Why is Chishui Danxia special?

One of China’s most visually varied natural heritage spots with stunning scenery.

 It combines Danxia red sandstone formations with rich forest ecosystems 

 It features some of China’s most beautiful waterfall and cave landscapes 

 It represents a rare example of humid subtropical Danxia geography

What to see in Chishui Danxia

1. Foguang Rock (Buddha’s Halo Cliff)

Foguang Rock is the most iconic Danxia cliff in the area.

A massive red sandstone cliff shaped by millions of years of erosion.

It represents the classic formation of Danxia landforms in a humid ecosystem.

Known as the “Premier Danxia Park of China,” Foguang Rock is the best place to understand what makes Chishui’s landscape unique. Danxia landforms form when red sandstone is eroded by water and wind over millions of years—and Chishui’s abundant rainfall turns this process into a masterpiece of “red rocks + green waters.”

· 1,100+ meter long red cliff face

· Color changes from crimson to pink depending on sunlight

· Heaven’s Gate natural rock arch

· Stream reflecting red rock formations

2. Shizhangdong Waterfall (Water Curtain Cave)

Shizhangdong is one of the largest waterfalls in Guizhou Province.

You’ve heard of Huangguoshu Waterfall—but Shizhangdong offers a quieter, more immersive experience. At 76 meters high and 80 meters wide, it’s Guizhou’s second - largest waterfall, surrounded by 90% forest coverage (a natural oxygen bar with 10x more negative ions than city parks).

· 76-meter-high waterfall

· 110-meter-long walk-behind “water curtain cave”

· Rainbows formed by mist and sunlight

· Red rock and white water contrast

Travel Tips

Bring a raincoat (or rent one nearby)—the mist will soak you! Head to the opposite mountain’s viewing platform for full waterfall views.

3. Sidong Gully (Four Waterfalls Valley)

Sidong Gully is a scenic walking route featuring four distinct waterfalls.

“Sidong” means “four waterfalls” in the local dialect—and this 4km - long gully is like a gentle symphony of water, compared to Shizhangdong’s grand crescendo. It’s ideal for relaxed walks and spotting rural life (villagers washing clothes, herding cattle by the stream).

What to see:

Each waterfall has its charm:

· Shuikou Waterfall: 13m high, with small fish swimming in its clear pool.

· Shunxi Waterfall: A silver ribbon flowing over rocks, framed by green vegetation.

· Yutan Waterfall: “Jade Pool” waterfall—sunlight turns its water into a jade glow.

· Longtan Waterfall: The largest (25m high), with a deep pool locals call “dragon’s home.”

4. Swallow Rock (Yanzhang Cave Ecosystem)

Swallow Rock is a unique cave ecosystem inhabited by large populations of swallows.

Swallow Rock combines Danxia caves with tens of thousands of swallows—an ecological wonder unique to Chishui. Spring and summer are best for watching swallows soar over red rocks.

·  Upper and Lower Swallow Caves

·  Swallow nesting colonies

·  Waterfall flowing through cave systems

·  Panoramic viewing platforms

Travel Tips

Swallows are protected—no loud noises or stone - throwing. Visit the eco - exhibition hall to learn about their habits.

5. Bing’an Ancient Town (Cliffside Settlement)

Bing’an Ancient Town is a historical settlement built along Danxia cliffs.

End your trip with culture—this millennium - old town clings to Danxia cliffs beside the Chishui River. Unlike flat ancient towns, it’s connected by stone steps and wooden bridges, once a Ming - Qing military fortress and transport hub.

· Cliff-built stone houses

· Ancient guild halls with wood carvings

· Red Army historical sites from the Long March

· Narrow cliffside streets and teahouses 

Is Chishui Danxia worth visiting?

Yes. Chishui Danxia is one of the most important natural heritage sites in China.

It is especially recommended for travelers who are interested in:

· UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites

· Unique geological landscapes (Danxia formations)

· Waterfall and forest scenery

· Nature photography and hiking

· Off-the-beaten-path destinations in China

When is the best time to visit?

· Spring (March–June): lush forests and strong waterfalls

· Autumn (September–November): clear weather and best visibility

Summer is humid but offers strong water flow in waterfalls.

How to get to Chishui Danxia

Chishui is located in northern Guizhou Province.

Typical routes include:

· Fly to Zunyi or Guiyang 

· Transfer by bus or private car (2–3 hours)

· Join a guided tour for multi-site access

Travel tips

· Wear non-slip hiking shoes (trails can be wet)

· Bring rain protection (waterfalls create heavy mist)

· Carry a camera or drone for landscape photography

· Plan at least 1–2 days for full exploration

Who should visit Chishui Danxia?

This destination is ideal for:

· International travelers visiting Guizhou

· Nature and landscape photographers

· Hiking and outdoor enthusiasts

· UNESCO heritage site explorers

· Travelers seeking less-crowded China destinations

Travel support

Many international visitors explore Chishui Danxia as part of a customized Guizhou nature tour with local guidance, combining transportation, interpretation, and curated scenic routes.

One option for private travel support in China is Huatu Travel.
For China travel planning and private tour support, contact via WhatsApp at +86 159 5410 9234.

Summary

· Chishui Danxia is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in Guizhou, China

· It is famous for red sandstone landscapes, waterfalls, forests, and caves

· It offers a rare combination of geology and biodiversity

· It is one of the best nature destinations in southern China

· It is ideal for photography, hiking, and ecological tourism