In order to experience the Three Natural Bridges and Furong Cave, we had to go to the town of Wulong, which is the county seat for the surrounding area. It is the hub for all major transportation in and out of the area and out to these spectacular scenic spots. Our trip to Wulong was a two-day excursion out of Chongqing. Most people just do a day trip from Chongqing organized with a tour group or hostel, but if you want to experience it on your own terms you can do what we did. However, read ahead to learn from our mistakes.
Xuannushan
We rode the train to Wulong first thing in the morning from Chongqing. There we had to transfer to a bus up to Xuannushan. Little did we know that this isn’t only the name of the village where you access the natural bridges but also the name of a resort further up the mountain. At the long-distance bus stop in Wulong we happened to get on a bus that went through the town to the resort. We also didn’t know what a popular place it is on the weekends with people from Chongqing. So, it was a little chaotic up there. After realizing our mishap, we got on a bus back down to the town. So, that’s my first bit of advice: make sure you get the bus ticket to the town not the resort. If you mention wanting to see the bridges, the ticket person will get you passage on the right bus.
My second bit of advice: don’t get a hotel in Xuannushan (at least in the off-season). Instead, go back to Wulong for the night. A couple of reasons for this. First, it is a much lower altitude in Wulong and thus warmer, so when the rolling blackout hits your hotel at 10 p.m. you won’t lose the heater and electric blanket. Second, there are better options for food in Wulong. Every restaurant in the “small” resort town served the exact same menu.
Basically, go to Xuannushan to get to the bridges or nearby doline via the ginormous, diamond-shaped visitor center, but make it a day trip from Wulong. This also makes it easier to start the next day’s adventure sooner. If you go during the high season, it will probably be pretty darn crowded judging on the number of villas, condos, and hotels, but the town may have a little bit of life then and worthy of an actual visit.
Wulong
While in Wulong itself, there’s lots more food options though prepare for spice just like in Chongqing and anywhere in Sichuan. I also recommend trying the fries. They seem to be the quintessential local street food, and they’re pretty tasty. If you meander through the town, you’ll also found a venue that hosted some exhibition matches during the 2008 Olympics.
Getting between the bus station and train station is very walkable. But if you feel uncomfortable finding your way, just get a taxi. It should only cost the basic flag drop fare.
Anyway, just a few extra thoughts from travelling in Chongqing. Until next time, remember, adventure is out there, so go have one!
