Hunan Chenzhou Hidden Gem: Shilongtan (with route)

Next to Bailang in Chenzhou, just a ten-minute drive, you can reach this niche and secretive spot: Shilongtan. There are few guides about this place, and it took us half an hour to find the entrance. Going down from the cliffside road, the steps are not steep, but you may occasionally encounter wild grass or fallen trees blocking the path. At the bottom of the valley, on the right hand side, you can see the first cave, with a pool of blue water, tranquil and serene. Moving forward, you will be right under the cliffside road, this cave runs through both ends, grand and majestic. If it's just for the scenery, Shilongtan naturally can't compare with other karst cave scenic areas, but in terms of fun, this kind of discovery of a spot during travel, like a game, slowly finding the place through clues, and exploring downwards, is something other commercialized scenic spots do not have. (Plus, fewer people means less embarrassment when taking photos) Route Overview: Navigate to Shilongtan Local Cuisine Restaurant, there is a sign on the right side of the road, and a ten-minute walk will take you to the hiking entrance (no need to drive on the cliffside road, those not confident in their driving can also go) The hiking route down the valley has stairs, but there may be fallen grass or trees lying in the middle of the road, and the steps inside the cave are slippery, so be careful. If there's still time after the visit, you can continue driving to Hui Long Mountain Scenic Area, which currently charges 20 yuan per car, and there is a temple built along the mountain above the sea of clouds