Wulong Summer Escape: Absolutely Blissful! Discover Chongqing's Premier Vacation Spot

Although autumn has officially begun and the hottest days are nearly over, the 'autumn tiger' is still unleashing its fury, with heat maxing out. Amid the city's steel and concrete heat waves, I crave the embrace of green mountains and clear waters even more. After rewatching Transformers at home, those stunning landscapes that amazed the world stirred my heart again. So I set my sights on Wulong, and an impromptu trip began...

Key highlights! A sneak peek at the Wulong trip

Day 1: Three Natural Bridges → Fairy Mountain → 'Impression Wulong' live performance Day 2: Furong Cave → Furong River The attractions are all close to each other and transportation is very convenient, but after the trip, Junjun will highlight some key tips and tricks—some preparations should be made in advance: 1. Remember to wear sports shoes, a hard-earned lesson! Definitely don't wear sandals or heels just to look good like I did; you'll be walking all kinds of mountain paths, so a comfortable, well-fitting pair of shoes is essential, and if it rains, be extra careful to avoid slipping. 2. The mountain climate is changeable, with temperature differences across terrains; for example, when visiting Fairy Mountain, bring a light jacket. 3. Generally, exploring each attraction takes more than 3 hours, as they are vast and involve lots of walking, which tests your stamina. Pack light and carry only necessities, such as mosquito repellent and sunscreen for the mountains, plus water and snacks to replenish energy. 4. About tickets: Wulong scenic areas have off-peak (November to February) and peak (March to October) seasons, with different prices; check the official website for details. 5. About accommodation: Book as early as possible, especially during peak season! This time I chose to stay near Fairy Mountain, close to the sights, to have more rest time and a less hectic pace. 6. About food: Chongqing is a gastronomic paradise with countless delicious dishes, and Wulong has its own specialties like farmhouse cured pork ribs, Duanwan mutton, Tukan crystal sweet potato noodles, and more—try them if you get a chance.

Day 1 Three Natural Bridges: Heaven and earth revealed between looking up and down

I have to say, the scenery at Three Natural Bridges is absolutely breathtaking. Although exploring it was exhausting, it was so worth it! This is a filming location for Transformers: Age of Extinction, Curse of the Golden Flower, and Eternal Love, and experiencing it in person made the movie's awe even more profound.

Look, isn't that elevator straight down the mountain impressive? After exchanging tickets at the visitor center, take a shuttle bus to the scenic spot. Upon arrival, you're actually standing on the 'bridge,' then descend 80 meters via a sightseeing elevator—it's thrilling.

Among the Three Natural Bridges, at the bottom of Tianlong Bridge, there is an ancient-style courtyard with green tiles and gray walls—Tianfu Posthouse, a super popular photo spot. Viewed from the bridge, the courtyard is incredibly secluded, like a forgotten corner of the world.

The Three Natural Bridges consist of Tianlong Bridge, Qinglong Bridge, and Heilong Bridge, majestic and magnificent, the largest natural bridge cluster in Asia. Layered mountains, solitary stone pavilions, winding paths—walking through them feels like entering a fairyland. You can also try shouting loudly here, and your voice will echo through the valleys for a long time, a truly magical experience.

As a Transformers filming location, the area also features many 'little monsters'—taking photos with them is a great souvenir. Three Natural Bridges Tips Address: Tourist Reception Center, Fairy Mountain Town, Wulong District, Chongqing Opening hours: Opens at 09:00 (last entry 16:00) Tickets: Off-peak 95 RMB (including 40 RMB shuttle bus + 15 RMB elevator), peak 125 RMB (including shuttle bus + elevator)

Day 1 Fairy Mountain: A dreamlike wonderland

Second stop is Fairy Mountain, whose name alone sounds ethereal. About 11 km from Three Natural Bridges, you can take a shuttle bus from the visitor center. When I arrived, heavy fog had set in—white mist and moisture added to the fairy-tale atmosphere. Fairy Mountain is known as 'the place where fairies live' and 'the Oriental Switzerland.' Here you can enjoy unique alpine meadows reminiscent of Jiangnan, rare southern snow-capped forests, lush and serene woodlands, and more.

