2 Days Chongqing Wulong Karst Tour: UNESCO Wulong Karst & Hiking Experience

Welcome to Chongqing, China’s Spectacular Mountain City! Get ready to immerse yourself in one of the most exciting destinations trending on TikTok! Known for its unique 3D city layout and dazzling night views, Chongqing is often called the "Little Hong Kong" for its vibrant skyline and dynamic urban vibe. Indulge in the most authentic hotpot in the Hotpot Capital of China. Nestled at the confluence of the Yangtze River and Jialing River, Chongqing also serves as your gateway to the breathtaking Three Gorges, one of China's most iconic natural wonders.

Upon meeting you at the airport, train station, or Chaotianmen Port, your journey will begin with a brief visit to Chaotianmen Square. Here, you can marvel at the Confluence of Two Rivers, where the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers meet, their waters flowing in two distinct colors. Take in the futuristic Raffles City complex, renowned for its iconic horizontal skyscraper, and enjoy sweeping views of the rivers, beautiful bridges, and Chongqing’s dramatic skyline. In the distance, you’ll also catch a glimpse of Hongya Cave, an iconic stilted complex blending traditional architecture with modern charm.

Later, let’s witness the most thrilling sight - the train that passes through a building at Liziba Metro Station. Located on Line 2 of Chongqing’s monorail, this station is famously constructed through the middle of a residential building, making it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

After that, take a journey through time at the Three Gorges Museum, home to a vast collection of over 280,000 precious historical relics. Dive deep into the fascinating story of the Yangtze River, the formation of the iconic Three Gorges, and the evolution of Chongqing from its ancient beginnings to its vibrant rise in the 20th century. After exploring the museum, don’t miss the chance to capture stunning photos in front of the People’s Assembly Hall, an architectural masterpiece located just outside the museum.

After that, you will leave Chongqing downtown area and head to Wulong Xiannvshan Town (武隆仙女山镇, about 160km, 2-2.5 hours’ drive). Stay overnight in Wulong Xiannvshan Town.

Optional Evening Experience: Impression Wulong Show (印象武隆)

This evening, immerse yourself in the Impression Wulong, a spectacular outdoor night show set against the stunning backdrop of the Wulong Karst National Geological Park. Designed by the world-renowned Chinese director Zhang Yimou, this performance is a masterpiece of art, culture, and nature. The show brings to life the rich heritage of the region, centered around the theme of "Chuanjiang Haozi" (traditional river work songs). It weaves together local intangible cultural treasures, such as the Wujiang boatmen's work songs, wedding laments, and stone-carrying songs, with the vibrant Bashu cultural elements of "Huagan" (bamboo sedan chairs), hotpot traditions, and the enduring spirit of Tuojiang boat trackers. The show lasts about 70 minutes.

This morning, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel to begin your journey to the Three Natural Bridges in the Wulong Karst National Geological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These three massive limestone arch bridges - Tianlong Bridge (Heavenly Dragon), Qinglong Bridge (Azure Dragon), and Heilong Bridge (Black Dragon) - are among the largest natural bridges in the world, renowned for their breathtaking scenery. The site also served as a filming location for the Hollywood blockbuster Transformers: Age of Extinction, adding to its fame.

Upon arrival, you’ll enter the tourist area and take the sightseeing elevator down to the bottom of the gorge, where your exploration begins. As you hike along the scenic trail, you’ll visit the three iconic bridges and other smaller scenic spots, immersing yourself in the unique beauty of the park.

Highlights of the Three Natural Bridges:

Tianlong Bridge (天龙桥): The largest and most majestic of the three bridges, Tianlong Bridge is named after the mythical "Heavenly Dragon." Towering above the valley, it forms a natural "gateway" to the area and inspires awe with its sheer scale and grandeur as you walk beneath it.

Tianfu Official Post (天福驿站): Nestled in the valley beneath the bridges, this historic stone-built courtyard dates back to the Tang Dynasty. It later served as an official post station during the Ming and Qing dynasties, providing shelter and rest for travelers and officials. Its architecture and cultural significance offer a glimpse into the past.

Qinglong Bridge (青龙桥): Often regarded as the most scenic and photogenic of the three, Qinglong Bridge is named after the "Azure Dragon" of Chinese mythology. With its elegant and slender structure, this bridge perfectly complements the lush greenery and dramatic cliffs around it, making it a favorite spot for photography.

Heilong Bridge (黑龙桥): The smallest of the three bridges, Heilong Bridge is no less captivating. A tranquil stream flows through the gorge below, adding to the serene yet majestic atmosphere. Its name, "Black Dragon", reflects the mysterious and profound beauty of this natural wonder.

After visiting the Three Natural Bridges, take a short 10-minute ride on the sightseeing bus to the Longshuixia Gap, a stunning karst gorge that is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This natural wonder is characterized by towering limestone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and lush greenery. Formed over millions of years by the erosive power of underground rivers flowing through the karst landscape, the Longshuixia Gap is a geological masterpiece. The hiking trail through the gorge stretches about 2-3 kilometers and typically takes 2 hours to complete, offering you an immersive experience in nature’s grandeur.

Tips for Visiting Wulong:

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The trail includes stairs and uneven terrain, so sturdy and comfortable walking shoes are a must.
• Bring Water and Snacks: The hike can be tiring, so stay hydrated and bring light snacks to keep your energy up.
• Photography Tips: A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the dramatic scale of the gorge, while a waterproof case is helpful for areas near waterfalls.
• Dress for the Weather: The gorge tends to be cool and damp, so dress in layers and consider bringing a light raincoat, especially if visiting during the rainy season.

After the tour, you will be escorted back to Chongqing's downtown area. Your guide and driver will then take you to the airport or train station in Chongqing for your onward flight or high-speed train to your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China Chongqing tour! We are always here to assist you and look forward to seeing you again on your next trip to China or Asia!