Discover the Hidden Gem: Ten Thousand Meter Tunnel in Deming Mountain

Location & How to Get There

Nestled in the lush Deming Mountain Scenic Area (located in Baoguo Village, Qingliang Peak Town, Lin’an District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province), the Ten Thousand Meter Tunnel is a unique blend of nature and human history. To reach this spot, visitors can drive to the scenic area’s entrance via highway, or take a local bus from Hangzhou’s West Bus Station to Lin’an, then transfer to a smaller vehicle for the final mountain road. The tunnel itself is a highlight within the larger scenic area, connected to other attractions like “Dragon Gate Crossing” and Deming Lake.

Natural Wonders: A Cool, Mysterious Underground World

The Ten Thousand Meter Tunnel isn’t just a man-made cave—it’s an adventure into nature’s raw beauty. Carved into the mountain in the 1950s for tungsten mining, the tunnel feels like a time capsule. As you walk through its damp, cool hallways (around 15°C year-round!), you’ll notice half-finished caves where mining suddenly halted, leaving behind jagged rock walls and eerie, untouched chambers. Moisture drips from the ceiling, and a misty atmosphere gives the place a thrilling, almost otherworldly vibe.

One end of the tunnel opens to “Suspended Walkway”, a cliffside path with breathtaking mountain views, while the other leads to the serene Deming Lake. Between these two points, the tunnel transforms into an underground hike, where every step reveals strange rock formations and echoes of dripping water.

Human History: A Glimpse Into China’s Industrial Past

What makes the Ten Thousand Meter Tunnel truly special? Its story. Originally dug for mining tungsten (a metal used in electronics and tools), the tunnel was abandoned mid-construction, leaving behind a maze of unfinished passages and machinery relics. You’ll spot old mining tools, rusted rail tracks, and sections where the walls stop abruptly, as if workers vanished overnight. It’s like exploring a forgotten chapter of China’s industrial age—without the crowds!

Practical Tips: What to Bring & How to Explore

  • Dress warmly: The tunnel’s chilly air and humidity mean layers are a must.
  • Footwear: Sturdy shoes are essential for slippery spots and uneven terrain.
  • Guided vs. Independent: While the main path is marked, joining a local guide (offered at the entrance) adds context about the tunnel’s history and geology.
  • Connected Attractions: Pair your visit with “Dragon Gate Crossing” (a rope bridge over a gorge) and a boat ride on Deming Lake for full day of exploration.

Amenities: Comfort Meets Adventure

The Deming Mountain Scenic Area is well-prepared for visitors. Near the tunnel’s entrance, you’ll find:

  • A visitor center with maps and snacks.
  • Restrooms and seating areas.
  • Souvenir shops selling locally made crafts.
  • Parking lots for self-driving travelers.

Why You’ll Love It: Unique Thrills & Hidden Stories

Unlike typical tourist spots, the Ten Thousand Meter Tunnel offers a mix of adrenaline and tranquility. Photography fans will love the dramatic contrast between dimly lit caves and bright mountain exits. History buffs can imagine life in China’s mid-20th-century mining boom. And everyone else? The chance to say, “I walked through a thousand-meter-long cave!”—without the hordes of tourists.

Pro tip: Visit on a cloudy day. The soft light filtering through the tunnel’s openings creates magical shadows and reflections.

Whether you’re a cave enthusiast, a history lover, or just looking for a cool escape from Hangzhou’s summer heat, the Ten Thousand Meter Tunnel promises an unforgettable journey into both nature and the past. Pack your sense of wonder—and a jacket!