Laowuchang in Zhangjiajie
Laowuchang is a AAAA-rated scenic area located in Zhangjiajie (张家界), Hunan Province. It is a beautiful spot known for its natural beauty and unique landscapes. The area is blessed with a subtropical mountain monsoon climate and is renowned for its lush valleys, steep peaks, and serene countryside. Popular attractions include Xianxian Lock (神仙锁), Shenbing Gathering (神兵聚会), Aerial Farmland (空中田园), and the Mandarin Duck Waterfall (鸳鸯瀑布).
Climate and Location
- Location: Zhangjiajie (张家界), Hunan Province (湖南)
- Climate: Subtropical mountain monsoon humid climate (中亚热带山原型季风性湿润气候)
- Scenic Area Level: AAAA-rated (AAAAA级)
- Famous Attractions: Mandarin Duck Waterfall (鸳鸯瀑布), Aerial Farmland (空中田园), Shenbing Gathering (神兵聚会)
Main Attractions
Mandarin Duck Waterfall
The Mandarin Duck Waterfall is located in the southwestern part of Laowuchang scenic area. It consists of two waterfalls that cascade from the peaks of two opposing mountains. The left waterfall is gentle and elegant, resembling a flowing skirt, while the right one is powerful, crashing down with a thunderous roar. The two waterfalls converge and form a beautiful pool, symbolizing the unity of lovers. The Mandarin Duck Waterfall is celebrated not for its grandeur but for its distinctive shape, and it is regarded as one of the most outstanding waterfalls in Wulingyuan (武陵源).
Aerial Farmland
Aerial Farmland is situated at the western edge of the Laowuchang scenic area, perched on a platform with sheer cliffs on three sides. The farmland spans dozens of acres and is renowned for its rich agricultural production. The fields are well-irrigated and produce abundant crops, including rice and vegetables. The beauty of the farmland changes with the seasons: in spring, it is lush and green; in summer, the rice plants bloom; in autumn, the fields turn golden; and in winter, rapeseed flowers flourish. Visitors can enjoy the view of these scenic fields while feeling as though they are in a paradise.
Shenbing Gathering
Located in the heart of the Laowuchang area, Shenbing Gathering features over 30 unique stone peaks that resemble an army of warriors, lined up as if awaiting orders. These stone formations are said to be the gathering of the divine soldiers of King Tianzi. Though the myth may be fanciful, the stunning concentration of these towering stone peaks is rare even in Wulingyuan (武陵源). As a famous art master once said: “It’s unbelievable, it’s strange and mysterious, I wouldn’t believe it if I hadn’t seen it myself.”
One Step Difficult to Take
This is a narrow, dangerous rock ledge that spans across a deep chasm, with a gap only one meter wide and a drop of over 100 meters. The ledge leads to a magnificent viewpoint, but only the bravest visitors dare to step across. Most tourists are often hesitant and stop at the edge, unable to proceed further. Hence, this spot is known as “One Step Difficult to Take.”
Special Features
Laowuchang is a relatively undeveloped scenic area, giving it a pristine, unspoiled charm. It offers visitors a chance to experience an untouched natural landscape, far from the crowded tourist spots. The beauty of the area, combined with the mystery and grandeur of the peaks and waterfalls, makes it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Laowuchang (老屋场) is a hidden gem in Zhangjiajie (张家界), offering an enchanting escape into nature’s untouched beauty. Its spectacular attractions, such as the Mandarin Duck Waterfall (鸳鸯瀑布), Aerial Farmland (空中田园), and Shenbing Gathering (神兵聚会), along with its serene and picturesque environment, make it an unforgettable destination for visitors looking to connect with the majestic landscapes of Hunan Province.
