Wulong Three Natural Bridges

What it is

Formed over millions of years, the Three Natural Bridges (Tianlong, Qinglong and Heilong) are among the largest natural bridge clusters on Earth. Tianlong Bridge soars roughly 235 m high with a span of about 150 m, while the gorges beneath drop more than 200 m. The site sits within the Wulong Karst, inscribed by UNESCO in 2007 as part of South China Karst. Ancient tiankeng (sinkholes) and underground streams shaped this landscape, and a small traditional courtyard, Tianfu Post, was built here for the film Transformers: Age of Extinction.

The scenic area is in Wulong District, about 170 km southeast of central Chongqing. Visitors descend by glass elevator or stone steps into the gorge, then follow a paved 4-5 km trail beneath the arches, past waterfalls and along the emerald river. Expect 2-3 hours of walking with some stairs and slippery sections after rain. Because the site is popular, timed entry and shuttle buses manage crowds; our guides handle tickets and route timing so you experience the bridges in relative calm, often with mist adding drama.

Highlights

• Tianlong Bridge — The highest and most photographed arch, 235 m tall; stand beneath it as tour groups pass and feel the scale.
• Qinglong Bridge — The longest span at about 150 m, framing the green river and a waterfall that often catches rainbows in the afternoon.
• Heilong Bridge — The lowest and widest arch, where the gorge narrows and the echo of water fills the canyon.
• Tianfu Post — A reconstructed ancient courtyard used in Transformers 4; a surreal sight beneath the arches and a great photo stop.
• Glass Elevator & Gorge Walk — A 80 m glass lift drops you into the gorge, then a riverside trail leads under all three bridges.

How to get there

From Chongqing, take a high-speed train from Chongqing West or Chongqing North to Wulong (about 1.5-2 hours), then a taxi or our private transfer to the Xiannü Mountain visitor centre (30-40 minutes). Alternatively, we can drive you directly from your hotel (around 3 hours). Most travellers combine the bridges with nearby Longshuixia Gorge or Xiannü Mountain for a full day; our guide arranges timed entry and shuttle tickets so you avoid queues.

Tickets & practical info

Admission including shuttle bus is ¥125-¥135 per person (peak/off-peak); the glass elevator and sightseeing car inside cost extra (¥15-¥30 each). Opening hours are roughly 08:30-16:30, with last entry around 15:30. Book online in advance via WeChat mini-programs or Trip.com; foreign cards often fail on local apps, so our team can reserve with your passport and you pay cash or via Alipay Tour Pass on site.

Best time to visit

Visit from April to June or September to November for mild weather and clearer views; summer brings lush green but heavy rain and crowds, while winter can be foggy and cold. Arrive at opening (08:30) or after 14:00 to avoid tour buses. Afternoon light filters beautifully under the arches, and mist after rain adds a cinematic mood.

Tips from our guides

• Wear sturdy shoes with grip: the gorge trail has wet, uneven stone steps and can be slippery after rain.
• Bring a light rain jacket or poncho; the microclimate here means sudden showers even when Chongqing is dry.
• Carry your passport for ticket checks and hotel registration; foreign ID is required for scenic area bookings.
• Photograph the bridges from the marked viewpoints and avoid climbing on railings; drones are not permitted without official approval.
• Combine with Longshuixia Gorge or Xiannü Mountain for a full day, but start early—last shuttle from the gorge is around 16:30.

FAQ