Black Valley Tickets

4.4/5

China – Chongqing

Scenic rock with inscription at Black Valley entrance

Located in Wansheng District of Chongqing, Black Valley (Heishangu Scenic Area) is one of the most renowned primitive forest canyons in Southwest China. Famous for its dramatic gorges, crystal-clear mountain streams, and lush natural vegetation, it’s often hailed as “Chongqing’s most beautiful ecological canyon.” The air here is fresh, the climate is pleasant, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking to escape city life and immerse themselves in nature. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a couple on a romantic trip, or a family on vacation, Black Valley offers something for everyone.

Opening Hours & Visitor Information

  • Address: Heishan Town, Wansheng Economic Development Zone, Chongqing

  • Opening Hours: Daily 08:30–17:30 (subject to seasonal adjustments; it’s recommended to check the official website before your visit)

  • Recommended Visit Duration: Plan for a full day (around 6–8 hours) to explore the highlights at a relaxed pace and fully appreciate the natural scenery

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the best conditions, with comfortable temperatures, colorful forests, and abundant water in waterfalls and streams—perfect for photography and nature walks

  • Additional Tips:

    • Wear lightweight, non-slip footwear; some paths are stone steps and forest trails, which can be slippery when wet

    • Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the entrance

    • The park has two main routes: enter from the South Gate and exit at the North Gate; plan your route based on time and physical ability

    • Shuttle buses (paid) are available for parts of the trail—ideal for those who prefer not to walk the entire distance

Ticket Types & Prices

1-Day Admission Ticket (Adult)

  • CNY 80
Check Price

Ticket Information

Black Valley is incredibly friendly to visitors of all ages, and the ticket discounts are genuinely generous:
👉 Half-price tickets: Available for students aged 6 to 18, full-time undergraduate and below, and seniors aged 60–64. Just show valid ID at the entrance.
👉 Free admission: Kids under 6 or under 1.2 meters in height, and seniors aged 65 and above can enter for free—so considerate and tourist-friendly!

How to Get There

Getting to Black Valley is easier than you might think. Just follow these two steps:
① From Chongqing’s main urban area: You can take a long-distance bus from Longzhouwan, Sigongli, or Chenjiaping Bus Station to Wansheng Bus Terminal. The ride takes about 1.5 hours and is the most common way.
② From Wansheng Bus Terminal to the South Gate of the scenic area: Two options depending on time or budget:

  • Taking a taxi is fastest, around 30 minutes directly to the entrance.

  • Bus No.106 takes about 50 minutes—budget-friendly and reliable.
    If you’re traveling in a group, taking a taxi and splitting the fare can be just as cost-effective and more convenient.

Highlights & Photo Spots

Want to explore Black Valley efficiently and effortlessly? Here’s a super practical guide:
1️⃣ Enter from the South Gate! This is the main starting point and the trail mostly slopes downhill, which makes walking easier. You’ll also get early access to scenic highlights like Shenlongtan Waterfall. The cable car is available, but walking down lets you fully enjoy the best views.
2️⃣ The core trail is the most scenic section—about 6 km long. Walk along wooden plank paths and floating bridges through the canyon, passing sites like Flying Fish Waterfall, the Yu-Qian Rift Valley, Monkey Jump Gorge, and the Water Floating Bridge. It takes about 3–4 hours and is perfect for fresh air, photos, and immersive nature.
3️⃣ For the second half, consider taking the electric shuttle (30 RMB/person). This 6 km stretch is relatively flat but less scenic. The shuttle saves energy and goes directly to the North Gate. Of course, if you’re fit and have time, walking is doable in about 2 hours.
4️⃣ Snacks are available in the park—corn, instant noodles, grilled sausages, spicy potatoes, skewers, etc. But if you’re picky or prefer to eat on the go, feel free to bring your own snacks and water.
5️⃣ Gear up properly: Wear non-slip and comfy shoes—there are many stone steps and slippery trails. Also, pack an umbrella or a waterproof jacket, as mountain weather changes fast!

Forest stream and walking trail inside Black Valley
Water flowing through shaded trail in Black Valley

Visitor Reviews Summary

Black Valley is highly rated by visitors, especially those who love natural scenery and light hiking. Many praise the exceptionally fresh air and the well-preserved forest environment, with abundant biodiversity. In spring and summer, the greenery is lush and waterfalls look like scenes from a painting. The trail is well-developed and lined with birdsong and flowers. Some visitors have noted that certain uphill sections can be steep, so it’s advisable for elderly travelers or families with children to use the shuttle service for a more comfortable experience.

Related Guides & Recommended Tours

Looking for an easy way to plan your Black Valley trip? We’ve put together a complete travel guide including trail maps, photo spots, shuttle bus info, and seasonal highlights. We also recommend combining your visit with nearby attractions like the Stone Forest Scenic Area and Wansheng Museum to enjoy a balanced experience of nature and culture in Chongqing’s outskirts.

FAQ

Q: Can I buy Black Valley tickets on-site?
A: Yes, tickets are available at the entrance ticket window. However, during public holidays or peak seasons, it is recommended to book online in advance to avoid long queues or sold-out situations.

Q: Can I bring my own food into the scenic area?
A: You’re allowed to bring simple food and water, but please bring your own trash bags and keep the environment clean. The park also has some rest stops selling snacks and drinks.

Q: Is the trail difficult? Is it suitable for elderly people or children?
A: Most of the paths are paved stone steps and boardwalks, with some steep sections. If you’re traveling with seniors or children, we suggest using the shuttle service to conserve energy.

Q: Can I play in the water or camp in Black Valley?
A: Some streams have designated areas where wading is allowed, but always observe safety signs and weather conditions. Camping is not permitted, but there are inns and hotels near the park if you wish to stay overnight.

Q: How do I get to Black Valley from downtown Chongqing?
A: You can drive (about 2.5–3 hours) or take a long-distance bus to Wansheng and then transfer to a tourist shuttle to the scenic area. During peak seasons, some direct tourist buses go straight to the entrance.