Highlight
Wulong Tiankeng Three Natural Bridges: The world's largest group of natural bridges, featuring magnificent stone arch bridges and deep sinkholes. It has served as a filming location for several movies, such as Transformers: Age of Extinction. The breathtaking natural scenery here is truly awe-inspiring.
Longshuixia Fissure Gorge: As one of the oldest land fissures on Earth, Longshuixia Fissure Gorge attracts visitors with its unique geographical features and stunning natural landscapes. The waterfalls and canyon views here are particularly impressive.
Transportation Options
Train + Bus:
- Take the C731 train from Chongqing North (09:19) to Wulong (11:05). Buy return tickets in advance.
- From the station, take a blue bus (¥10, 40 mins) to Xiannv Town Tourist Center. Note: This is the hub for both Tiankeng and Fissure Gorge. Motion sickness warning: the road is winding.
Direct Bus:
Take a direct bus from Jiefangbei or Sigongli Transportation Hub in downtown. It takes about 3 hours.
Ticket Purchase
After arriving at the tourist center, take the escalator to the basement level and scan the QR code to purchase tickets.
The Tiankeng (also known as the Three Natural Bridges) and the Fissure Gorge are two separate attractions. Tiankeng tickets cost ¥125 per person, while the Fissure Gorge costs ¥105 per person. You can also buy a combo ticket. Choose based on your energy levels! 🎫
Itinerary
1 Three Natural Bridges
After purchasing your ticket, take the escalator to the basement level and board the shuttle bus to the Tiankeng scenic area. The bus ride is included in your ticket. Again, be cautious if you’re prone to motion sickness. 🤢
The bus ride takes about 15 minutes to reach the Tiankeng entrance. Here, you have two options to enter:
Walk down from Entrance No. 3: This takes about 30 minutes and is faster than waiting for the elevator. You’ll also get to enjoy the scenic views along the way. However, you won’t be able to take an overhead shot of Tianfu Official Post Station. 😔
Take the elevator: If you want an overhead view of Tianfu Official Post Station, queue up at the left entrance. Be prepared for a potentially long wait. 😣
Exploring Tiankeng: There’s a waterfall in the middle section of the Tiankeng. Although the path is short, you might get wet, so bring an umbrella 🌂 or a waterproof jacket. Be careful of slippery paths, especially if you’re with elderly or young family members. 👴👵👶 Wear lightweight, non-slip shoes. 👟
Exiting Tiankeng: After exiting, you’ll need to climb uphill to the transfer point. You can either take a shuttle cart for ¥15 per person or walk up. If you’re up for some exercise, the walk takes about 20 minutes and offers scenic views. However, elderly visitors are advised to take the shuttle. 😉
2 Longshuixia Fissure Gorge
Take the free shuttle bus from the Three Natural Bridges to the Fissure Gorge (10 minutes). Similar to Tiankeng, you’ll take an elevator down to start your exploration. While Tiankeng is grand, the Fissure Gorge is even more awe-inspiring!
The Fissure Gorge has only one route: enter → pass through a cave → take the elevator → walk along the plank road → descend to the exit.
Tip: There’s also a walking path down (though it was closed during my visit). Like Three Natural Bridges, it’s not recommended to walk down as you’ll miss the Jiaolong Cold Cave. Taking the elevator is the smoothest option. If there’s a queue, be patient—the elevator fee is included in your ticket.
Tips
Clothing: The scenic area involves a lot of walking, so wear comfortable sports or hiking shoes. Xiannv Mountain has significant temperature differences between day and night, so bring warm clothing.
Food: Dining options within the scenic area are limited and expensive. Bring some snacks and water.
Safety: The paths in the Fissure Gorge can be slippery, especially near waterfalls. Walk carefully.
Transportation Reminder: When returning to Chongqing, confirm your train or bus schedule in advance to avoid missing your ride.
