Zhangguan Water Caves

　　The Zhangguan Tourist Scenic Area is located in Zhangguan Town, 52 kilometers from downtown Chongqing and 8 kilometers from the Luoji exit of the Yu-Yi Expressway. It is a natural geological museum shaped by hundreds of millions of years of geological changes. It has been designated as a "National AAA Tourist Attraction," one of the "Top Ten Scenic Spots in Chongqing," and a "Chongqing Garden Scenic Area." Located in the eastern part of ancient Bashu, the area features rolling green peaks and a serene, elegant atmosphere. Historical records indicate that the cave was named during the Ming Dynasty when Ming Yuzhen, emperor of the Great Xia Kingdom, personally visited the site while at war with Zhang Xianzhong.

　　Covering an area of 32 square kilometers, the scenic area is divided into four major sightseeing zones: Yulin Cave, Zhangjia Cave, Yunxia Ridge, and Xuan’nian River. It boasts Asia’s longest underground river—6 kilometers of water-filled caves—as well as the Yunxia Ridge Ancient Stockade, an ancient battlefield from the late Yuan Dynasty when rival warlords vied for power. There’s also China’s highest-altitude zipline, spanning over 780 meters with a drop of more than 100 meters; an exhilarating off-road jeep experience; the most distinctive outdoor go-kart track in Southwest China; Bashu’s only multi-level whitewater rafting course; the renowned folk dance performances; and thrilling summer bonfire parties.

　　Zhangguan Water Caves is famed for its "water" features. It is the nearest and largest cave in the suburbs of Chongqing. After prolonged geological activity, it has formed a stunning four-tiered cave system. The currently developed section is the most magnificent of these layers, featuring stalactites, stalagmites, stone curtains, and other karst formations carved as if by the hands of gods. With water droplets splashing and streams murmuring, it resembles a dreamscape of misty waters and clouds—like a paradise on earth that stirs the imagination. The cave embodies mystery, wonder, danger, and beauty all in one. The most astonishing sights include the surreal cave reflections, the breathtaking three-tier underground waterfall, the magical boat ride along the subterranean "Milky Way," and the remarkable phenomenon of "lichens, ferns, and mosses thriving in the pitch-dark cave"—a true miracle of the biological world. The air inside the cave is fresh, cool in summer and warm in winter, maintaining a constant temperature of 18°C year-round. The clear, transparent underground river flows continuously, creating a "natural oxygen bar" deep within the earth. According to experts from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, including botanists and cave specialists, the air in Zhangguan Water Caves is exceptionally rich in oxygen, and the soil, humidity, and temperature conditions provide an ideal environment for plant growth. With dozens of species and abundant quantities of cave plants discovered so far, Zhangguan Water Caves truly deserves to be called a "Natural Cave Plant Museum."

　　The underground river in the water cave flows year-round, its surface smooth as glass. The most breathtaking sight is the cave’s dreamlike reflections, which create the illusion of an underwater dragon palace or fairyland. Visitors can drift along the underground river, experiencing both thrilling excitement and a leisurely appreciation of the stunning subterranean wonders.

　　Perched atop Yunxia Ridge, the ancient Zhangguan Stockade lies among towering mountains and steep cliffs, combining rugged beauty with elegance. The slope near the ancient pass, now known as Zaibingpo, has been developed into a camping area, offering folk dance performances, a tranquil tea garden, and wilderness camping. It’s a place of striking beauty and vibrant charm. Standing atop the ridge, one can’t help but feel a profound sense of timelessness and vastness.

　　Zhen’guan Lake is located in the Zhangjia Cave sightseeing zone. The lake’s water is crystal clear, surrounded by shaded woods that remain lush all year round. A gentle breeze rustles the willow trees, and the afterglow of sunset drifts over the fragrance of lotus flowers. You can invite friends to chat and sip tea in a bamboo hut, or even spend a carefree day playing by the lake from morning to evening.