The Huanglong Cave Tourist Area in Zhangjiajie City—also known simply as the Huanglong Cave Scenic Area—is located within the Wulingyuan district of Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province. It is an integral part of the Wulingyuan area, which is recognized as a World Natural Heritage site, a Global Geopark, and a National-level Scenic and Historic Interest Area. The site features a classic karst landscape.
According to geological research, the region where Huanglong Cave is situated was once a vast ocean approximately 380 million years ago, during which time layers of highly soluble limestone and dolomite were deposited. About 65 million years ago, the Earth's crust began to rise, initiating the long process of cave formation. Through the sustained action of water and karst processes, this remarkable subterranean wonder was created. Following an extensive investigation, a team of over 70 experts from China’s Ministry of Geology concluded that, in terms of scale, diversity of features, and aesthetic beauty, Huanglong Cave encompasses virtually every aspect of speleology—earning it the title of the world’s "all-around champion" among karst caves.