The Fengjie Tiankeng and Ground Fissure Scenic Area is located in Fengjie County, Chongqing Municipality, and is a national 4A-level tourist attraction. The area combines grandeur, ruggedness, peril, and elegance, featuring a unique karst landform landscape. The tiankeng (giant karst sinkhole), named Xiaozhai Tiankeng, has a rim diameter of 622 meters, a bottom diameter of 522 meters, and a depth of 666.2 meters, making it the world’s largest and deepest karst funnel in terms of volume and depth. The ground fissure, named Tianjingxia Ground Fissure, stretches 37 kilometers in total length, with sheer cliffs on both sides and an underground river at the bottom. The scenic area covers approximately 454 square kilometers, boasting rich natural landscapes and considerable geological research value.
History and Culture
The Fengjie Tiankeng and Ground Fissure region has a long history. In ancient times, it was an important area of Ba culture, where the Ba people lived and multiplied, leaving behind many relics and legends related to Ba culture. The formation of Xiaozhai Tiankeng and Tianjingxia Ground Fissure spanned millions of years of geological changes, standing as masterpieces of nature’s extraordinary craftsmanship. In the past, local residents lived in interdependence with the tiankeng and ground fissure, developing unique lifestyles and regional cultures. Today, the development of the scenic area not only showcases natural wonders but also provides conditions for studying the local history and culture.
Major Attractions
Xiaozhai Tiankeng
Xiaozhai Tiankeng is the core attraction of the scenic area. It is a huge karst funnel with steep cliffs and underground caves and rivers at the bottom. The surrounding area is rich in vegetation and offers magnificent views. Visitors can walk down the plank road to the bottom of the tiankeng to experience its grandeur and the marvels of nature. The unique geological structure and rich biodiversity within the tiankeng attract many geologists and tourists for exploration.
Tianjingxia Ground Fissure
Tianjingxia Ground Fissure is 37 kilometers long, with precipitous cliffs on both sides and flowing streams and underground rivers at the bottom. The fissure features beautiful scenery and many unique geological formations, such as stalagmites and stalactites. Visitors can hike through the fissure, enjoying the odd peaks and strange rocks on both sides while experiencing the tranquility and mystery of nature. The underground river within the fissure adds an extra layer of mystique, drawing adventure enthusiasts to explore.
Maocaoba Scenic Area
Maocaoba Scenic Area is part of the Tiankeng and Ground Fissure complex, featuring vast forests and alpine meadows. With an average altitude of 1,800 meters, Maocaoba is cool in summer, making it an ideal retreat from the heat. Visitors can engage in hiking, camping, and other activities here, enjoying the peace and beauty of nature. The area also has some locally characteristic buildings and folk culture, allowing visitors to appreciate local cultural customs while enjoying the natural scenery.
Hankuimen (Dry Kuimen Gate)
Hankuimen is located about 15 kilometers from Xiaozhai Tiankeng. It is a natural stone peak formation resembling the Kuimen Gate but without any river flowing through it, hence the name "Dry Kuimen Gate." It consists of two facing stone peaks: the left peak is about 600 meters high, and the right peak is about 580 meters high, with a gap of about 400 meters between them, forming a natural "gate" shape that closely resembles the majestic appearance of the Kuimen Gate on the Yangtze River.
Suggested Tour Route
Visitors can first head to Xiaozhai Tiankeng, walk down the plank road to the bottom, admire the spectacular scenery, and visit the caves and other features at the bottom, which takes about 2–3 hours. Next, proceed to Tianjingxia Ground Fissure and hike through it to enjoy the unique geological landscapes on both sides; the full hike takes about 3–4 hours. If time permits, you can also visit Maocaoba Scenic Area for hiking, camping, and experiencing the charm of alpine meadows and forests.
Travel Tips：
The hiking distances within the scenic area are considerable; it is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes and suitable outdoor clothing.
Lighting inside the tiankeng and ground fissure can be dim; it is advisable to bring a flashlight or other lighting equipment.
If visiting in summer, take sun protection measures and carry enough drinking water.
Follow the instructions of the staff and do not enter undeveloped areas to ensure safety.
When trying local food, pay attention to food hygiene and avoid consuming too much spicy food to prevent discomfort.
Important Notices：
Some sections of the trails are steep; elderly visitors and children should be accompanied by adults.
Protect the environment: do not litter, damage vegetation, or harm geological features.
Watch your footing while walking in the tiankeng and ground fissure to avoid slipping or falling.
If driving to the scenic area, pay attention to road conditions, especially on mountain roads; drive slowly and cautiously.
The ticket is valid only for the day of purchase; keep it safe for inspection.
Transportation：
Public transport: Visitors can first reach Fengjie County in Chongqing, then take a bus from Fengjie Bus Passenger Center to Xinglong Town, and finally transfer to a local vehicle to the Tiankeng and Ground Fissure Scenic Area.
Self-driving: Depart from downtown Chongqing, take the Hurong Expressway to Fengjie exit, then proceed to Xinglong Town and finally to the scenic area. The total distance is about 400 kilometers, and driving takes approximately 5 hours.
Opening Hours：
The scenic area is open from 08:00 to 17:00 (year-round). Visitors must enter before 16:00. The scenic area may close during special weather conditions. Please refer to the actual opening hours announced on-site.
Tickets：
Ticket prices for the Fengjie Tiankeng and Ground Fissure Scenic Area are as follows: Xiaozhai Tiankeng – 45 RMB; Tianjingxia Ground Fissure – 40 RMB; combo ticket (both Tiankeng and Ground Fissure) – 85 RMB. Prices are subject to actual on-site rates.