Location & Transportation

Yunyang Longgang National Geopark is nestled in Qingshui Township, Yunyang County, Chongqing—a region known for its dramatic mountain landscapes. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Chongqing downtown (perfect for a day trip) or a 1.5-hour drive from Wanzhou District, making it accessible if you’re already exploring southeastern Chongqing. The park sits near the Yangtze River, so you’ll pass lush valleys and winding roads during your journey.

To get here, you can:

  • Drive yourself: Rent a car and enjoy scenic routes (GPS: “Yunli Road, Qingshui Township”).
  • Take a bus: From Chongqing’s Longtousi Station, buses to Yunyang arrive every 30 minutes.
  • Hire a guide: Locals often offer private transfers with English-speaking drivers.

Once inside the park, shuttle buses loop between major attractions, but hiking trails are the best way to soak in the views.

Natural Wonders: Karst Magic & River Sculptures

The Iconic Longgang Sinkhole

At the heart of Yunyang Longgang National Geopark lies the Longgang Sinkhole, a jaw-dropping natural wonder. Imagine a giant, bowl-shaped hole with sheer walls dropping 335 meters straight down—like someone took a colossal spoon and dug into the earth! Its edges are almost perfectly vertical (90 degrees!), and the rim looks like a spaceship landing pad. This makes it one of the deepest sinkholes in the world (ranked 5th globally, 3rd in China), just behind giants like the Bingo Sinkhole in Slovenia.

River-Carved Masterpieces

Beyond the sinkhole, the park showcases river-eroded landscapes shaped by centuries of water flow. Highlights include:

  • Shizhu Canyon: A narrow gorge where waterfalls splash over moss-covered rocks. Walk along wooden planks suspended over rushing streams—it’s like stepping into a nature-made adventure park.
  • Nangsan Gorge & Huangling Gorge: These twin valleys offer serene hikes beside crystal-clear rivers. Look for potholes carved into stone by swirling waters—nature’s own artwork!

Karst Surprises

The area is also packed with karst formations, like hidden caves and limestone peaks. Keep an eye out for underground rivers and rocky outcrops that look like they’re straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Adventure & Scenic Spots

Hiking & Photo Ops

For adrenaline junkies, a steep staircase spirals down the Longgang Sinkhole’s edge. Climbing back up is tough but rewarding—the view from the top is worth every bead of sweat! Less energetic visitors can stick to paved paths, which still offer epic photo opportunities.

Grasslands & Wildlife

Upland areas transform into rolling grasslands where cows and goats roam freely. Visit in spring to see wildflowers blanketing the hills, or in autumn for golden-brown meadows. Binoculars might spot red pandas or hawks soaring above the canyons.

Culture & Local Flavors

Tujia Heritage

The park’s human charm comes from its Tujia ethnic community. Stop by traditional thatched-roof houses (some still use wooden beams!) to try handmade noodles or corn liquor. On weekends, locals sometimes perform folk dances with drums and bells—a chance to join in and dance like a Tujia villager.

Food & Crafts

Don’t miss Yunyang’s spicy rabbit, a local specialty. Street vendors sell bamboo-steamed buns filled with pork, while craft stalls offer handwoven textiles and carved pendants made from river stones.

Practical Tips

What to Bring

  • Comfortable shoes: Cobblestone paths and stairs can be slippery.
  • Rain gear: Microclimates mean sudden showers (but rain adds mist-filled drama!).
  • Sunscreen: High altitude + reflection off rocks = intense sun.

Facilities

  • Visitor Center: Maps, guides, and snacks.
  • Restaurants: Try hotpot with locally sourced mushrooms.
  • Accommodation: Stay at nearby lodges or campsites (book in advance!).

Timing