816 Underground Nuclear Project

Introducing 816 Underground Nuclear Engineering

In 1967, a secretive special forces unit secretly entered the mountains of Fuling and began excavating an underground nuclear power plant. The resulting facility, the Chongqing 816 Underground Nuclear Power Plant, dedicated to the production of atomic bombs, was considered the world's first artificial cavern, with a total investment of 740 million yuan. By the time construction was halted in 1984, 85% of the construction and 60% of the installation had been completed. In April 2002, the Commission of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense issued a declassification order, and the massive 816 underground nuclear military cavern was finally unveiled to the public.

The 816 Underground Nuclear Project has a total construction area of ​​104,000 square meters, with 18 large caverns and 130 roads, pilot tunnels, branch tunnels, tunnels, and shafts. The combined axial length of all caverns exceeds 20 kilometers. The largest cavern reaches 79.6 meters, with a sidewall span of 25.2 meters and a vault span of 31.2 meters, covering an area of ​​13,000 square meters. This engineering design, characterized by "buildings within caverns, caverns within buildings, and rivers within caverns," won a collective award at the National Science and Technology Conference in 1978.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Tickets

Off-season: 40 yuan (sightseeing bus: 10 yuan)

Peak season: 60 yuan (sightseeing bus: 10 yuan)

Attraction opening hours

09:00-16:30

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Most Popular FAQs for 816 Underground Nuclear Project

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The 816 Underground Nuclear Project, located in Chongqing, was originally constructed in the 1960s as part of China’s nuclear weapons development program. The facility was designed to be an underground missile and nuclear weapons storage site, capable of surviving a nuclear attack. It is now a historical site and a symbol of the nation's Cold War-era military efforts.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The 816 Underground Nuclear Project is located in the Qijiang District of Chongqing. Visitors can take a taxi or private transport from downtown Chongqing. Public transportation options are more limited, but taxis are the most convenient way to reach the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry around 4:30 PM. The best times to visit are on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds, especially during national holidays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is generally around 40-60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance, or online through various Chinese ticketing platforms like Meituan or Dianping.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or national holidays. A few days in advance is sufficient to secure tickets, though same-day booking may still be possible if you visit early in the morning.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the 816 Underground Nuclear Project, including the main bunkers, control rooms, and exhibitions, plan to spend about 2-3 hours at the site.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The nuclear missile launch control room, which is a key feature of the site.
• The large underground bunkers designed to house and protect military personnel and resources.
• The exhibitions on China’s nuclear development, Cold War history, and civil defense strategies.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English may also be available for foreign visitors, depending on the day and availability. It’s recommended to check in advance if you need an English guide.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Inside the control rooms, where you can take pictures of the large, impressive machinery and displays.
• The main entrance area where the scale of the facility can be appreciated.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance and take a guided tour through the missile storage chambers, then proceed to the underground bunkers and the nuclear control room. End the tour at the exhibition area for a historical overview.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, night visits or light shows are not available at the 816 Underground Nuclear Project. Special tours may be available during specific events or holidays, so it’s worth checking with the site ahead of time.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings or during the off-peak season (fall and winter months).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The site has basic facilities including toilets, a small gift shop, and rest areas. However, there are no large restaurants on-site, so visitors are advised to bring water and snacks if needed.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site has basic accessibility for elderly visitors, though some areas may have steep steps and narrow hallways. For disabled visitors, it’s recommended to inquire in advance for accessibility options.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and cash are accepted at the entrance and in the gift shop. Credit cards may not be accepted, so it’s a good idea to bring cash or use mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no large restaurants inside the 816 Underground Nuclear Project. However, nearby Qijiang District offers local Chinese restaurants serving traditional Sichuan and Chongqing dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available at local restaurants in Qijiang District. Halal food may be more limited, so it’s recommended to inquire at specific restaurants in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in Qijiang District.
• For higher-end accommodations, visitors can find hotels in downtown Chongqing, about 1.5 hours by car from the site.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is about a 2-hour drive from the site.
• The scenic Jinyun Mountain, located to the south of Qijiang, offers hiking opportunities.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There is a small souvenir shop selling memorabilia related to the 816 Underground Nuclear Project, including military-themed items and historical books. Local handicrafts may also be available in nearby shops.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxis or ride-hailing services (like Didi) are the best options to travel to nearby attractions or back to Chongqing city center.
• Public buses may also be an option, but they can be less convenient and time-consuming.