Dalongdong National Water Conservancy Scenic Area
The Dalongdong (Old Dragon Cave) National Water Conservancy Scenic Area is located within the Buchou Township of Huayuan County, approximately 41 kilometers away from Jishou City. It can be reached by traveling 22 kilometers along the Aizhai-Dalongdong Highway. The Dalongdong Scenic Area is the source of the Donghe River, the "Mother River" of Jishou City, and serves as the core part of the Shuanglong (Double Dragons) Scenic Area.
Inside the Dalongdong Scenic Area, rivers and streams crisscross, with karst caves and underground rivers being connected with each other. Majestic peaks, peculiar rock formations, ancient towering trees, and abundant wild vines are complemented by unique flowers, exotic fruits, and rare birds and animals. According to legend, in ancient times, the Dragon King of the North Sea, in response to an agreement with the Yellow Emperor, pursued the Jiuli tribe led by Chiyou to the area within the Shuanglong Scenic Area. Enchanted by the beautiful mountains and rivers, the Dragon King decided to settle here instead of returning to the North Sea. The Dragon King resided in the Dalong (Old Dragon) Cave, the Dragon Prince in the Dalong Cave, and the Dragon Princess in the Xiaolong (Young Dragon) Cave. The seven princesses transformed into seven magnificent waterfalls surrounding the Dalong Cave in the shape of the Big Dipper. The Dragon Prince fell in love at first sight with a beautiful mortal woman named Dazzling Daipa (Beautiful Girl) and together they gave birth to three sons- the ancestors of the Miao ethnic group. This act angered the heavens, and the Dragon Prince was expelled from the Old Dragon Palace and imprisoned in the Dragon Pool. Daipa, transformed into a mountain peak, gazed affectionately at the Dragon Pool, waiting for thousands of years. In the mountain gorge, the sounds of insects and birds and the tinkling of springs seem to narrate the beautiful myth to future generations.
The main attractions of the Dalongdong Scenic Area include:
The "Number One Cave Waterfall in the World" - Dalongdong Waterfall, with cliffs towering over 500 meters. It erupts from the middle of the mountain, forming a fan-shaped waterfall with a powerful roar that can be heard from a distance.
The Cambrian Geopark - The Dragon Palace Washing Stone in the park belongs to the Upper Cambrian Chefu Formation, dating back 540-490 million years. It is the most important geological period in the evolution of life on Earth. The layered stones exhibit extraordinary craftsmanship and grandeur, making them rare in the world.
The Emerald Bamboo Corridor – Visitors can ascend the steps along the mountain, and pass through the dense primeval forest, before they reach the Dragon Palace. Along the way, naturally formed arches of emerald bamboo create a unique spectacle.
The Dragon Mother Palace - Located at the source of the cave waterfall, the palace has water curtains hanging outside. With an area of several thousand square meters, it descends in tiers, allowing visitors to view the source of the cave waterfall. Along the interior walkway of the palace, one can explore the dark river, which is approximately three kilometers long and showcases a variety of stalactite formations and uniquely shaped karst landscapes. In 2004, a Sino-American joint exploration team ventured deep into the Dragon Mother Palace cave for exploration.
There are also ongoing attractions and projects under construction, including the statue of the Dragon Prince, the Temple of the Heavenly King to commemorate the ancestors of the Miao ethnic group, an aerial cable car for appreciating waterfalls, the Emerald Bamboo Corridor, cherry blossom and maple forests. There is also a farmhouse cultural village - Inside the Miao-style stilted houses, the sound of Miao drums and rustling leaves showcase the distinct Miao culture, where you can also savor delicious Miao cuisine.
The scenic area of Dalongdong is rich in Miao and dragon cultures. Dragon culture serves as a medium, while Miao culture provides the foundation. Here, you will witness various folk customs and traditions, such as the chanting of dragon to call for water, dragon dance, and other festive activities, showcasing the vibrant local culture. The scenic area exudes an authentic and profound ambiance of Miao ethnic customs.
The transportation to Dalongdong scenic area is very convenient. You can reach Zhangjiajie and Tongren Daxing Airport by plane. The Zhi-Liu Railway passes through the city of Jishou. The Chang-Yu Expressway traverses the scenic area. Currently, you can drive from Jishou along the 209 and 319 national highways to Aizhai, and then follow the Aizhai-Dalongdong Highway along the river to reach the Dalongdong Scenic Area.
