Qinglan Guaijiu Valley in Chaozhou

Qinglan Guaijiu Valley (青岚怪臼谷) is located in Zhangxi Town (樟溪镇), Raoping County (饶平县), Chaozhou City (潮州市), in the Guangdong Province (广东省). It is a significant geological park that was developed and invested in by the Chaozhou Greenland Tourism Resort (潮州绿岛旅游度假区). This park is one of the largest integrated provincial geological parks in Eastern Guangdong (粤东), offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of nature.

Geological Features and Scenic Wonders 

The valley is famous for its exceptional and mysterious natural formations, which were created by volcanic activity over 200 million years ago. One of the most notable features is the “Ten-Mile Guaijiu Valley” (十里怪臼谷), where three extraordinary natural phenomena converge:

  • Strange Mortars (怪臼): The valley is filled with numerous strange mortars, which are large, round, and deep depressions that have formed in the rocks over time.
  • Strange Caves (怪洞): The caves within the valley are another highlight, offering a mysterious atmosphere with unique geological features.
  • Strange Rocks (怪石): Numerous oddly-shaped rocks dot the landscape, further enhancing the valley’s surreal beauty.

Among these formations, the “Nine-Level Strange Mortar” (九层怪臼) stands out as the most renowned and is often referred to as the “king” of all mortars in the region. It is regarded as one of the most remarkable natural wonders in Eastern Guangdong.

The River Cave

Another fascinating attraction is the River Cave (地河洞), where visitors can find a mortar within a cave, and within the mortar, there are even smaller caves. The River has flowed continuously for over a thousand years, never drying up. The cave has become a place of legends, with stories of the Taishang Laojun (太上老君) — the Taoist deity — pounding medicinal herbs and refining alchemy. This ancient tale has been passed down through generations, adding a mystical allure to the already intriguing landscape.

Qinglan Guaijiu Valley invites visitors to “explore the mysterious mortars and caves, and pass through the ancient River Cave,” offering an unforgettable experience amidst the wonders of nature.

Key Scenic Features 

The Qinglan Guaijiu Valley is known for several unique attractions, each showcasing the magical and mysterious beauty of the region:

  • Guaijiu Group (怪臼群): A collection of strange mortars, some of which are hundreds of years old and carved into the stone over time.
  • River Cave (地河洞): A winding cave filled with natural beauty and mystery, known for its rich geological features and ancient legends.
  • Wind-Activated Stone (风动石): A large rock that appears to move with the wind, adding an element of surrealism to the landscape.
  • Konggu Yuntai (空谷云台): The “Cloud Platform of the Empty Valley,” offering breathtaking views of the valley and the surrounding area.
  • Yinyang Stone (阴阳石): A unique stone formation that, according to local legend, represents the balance of the yin and yang in nature.
  • Taishang Laojun’s Alchemy Seat (太上老君座): A rock formation said to resemble the seat of Taishang Laojun, a revered figure in Taoist mythology, who is said to have refined elixirs here.

Nearby Attractions 

In addition to Qinglan Guaijiu Valley, several other notable attractions are part of the Chaozhou Greenland Tourism Resort and are easily accessible through a 7-kilometer tourist route. These attractions are linked together, providing a seamless travel experience for visitors:

Greenland Mountain Villa (绿岛山庄)

Greenland Mountain Villa (绿岛山庄) is located at the first stop of the tourist route, about 7 kilometers from Qinglan Guaijiu Valley. This attraction has earned the title of National 4A-level Tourist Scenic Spot. The villa covers nearly 10,000 acres, featuring scenic landscapes with beautiful lakes, wetlands, and mountains.

  • Natural Beauty: The area is surrounded by lush bamboo groves and fertile fruit orchards, making it a haven for nature lovers.
  • Leisure and Dining: The resort offers a variety of dining options, high-end leisure accommodation, and star-rated business banquet facilities.
  • Activities: Greenland Mountain Villa is a perfect place for both sightseeing and relaxation, as well as hosting business conferences and meetings.

Ming and Qing Ancient Village 

The Ming and Qing Ancient Village (明清古寨), also known as Zilai Lou (紫来楼), is located about 3 kilometers from Qinglan Guaijiu Valley along the tourist route. It is a provincial-level protected cultural heritage site in Guangdong Province.

  • History: Built during the Ming (明) and Qing (清) Dynasties, this village has over 400 years of history.
  • Unique Architecture: The village features the rare architectural style of “one village, two enclosures” and is famous for its distinctive internal and external height differences. The village also has two gates with names, a rare and exceptional feature in ancient Chinese architecture.
  • Fujian and Guangdong Hakka-style Earth Buildings: The village is considered a prime example of the Hakka-style earth buildings (土楼) from both Fujian and Guangdong provinces, making it an architectural masterpiece.

Visitor Information 

Opening Hours (开放时间)

  • Open Year-Round (全年开放)
  • 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (9:00-17:00)

Admission Price (票价信息)

  • Free Entry (免费)

Directions and Transportation (交通路线)

  • By Bus (公交车):
    • Take the 101 bus (韩师宿舍方向) from Chaozhou Station (潮州站).
    • Get off at Chengnan Primary School Station (城南小学站).
    • Walk 927 meters to reach the entrance of the scenic area.
  • By High-Speed Rail (高铁):
    • The nearest high-speed rail station is Raoping Station (厦深高铁·饶平站).
  • By Highway (高速公路):
    • The nearest highway exit is Qian Dong Exit (钱东出口) on the G15 Shenhai Expressway (沈海高速).

Qinglan Guaijiu Valley offers a unique experience to explore both the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the area. Whether you’re an adventurer, history enthusiast, or nature lover, the valley has something fascinating to offer to everyone.