Youyang Taohuayuan Scenic Area (酉阳桃花源景区), covering a vast expanse of 50 square kilometers, is a treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders in China. It comprises eight distinct sections, including Ancient Taoyuan, Taigu Cave, Youzhou Ancient City, and Taohuayuan Forest Park. This enchanting destination seamlessly weaves together the marvels of karst geological formations, the rich heritage of Qin and Jin farming culture, the traditions of the Tujia ethnic group, and the captivating tapestry of natural ecology.
Nestled in the heart of the pristine Wuling Mountains, the scenic area showcases the untouched beauty of an authentic rural landscape. At elevations ranging from 600 to 1100 meters, the region enjoys a temperate climate with refreshing air, making it a perfect year-round escape. Beyond its picturesque landscapes, Youyang Taohuayuan preserves the timeless history of the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups, their vibrant cultural traditions, and the harmonious coexistence with nature. It’s a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the essence of China’s cultural and natural diversity.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Taohuayuan Scenic Area
- Vlog about Taohuayuan Scenic Area
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in Youyang
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 3 – 4 hours |
| Ticket Price | 100 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.00; Last admission: 16.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-023-75532359 |
Location and Transportation
Taohuayuan Scenic Area is situated within the boundaries of Youyang Tujia and Miao Autonomous County in Chongqing, China. It is located at 232 Taohuayuan Road, adjacent to Longshan County in Hunan Province to the east. To the south, it shares borders with Xiushan County, as well as Songtao and Yinjiang Counties in Guizhou Province.
To reach Youyang Taohuayuan Scenic Area, you can follow these three transportation options:
Public Bus from Youyang City Center:
- Take Bus Route 101 from the Youyang city center.
- Disembark at Taohuayuan Square.
Train and Bus Route from Chongqing:
- Start from Chongqing North Railway Station and take a train to Youyang Railway Station.
- From Youyang Railway Station, take a shuttle bus to Youyang South Bus Station.
- From Youyang South Bus Station, board Bus Route 1 to Taohuayuan Scenic Area.
Train from Chongqing:
- Chongqing Railway Station offers daily train services to Youyang with different schedules and ticket prices ranging from 27 to 54 RMB.
- Upon arrival at Youyang Longtan Railway Station, you can take a minibus (approximately 10.5 RMB) to reach Youyang Taohuayuan Scenic Area in about 40 minutes.
Highlights of Taohuayuan Scenic Area
Taigu Cave
Taigu Cave, a geological marvel within the Taohuayuan Scenic Area, is a testament to Earth’s ancient history, dating back approximately 300 million years to the Permian period. Stretching over 3,000 meters in length, this colossal subterranean wonder features expansive chambers, winding passages, rugged gorges, serene underground rivers, and a vibrant array of stalactites and stalagmites. Its grandeur showcases nature’s artistry through colorful formations, inviting visitors to explore the depths of time and witness the breathtaking beauty that has evolved within this underground realm for millions of years.
Youyang Ancient City
Youyang Ancient City, nestled within Taohuayuan Scenic Area, boasts a rich cultural heritage spanning 1.3 kilometers and covering 30,000 square meters. This historical gem comprises 38 distinctive Tujia stilted houses, harmoniously integrated into the mountainous landscape. The Tujia stilted houses are an embodiment of the Tujia ethnic identity, characterized by their all-wooden structures. Within the city walls, a vibrant scene unfolds, featuring an array of guesthouses, taverns, and souvenir shops, offering visitors a glimpse into the local culture and traditions. Youyang Ancient City stands as a living testament to the architectural and cultural legacy of the Tujia people in this picturesque corner of China.
Taohuayuan Theater
Taohuayuan Theater, spanning 3.67 hectares with a total construction area of 18,000 square meters, serves as the spectacular stage for the enchanting performance known as “Dreamlike Taohuayuan.” Situated in the southeastern region of Chongqing, it stands as the largest mountain and water scenic theater in the area. This grand venue immerses audiences in a mesmerizing world of natural beauty and cultural storytelling, where the breathtaking landscapes of Taohuayuan come alive through this captivating production. Taohuayuan Theater is a testament to the fusion of art and nature, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors, celebrating the charm of this idyllic paradise.
Taohuayuan Forest Park
Taohuayuan Forest Park, encompassing a vast expanse of 2,734.33 hectares, is a natural haven where lush greenery dominates, with a forest coverage of over 80%. This pristine park predominantly features subtropical mid-to-low altitude evergreen broadleaf forests, secondary subtropical coniferous forests, and subtropical low-altitude bamboo groves. Within its boundaries, you’ll encounter a rich variety of rare and precious flora, including Chinese tulip trees, ginkgo biloba, dawn redwoods, Chinese pistache, Chinese fir, Chinese wingnuts, and Chionanthus retusus. Taohuayuan Forest Park provides a serene escape into the heart of nature, offering a glimpse into the stunning biodiversity of the region.
Vlog about Taohuayuan Scenic Area
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Exploration of Hidden Gems: At the beginning of Taohuayuan, climb the stairs until reaching an elevation of approximately 200-300 meters. There is a hidden spot, possibly unnoticed by many tourists, where there’s a cave-like area containing some scrolls. According to nearby descriptions, this spot served as a hiding place for scholars during the period of book burning and suppression of intellectuals in Qin Dynasty over 2000 years ago.
Highlight of the Ticket: The most worthwhile part of the ticket is the visit to the Taigu Cave, which is approximately 3.5 kilometers away. While the cave is beautiful, be prepared for a physically demanding journey, particularly during the final 500 meters where there is a narrow man-made tunnel uphill. Individuals with claustrophobia might find this section challenging.
Footwear and Refreshments:
Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be rugged. Inside the scenic area, there are several dining options available. It’s advisable to bring your own water. Vending machines are present in the area. However, the variety of drinks may be limited.
Best Time to Visit: While the official statement mentions that the peak season for peach blossoms is from mid-March to mid-April, according to personal experience, late March is the most beautiful time to visit Taohuayuan. By early April, the blossoms have usually faded significantly.
