Geographic Location & Transportation
Tianlong Bridge sits within the stunning Tiansheng Three Bridges scenic area in Wulong District, Chongqing. The exact address is No. 88 Furong Road, Cangkou Town. To get there, fly into Chongqing Jiangbei Airport, then take a 2-hour car ride (or a 3.5-hour bus) to Wulong District. From downtown Wulong, it’s about 20 minutes by taxi to the entrance of Tiansheng Three Bridges. The bridge is nestled in a lush karst valley, surrounded by towering cliffs—truly a hidden gem!
Natural Wonders: A Bridge Preserved by Time
Tianlong Bridge, one of the Three Natural Bridges, is the most dramatic and grand. Unlike man-made structures, this bridge was carved entirely by nature! It’s the largest of the three, stretching across a deep ravine like a giant’s stone arch. Legend says the bridge was once a wicked dragon, punished by heaven and turned to stone. Over thousands of years, rainwater and rivers sculpted the bridge, merging it seamlessly with the surrounding mountains.
What makes Tianlong Bridge special? It’s the only double-arch bridge among the three. Imagine a single pillar supporting two perfect stone rings! Locals joke it looks like a “bridge made by gods,” and honestly, standing under its 40-meter-high arch, you’ll feel like you’re in a scene from Avatar. The rock formations here are so surreal that even Hollywood filmmakers have used this spot as a backdrop!
Human Stories: Caves, Bandits, and Adventures
Beneath Tianlong Bridge’s grand pillar lies a secret: a maze-like cave over 400 meters long. During old China, bandits hid here, using the labyrinth of tunnels to escape capture. Today, tourists can explore parts of this cave (don’t worry—it’s safe now!). Guides say the cave’s walls still bear ancient carvings, though time has blurred most details.
Even without the bandits, the cave feels alive. Side passages twist like roots, and echoes play tricks on your ears. It’s like stepping into a fantasy novel—just watch your head on low stalactites!
Practical Tips: What to Expect
The area around Tianlong Bridge is tourist-friendly. Inside Tiansheng Three Bridges, you’ll find clear signposts, wooden walkways, and safety rails. Bring sturdy shoes—there’s lots of stairs and uneven paths. For photos, morning light is best; the bridge glows golden against the green cliffs.
Tickets cost around ¥125 (~$17) and include entry to all three bridges. Guided tours are available, but the path is easy to follow alone. There’s a small café near the entrance selling snacks and tea, but pack water if you plan to hike longer.
Why Tianlong Bridge Must Be on Your Bucket List
Walking through Tianlong Bridge feels like entering another world. The scale is humbling—cliffs rise like skyscrapers, and the bridge stands as silent proof of nature’s power. Whether you’re marveling at the double arches, snapping pics in the cave, or just soaking in the fresh mountain air, this spot will stay etched in your memory.
Pro tip: Visit after rain. The bridge’s sandstone turns deep orange, and mist clings to the cliffs—it’s straight out of a Chinese painting!
From its mythic past to its jaw-dropping beauty, Tianlong Bridge isn’t just a sight—it’s a story millions of years in the making. Trust me, your Instagram feed (and your sense of wonder) will thank you!