The Wangmang Mountain and the Cliff Road. [Photo by Wang Zhuangfei/China Daily]

Day 4: Jincheng — Wangmang Mountain and the Cliff Road

My first impression of Wangmang Ridge in the Mount Taihang range could best be considered anti-climatic. It was a misty day, high on the mountaintop, and most everywhere I pointed my camera was hidden behind an curtain of clouds. This made for an experience in its own right, but I feared that I would be left to appreciate this geological wonder only through travel guide photographs.

As the day continued, both my fears and the clouds faded away, revealing a sight that can only be compared to the flying waterfalls in the James Cameron film Avatar. A firsthand view of the grand gorges and steep cliffs of Wangmang Ridge made it clear why this spot is considered a wonder of the world.

The Cliff Road in Xiyagou — one of six in China — is literally carved through the mountain. The mere sight of this road is enough to inspire many discussions, but of greater inspiration is the story of how the mountain people of Xiyagou spent 30 years to tunnel 7.5 kilometers using only hand tools. I couldn't help but think how the "windows" they created in the cliff's face for removal of crushed rock added a cool "caveman" style to the road. It's no wonder the Cliff Road is listed among the Top 10 of Magnificent Roads in China.