Enshi Dixin Valley (恩施地心谷) is nestled in the Enshi, Hubei Province, situated at the crossroads of the 318 National Scenic Highway, known as “1520,” and the Hu-Yu Expressway, marked by the famous “1314” landmark for avid travelers. Located in the picturesque town of Gaoping, Enshi Dixin Valley is a captivating tourist destination showcasing a unique high-mountain karst landscape.
Formed over approximately 250 million years during the Triassic period, the valley stands as the world’s longest karst canyon, displaying geological wonders that have evolved over millennia. Notably, the site is home to the “Jianshi Erect Man Site,” a significant archaeological discovery dating back 2.15 million years, challenging theories on the origins of humanity, particularly in Africa.
Adding to its allure, Enshi Dixin Valley features the ancient “Bayan Ancient Salt Road,” a historical pathway with a splendid 6,000-year heritage of Chinese civilization. Recognized by “China National Geographic” as the fifth-largest ancient road in China, it impeccably preserves the pristine ecological charm of the “throat of Ba-Shu” since the pre-Qin era, offering visitors a glimpse into the pure and authentic landscapes of this region’s rich history.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Enshi Dixin Valley
- Vlog about Enshi Dixin Valley
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in Enshi Suburbs
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 3 – 4 hours |
| Ticket Price | 105 RMB |
| Shuttle Bus | 30 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 15.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0718-3541666 0086-0718-3415666 |
Location and Transportation
Enshi Dixin Valley is situated in Gaoping Town, Enshi City, Hubei Province, China. The location is conveniently accessible, with the 209 National Road winding around the scenic area. Moreover, the valley is just a one-hour drive from the nearest airport, ensuring easy and efficient transportation for visitors.
To reach Enshi Dixin Valley, take a high-speed train to Gaoping Station. Upon arrival, you can easily transfer to a taxi, and within a short 10-minute ride, you’ll arrive at the scenic area.
Highlights of Enshi Dixin Valley
Breathtaking Natural Landscapes
Enshi Dixin Valley captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural landscapes, featuring unique rock formations, cascading waterfalls, deep canyons, and expansive forests. Among its most renowned attractions is the “Mother of the Earth” stone pillar, a colossal structure standing at 230 meters in height and boasting a diameter of 12 meters. Revered as the “First Sinkhole in Asia,” this magnificent stone pillar is a testament to the geological wonders found in the valley. Additionally, the “Cloud Dragon Bridge” within the valley adds to the splendor, offering a magnificent natural spectacle.
Cultural and Historical Richness
The cultural and historical richness of Enshi Dixin Valley is equally compelling, with well-preserved ancient structures and cultural heritage sites. Notably, the “Tujia Stilted Houses” stand as a testament to the unique customs and architectural culture of the Tujia ethnic group. This cluster of traditional residential buildings reflects the distinctive lifestyle and building traditions of the Tujia people. Furthermore, the valley is home to numerous historical relics, including ancient temples and battlefield sites, creating a vivid historical panorama for visitors.
Abundant Ecological Resources
Enshi Dixin Valley boasts abundant ecological resources, supporting a diverse array of plant and animal life. The most iconic is the “Larch Forest,” a precious and protected tree species in China. This forest showcases the importance of conservation efforts, contributing to the region’s biodiversity. The valley is also a habitat for rare animals such as the clouded leopard and macaques, allowing visitors to experience the vitality and dynamism of nature up close. The richness of Enshi Dixin Valley’s ecological environment provides a sanctuary for both plant and animal species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
Vlog about Enshi Dixin Valley
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Avoid the Expensive Elevator: At the end of the valley, there’s an elevator that costs 35 yuan per person. It’s strongly advised not to purchase this ticket as it can be considered overpriced for the short duration of the ride. Additionally, queues for the elevator can be long, sometimes up to an hour.
Consider Skipping the Glass Bridge: Upon entering the scenic area, you’ll encounter a glass bridge with a ticket price of 90 yuan. If you’ve previously experienced walking on a glass bridge, you might find this one unnecessary as it’s short and the scenery is average. Furthermore, at the beginning of the valley, you’ll likely have plenty of energy to explore without the need for the bridge.
Opt for the “Magic Carpet”: The “magic carpet” ride costs 25 yuan. This refers to a flat escalator-like bridge. It’s recommended to take this ride as it can save you time and effort compared to walking down to the valley floor and climbing back up to the other side.
Bring Sufficient Water and Snacks: Ensure you have an ample supply of water as exploring the valley can be physically demanding, especially if the weather is hot. Snacks are also recommended as the items sold within the scenic area can be expensive.
Consider Using Trekking Poles: While younger visitors may not require trekking poles, older visitors might find them useful, especially considering the presence of stairs and uneven terrain. Trekking poles are available for purchase within the scenic area if needed.
