Bamboo Sea

​Overview​​
The ​​Bamboo Sea​​ (often called Shunan Bamboo Sea or Southern Sichuan Bamboo Sea) is one of China’s most iconic natural attractions, celebrated for its emerald-green bamboo groves that stretch across mountains and valleys like a "green ocean." Designated a ​​National Scenic Spot​​ and ​​AAAAA-level tourist area​​, it combines ecological beauty with cultural heritage, drawing visitors for hiking, photography, and relaxation.

​​Natural Features​​

• ​​Bamboo Forests​​: The area boasts ​​485 bamboo species​​, including Nan bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens), which grows rapidly—up to 20 cm/day—and covers ~70,000 mu (47 km²). The forest coverage rate exceeds ​​92%​​, creating an oxygen-rich environment with high negative ion concentrations.
• ​​Landscapes​​: Highlights include:
  • ​​Jade Corridor​​: A 5-km path flanked by towering bamboo, forming a natural green tunnel.
  • ​​Colorful Waterfall​​: A cascading waterfall that refracts sunlight into rainbows.
  • ​​Shengshui Lake​​: A crystal-clear lake mirroring surrounding peaks and bamboo.
  • ​​Karst Caves​​: Ancient caves like Xianyu Cave and Dragon King Cave.

​​Cultural Significance​​

• ​​History​​: Legends trace its origins to myths like Nu Wa (a goddess) or Zhuge Liang’s military campaigns. The Northern Song poet Huang Tingjian famously dubbed it "Wanlingqing" ("Vast Green Waves").
• ​​Museums & Temples​​: The ​​Bamboo Sea Museum​​ showcases bamboo artifacts, while sites like Celestial Dwelling Cave blend Taoist and Buddhist temples.
• ​​Local Crafts​​: Bamboo weaving, carving, and All-Bamboo Feast cuisine (e.g., bamboo shoot dishes, bamboo-tube rice).

​​Visitor Experience​​

• ​​Activities​​:
  • ​​Hiking/Cable Cars​​: Trails wind through bamboo groves; cable cars offer aerial views.
  • ​​Bamboo Rafting​​: Drift on lakes like Sea Within the Sea for immersive scenery.
  • ​​Seasonal Beauty​​: Winter’s misty tranquility contrasts with summer’s vibrant greenery.
• ​​Logistics​​:
  • ​​Entrance Fee​​: ~80 RMB (adults); open 8:00 AM–5:30 PM (varies seasonally).
  • ​​Access​​: Nearest airports include Yibin Caiba; buses connect from Chengdu/Shanghai.

​​Eco-Tourism & Recognition​​

The Bamboo Sea is a pioneer in sustainable tourism, certified by ​​Green Globe 21​​. It’s been lauded as one of China’s "Top 10 Most Beautiful Forests" and a filming location for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

​​Pro Tip​​: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and savor the bamboo’s tranquil "singing" in the wind.