Located in the southeast quadrant of China’s Chongqing region, Wansheng District is a fascinating natural environment that is highlighted by its stone forest. Easily visited on a daytrip from Chongqing, this is one of the region’s premium ecotourism destinations.
Wansheng Stone Forest predates the famous stone forest in Yunnan Province by 200 million years. Touted as a ‘geological museum’ this maze of towering karst structures is fascinating. In all there are more than 200 spindly limestone pillars awaiting travelers.
Another unique aspect of Wansheng District is the Miao ethnic group. These people have lived here for centuries and boast a unique system of beliefs and traditions that are distinct from mainstream Chinese culture. Visit during any number of colorful festivals to enjoy Miao song and dance.
Heishan Gu, or ‘Black Mountain Valley’, is another natural wonder near Wansheng District. It’s technically 10 miles outside the district in King Star. This ecotourism destination boasts rare plant and animal species and is one of the world’s most intact sub-tropical bioregions.
Getting There & Away
To visit Wansheng District, board one of the many daily buses from Chongqing (1 hour, 30 minutes). Chongqing is a well-connected Chinese city with regular 2-hour flights to Shanghai, Hong Kong and Beijing. There are also a few international connections to major Asian capitals as well as to Berlin, Germany.