A 'Green Pearl in the Deep Mountains' of Zhejiang: Unwind at Tonglu Tianzi Di

Where the Qiantang River ends at Tonglu, the emerald waters and green hills outshine any painting.

Sometimes, a single glance at a landscape becomes an unforgettable scene for a lifetime…

A carefree little town on the banks of the Fuchun River.

In May 2021, I decided to seek out the filming location of the show 'Back to Field', heading to Tonglu, that laid-back small town, to soak in the slow life of idyllic tranquility. For many who want to temporarily escape the pressures of city life, just a few hours' drive will bring you to a refreshing and peaceful mountain life.

Unexpectedly, in Luoshan Village, Baijiang Town, 45 kilometers southwest of Tonglu County, I discovered a hidden gem!

This place neighbors Yaolin Wonderland to the east and Qiandao Lake to the west. It is said that here a folk legend of the young Tianzi (Son of Heaven) originated from the birthplace of Liu Yu, the founding emperor of the Southern Dynasty, over 1,600 years ago. The name has remained unchanged for over a millennium, and the aura of the Tianzi still lingers in this magical land. The pristine ecosystem is well-preserved, featuring a deep secluded valley, a ten-li ancient path, a hundred competing waterfalls, thousand-year-old trees, a vast forest stretching ten thousand mu, and hundred-million-year karst caves—over 100 unique natural wonders and mythical legends, earning it the reputation as a 'Green Pearl Hidden in the Deep Mountains'. The entire Tianzi Di Scenic Area consists of four tour zones: folk customs and leisure, secluded valley with streams and waterfalls, underground karst caves, and alpine panoramas, showcasing the 'gathering of all the beauty of Tonglu's Fuchun landscape in one place' and magical charm. It is a paradise of wonderous caves and forest ecology covering 4 square kilometers. Bypass Tianzi Lake and ascend to the alpine scenic zone, where vast and boundless views are filled with the pristine beauty of the wilderness.

You can also take the cable car up. The high-altitude cableway stretches over 500 meters across the mountains. Let the valley wind applaud you, and the soaring birds whisper to you, etching joy into your heart. As this section is steep, walking up consumes much energy; it is recommended to take the cable car to the halfway point.

The peaks are emerald green, deep valleys serene, vegetation luxuriant. A few white-walled, black-tiled houses peek through the lush greenery, and wisps of clouds and mist swirl around the mid-mountain, layer upon layer, hazy and dreamy. When the wind rises, the mist gathers and disperses, the ridges appear and disappear, like graceful fairies dancing with enchanting silhouettes, veiled and alluring.

Here, you can savor the joy of mountains and waters. Strolling in hamlets nestled by hills and streams, breathing in the deep forest air of Tianzi Di, the daily stress melts away instantly—everything is perfectly blissful.

Who would have thought that Tianzi Di is not only about karst cave scenery and endless greenery, but also an unmissable summer travel destination!

Experience the Zilong Gorge Glass Rafting, weaving through the mountain forests, and feel the speed and thrill. This drift is, to date, the longest strip-style high-altitude glass rafting in China. Viewed from afar, it winds into the distance like two floating ribbons. Built along the mountain terrain, it is spectacular when seen from above. With a steel framework and transparent tempered glass as the trough, the three-dimensional Zilong Gorge Glass Rafting of Tianzi Di enhances the overall aesthetic of the water chute. Spiraling through the mountain forest, descending along the slope, it appears and disappears. With the S-shaped glass track full of sharp turns and thrilling drops, it offers visitors extraordinary excitement and the pulse of life. In spring and summer, playing in the glass chute rafting here is simply exhilarating.

Passing through the gate of Tianzi Di, crossing the wisteria trellis in the bamboo grove, and walking across the stone arch bridge, the Tianzi Village, which vividly embodies the Ming and Qing dynasty Jiangnan residential style, suddenly comes into view. This was originally an ancient village ruin, said to be the birthplace and residence of Liu Yu. The buildings of Tianzi Village are well-arranged, with a stream flowing through the village—small bridges, babbling water, waterwheels, and households—imbuing it with rustic charm. You can enjoy a leisurely cup of tea and chat at the Tianzi Di Resort, or visit the dreamy wisteria corridor and Tianzi Lake.

There is also the Dinosaur Valley that children love. Dozens of lifelike dinosaur models are scattered throughout the bamboo grove: Tyrannosaurus rex, Stegosaurus, Triceratops... Whenever someone passes by, the dinosaurs move and make sounds, creating an immersive sensation. There are also dinosaur-themed slides, seesaws, swings, and other facilities, adding loads of fun.

The Tianzi Di scenic area will be upgraded again, with several popular Instagram-worthy attractions soon to arrive: the Sky Mirror, a floating bridge, and the 'Step by Step Shock'. Many tourists specifically seek out the trendy attractions of various spots. In the future, you won't need to go far; you can enjoy them all in one place!

During the trial operation period, the combined ticket is 159 yuan per person, including: scenic area ticket + cable car + Dinosaur Park + Zilong Gorge Rafting + karst cave. Valid until April 30.

May Day holiday special: 209 yuan per person, includes the same items.

Highlight: It is highly recommended to try the various experience activities in the scenic area. Better yet, stay one night in the area to fully feel its charm.

Find time to spend a relaxing weekend at Tianzi Di! This captivating eco-tourism destination is also an ideal spot for wellness, leisure, vacation, and conferences.

Little tip: The scenic area is quite large; be sure to bring enough food and drinking water.