Longli Monkey Valley: A Dreamlike Journey Through Nature
Trapped in the hustle and bustle of the city for a long time, I yearned for an intimate encounter with nature. Thus, Longli Monkey Valley became the destination of my trip. This hidden secret in the heart of Guizhou’s Qianzhong region is like an uncut gem, radiating a mysterious and enchanting glow.
Departure: Setting off with anticipation for the secret realm
At dawn, as the first ray of sunlight spilled through my window, I packed my bags full of hope and embarked on the journey to Longli Monkey Valley. Starting from downtown Guiyang, crossing the Longli River Bridge, and driving about 28 kilometers, I entered the scenic area of Monkey Valley. Along the way, the scenery outside the window kept changing; the city’s skyscrapers gradually gave way to rolling mountains and vast fields. As I neared my destination, my excitement grew, as if about to unveil a mysterious veil.
First Impressions: Encountering the Millennium Ginkgo and Bamboo Forest Trails
After arriving at the entrance of Monkey Valley, called Jieba, and walking downhill about a hundred meters, I stepped into the tranquil world of the canyon. The first sight was a millennium-old ginkgo tree—the “King of Ginkgo.” Its sturdy branches spread a dense shade, like the first ceremonial guard welcoming visitors. Standing beneath it, looking up at this ancient tree weathered by a thousand years, I felt a deep reverence. It has witnessed the passage of time yet stands firm, showing the resilience and tenacity of life.
Passing through layers of bamboo forest, accompanied by the babbling stream underfoot, the towering valleys on both sides stood like dark green screens, with greenery creeping over the cliffs, winding all the way to Guoweng, where the canyon forks. The bamboo here is quite unique; among them are bluish-black square bamboos, whose square edges can only be felt by hand, appearing no different to the naked eye from ordinary bamboo, hiding nature’s exquisite craftsmanship. Curiously, I reached out to touch these square bamboos, feeling their unique texture, as if having an intimate conversation with nature.
Exploration: The Magical Beauty of Double Dragon Waterfall and Wangtian Cave
Walking a few hundred meters to the left, the roaring sound of the “Double Dragon Waterfall” gradually became clear. I quickened my pace, eager to see its splendor. When I finally stood before the waterfall, I was deeply shocked by the scene. Water surged down the cliff like two giant dragons soaring into the sky, the mist soaking my clothes. Bluish-black square bamboo grew beside the waterfall, complementing the scene and forming a breathtaking picture. I closed my eyes, listening to the roar of the waterfall and the crashing water, feeling the majestic power of nature.
About two hundred meters beyond the Double Dragon Waterfall, I reached Wangtian Cave. The cave is over thirty meters high, with water flowing from its entrance like a waterfall, pouring into a deep blue pool below. I followed the path along the pool to climb to the cave entrance. The cave hall is spacious with a skylight. At noon, sunlight pours in, and Tyndall beams float in the air, dreamlike and magical. Going deeper about a hundred meters, it connects to an underground river, mysterious and unfathomable, with only the crisp sound of water droplets hitting rocks. I walked cautiously inside, feeling the coolness and mystery, as if entering a fantastical world.
Seclusion: Ancient Paper-Making Workshop Ruins and the Traces of Cai Lun Temple
Returning to Guoweng, I continued along the stream for five or six miles to Chahé, where the ruins of an ancient paper-making workshop left by villagers lie scattered by the riverbank. The large millstones in the workshop show the wear of time. For a moment, I seemed to see the busy figures of paper makers and hear their joyful laughter during work. These ruins witness the past prosperity and brilliance of the area and let me feel the charm and inheritance of traditional culture.
Further ahead, only the bluestone foundations of Cai Lun Temple remain, scattered by the mountain stream. Although the temple no longer exists, Cai Lun’s papermaking technique has been passed down through the ages, making a huge contribution to human civilization. Standing by the stream, looking at the bluestone foundations, I was filled with emotion. The river of time washes everything away but cannot erase the memory of history and cultural heritage.
