Huangjing Old Forest

Subtitle: The Last Virgin Land on the 28th Parallel North

1. Introduction: A Sanctuary Through Time

Nestled in the northern part of Gulin County, Luzhou City, lies a remarkable ecological treasure: the Huangjing Old Forest Scenic Area. Revered as "the last virgin land on the 28° north latitude line," this expansive 433-square-kilometer preserve is a living museum of natural history. It sits within the transitional zone where the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau meets the Sichuan Basin, specifically in the Chishui River Basin. With an average elevation exceeding 1,300 meters, its landscape is defined by striking Cretaceous red sandstone middling mountain valleys, showcasing classic Danxia landform features. More significantly, it represents the only well-preserved subtropical primeval evergreen broad-leaved forest ecosystem at this latitude on Earth, a rare and precious refuge of biodiversity.

Its pristine state is no accident of nature but a result of deliberate historical preservation. In the 41st year of the Qianlong Emperor's reign (1776 AD), the governments of Sichuan and Guizhou provinces conducted a boundary survey here. They designated this vast area of hundreds of square miles as an "official mountain," strictly prohibiting land reclamation and logging under a decree of "permanent prohibition." For over two centuries, this mandate has shielded the forest from development, allowing it to maintain its primordial character and earning it the name "Huangjing Old Forest."

2. Natural Landscape and Geological Wonders

2.1. A Danxia Masterpiece The area's most striking visual features are its Danxia landforms, sculpted from red sandstone over eons. The result is a dramatic topography of deep canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, peculiar rock pillars, and narrow gorges carved by flowing water. The interplay of light and shadow on the red rock faces, especially during sunrise and sunset, creates a breathtaking, ever-changing panorama.

2.2. The Primeval Forest Ecosystem The heart of Huangjing Old Forest is its ancient woodland. Walking beneath its canopy is like stepping back in time. The forest is a complex, multi-layered ecosystem featuring towering ancient trees draped in vines, a rich understory of shrubs and herbs, and a thick carpet of moss and ferns covering the forest floor. This untouched habitat supports a vast array of plant species, including many rare and endemic ones, and provides a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. The air is cool, clean, and filled with the sounds of birds and flowing streams, offering an immersive experience of true wilderness.

3. Practical Visitor Information

3.1. Ticket Information * General Admission: CNY 58 per person. * Sightseeing Bus Fare: Round trip CNY 30; One-way CNY 15. * Concessions (Half-price Ticket): Students over 1.2 meters tall, seniors aged 60-69, retired military cadres, active-duty military personnel, and armed police officers. Valid identification is required. * Free Admission: Children under 1.2 meters in height, seniors aged 70 and above, persons with disabilities, national-level model workers, and holders of nationally recognized tour guide certificates. * Note: Free and half-price tickets do not include the sightseeing bus fare, which must be purchased separately if needed.

3.2. Opening Hours * March 1st - October 31st: 07:30 - 18:30 (Last entry at 16:30) * November 1st - February 28/29th: 08:30 - 18:00 (Last entry at 16:30)

3.3. Contact Information * Tel: 0830-7060166

4. Transportation and Access Routes

4.1. Self-Driving Directions Reaching Huangjing Old Forest by car offers scenic flexibility. Several routes are available from Luzhou: * Route 1 (Northwest): Luzhou City -> Xuyong County (Zhendong Township) -> Jianzhu Township (passing by the Big Black Cave Scenic Area) -> Gulin County (Deyao Town) -> Huangjing Old Forest. * Route 2 (West): Luzhou City -> Xuyong County (Zhendong Township) -> Dazhai Township -> Guihua Township -> Huangjing Old Forest. * Route 3 (Via Chishui): Luzhou City -> Hejiang County (Jiuzhi Town) / Chishui City -> Chishui City (Lianghekou Township, near Chishui Grand Waterfall) -> Huangjing Old Forest. This route connects two significant natural attractions.

4.2. Suggested Visit Duration A visit typically requires between 1 to 3 hours to appreciate the core scenic areas. However, hiking enthusiasts or those wishing to delve deeper into the forest trails may choose to spend a full day exploring.

4.3. Travel Tips and Preparation Given the natural terrain, visitors are advised to wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes with good grip. The weather in the forested mountains can be cool and changeable, so carrying a light jacket or rain layer is recommended. As the area is a protected ecological zone, it is crucial to follow the principles of "leave no trace" tourism: staying on designated paths, carrying out all trash, and avoiding any disturbance to plants and wildlife to help preserve this unique sanctuary for future generations.