Location & How to Get There

Yubei Mining Park Wulian Mine Pit sits in a dramatic valley near G319 Road in Yubei District, Chongqing. It’s about 40 minutes by car from Chongqing Jiangbei Airport and an hour from the city’s core. If you’re coming from downtown, take the metro to Huixi Station (Line 3) and grab a taxi—it’s cheaper than a tour bus! For adventurers, renting a bike or driving yourself lets you stop along the winding road to snap photos of the hills.

Natural Wonders: A Badass Industrial Scar

The highlight here is the Wulian Mine Pit itself—a sprawling, terraced lake system carved by decades of coal mining. Think steep, concrete-lined steps filled with turquoise water, surrounded by rusty machinery and wild greenery. The contrast between the man-made structure and nature’s revenge is insane. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the pits, while winter fog makes it look like a scene from Blade Runner. Bring a drone if you can—the aerial view is next-level.

Human Stories: From Mine to Art

This place isn’t just a hole in the ground. Local artists turned abandoned mining equipment into sculptures, and old tunnels host light installations at night. You’ll see rusty trucks painted with colorful murals and workers’ helmets repurposed as planters. The park even keeps some original mining structures intact to remind visitors how Chongqing’s industrial past shaped its future. It’s like a mix between a war-torn landscape and a modern art exhibit—weird but cool.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Wear comfy shoes: The paths are steep, and some areas are still under restoration.
  • Bring sunscreen: The mine pits act like mirrors on sunny days—you’ll get fried!
  • Snacks, yes. Picnics, maybe not. There’s a small café, but bringing your own food saves time. Just don’t litter—this place is a eco-comeback story.
  • Photo gear: Morning light is magic for shots of the water, and sunset turns the pits gold.

Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Track

Aside from the main pits, sneak to the “Mining Museum” (a refurbished warehouse) to touch coal samples and see vintage tools. There’s also a trail leading to a viewpoint called “Heaven’s Eye”—trust me, the panoramic view of the entire complex is worth the 20-minute hike. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot locals flying kites near the lake on weekends.

Is It Worth It?

If you love post-apocalyptic vibes, eco-art, or just want to escape Chongqing’s hustle, Yubei Mining Park Wulian Mine Pit is a no-brainer. It’s not as crowded as Long Water Cliff or Ciqikou, so you can explore without bumping into selfie sticks. Just remember: parts of the park are still a work-in-progress, so expect a few rough edges—but that’s part of the charm!

(Psst: Tag #WulianMinePit on Instagram—your photos might inspire others to visit this hidden gem!)