KI20 Open Valley

Reviewed by · Licensed Acupuncturist & TCM Physician · Last reviewed June 2026

KI20 (Tōnggǔ, “Open Valley”) is an acupuncture point on the Kidney Channel Meridian. It is located on the upper abdomen, 5 cun superior to the umbilicus and 0.5 cun lateral to the midline, level with the Ren Mai point Shangwan (CV13). This places it 1 cun inferior to Youmen (KI21). It harmonizes the Stomach, descends rebellious Qi, resolves accumulations, and alleviates pain.

Location

On the upper abdomen, 5 cun superior to the umbilicus and 0.5 cun lateral to the midline, level with the Ren Mai point Shangwan (CV13). This places it 1 cun inferior to Youmen (KI21).

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep insertion carries a risk of puncturing the liver on the right side or the stomach, especially in thin patients.

TCM functions

Harmonizes the Stomach, descends rebellious Qi, resolves accumulations, and alleviates pain..

Indications

Abdominal fullness, chest fullness, abdominal pain, heart pain, poor appetite, indigestion, vomiting, frequent vomiting after eating or drinking, sudden loss of voice, mental confusion, palpitations, accumulations, retained fluids, abdominal masses , red urine, emaciation, mouth deviation, red and painful inner canthus of the eye, heart pain with evil qi rising to the chest and causing sharp pain in the ribs..

Clinical notes

KI20 is an important local point for upper abdominal disorders, particularly those involving Stomach Qi rebellion and food stagnation. It addresses symptoms like epigastric pain, fullness, vomiting, and poor digestion by harmonizing the middle jiao and descending rebellious Qi. Its connection with the Chong Mai also gives it a role in regulating Qi and Blood, which can manifest as palpitations or mental-emotional symptoms stemming from digestive disharmony.

On the Kidney Channel channel

KI20 is one of 27 points on the Kidney Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is KI20 located?

KI20 (Tōnggǔ) is located on the upper abdomen, 5 cun superior to the umbilicus and 0.5 cun lateral to the midline, level with the Ren Mai point Shangwan (CV13). This places it 1 cun inferior to Youmen (KI21).

What is KI20 used for?

KI20 harmonizes the Stomach, descends rebellious Qi, resolves accumulations, and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include abdominal fullness, chest fullness, abdominal pain, heart pain, poor appetite, indigestion, vomiting, frequent vomiting after eating or drinking, sudden loss of voice, mental confusion, palpitations, accumulations, retained fluids, abdominal masses , red urine, emaciation, mouth deviation, red and painful inner canthus of the eye, heart pain with evil qi rising to the chest and causing sharp pain in the ribs.

How is KI20 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep insertion carries a risk of puncturing the liver on the right side or the stomach, especially in thin patients.

Which meridian is KI20 on?

KI20 is a point on the Kidney Channel Meridian (Zú Shàoyīn Shènjīng).

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⚠️ This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Acupuncture is a traditional practice; evidence varies by condition and study quality, and individual results differ. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Always consult a qualified acupuncturist or physician.