Three Natural Bridges

Located in Wulong District, Chongqing, the Wulong Three Natural Bridges (Three Natural Bridges Scenic Area) is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site renowned for its awe-inspiring karst landscape. Centered around three colossal natural stone bridges—Tianlong Bridge (Heavenly Dragon), Qinglong Bridge (Azure Dragon), and Heilong Bridge (Black Dragon)—the site forms a spectacular "three bridges sandwiching two sinkholes" geological wonder. Combining grandeur, mystery, adventure, elegance, and serenity, it stands as Asia’s largest cluster of natural bridges and has served as a filming location for blockbusters such as Curse of the Golden Flower and Transformers 4.

At the base of Tianlong Bridge lies the ancient Tianfu Official Post Station, a courtyard complex with grey-tiled roofs and walls. First built in 619 AD during the Tang Dynasty, this historic relay station once linked the vital routes between "Zhuantianpu" and "Baiguopu," facilitating official communication between ancient Fuzhou and Qianzhou. Destroyed in warfare and later restored, the post station now sits at the foot of Qinglong Bridge within Wulong Tiankeng (Heavenly Pit). A 5-meter-wide valley road, reminiscent of an ancient courier path, runs through the sinkhole, allowing access for wooden carts and horseback riders. The station’s rooftops are dramatically overshadowed by the towering cliffs of Tianlong Bridge.

In June 2007, the Wulong Karst—comprising the Three Natural Bridges, Furong Cave, and Houping Tiankeng—was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, joining South China Karst’s iconic landmarks (including Yunnan’s Stone Forest and Guizhou’s Libo Karst). On July 6, 2011, the site was further designated a National AAAAA Tourist Attraction by the China National Tourism Administration.

Main Attractions

1. 1.Tianlong Bridge (Heavenly Dragon Bridge)
   Soaring 200 meters high with a 300-meter span, this bridge resembles a dragon ascending to the heavens. Beneath it lies a natural sinkhole housing interconnected caves, evoking the labyrinthine mystery of Crete’s Minoan Palace.
2. 2.Qinglong Bridge (Azure Dragon Bridge)
   With the highest vertical drop (350 meters) and a 400-meter span, Qinglong Bridge is draped in lush greenery. At sunset, its shadow transforms into a dark green silhouette, mimicking a dragon poised to take flight.
3. 3.Heilong Bridge (Black Dragon Bridge)
   The downstream-most bridge over Yangshui River Gorge, Heilong Bridge features a pitch-dark arch resembling a coiled black dragon. It boasts the tallest arch (116 meters) and widest deck (193 meters) of the three. Its walls showcase ancient underwater erosion patterns, alongside four hanging springs: Mist Spring, Pearl Spring, Thread Spring, and Three-Tier Spring.
4. 4.Tianfu Official Post Station
   This Tang-style wooden complex, with upturned eaves and grey-brick courtyards, once housed 20 rooms for officials, guards, and guests. A replica today includes a main hall for administrative affairs, guest quarters, stables, and even a vintage wooden carriage. Flagpoles and hitching posts outside evoke its former role as a hub for dignitaries.

Highlights

1. 1.Film Locations
   The Tianfu Post Station (a Tang-era replica) and the Transformers 4 robotic dinosaur sculpture are popular photo spots.
   2.Unique Experiences
2. Descend to the valley via glass elevators, stroll along streams, explore karst caves, and marvel at cascading waterfalls.

This site seamlessly blends geological marvels with cultural heritage, offering visitors an unforgettable journey through nature’s artistry and history’s echoes.