Huangguoshu Waterfall
Experience the thunderous power of Asia's largest waterfall, with a unique walk behind the cascade in the Water Curtain Cave.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Huangguoshu Waterfall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thunderous power of Asia's largest waterfall, with a unique walk behind the cascade in the Water Curtain Cave.
"Absolutely breathtaking experience. Highly recommend going through the Water Curtain Cave!"
☔ Bring a Raincoat!
Essential for the Water Curtain Cave. Ponchos are cheap and readily available outside the ticket office.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be slippery and uneven, especially near the falls. Hiking shoes are recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Huangguoshu Waterfall
Main waterfall
Asia's largest waterfall, a breathtaking cascade featured in 'Journey to the West'.
Water Curtain Cave (Shuiliandong)
Behind the main waterfall
Walk behind the thundering water for a unique, misty, and unforgettable viewpoint.
Doupotang Waterfall
Upstream from main waterfall
The widest waterfall in the scenic area, offering a different, powerful perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Huangguoshu
Prepare for the Spray!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Few days in Guizhou?
☔ Bring a Raincoat!
Essential for the Water Curtain Cave. Ponchos are cheap and readily available outside the ticket office.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be slippery and uneven, especially near the falls. Hiking shoes are recommended.
Anything decent to visit between between Kunming and Chengdu/Chongqing?
r/China planning a trip to Guiyang.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
The site gets very busy. Arriving at opening time offers a more peaceful experience.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited options inside the cave and can be pricey. Stay hydrated!
Top China Recommendations
Tips
from all over the internet
☔ Bring a Raincoat!
Essential for the Water Curtain Cave. Ponchos are cheap and readily available outside the ticket office.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be slippery and uneven, especially near the falls. Hiking shoes are recommended.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
The site gets very busy. Arriving at opening time offers a more peaceful experience.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited options inside the cave and can be pricey. Stay hydrated!
🎫 Consider Combo Tickets
Tickets often cover multiple scenic spots. The escalator package can save your legs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Huangguoshu Waterfall for its breathtaking natural beauty and the unique experience of walking behind the cascade in the Water Curtain Cave. The sheer scale of Asia's largest waterfall is a major draw, offering incredible photo opportunities. However, many note the significant crowds, especially during peak times, and advise preparing for the spray and slippery conditions.
"Huangguoshu Waterfall besides being reputed to be Asia’s largest, became famous after the 1986’s TV adaption of Journey to the West being filmed here. It attracted more visitors.
From the Tourist Center, the shuttle took us the the entrance of Huangguoshu Scenic Area.
Directory Signboards are placed to guide our walk through. Toilets are strategically provided.
“Huangguoshu” literally mean Yellow Fruit Plants, are fruiting in the Park Area. There is a Bonsai Garden. Every bonsai plants has its name plate. You will get to meet the statue of Xu XiaKe (Explorer) standing tall with his biography inscribed on a stone tablet. Facilities for infirm are non-existent although there is an escalator that takes away some strain of climbing and descending to the Waterfall Area.
Behind the waterfall lies the Water-Curtain Cave (“Shuiliandong” in Chinese), a 440ft (134m) natural cave formation. Approximately 130ft (40m) from the base of the waterfall and 440ft (134m) long, the cave plateform offers a striking viewpoint of the waterfall.
It was crowded at the cave entrance, thus the waiting time to enter this cave can range from 15 minutes to much longer. Visitors can only walk in one direction.
A poncho is 100 percent required to keep us dry, and as the Cave is narrow, dark with low ceiling, it is advisable not to use an umbrella as this would hamper the flow of the others walking infront and behind.
Beware of the risks of falls as there are uneven steps and the cement path is very slippery. The whole loop to walk through takes about 30mins.
Bring enough drinking water and snacks as there are no provisions inside the Cave. After exploring the cave, return to the main path and continue downhill back to the escalator to exit.
A worthwhile visit in terms of the scenery and photography opportunities !!!"
susan chow
"Private hire to this nature of wonder. Prerp yourself raincoat if you don't want to be wet when walking the 水莲洞. Is a route that you might get partial wet as you will experience walking inside the waterfall. When for this spot on last day of Aug. Off peak but still alot of people.
Bought the ticket that cover the 3 scenic spot. But only went for this spot. Recommend to include escalator package so walk a little lesser. Tracking shoe is recommended for the walk."
Yuki z
"Absolutely breathtaking experience.
