Location & How to Get There

The Daning River Ancient Plank Road Site lies along the western cliffs of Longmen Gorge in Wushan County, Chongqing, China. To reach this historic spot, most travelers fly into Chongqing Jiangbei Airport first. From there, it’s a 4.5-hour drive (or a combination of bus and ferry) to Wushan County, followed by a short boat ride or hike to the gorge. The area is part of the Three Gorges Scenic Area, so expect stunning river views along the way!

Nature’s Theater: The Gorge

The Daning River Ancient Plank Road Site hugs the steep cliffs of the Longmen Gorge, where the Daning River slices through towering mountains. Imagine walking along a narrow path with sheer rock walls on one side and a roaring river below! The area is lush with greenery, and mist often blankets the gorge in the morning, creating a mystical atmosphere. Keep your eyes peeled for rare birds and wild monkeys that call this rugged terrain home.

Ancient Engineering Marvel

What makes the Daning River Ancient Plank Road Site special? For starters, those square holes drilled into the cliffs! These neatly arranged, 20cm x 20cm stone holes (about the size of a shoebox) were used to build an ancient wooden walkway. Here’s how it worked:

  • Top holes held wooden beams for a floor.
  • Middle holes supported斜撑木柱 (slanting wood pillars) to stabilize the structure.
  • Together, they formed a triangular frame, like a giant puzzle piece!

This “plank road” once stretched over 400 kilometers—longer than the famous Jianmen Guanzhao Trail in Sichuan! It connected Chongqing, Hubei, and Shaanxi provinces, helping traders and travelers for centuries.

Walking in History’s Shoes

Today, you can still see remnants of the original stone holes clinging to the cliffs. While the wooden planks are gone, the holes tell stories of ancient Chinese engineering. Some sections have been restored with new wood and railings for safety, but stepping here feels like time-traveling! Local guides often say: “These holes are silent witnesses to a thousand years of history.”

What to Bring & Tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes! The reconstructed paths can be uneven.
  • Visit during spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
  • Bring a camera—the gorge’s light changes create endless photo opportunities.
  • Nearby towns offer homestays and local food like River Fish Hotpot.

More Than Just a Walk

The Daning River Ancient Plank Road Site isn’t just a hike—it’s a window into China’s past. Unlike modern attractions, this site lets you touch history literally: run your fingers over the same stone holes that ancient travelers leaned on. And if you’re lucky, a misty morning might make you feel like you’re stepping into a traditional Chinese painting.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, this hidden gem offers a mix of all three. Just remember: the real magic happens when you look down at those stone squares and imagine the feet that walked here centuries ago!