Location & Access
Longgang Handhold Plank Road sits in the heart of Longgang Grand Canyon, a stunning natural wonder in Yunyang County, Chongqing. To get there, fly into Chongqing Jiangbei Airport or take a train to Yunyang Station. From downtown Yunyang, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to Longgang Scenic Area—easy to reach by taxi or local bus. The plank road itself is part of the larger Longgang Cliff trail system, so prepare for a hike!
Natural Wonders: Cliffs, Valleys, and Sky-High Views
The moment you step onto Longgang Handhold Plank Road, you’ll feel like you’re walking on the edge of the world. This narrow wooden path clings to a sheer 500-meter cliff, offering jaw-dropping views of the cylindrical Longgang Canyon below. On clear days, the sunlight reflects off the canyon walls, creating a “natural spotlight” effect. Don’t miss the glass observation platform at the end—it’s like standing in mid-air, with clouds swirling around your feet. Surrounding the area are lush forests, misty mountain peaks, and seasonal waterfalls that add to the drama.
Cultural Roots: Legends and Local Life
While Longgang Handhold Plank Road is a modern attraction, its name hints at ancient survival wisdom. Locals say the path was inspired by how villagers once used ropes and handholds to navigate these cliffs. Nearby, you’ll find traditional Tujia ethnic minority villages (Chongqing’s indigenous group) where you can try folk dances, taste corn-based baijiu liquor, or buy handwoven crafts. It’s a cool mix of thrilling nature and living culture!
Practical Tips: What to Bring & Safety
Before you visit Longgang Handhold Plank Road, prep like a pro:
- Wear non-slip shoes (trust me, the wood gets slippery!).
- Go early to avoid crowds—sunrise here is magical.
- Stay hydrated; there are snack stalls along the trail but bring extra water.
- Safety first! The path has railings, but peeking over the edge can make your heart race. (Kids and faint-hearted travelers might want to skip this one.)
More Than Just a Walk: Photo Ops and Adventure
At Longgang Handhold Plank Road, every step is a photo opportunity. Pose with the canyon as your backdrop, or snap a selfie mid-step on the shaky wooden boards. For adrenaline junkies, combine this with a zipline ride or a trek to Ghost City, another cliffside attraction. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot monkeys playing near the forest trails—just keep your snacks tucked away!
Dining & Rest: Fuel Up Like a Local
After conquering Longgang Handhold Plank Road, reward yourself! The scenic area has cafes serving Chongqing hotpot (spicy, of course) and grilled mountain trout. For budget-friendly bites, try yunhai liangpi (cold noodles with peppercorn) at the food stalls. There’s also a hotel with glass-walled rooms for cliffside sunset views—worth the splurge!
Why You’ll Love (Or Hate) It
Longgang Handhold Plank Road isn’t for everyone. If you’re a thrill-seeker who loves mixing heart-pounding walks with epic scenery, this is heaven. But if heights scare you, stick to the nearby Suspended Bridge instead. Either way, Chongqing’s mountains will leave you in awe. Just remember: hold that handrail tight, and don’t drop your phone!