Furong Cave, located in Wulong District, Chongqing, is a breathtaking limestone karst cave and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, celebrated as one of the “Three Greatest Caves in the World” alongside Mammoth Cave (USA) and Clamouse Cave (France). Known as China’s “most beautiful underground art palace,” it boasts a dazzling array of stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological formations, illuminated by vibrant lights. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit to this subterranean wonder, approximately 190 km from downtown Chongqing.
A Travel Guide to Furong Cave
Why Visit Furong Cave?
Furong Cave is a geological marvel formed 1.2 million years ago, stretching 2,846 meters with a stable temperature of 16.1°C. Its massive chambers, like the 11,000-square-meter Glory Hall, house over 70 types of secondary chemical sediments, including rare coral-like calcite crystals and gypsum flowers. Rated as a National AAAAA (5A) Scenic Spot and praised as the “king of caves” in 1994, it’s a must-see for nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and adventurers. The cave’s colorful lighting and unique formations, such as the 21-meter stone waterfall and “cave grapes,” create a mesmerizing experience.
How to Get There
Furong Cave is in Jiangkou Town, Wulong County, about a 2–3-hour drive from central Chongqing. Here are your transportation options:
By Train and Bus: Take a high-speed train from Chongqing North Railway Station to Wulong Station (1–1.5 hours, ¥40–60). From Wulong Station, catch a bus to Jiangkou Town (40 minutes, ¥4–9), then transfer to a local minivan or tourist bus to the cave’s Tourist Service Center (10 minutes, ¥5). Alternatively, take a direct bus from Chongqing Nanping Bus Station or Sigongli Transportation Hub to Wulong Bus Station, then transfer to Jiangkou Town and the cave.
By Car or Taxi: Driving from Chongqing takes about 2 hours via the Chongqing Inner Ring Expressway and Baotou-Maoming Expressway. The road distance is 118 miles, with taxi fares around ¥55–70 or rental car costs of ¥23–35. Parking is available at the Tourist Service Center.
By Private Tour: Many Chongqing-based agencies (e.g., EtripChina) offer private transfers or group tours, including round-trip transport and tickets, for a hassle-free experience.
Tip: A cable car ride (15 minutes, ¥70 round-trip) from the Tourist Service Center to the cave entrance offers stunning views of the Furong River.
Best Time to Visit
Year-Round Appeal: Furong Cave is captivating in all seasons due to its stable 16.1°C temperature. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant weather for exploring Wulong’s outdoor attractions alongside the cave.
Summer (June–August): The cave’s cool interior provides relief from Chongqing’s heat, but the area can be humid, and pathways may be slippery.
Winter (December–February): Fewer crowds make for a serene visit, though outdoor areas may be chilly.
Avoid Peak Holidays: National Day (early October) and Chinese New Year (January/February) bring heavy crowds, so book tickets and transport early.
Crowd Tip: Visit early in the morning or off-season for a quieter experience, as the cave can feel magical with fewer people.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM–6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM). Check for seasonal variations.
Ticket Prices: Cave entry: ¥65–130 (varies by season; includes guided tour). Cable car: ¥70 (round-trip, recommended for scenic views). Combo tickets (cave + cable car): ~¥130–150. Children’s tickets: ¥35 (height-based discounts apply).
Booking: Purchase tickets on-site or via platforms like Trip.com or EtripChina. Book in advance during peak seasons to secure cable car access.
Note: Prices may fluctuate; check Trip.com for updated deals.
What to See and Do
Furong Cave is divided into three sections, each offering distinct experiences:
Colorful Subterranean Features (First Section): Marvel at vibrant stalactites, stalagmites, stone pillars, and coral crystal flowers illuminated by multicolored lights. Highlights include the 20-meter stone waterfall, cave grapes, Sleeping Buddha, and 1000-Arrows Hall. The Glory Hall, covering 11,000 square meters, is a standout for its sheer scale. The cave’s 70+ sediment types, including rare calcite and gypsum formations, make it a geological treasure.
Scientific Exploration (Second and Third Sections): Learn about cave formation and karst geology through displays and guided explanations. The cave is a “science museum” for researchers, with studies conducted by experts from over 20 countries.
Nearby Attractions: Furong River Drifting: Enjoy a thrilling 1,800-meter rafting adventure on the Pangu River or a leisurely boat cruise along the Furong River. Three Natural Bridges: Part of the Wulong Karst National Geology Park, these massive karst arches (featured in Transformers 4) are 40 minutes away by tourist bus. Longshuixia Gap: A scenic gorge ideal for hiking, also within Wulong Karst Park.
Tour Tip: A guided tour (included in the ticket) lasts about 2 hours and covers key sights. Wear non-slip shoes, as the cave is wet and slippery.
Where to Eat
On-Site: The Tourist Service Center has small kiosks offering snacks, drinks, and simple Chinese meals like noodles or rice (¥10–30). Options are limited, so consider bringing snacks.
Jiangkou Town: Nearby restaurants serve Chongqing specialties like spicy hotpot, grilled fish, and noodles (¥20–50 per dish).
Wulong County: For more variety, dine in Wulong town, which has restaurants offering Sichuan-Chongqing cuisine and international fast food.
Tip: Try local spicy noodles or hotpot for an authentic Chongqing flavor, but carry water for the cave tour.
Where to Stay
Jiangkou Town: Budget guesthouses and small hotels (¥100–200/night) are close to the cave, offering basic amenities.
Wulong County: Mid-range hotels like Wulong Yijia Hotel or Vienna Hotel (¥200–400/night) provide comfort and easy access to other Wulong attractions.
Luxury Option: Stay at resorts in Xiannü Town (e.g., Wulong Fairy Mountain Resort, ¥500+/night) for a scenic retreat near Three Natural Bridges.
Chongqing City: For day trips, base yourself in Chongqing at hotels like Hilton Chongqing (¥400–800/night) or budget hostels (¥80–150/night).
Booking Tip: Use Ctrip or Booking.com for deals, and reserve early during peak seasons.
Tips for a Great Visit
Dress Appropriately: The cave is cool (16.1°C) and humid. Wear a light jacket, long pants, and non-slip shoes. Avoid sandals.
Protect the Environment: Smoking, littering, and touching formations are strictly prohibited to preserve the cave’s delicate ecosystem.
Photography: The cave’s lighting enhances photos, but tripods may require permission. Avoid flash to respect other visitors.
Combine Your Trip: Pair Furong Cave with Three Natural Bridges and Longshuixia Gap for a full day in Wulong Karst National Geology Park. A half-day tour with Furong River boating is also rewarding.
Language: English signage is limited, so consider a guided tour or translation app (e.g., Pleco) for navigation.
Cash: Carry some cash (CNY) for small vendors, as mobile payments may not always be accepted in rural areas.
Final Thoughts
Furong Cave is a geological masterpiece that blends natural beauty, scientific intrigue, and cultural significance. Its towering stalactites, shimmering crystal formations, and UNESCO status make it a highlight of any Chongqing itinerary. Plan for a 2–3-hour visit, arrive early to avoid crowds, and consider exploring the broader Wulong Karst region for a deeper dive into nature’s wonders. Whether you’re captivated by the cave’s “underground art palace” or the scenic Furong River, this destination promises an awe-inspiring adventure.
Happy travels!
