On the western edge of the Sichuan Basin lies a majestic natural wonder – the Jinkou Grand Canyon of the Dadu River. Here, spectacular peaks rise on both sides, with treacherous mountain terrain and a canyon depth reaching 2,600 meters.
Towering cliffs stand like knife-cuts and axe-chops, forming natural barriers. Within the canyon, the Dadu River surges relentlessly, creating a magnificent spectacle. The water highway spanning across it is like a bridge connecting two worlds, making visitors feel as if they’re traveling through a painting.
At dawn, the first rays of sunlight pierce through the thin mist above the canyon, scattering across the Dadu River. The shimmering water surface resembles countless diamonds dancing on the water. Driving on the water highway through the canyon is like traversing a giant natural gallery.
On the cliff walls on both sides, lush green vegetation intertwines with exposed red rocks, creating a series of colorful pictures. Occasionally, a few sand martins skim across the water surface, leaving ripples that break the tranquility.
As you wind along the highway, the depth of the canyon gradually reveals itself. On the steep cliffs, ancient trees stubbornly root themselves in rock crevices, their root systems deeply embedded in the stone, resembling nature’s sculptures.
The peculiarly shaped peaks standing in the canyon take on various forms – some resemble giants, others animals, and some look like ancient castles, making one marvel at nature’s extraordinary craftsmanship.
Deep in the canyon, there’s a spectacular sight called “One Line of Sky.” Between two mountain peaks, there’s only a narrow gap where sunlight penetrates, forming beams of light that shine on the canyon floor.
In this dim space, the interplay of light and shadow creates a mysterious atmosphere. The winding water highway is like a silver ribbon floating between the canyon walls, connecting the bustling outside world with the tranquility here.
As you continue, the canyon scenery becomes increasingly pristine. The vegetation on both banks is lush and verdant, with various rare plants finding their home here. Occasionally, you might spot wild animals leaping on the cliff faces. They seem accustomed to visitors in this land, displaying an attitude of detachment from worldly affairs.
As evening approaches, the sun gradually sets, and the temperature in the canyon begins to drop. The shimmer on the water surface slowly disappears, replaced by a calm deep blue. At this quiet moment, vehicles on the water highway become scarce, and the entire canyon seems to fall asleep, with only the Dadu River tirelessly flowing.
As night falls, the Jinkou Grand Canyon under the starry sky takes on a different charm. Without light pollution from cities, the night sky here is clear and transparent, with countless stars seeming within reach. Driving on the water highway under the starry sky feels like being in a fairy tale world, making one forget the hustle and bustle of the mundane world.
On both sides of the Jinkou Grand Canyon of the Dadu River, time seems to stand still, with the primitive landscape well-preserved. Traveling on this water highway is like journeying through a painting, with each scenic spot a exquisite scroll, making visitors reluctant to leave. This place is a masterpiece of nature, a dazzling pearl in the Sichuan Basin.