Highly recommend going through the Water Curtain Cave instead of the regular experience. Requires a time slot reservation. Bring a rain coat; it costs 2 RMB at the dozens of stalls outside of the ticket office.
ID is required. Admission costs around 270-310 RMB, and gives you unlimited access to the scenic area for ten days. Opens from 7 AM to around 6 PM."
Johnny S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Guiyang, you can take a high-speed train to Anshun West Station, then a bus or taxi to the waterfall. Alternatively, direct tourist buses run from Guiyang city center. Some travelers opt for private car hire for convenience.
Yes, there are shuttle buses connecting the main attractions within the scenic area. Walking is also an option, but be prepared for some inclines and declines.
Yes, there is parking available at the scenic area. However, traffic can be heavy during peak times, and navigating local roads might be challenging for some.
The most common route is to take a high-speed train from Kunming to Guiyang, and then transfer to a bus or train to Anshun and then to Huangguoshu. This journey can take several hours.
Taxis are available, but it's advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand or use a ride-hailing app if available. They can be more expensive than public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but generally range from 270-310 RMB. This ticket is often valid for 10 consecutive days, allowing multiple visits.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially for the Water Curtain Cave which may require time slot reservations, is highly recommended to secure your entry and avoid disappointment.
Standard tickets usually grant access to the main waterfall and surrounding areas. Packages may include access to other scenic spots like Doupotang Waterfall and the Water Curtain Cave.
The scenic area typically opens around 7 AM and closes around 6 PM. It's best to check the official website or local information for the most up-to-date hours.
Often, the Water Curtain Cave is included in the main admission ticket, but it might require a specific time slot reservation. Always check the ticket details when purchasing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Comfortable walking shoes are a must due to slippery paths. Bring a raincoat or poncho as you will get wet, especially if visiting the Water Curtain Cave.
Yes, it's a great family destination. There are shuttle buses to help with distances, and the natural beauty is captivating for all ages. Be mindful of slippery areas with young children.
A typical visit to the main waterfall and Water Curtain Cave can take 2-3 hours. If you plan to explore other scenic spots, allocate a full day.
Restrooms are available throughout the scenic area. However, provisions like food and drinks are limited inside the Water Curtain Cave, so bring your own.
It's an immersive experience where you walk through a cave behind the waterfall. Expect to get wet from the spray and mist. It can be crowded, so patience is key.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The main viewing platforms offer classic shots. For a unique perspective, try capturing the waterfall from within the Water Curtain Cave, but be mindful of the spray on your lens.
Use a waterproof camera bag or a rain cover for your camera. Wiping your lens frequently with a microfiber cloth is essential.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. However, the sheer power of the waterfall is impressive at any time.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and scenic areas to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check the park's regulations before flying.
Yes, the view from inside the cave is dramatic, offering a unique angle. However, the mist can make it challenging, so a wide-angle lens and a protective cover are recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours or on weekdays to avoid overwhelming crowds. The natural beauty and the unique experience of walking behind a waterfall provide a memorable educational outing. The Bonsai Garden also offers a quieter, more contemplative space for families to enjoy.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Look for ticket bundles that offer the best value for accessing multiple sites. While the escalator is convenient, walking can save money if you're up for it. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons when accommodation and potentially ticket prices might be slightly lower.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Huangguoshu Waterfall
The surrounding national park is lush and green, offering a beautiful natural setting. Beyond the main cascade, the area boasts a total of 18 waterfalls, each with its unique charm. The park is well-maintained with clear signage and facilities, making it accessible for most visitors.
For those seeking an immersive experience, the Water Curtain Cave is a must-visit. This natural cave formation allows you to walk behind the roaring water, offering a unique and exhilarating perspective. Be prepared to get wet, as the spray is intense, and a raincoat is highly recommended. The cave itself is dimly lit and can be slippery, so sturdy footwear is crucial.
Navigating Huangguoshu: Transport and Ticketing
Upon arrival, you'll find shuttle buses operating within the vast scenic area, connecting the various attractions. This is a lifesaver, as the distances between some waterfalls can be significant. Purchasing a comprehensive ticket package is often recommended, as it can grant access to multiple scenic spots, including the main waterfall, Doupotang Waterfall, and the Water Curtain Cave, for a set period, usually ten days.
Be aware that while the main ticket covers entry, some attractions like the Water Curtain Cave might require a time slot reservation. Consider purchasing an escalator package if you wish to reduce the amount of walking, especially on inclines and declines. The ticket price can be substantial, so ensure you plan your visit to maximize its value.
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