Guangwushan Scenic Area is located in the northern part of Nanjiang County, Bazhong City, Sichuan Province, at the junction of Sichuan and Shaanxi provinces. It is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and a UNESCO Global Geopark. Covering a total area of 830 square kilometers, with a core scenic area of 410 square kilometers, the site features unique ridge-and-peak cluster landforms, pristine ecosystems, enchanting waterfalls and pools, and picturesque valleys. Known as the "Biological Gene Pool" and "Natural Oxygen Bar," it boasts a forest coverage rate of 97%, an air quality excellence rate exceeding 90%, and an average negative oxygen ion concentration of over 30,000 per cubic centimeter.
History and Culture
During the late Xia and early Shang dynasties, the Ba people created the Micang Ancient Road, one of the three major ancient Shu roads. Historical events such as Xiao He chasing Han Xin under the moon, Zhuge Liang training troops in Muyang City, and Zhang Fei establishing camps on Luoqi Mountain took place here.
This area was also the center of the Sichuan-Shaanxi Revolutionary Base, the second-largest soviet region in China. Revolutionary leaders such as Xu Xiangqian and Li Xiannian, along with the Bashan Guerrillas, fought against invaders here.
In addition, the centuries-old Bashan Backer's Song has been listed as a national intangible cultural heritage, alongside other cultural treasures like Cuan Tan Opera and Ba people's papermaking techniques.
Main Attractions
Shudao Qin Pass
Serving as the northern gateway to Guangwushan Scenic Area and the border between Sichuan and Shaanxi provinces, this ancient pass has been a strategic passage since the Qin and Han dynasties. Originally named "Tian Shang" (Heavenly Pass), it was rebuilt and renamed "Shudao Qin Pass."
Micang Ancient Road
Named after the Micang Mountains it traverses, this road is one of the three major ancient Shu roads in China. Referred to as the "Living Fossil of Chinese and World Transportation History," it was a vital military and supply route in ancient China.
Yanyan Stone Forest
Named after the swallows that inhabit the caves beneath Yanyan Peak each spring, the stone forest offers breathtaking views of jagged rock formations, ancient pine trees, and deep valleys. The scenic overlook provides panoramic vistas of the karst landscape.
Seven Fairy Peaks
Located near Swallow Ridge, these seven peaks resemble graceful fairies standing in perfect harmony. The area was once visited by Fei Xiaotong, former vice chairman of the National People's Congress, who praised it as a "Fairyland on Earth."
Ten Thousand Memorial Tablets Pay Homage
Located 500 meters east of Swallow Ridge, this site features a towering stone pillar resembling a giant seated figure, surrounded by countless smaller stone formations arranged in an orderly manner, creating the illusion of "ten thousand memorial tablets paying homage."
Longjia Cloud and Mist
Longjia Mountain rises abruptly from the Jiaojia River, its silhouette often shrouded in mist. Resembling a dragon's skeleton, the mountain is divided into three layers, offering spectacular views of the river and surrounding valleys.
Taiji Tiankeng
A classic example of kettle hole topography, the Jiaojia River has carved the karst mountains into an S-shaped curve resembling the Taiji symbol, hence the name "Taiji Tiankeng."
Local Cuisine
Spicy Fish
A signature dish of Guangwushan, made with fresh local fish marinated in chili and other spices, offering a tangy and spicy flavor.
Bamboo Shoot Chicken
Combines tender local chicken with fresh bamboo shoots, creating a flavorful and nutritious stew with a rich, savory broth.
Vegetable Tofu
A traditional dish made from soybeans blended with vegetable juice, resulting in a smooth and nutritious tofu with a fresh, natural taste.
Mountain Wild Vegetables
Abundant in Guangwushan, wild vegetables such as wild onions, wild chives, and purslane are harvested locally, offering a pure and authentic taste of nature.
Entrance Tickets
Combined ticket including sightseeing bus: 115 yuan per person.
For the latest updates and online ticket purchases, search for the official WeChat account "玩转光雾山".
