Exploring Wenzhou Wolong Gorge: Encountering a Stunning Ecological Secret
Exploring Wenzhou Wolong Gorge: Discover the Beauty of a Hidden Gem
I had long heard that Wenzhou Wolong Gorge is known as the "Jiuzhaigou of the South," and during the holiday, I finally set foot in this mysterious place.
The Journey Begins, A Glimpse of Beauty
The trip from Tangshan, Hebei to Rui'an, Wenzhou was long, but the anticipation in my heart made me feel no fatigue. Upon arrival, I drove directly to Wolong Gorge, located at No. 18 Gongyi Road, Chaoji Township, Rui'an City. The parking fee at the entrance is 15 yuan, which is quite reasonable.
Natural Beauty Like a Painting
Walking into the scenic area, I felt as if I had entered a secluded fairyland. The pools here are crystal clear, emerald green like flawless jade, shimmering under the sunlight, breathtakingly beautiful. The "Longjing Pool" is deep and green, like the earth’s eye—profound and mysterious; the "Xianqiaodun" is a naturally formed stone arch bridge, a masterpiece of nature that makes one marvel at its wonder; the "Bailong Waterfall" cascades down in three tiers with majestic momentum, water plunging from heights, splashing layers of spray, and roaring thunderously.
Following the stream walkway, the path is lined with mountain flowers and fresh leaves, complementing the deep pools beautifully. The sound of flowing water fills the ears, and the cool breeze brushes the face—truly healing. The higher I climbed, the more beautiful the scenery became, each spot like a carefully painted picture. On the way down, I even encountered herds of goats and yellow cattle leisurely grazing in the forest, adding vitality to the tranquil mountains.
Cultural Charm and Historical Depth
This place not only boasts stunning natural scenery but also carries profound cultural heritage. It is the largest settlement of direct descendants of Zhuge Liang in southern Zhejiang. Ji'ao Zhuge Village preserves centuries-old farming and scholarly culture. Buddhist cliff carvings from the Northern and Southern Dynasties and a Tang Dynasty ginkgo tree over a thousand years old are precious provincial-level cultural relics, evoking a strong sense of history and time.
Travel Challenges and Practical Tips
Although Wolong Gorge is enchanting, it also presents certain challenges. The entire route is about 5 to 6 kilometers. The first half is relatively flat, but the latter half involves many rock climbs, cliffs, and water crossings, requiring the use of both hands and feet for most of the way. The slope descends directly into pools, handrails are spaced widely and sometimes damaged, and steel nails and ropes on the rock walls must be used cautiously. The rocky sections have no shade, making it easy to get sunburned in summer, so sun protection is essential. I slipped once during the trip but was fortunate to have a first aid kit.
This Wolong Gorge trip was very rewarding. Its beauty lies not only in the picturesque natural scenery but also in the depth of its cultural history. If you enjoy off-the-beaten-path destinations and exploring natural beauty, Wolong Gorge is definitely worth a visit.
1. Transportation Guide
1. Self-driving (Recommended)
Search for "Wolong Gorge Scenic Area" on your navigation. It takes about 1 hour from Wenzhou city center and only 1 hour from Rui'an city center. There is a dedicated parking lot near the scenic area with a fee of 15 yuan per visit. After parking, it’s a 10-minute walk to the gorge entrance, with rural scenery along the way.
2. Public Transportation
Take a bus from Rui'an city to Huling, get off at Ji'ao Village in Chaoji Township, then cross the river and walk about 10 minutes to the gorge entrance. Multiple minibus routes from Wenzhou city reach Huling Town, fares start at 1.5 yuan. You will need to transfer to local transport or take a taxi afterward. The whole trip takes about 1.5 hours, suitable for budget travelers.
2. Core Attractions
- Longjing Pool: Originally named Wudougeng, it is 19 meters long, 17 meters wide, and 35 meters deep. The pool water is emerald green like jade, with a 12-meter-high waterfall plunging down, creating a misty spectacle. A white stone layer about 300 meters long lies hidden in the pool, resembling a swimming dragon with clear boundaries—a natural wonder.
- Xianqiaodun: A giant rock standing in the rapids, which from afar looks like a human foot with all five toes, and up close resembles a bridge pier. It is a geological masterpiece and a must-photograph spot on the hike.
- Zhuge Village: The settlement of direct descendants of Zhuge Liang in southern Zhejiang, preserving cliff carvings from the Northern and Southern Dynasties and a thousand-year-old ginkgo tree. The village is rich in cultural heritage, offering a peaceful and historic atmosphere.
- Blue Tear Deep Pool: A hidden pool deep in the gorge with water as clear as glass, glowing with a faint blue under sunlight. Known as the soul spot of "Wenzhou’s Little Jiuzhaigou," some visitors dive and play here (safety precautions required).
3. Specialty Foods
- Huling Beef Steak/Beef Hotpot: Local signature dishes with tender and flavorful meat, often offered as special packages in homestays, paired with wild vegetables and river delicacies for a rich taste.
- Lumu Maita Pot: A traditional Wenzhou snack made from rice noodles, pan-fried to golden crispness, served with sweet sauce or pickles, available at street stalls and homestays.
- Wild Mountain Products: Along the hike, you can buy dried bamboo shoots, wild tea, and dried creek fish sold by villagers. These natural, additive-free products make excellent souvenirs.