Dexing Damaoshan Wufeng Cave Journey: Encounter the Forest Secret Realm of the "Little Lushan of Jiangnan,"
I heard that the scenery of Wufeng Cave in Damaoshan, Dexing City, Shangrao, Jiangxi is stunningly beautiful, known as the "Little Lushan," and its waterscapes rival those of Jiuzhaigou. I was deeply fascinated and finally set foot on this long-awaited land.
A Rendezvous with Mountains and Waters
Starting from thousands of miles away, the journey was tiring, but as I gradually approached Wufeng Cave, the scenery along the way made everything worthwhile. The distant mountains rolled endlessly, shrouded in mist, like a natural ink painting.
Upon arrival at the scenic area, I learned that Wufeng Cave is not a real cave but a mountain valley "with two slopes flanking a river." Legend has it that in ancient times, a righteous man named Wufeng robbed the rich to help the poor here. The rebel army led by Huang Chao during the late Tang Dynasty also camped and rested here, adding a mysterious historical aura to this valley.
Encountering the Lively Waters
Walking along the valley, Maxi Creek followed like a shadow. The water was crystal clear, with small stones visible at the bottom. I bent down and scooped a handful of water; the icy touch instantly spread through my body, as if dispelling the summer heat. The water of Maxi Creek is rich in minerals, showing a jade green color. Each pool is as green as jade, and from above, it looks like a gentle jade belt winding through the green mountain valley.
Fairy Pool is a gem on Maxi Creek. Legend says it is where heavenly fairies often bathe. The pool’s clear emerald water sparks imagination, as if one could see the fairies bathing in a breathtaking scene. Following the creek downstream from Fairy Pool, you can hear the roaring water of Guanyin Waterfall. The waterfall drops about 30 meters and from afar truly resembles Guanyin Bodhisattva wearing a white cloak. As the water volume changes, the cloak seems to move dynamically, vividly lifelike.
Exploring the Valley’s Wonders
Besides the lively water, the scenery on both sides of the valley dazzled me. The forest was dense, with strange peaks and rocks everywhere. I strolled along the creek path, occasionally seeing giant stones of various bizarre shapes—some like animals, others like giants—adding fun to this natural landscape painting.
Continuing forward, I reached the Strange Stone Beach. The stones here vary in shape and size, smoothed by the creek’s flow. I couldn’t help but jump and weave among the stones, feeling the marvels of nature’s craftsmanship.
Appreciating History and Culture
During the visit, I learned that Wufeng Cave not only boasts beautiful natural scenery but also has profound historical and cultural significance. The stories left by Huang Chao’s rebel army fill this land with a heroic spirit. I seemed to see the rebels resting and training here back then, feeling their lofty ambitions and passion.
Leaving Beautiful Memories
Unconsciously, the day’s tour was coming to an end. Sitting by the creek, watching the sunset’s afterglow shimmer on the water, I felt the sparkle of the waves. This day, I had an intimate encounter with the mountains and waters of Wufeng Cave, experiencing the charm of nature and the weight of history.
When leaving, my heart was full of reluctance. Wufeng Cave, this secret realm hidden deep in the mountains, conquered me with its beauty and mystery. I know I will come again, embrace it once more, and explore more wonders.
1. Practical Information
Transportation
- Self-driving (recommended): About 3 hours from Nanchang (262 km), about 1.5 hours from Shangrao (102 km), about 1 hour from Sanqingshan (40 km). Navigate to "Dexing Damaoshan Wufeng Cave Scenic Area." There is free parking at the entrance, and some homestays provide electric vehicle charging stations.
- Public transport: After arriving at Dexing Station by high-speed rail, transfer to a passenger bus or taxi to Damaoshan (Shuangxi) Tourist Center, then switch to scenic area transport. The whole trip takes about 1 hour.
Tickets and Opening Hours
- Opening hours: Open year-round from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds; the morning light is better for photography.
- Ticket prices: Adult ticket 80 RMB/person, sightseeing bus ticket 20 RMB/person (no self-driving allowed inside the scenic area; sightseeing buses stop on demand and must be purchased); online booking or booking through homestays may offer discounts.
- Discount policy: Children under 1.2 meters, seniors over 65, active military personnel, and disabled persons with valid ID are free; children 1.2-1.4 meters, full-time students, and seniors aged 60-64 with valid ID enjoy half-price tickets.
2. Core Activities
Must-See Mountain and Water Secrets
- Three core attractions (must-visit highlights): Dianjiangtai with its forest of strange stones and babbling streams, said to be where Huang Chao reviewed his troops. The shallow water area is safe and calm, suitable for children to wade, catch fish, and shrimp, with safety personnel on duty; Guanyin Waterfall with a drop of over 30 meters, its water curtain resembling Guanyin holding a pure bottle. During high water, the waterfall is magnificent and thunderous. A blessing pavilion by the pool allows visitors to tie red ribbons and make wishes, with cool mist refreshing the face; Fairy Pool hidden in a 540-meter-high mountain hollow, with 300 square meters of crystal-clear water like glass, reflecting mountain shadows and tree shapes. Swimming is prohibited due to depth, but nearby stone pools allow children to play, and every photo looks like a forest-themed masterpiece.
- Seasonal Highlights and Hiking Routes: The entrance’s Xiaoyao Road is lined with dawn redwoods, providing dense shade in summer and brilliant golden colors in autumn, creating a full atmospheric experience while strolling.
- Popular and Niche Experiences: Rainbow Fairy Tale Village features colorful graffiti walls and swings, perfect for the young at heart; the 300 Martyrs Memorial offers panoramic mountain views from the top, combining historical depth with scenic vistas; the scenic area offers a "Pass the Cultural Disc" activity where visitors collect stamps at various spots to redeem gifts, adding fun to the visit.
3. Specialty Food
- Local Signature Dishes: Restaurants inside the scenic area and nearby farmhouses serve cured meat stir-fried with mountain bamboo shoots (crispy and fragrant), Hakka stuffed tofu (full of filling), and ecological creek fish (tender meat). Authentic home-style meals cost about 30-60 RMB per person.
- Specialty Snacks and Souvenirs: Besides the Six Rice Cake Banquet, Qingming rice cakes and lard-fried noodles are local snacks, sweet and refreshing; souvenirs include dried bamboo shoots from Damaoshan, wild mushrooms, and specialty teas, all naturally sourced with rich flavors.