Tenglong Cave Scenic Area

Tenglong Cave Scenic Area is located in the Qingjiang River valley on the outskirts of Lichuan, Hubei, the hometown of the folk song "Dragon Boat Tune." It is an attraction centered around a giant karst cave. The entire cave system has a total explored length of nearly 60 km, divided vertically into five levels, with dry caves connecting to water caves and side branches interlinking. The cave features mountains within and mountains contain caves. Currently, only a section is open to visitors, divided into the front cave and rear cave portions.

The front cave is the main section of the dry cave and the highlight of the tour. The entrance stands over 70 m high and 60 m wide, allowing more than 20 trucks to drive side by side or even helicopters to pass through. The cavern is spacious and lofty, with peaks like Dragon Scale Mountain lying horizontally inside, while the spiraling cave ceiling can be seen overhead. The large-scale Tujia ethnic song and dance performance "Yishui Lichuan" is staged in the front cave's natural karst hall, showcasing Tujia folk customs such as "Roulianxiang," "Crying Marriage," and "Daughter's Festival." Deeper inside the cave, a laser show theater presents the Tujia legend of Linjun and the Saltwater Goddess through sound, light, and visual effects.

The water cave entrance outside is where the Qing River flows underground into the cave. The entire river plunges dozens of meters here into the mountain belly, roaring like thunder, earning the name "Crouching dragon swallowing the river." Along the cave system and the ancient riverbed outside are scattered scenic spots such as Guancai Gorge, White Jade Stone Forest, and Three Dragon Gates. The cave maintains a constant temperature of around 10°C year-round, offering a refreshing coolness in midsummer. Travelers sensitive to cold may want to bring a light jacket.