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Wulong Karst - Three Natural Bridges

Wulong Karst - Three Natural Bridges武隆天生三桥

Wulong's Three Natural Bridges — Tianlong, Qinglong, Heilong — form Asia's largest natural-bridge cluster, inscribed by UNESCO as South China Karst in 2007.

Chongqing · Visitor Guide2026-10-18
Wulong Karst - Three Natural Bridges
Wulong Karst - Three Natural Bridges
Wulong Karst - Three Natural Bridges

Quick Answer

Is Wulong Karst - Three Natural Bridges worth visiting?

A UNESCO World Natural Heritage site where three colossal natural bridges span a gorge — a filming location for Transformers: Age of Extinction. Entry CNY 125; allow 3-4 hours.

Quick facts

TicketAdults CNY 125 (incl. park shuttle); concessions CNY 62.5
Hours08:30-17:00 (last entry 16:00)
Recommended duration3-4 hours
Best time to visitSpring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the scenery at its best
How to get thereDirect shuttle from the Sigongli tourist center in central Chongqing (about 2.5 hours), or a train to Wulong Station then a local bus
English signageYes
Wheelchair accessiblePartial
AddressXianshan Town, Wulong District, Chongqing
TypeUNESCO World Natural Heritage / karst landscape
ElevationAbout 1,200-1,400 m
Bridge height200-350 m

What to expect

The Three Natural Bridges lie in Xianshan Town, Wulong District, and form the largest natural bridge cluster in Asia. The three limestone spans — Tianlong, Qinglong and Heilong — were carved as groundwater dissolved the rock; each bridges more than 200 m and rises 200-350 m, a scene of overwhelming grandeur. Tianlong Bridge takes its name from Tianlong Lake between its arches, its vaulted opening evoking two dragons at play.

Two ravines run between the three bridges, creating the unusual spectacle of arches within caves and caves within arches. The shaft of light beneath Qinglong Bridge is a famous photo spot — on clear days sunlight pours through a gap in the bridge top in a dramatic natural column. The site has also served as a backdrop for numerous films and TV dramas, including Curse of the Golden Flower, Transformers: Age of Extinction and Eternal Love.

The route is a one-way downhill circuit: a park bus takes you from the entrance to the top of the bridges, you walk past all three in sequence, then a bus carries you back at the end. Allow about 3 hours on footpaths, some of them steep. At this elevation the temperature swings widely between morning and evening, so bring a jacket. The park also stages the live outdoor show Impressions Wulong, performed in the evening.

How to get there

From central Chongqing, direct shuttle buses leave from the Sigongli tourist center (Sigongli Station on Metro Line 3), about CNY 60 and a 2.5-hour ride. Alternatively take a train to Wulong Station (about CNY 25, around 2 hours), then a bus or taxi to the park (about 30 minutes). Driving takes roughly 3 hours.

Best photo spots

  • The full view looking up beneath Tianlong Bridge (the classic angle)
  • The natural light shaft beneath Qinglong Bridge
  • The dramatic contrast of cliffs and boardwalk near the park exit
  • The afternoon light column through the bridge gap on clear days

Tips

  • Enter right at opening to beat the crowds and catch the best light
  • The route runs downhill throughout — easier than climbing, but watch your footing on the many steps
  • Food inside is limited and pricey; bring your own snacks
  • Combine with Xianshan National Forest Park, about 30 minutes away by car

Scams to avoid

  • Some Chongqing travel agencies resell tickets at a markup — buy at the park window or on the official platform
  • Villagers run unofficial parking with arbitrary fees; use the official park lot
  • Local ride-pooling drivers may take longer routes for extra fare; stick to licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to climb down into the gorge? How strenuous is it?

The circuit runs one-way downhill: from the hilltop you follow boardwalks to the gorge floor past the three bridges, then return to the entrance by elevator or stairs. There are many steps but nothing steep — moderate exertion; seniors and children should pace themselves.

Can the Three Natural Bridges and Xianshan be done in one day?

Yes, though the timing is tight. Do the bridges in the morning (3-4 hours), drive on to Xianshan National Forest Park in the afternoon (about 30 minutes), and head back to Chongqing by evening.

Tickets cost more than expected — any discounts?

Students, seniors and military personnel qualify for concession tickets (CNY 62.5). Booking ahead on the official e-commerce platforms sometimes brings discounts.

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