Hanxi Gully

　　    Hanxi Gully is situated on the southern bank of the Hanchang River, approximately 4 kilometers southwest of Jimingsi Township, and lies just over 100 meters from the “8-Hour Chongqing” trunk road. It sits at the junction of Chengkou, Kaixian, and Xuanhan counties, hence the saying “one gully connects two provinces.” Crossing the Hanchang River, one sees ancient paths winding steeply upward beyond Hanxi Gully, while dense forests on both sides of the gully block out the sky. The waters here remain warm in winter and cool in summer, crystal clear, and often home to schools of Yang fish. Traveling up the gully, you’ll find an open area encircled by mountains, where rocky cliffs form a circular pool. The pool shimmers with clear blue water and creates delightful reflections. The surrounding terrain is relatively flat, suitable for building structures. The Sage Peak by the lake rises over 100 meters high, resembling a mushroom or the Buddha, with ancient pines standing firmly atop it and lush spiritual herbs thriving. Behind the pool, sheer cliffs rise sharply, while a gentle long beach stretches out with lush vegetation and murmuring streams. Within the gully, the Black Rock Pool—around ten square meters in size—features gleaming black rocks along its walls, dotted with rare flowers and plants and shaded by ancient trees, making it a playful haunt for the elusive Chinese giant salamander. Moving past the pool, towering canyon walls and flat riverbanks unfold, with the water depth ranging from several feet to just over a foot. In this stretch, the “One Line Sky” crevice offers shade that blocks out the sun, while paired Mandarin Duck Caves are carved into the cliffs. The vividly shaped Bull Head and Horse Face rock formations stand out; the welcoming Guest-Greeting Pine stands gracefully; a waterfall cascades dramatically from a cliffside cave mouth, shaking the valley with its roar; the Red Rock Cave is adorned with bizarre stalactites. Throughout the gully, the evergreen Chinese dove tree and yew trees thrive year-round, while macaques, golden pheasants, wild boars, and goats roam freely.

　　    Source: People’s Government of Chengkou County, Chongqing Municipality