Geographical Location & How to Get There

Furongjiang National Key Scenic Resort lies in Jiangkou Town, Wulong District, Chongqing, nestled near the famous Furong Cave. This area sits along the banks of the Furong River, a major tributary of the Wujiang River. The name “Furong” (lotus flower) comes from the riverbanks’ abundance of lotus trees, which bloom beautifully in summer.

To reach here, you can:

  1. By car: Drive from Chongqing downtown (about 2–3 hours). The winding mountain roads offer stunning views but require cautious driving.
  2. By public transport: Take a bus or train to Wulong District, then transfer to a local shuttle bus toward Jiangkou Town.
  3. Tour groups: Many agencies offer day trips from Chongqing, including hotel pickups.

Natural Landscape: A “U”-Shaped Wonder

The Furongjiang River in Chongqing is known for its grand “U”-shaped valleys, carved by millions of years of water flow. The steep cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery create a dramatic backdrop. Highlights include:

  • Magmao Flying Spring: A waterfall that looks like liquid marble cascading down rocks.
  • Dragon Hole Waterfall: A powerful cascade that roars through a rocky gorge.
  • Butterfly Valley: A tranquil stretch filled with colorful butterflies, perfect for photos.

The river itself is a star attraction. Cruising on a boat lets you witness towering peaks, hidden caves, and playful monkeys along the shores.

Wildlife Encounters: Monkeys & Rarities

Furongjiang is a wildlife lover’s paradise. Keep your eyes peeled for:

  • Black Leaf Monkeys: These rare, nationally protected primates swing between trees. They’re easier to spot than a needle in a haystack—just look up!
  • Macaque Monkey Groups: Playful and curious, they often hang around docks, hoping for snacks (but don’t feed them!).
  • Birdwatching: Herons, eagles, and kingfishers dive into the river, adding life to the scenery.

Cultural Gems: Miao Villages & History

Beyond nature, Furongjiang offers a peek into ethnic Miao culture. Visit:

  • Miao Zhai: A traditional village where women wear elaborate silver headpieces, and men perform knife-throwing dances. Try Miao rice wine—it’s stronger than it looks!
  • Red Army Crossing: A historic site where Soviet-trained soldiers once crossed the river. A quiet spot to reflect on China’s revolutionary past.
  • Jiang Taigong’s Fishing Spot: A legend-themed area where you can pretend to be the ancient fisherman who tricked a dragon (story explained onsite!).

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking uneven paths. Flip-flops are a bad idea—trust me!
  • Sun protection: The sun reflects off the river, so hats and sunscreen are essential.
  • Snacks: While there are food stalls, bringing your own keeps energy up during long walks.
  • Binoculars: For spotting monkeys and birds without disturbing them.

Facilities & Visitor Experience

The resort is well-equipped for tourists:

  • Visitor Center: Maps, guides, and lockers are available. Staff speak basic English.
  • Boat Tours: Guided cruises run every 30 minutes in peak season. Book early to avoid crowds.
  • Restaurants: Try fuqi fei ya (beastly spicy fish) or mianmian zhu (hotpot-style noodles). Vegetarian options exist too!
  • Souvenir Shops: Buy Miao handicrafts, dried herbs, or mini replicas of the “U”-shaped valley.

A Day to Remember

Start early with a river cruise to catch morning mist rising over the valleys. Hike to Butterfly Valley for midday vibes, then explore Miao Zhai for culture. End with a sunset boat ride—the golden light on the cliffs is worth every step.

Furongjiang National Key Scenic Resort isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a chance to disconnect from cities and reconnect with nature and history. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or culture buff, this hidden gem in Chongqing will leave you spellbound. Pack your bags—and your sense of adventure!