Huaguo Mountain and Water Curtain Cave Trail

The Huaguo Mountain and Water Curtain Cave Trail is a loop of about 5 km through the Huaguo Mountain Scenic Area in Haizhou District, Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, China. The mountain is tied to the classic novel Journey to the West, in which it is the home of the Monkey King, and the route passes the Water Curtain Cave, forested valleys and rock pools. Access is by bus from Lianyungang city to the scenic area entrance, and a scenic-area shuttle serves the interior for those who want to skip road sections. Driving visitors can park near the entrance. Entry is by paid scenic-area ticket, with the price varying by season, and no separate hiking permit is known. The route takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours and involves about 300 m of cumulative gain, so it is moderate: the climbing is sustained on steps and rocky sections but is not technical. The surface combines stone steps, paved lanes and uneven rock, which can be slippery when wet. Shade is generally good in the wooded valleys, with more open stretches near the upper viewpoints. Exposure is limited, with railings at cliff edges and near pools. Landmarks include the Water Curtain Cave, where a stream falls across the cave mouth, story-themed statues and pavilions, forested valleys and rock pools. Visitors who tire can turn around at the cave, which is the main attraction, or use the shuttle to shorten the return. Water and refreshments are sold near the entrance and at some junctions, but a bottle should be carried for the upper sections. There are no refuge huts, though pavilions and cave overhangs offer shelter from rain. Visits are busiest at weekends and holidays, when early starts reduce queues at the cave.