Stroll through forests and grasslands, occasionally meeting ponies, sheep, and calves—a pastoral fairy-tale life that's utterly intoxicating. For photography lovers, this place offers endless styles and instant stunning shots!

When visiting Fairy Mountain, I recommend taking the little train—it saves a lot of walking and, as you ride through, you become the fairy yourself, embarking on a whimsical journey.

Spring grass-skiing, summer retreats, autumn horseback riding, winter skiing—Fairy Mountain has its unique charm in every season, and each visit reveals a new allure. Fairy Mountain Tips Address: Fairy Mountain National Forest Park, Shuanghe Township, Wulong District, Chongqing Opening hours: All day (Mon–Sun, Jan 1–Dec 31) Tickets: Adult ticket 50 RMB, half price with student ID

Day 1 Impression Wulong: When Zhang Yimou meets Wulong's landscapes

After Fairy Mountain, as dusk fell, I went straight to catch the 'Impression Wulong' live performance. With Zhang Yimou as art advisor from the 'Impression' iron triangle, over a hundred performers deliver heartfelt live singing. Centered on the nearly extinct 'work chants' (haozi), the 70-minute show lets the audience experience the magnificent natural heritage and the unique local culture of Bashu.

After buying a ticket, take a scenic vehicle to the performance site. Set in a grand canyon, the show combines real scenery with projected colorful, dynamic images—dazzling and dreamlike. The unique terrain and sound effects are deeply stirring.

Impression Wulong Tips Address: Taoyuan Grand Canyon, Wulong County, Chongqing Opening hours: One show daily at 20:00—don't miss it! Tickets: From 238 RMB, with regular, VIP, and presidential seating options

Day 2 Furong Cave: A magnificent underground art palace

After a good rest, I set off for Furong Cave the next day. This massive limestone cave is one of the world's three great caves, alongside America's Mammoth Cave and France's Krams Cave. Here you truly grasp the meaning of 'a hidden world.' Near the entrance, you think you'll finish quickly, but as you go deeper, new discoveries keep unfolding.

Before entering the cave, take a cable car to the mountaintop entrance. Gazing down at Fairy Town's landscape from the cable car, you can't help but marvel at nature's artistry.

Inside Furong Cave, the temperature drops noticeably. Ancient sediments, illuminated by colorful lights, become poetic and picturesque, like a fairyland. The cave twists and turns with many steps, so wear comfortable, well-fitting sports shoes and remember to rest and refuel.

Over eons, the cave's rocks have formed all kinds of bizarre shapes. Nature is undoubtedly the greatest artist, crafting earthly treasures with its masterful hand. Furong Cave Tips Address: Jiangkou Town, Wulong District, Chongqing Opening hours: Summer 8:30–16:30, winter 9:00–16:00 Tickets: Peak season (Mar–Oct) 120 RMB, off-peak (Nov–Feb) 65 RMB

Day 2 Furong River: Green mountains, blue waters

After Furong Cave, don't miss Furong River. Descend from the mountain to the water; after uncovering the cave's secrets, feel the flowing heartbeat of this magical land. Furong River reopened at the end of July after four years of upgrades. Drifting along on a boat, you seem to enter a painting: blue skies, emerald waters, mountains and water in one hue. All the stress of life and work is swept away in this moment.

On the boat, there's also lively entertainment, filling the journey with laughter, not just beautiful scenery.

Furong River Tips Address: Jiangkou Town, Wulong (take a bus from Chongqing Bus Station to Wulong County, then to Jiangkou Town) Opening hours: 8:00–17:00 Tickets: From July 29 to December 31, visitors can buy a combo ticket for just 150 RMB (original price 285 RMB), covering the national 5A Furong Cave ticket, Furong River cable car, boat ride, and ropeway tickets. This two-day summer escape in Wulong was spent with mountains and water, blending into nature. My footsteps never ceased, yet there's still so much I'm reluctant to leave. Until next time, to fill the regrets! Wulong, we'll meet again!