Wulingyuan (, ) is a scenic and historical site in the Wulingyuan District of South Central China's Hunan Province. It is noted for more than 3,000 quartzite sandstone pillars and peaks across most of the site, many over in height, along with many ravines and gorges with picturesque streams, pools, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. which is one of the highest natural bridges in the world. The site also provides habitat for many vulnerable species, including the dhole, Asiatic black bear, and Chinese water deer. The site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.

The highest area in the park is Huang Shi Zhai (). It reaches a height of and is accessible via cable car or a set of stairs. Another cliff can be accessed by the Bailong Elevator.

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Main scenic spots

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie, also known as Qingyan Mountain, covers an area of 130 square kilometers and was the first location to be designated a national forest park in China. It is known for its peculiar landforms with many towering stone peaks with evocative shapes and luxuriant covering of trees. It is said that over 97 percent of the park is blanketed by various kinds of rare trees and other plants.

Yellow Stone Stronghold

Among all the scenic spots in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Yellow Stone Stronghold is the most famous. The peak of the stronghold towers into the sky, forming a magnificent vista. There is a saying which roughly translates as "if you don't go to Yellow Stone Stronghold, you will go to Zhangjiajie in vain". Located in the central part of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, it has an altitude of 1080 meters and spans an area of 16.5 hectares. In addition, it is considered to be the most beautiful viewing platform in Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area.

Golden Whip Stream

Another beautiful scenic area in the forest park is the Golden Whip Stream. It was one of the earliest scenic spots in the park to be developed, and has a total length of 7,500 meters. The most beautiful scenery in Wulingyuan is along this stream. The entrance of the stream is only 300 meters from the entrance of Zhangjiajie Forest Park. It exemplifies the delicacy and natural beauty of Wulingyuan's landscape. Mr. Wu Guanzhong, a famous Chinese painter, described it as a "fairy tale world".

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File:1 zhangjiajie huangshizhai wulingyuan panorama 2012.jpg|Panorama of the Five Fingers Peak of Huangshizhai

File:ZhangJiaJie River 1.jpg|Zhangjiajie River

File:湖南-张家界-武陵源 - panoramio.jpg|Wulingyuan park entrance

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References

  • China’s Ancient Skyline