Opening Hours
Normally open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Actual hours may vary; please check the official website before your visit.
Recommended Itineraries
Popular routes include:
- Route 1: Nanjiang (or Hanzhong) — Guangwushan Town — Longjia Cloud and Mist — Pengjiaba — Three Passes — South Heaven Gate — Seven Fairy Peaks — Swallow Ridge — Ten Thousand Memorial Tablets Pay Homage — Yanyan Stone Forest — Cherry Valley — Jiexian Post — Hanxi River — Lianghekou — Taiji Tiankeng — Ganling Temple — Return to Nanjiang (or Hanzhong).
- Route 2: Nanjiang (or Hanzhong) — Guangwushan Town — Longjia Cloud and Mist — Pengjiaba — Lianghekou — Taiji Tiankeng — Feiyun Plank Road — Ganling Temple (suitable for families with elderly or children).
- Route 3: Guangwushan Scenic Area — Nuoshuihe Geopark Museum — Bashan Guerrilla Memorial Hall + Optional scenic route (Guangwushan or Micangshan) + Light Show "Dream of Guangwushan."
Getting There
- From Chengdu:
- By bus: Take a bus from Chengdu North Gate Bus Station to Nanjiang (Guangyun Bus Station), then transfer to a bus to Guangwushan or Micangshan Scenic Area.
- By high-speed rail: Take the train from Chengdu East Station to Hanzhong, then transfer to a bus from Hanzhong Passenger Transport Hub Station.
- By train: Take the train from Chengdu East Station to Bazhong, then transfer to a bus from Bazhong Jiangbei Passenger Transport Center.
- By self-driving: Via Chengba Expressway and Bashan Expressway to Qiaoting Exit; or via Nanjiang North Exit to Yangba — Xinmin — Shiba Moon Pool Scenic Area.
- From Chongqing:
- By bus: Take a bus from Chongqing Caiyuanba Bus Station to Nanjiang, then transfer to the scenic area.
- By high-speed rail: Take the train from Chongqing West/North Station to Hanzhong, then transfer to the scenic area.
- By train: Take the train from Chongqing North Station to Bazhong, then transfer to the scenic area.
- By self-driving: Via Baguangyu Expressway and Bashan Expressway to Qiaoting Exit; or via Nanjiang North Exit to Yangba — Xinmin — Shiba Moon Pool Scenic Area.
- From Xi'an:
- By bus: Take a bus from Xi'an Chengnan or Chenxi Passenger Station to Hanzhong, then transfer to the scenic area.
- By high-speed rail: Take the train from Xi'an North Station to Hanzhong, then transfer to the scenic area.
- By self-driving: Via Xihan Expressway and Bashan Expressway to Xishenba Exit; or via Nanjiang North Exit to Yangba — Xinmin — Shiba Moon Pool Scenic Area.
Must-Visit Attractions
- Micang Ancient Road: One of China's three major ancient Shu roads, offering a profound historical experience.
- Yanyan Stone Forest: A spectacular karst landscape with lush vegetation.
- Taiji Tiankeng: A unique geological formation resembling the Taiji symbol.
- Shiba Moon Pool: A series of 18 crystal-clear pools nestled in a forested valley, particularly stunning in autumn when surrounded by colorful foliage.
Tips for Visitors
- Check the weather forecast in advance and pack appropriate clothing and equipment.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the scenic area involves long walks.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against strong UV rays.
- Choose a route that matches your physical stamina and time constraints to avoid fatigue.
- Reserve early morning cable car tickets in advance if you wish to view sunrise or sea of clouds.
Precautions
- Due to the high altitude and significant temperature variations, bring warm clothing.
- Carry rain gear, as weather in mountainous areas can change suddenly.
- Protect the fragile ecosystem by not littering and respecting the natural environment.
- Stay on designated paths and avoid climbing in restricted areas to ensure safety.
- Do not approach or feed wild animals.
- Respect local cultural traditions and customs.