NV Mountain Visitor Center, with a travel time of approximately 3 hours. This option is suitable for those who prefer not to transfer.
Ticketing Information
Attraction Tickets: It is recommended to purchase a joint ticket online in advance, which includes entry to both Tiansheng Sanqiao and Longshui Gorge, priced at around 230 RMB, covering elevators and transportation within the scenic area.
On-site Ticket Purchase: Upon arrival at the visitor center, take the escalator down to the basement level to purchase tickets via QR code. The sinkhole and gorge are two separate attractions; the sinkhole is also known as Tiansheng Sanqiao, and Tianfu Guany is located inside the sinkhole. Sinkhole tickets are 125 RMB/person, and gorge tickets are 105 RMB/person, with the option to purchase a ticket package. You can choose between separate tickets or a package based on your stamina🎫.
Itinerary Highlights
Tiansheng Sanqiao (天生三桥):
After buying your ticket, take the escalator down to the basement level two and board the corresponding bus to the sinkhole scenic area. There is no need to buy a separate ticket for this bus, as the cost is included in your admission ticket. The winding road can induce motion sickness, so be careful🤢. The bus ride lasts about 15 minutes, and soon you'll arrive at the entrance to the sinkhole scenic area, where you have two options to enter:
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You can walk down from Gate 3, which takes about 30 minutes. This is faster than queuing for the elevator, and it allows you to appreciate the scenic views along the way. However, if you opt to walk, you won’t be able to take aerial photos of Tianfu Guany😔.
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If you want to take aerial photos of Tianfu Guany, you can choose to queue for the elevator at the left-hand entrance🛗, but be prepared for potentially long wait times😣.
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Enjoying the Sinkhole: In the middle section of the sinkhole, there is a waterfall. Even though it isn’t a long stretch, you can easily get wet, so make sure to bring an umbrella🌂 or waterproof jacket. Be mindful of slippery paths and watch out for the elderly and children👴👵👶. It's best to wear light, non-slip shoes👟.
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Exiting the Sinkhole: After exiting the sinkhole, you will need to hike uphill to the transfer station. You can choose to take the electric shuttle for 15 RMB/person or walk yourself. If you have no plans for exercise that day, consider it a workout; it takes about 20 minutes to walk up slowly while enjoying the view. However, for the elderly, taking the shuttle is recommended😉.
Longshui Gorge (龙水峡地缝):
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From Tiansheng Sanqiao, take the free scenic area bus for 10 minutes to reach the gorge. At the Longshui Gorge scenic area, you will also need to take the elevator after getting off the bus. While the sinkhole is magnificent, the gorge is even more striking! The gorge has only one route with no branches, so after ticket inspection, you’ll go through the cave → elevator → plank road → and then walk down to the exit.
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Reminder: There is a walking path down to the gorge (it was closed when I went), similar to the sinkhole. It’s advisable not to walk down, as you’ll miss the Jiaolong Han Cave, and retracing your steps would waste time. Taking the elevator is the smoothest option; if there’s a crowd, just wait patiently, as elevator costs are included in the ticket.
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After visiting, take the bus back to the Xian NV Town Visitor Center, and then head back out of the visitor center, where you can take the blue bus from the parking lot on the left side back to Wulong Train Station🚉. The dining options within the scenic area are not very cost-effective, so feel free to bring some snacks, or dine nearby the train station after your trip.
Friendly Tips
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Clothing Recommendations: The scenic area primarily consists of walking paths, so it is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes or hiking boots. The temperature difference between day and night in Xian NV Mountain is significant, so bring warm clothing.
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Dining: Dining options within the scenic area are limited and priced higher, so it is advisable to bring some snacks and water.
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Safety Precautions: The gorge's paths can be slippery, so be careful while walking, especially near the waterfalls.
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Transportation Reminders: When returning to Chongqing, it’s recommended to confirm train or bus schedules in advance to avoid missing your ride.
With this detailed guide, I hope you enjoy a fulfilling and pleasant trip to Wulong, experiencing the grandeur of nature and the charm of culture.