Deeper Journey: Crossing the Canyon and Encountering the Emerald Pool
Continuing along the narrow mountain path through the canyon, the journey was rugged but full of surprises. Dense forests shaded the sky, and the intermittently flowing streams delighted me with bursts of joy and cheers. Suddenly, at the end of the path appeared an oval-shaped pool, fed by a mountain spring flowing from a cliff crack, “gurgling” into the pool. The pool’s sapphire-blue water was as clear as emerald, breathtakingly beautiful. Locals call the cave “Sitting in the Well to View the Sky,” and mountain people call it the Sky Eye Cave; the pool is called the Emerald Pool or the “Blue Tear.”
I climbed the rocks beside the pool and crouched to enter the cave on the opposite side. Looking down outside the cave, the tall and wide cave entrance framed the sapphire-like pool outside, extremely beautiful. Looking up at the cave ceiling, a huge hole hung in the air like the eye of the cave, with dazzling light shining through. Inside, jagged boulders cast shifting shadows, stirring unease. The dim cave chamber’s size and depth are unknown; few who hike here return fully satisfied.
Return: Leaving with Fondness and Reluctance
As the sun set, the afterglow bathed the mountains and waters of Monkey Valley, draping the entire scenic area in a golden veil. With a heart full of fondness and reluctance, I began my journey back. Looking back, the beauty of Monkey Valley seemed to wave goodbye to me. The strange mountains, clear waters, springs, and spiritual caves are deeply imprinted in my mind.
This trip to Longli Monkey Valley allowed me to escape the city’s noise and bustle and experience the tranquility and beauty of nature. Here, I marveled at nature’s wonders and charm and experienced the profound heritage of traditional culture. Every scene and moment became a precious memory in my life.
I know that in the days to come, I will return to this land again to explore more of its beauty. Because Longli Monkey Valley has deeply imprinted itself in my heart, becoming the eternal poetry and distant dream in my soul.
I. Preparation Before the Trip
1. Best travel time: April to June (spring greenery and abundant streams), September to November (clear autumn skies and colorful forests); summer is good for cooling off but avoid June-July flood season (high risk of mountain floods); winter is cold, suitable for light hiking.
2. Tickets and fees: Monkey Valley is free; Longli Grassland about 30 RMB/person; shuttle bus 20 RMB/person; horse rental 40 RMB/horse; no commercial accommodation, camping requires own gear.
3. Essential gear: Non-slip creek shoes/hiking boots, trekking poles, waterproof backpack, headlamp/flashlight (for caves), sunscreen, quick-dry clothes, spare clothes, enough drinking water + snacks, insect repellent spray, basic first aid kit; camera recommended with waterproof bag.
4. Communication tips: No cell signal deep in the canyon; always travel in groups and inform someone of your itinerary in advance.
II. Transportation Guide
1. Self-driving (recommended): From Guiyang, take the Hukun Expressway/Duzhi Expressway, navigate to “Longli Monkey Valley/Longli Grassland,” about 1.5 hours drive; park at grassland entrance parking lot, then hike or take shuttle bus into the valley.
2. Public transport: Guiyang Bus Station/Train Station → Longli County (bus/train, about 1 hour); from county, charter or carpool to scenic entrance (about 30 minutes, cost 50-80 RMB); no direct bus.
III. Core Attractions
1. Blue Tear Pool: Copper ions give the water a dreamy blue color; best light at noon on sunny days for photos; nearby cave to explore.
2. Double Dragon Waterfall/Flying Water Rock Waterfall: About 30 meters drop; during high water, white curtains hang in the air with mist; perfect for summer cooling.
3. Wangtian Cave/Swallow Cave: Stalactite forest inside; has an underground river; headlamp required; natural opening at cave top lets noon sunlight pour in like divine light.
4. Longli Grassland: Open grassland on mountain top, dotted with wind turbines and horse herds; stunning sunsets and starry skies.
5. Guoli Cave Burial Site: Ancient Miao coffin ruins, very mysterious (respect local customs, do not touch coffins).