Deep within a massive sinkhole in China’s Leye–Fengshan Global Geopark—approximately 630 feet beneath the Earth’s surface—scientists have discovered a vast, ancient forest that has remained untouched for thousands of years.

Before diving into what lies below, brace yourself—this remarkable ecosystem looks like something straight out of a fantasy novel.

UNESCO describes the geopark as a landscape defined by dramatic karst formations, enormous caves, and what is considered the longest natural bridge on the planet. Located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the area is famous for its stunning geological diversity.

According to UNESCO, “The UNESCO Global Geopark is primarily sedimentary with more than 60 percent of 3000m-thick Devonian to Permian carbonate rocks.” These layers have shaped an S-shaped geological structure and a unique rhombus-like formation across Leye and Fengshan counties, influencing the development of two major underground rivers—the Bailang and the Poyue.

UNESCO further explains that the region’s karst features include high peak clusters (fengcong), expansive poljes, karst springs, tiankengs (meaning “heavenly pits”), natural bridges, immense caves, and elaborate speleothems. The area also contains fossil-rich layers, including giant panda fossils and well-preserved Neogene strata, making it a treasure trove for both geologists and paleontologists.

The geopark is considered one of the best natural examples of how tiankengs form and evolve. It boasts the highest density of sinkholes and some of the largest cave chambers known anywhere in the world, solidifying its reputation as a global geological wonder.

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A Giant New Sinkhole With Ancient Trees

Karst landscapes form when the ground slowly dissolves over time, creating underground caves and, eventually, sinkholes. In May 2022, researchers announced the discovery of a newly identified sinkhole—one measuring over 1,000 feet long, 490 feet wide, and nearly 630 feet deep.

At the bottom of this enormous opening lies a thriving primeval forest. Some of the trees reach heights of more than 130 feet, towering upward toward the sinkhole’s rim. Scientists believe that the isolated environment might harbor plant and animal species that science has never documented before.

Exploration teams also located three separate cave openings branching off from the main chamber, suggesting that the sinkhole may connect to an even larger underground network.

Expedition leader Chen Lixin said, “It wouldn’t surprise me if we find species in these caves that science hasn’t yet documented.” His team described the vegetation as dense and vibrant, with a canopy so thick it blocks much of the light from above.

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Why This Discovery Matters

Scientists interviewed George Veni, the director of the National Cave and Karst Research Institute. He emphasized that karst terrain varies widely around the world. In China, the karst topography is exceptionally dramatic, featuring massive sinkholes and huge cave entrances. In contrast, karst regions in other countries may appear subtle, with small sinkholes and narrow cave openings that are easy to miss.

Veni explained the formation process: slightly acidic rainwater absorbs carbon dioxide from the soil, becoming more corrosive. This water then flows through cracks in the rock, slowly carving tunnels and chambers. When these chambers grow large enough, the rock above collapses—creating a sinkhole.

This newly discovered sinkhole is the 30th known tiankeng in the region. China is also home to the world’s largest sinkhole, the Xiaozhai Tiankeng, which is famous for its extraordinary size and depth.

Another massive sinkhole in the region—2,100 feet deep, 2,000 feet long, and 1,760 feet wide—even contains a flowing stream, giving it an otherworldly appearance reminiscent of landscapes from the video game Minecraft.

The discovery in Leye–Fengshan adds yet another chapter to China’s growing list of astonishing natural wonders hidden beneath the surface.

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