Overview
Project 816, located in Baitao Town, Fuling District, Chongqing, is the "world's first man-made cave." Built in 1966, it was a top-secret nuclear factory, construction halted in 1984 before being declassified and opened to the public. The cave is vast and labyrinthine, containing remnants of the nuclear reactor hall and central control room, allowing visitors to experience the heroic history of the 60,000 builders.
The tour takes approximately 1.5 hours and must be accompanied by a free guided tour to avoid getting lost. The best seasons are spring and autumn, when the climate is pleasant; in summer, the cave maintains a constant temperature of 18-20℃, providing respite from the heat. The cave is slippery and cold, so it is recommended to wear non-slip shoes and bring a light jacket.
How to Get There
To reach Project 816 from downtown Chongqing, the most recommended option is to take the high-speed rail to Fuling North Station. After exiting the station, take the free shuttle bus (with admission ticket) directly to the scenic area. This bus departs daily at 10:30 AM and the journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Hongqihegou Bus Station to Baitao Town, then transfer to local bus route 208. For those driving, navigate directly to "Project 816 Scenic Area B Parking Lot" along the G50 Shanghai-Chongqing Expressway. The entire journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, and parking costs only 5 yuan per day.
Once inside the scenic area, you must follow a free guided tour along a fixed route (approximately 1.5 hours). Within the maze-like expanse of caves, you will explore key relics such as the nuclear reactor hall and the central control room, immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring experience of the world's largest man-made cave.
What to Expect
Expect a serious, industrial historical site with a lot of walking, stairs, and tunnel interiors rather than a polished theme-park experience. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, and bring a light jacket because underground sections can feel cool, damp, and dim. Visitors with knee problems, limited mobility, or sensitivity to enclosed spaces should prepare carefully, as some routes involve uneven ground, steps, and long distances. Accessibility is limited compared with newer museums.
Basic facilities such as restrooms are usually available near the entrance and main visitor areas, but food choices may be limited, so carrying water and a small snack is sensible. Photography is generally allowed in public visitor sections unless signs say otherwise, but flash or tripod use may be restricted in certain interior spaces. Keep your phone charged, as mobile signal can be weaker in some underground areas, and follow staff instructions closely for safety.
Practical Tips
- Book ahead on the official WeChat channel or major Chinese ticket platforms during weekends and public holidays — adult tickets are usually about ¥65 as of 2026.
- Wear non-slip walking shoes and bring a light layer; the tunnels stay cooler and damper than outside, even in summer.
- Use Gaode Maps or Baidu Maps and search for “816工程景区” or “816地下核工程”; English map labels can be inconsistent.
- Plan at least 2-3 hours on site because the complex is large, with long walking sections and many stairs.
