Huangguoshu Waterfall is worth a dedicated visit, yet it also pairs perfectly with other classic destinations in Guizhou. Far from being a "snap a photo and leave" kind of attraction, it is a waterfall cluster comprising several distinct areas, such as Doupotang, Tianxingqiao, and the Great Waterfall itself. Visitors can enjoy the natural scenery by day and experience light shows and live-action performances by night, while also exploring nearby Buyi ethnic villages and the art of batik. The following sections cover transportation, tickets, sightseeing routes, night tours, local cuisine, accommodation, and sample itineraries.
I. How do I get to Huangguoshu from Guiyang?
There are various convenient ways to travel from Guiyang to Huangguoshu Waterfall, allowing you to easily plan a one-day or multi-day trip.
1. High-speed rail travel
Taking the high-speed train from Guiyang North Station to Anshun West Station takes about 40 minutes; there are frequent departures, and the fare is approximately 55 RMB.
Upon arriving in Anshun, you can take a taxi to the scenic area or transfer to the official direct shuttle bus; the journey takes about one hour and costs around 20 yuan, taking you directly to the entrance of the Huangguoshu Scenic Area.
2. Self-driving or chartered car
It takes about two hours to drive there from downtown Guiyang. Hiring a private car offers more flexibility, allowing you to stop, take photos, and dine at your own pace. Please contact us if you need to arrange a private car or book high-speed rail tickets; we can recommend suitable travel agencies.
3. Join a group or choose to travel by bus.
If you are on a limited budget, you can opt for a group bus tour that takes you from Guiyang to the scenic area; please note, however, that the tour guide and driver speak only Chinese.
Alternatively, if you prefer to explore the site independently, you can take a bus from downtown Guiyang. Direct tourist buses to the Huangguoshu Visitor Center are available from locations such as Guiyang North Railway Station, Yan'an West Road, and Huaguoyuan (the journey takes approximately 2 hours one-way, with a fare of around 50–60 RMB).
II. Tickets and Time Budget
Daytime admission tickets vary by season:
160 RMB from March to October, and 150 RMB from November to February; the scenic area sightseeing shuttle costs 50 RMB.
Allow at least 4 to 6 hours for a daytime visit. If you also wish to see the night tour, it is best to spend the night near Huangguoshu; otherwise, you will be very pressed for time.
Since the distances between Doupotang, Tianxingqiao, and the Great Waterfall are significant, it is recommended to purchase a combined ticket that includes the sightseeing shuttle.
III. How to Spend the Day: Three Core Zones
The standard sightseeing route is: Doupotang → Tianxingqiao → The Grand Waterfall. You can also adjust this based on crowd levels and your energy levels.
1. Doupotang Waterfall
This is the filming location where Tang Monk and his disciples led their horse across the river—a scene featured in the closing theme of the 1986 TV adaptation of Journey to the West. The waterfall spans 105 meters at the crest; while the vertical drop is not particularly dramatic, the broad expanse of cascading water creates an impressive, majestic spectacle, making it an ideal spot to start your tour and warm up.
2. Tianxingqiao Scenic Area
Tianxingqiao offers more than just the Journey to the West filming locations found in its first section—such as the "Gao Village" (Gao Lao Zhuang) set; the true highlight lies in the "Silver Chain Falling into the Pool" waterfall located in the latter half of the trail. Even if you are short on time, do not turn back after just the first section; the second half is well worth seeing.
3. Huangguoshu Waterfall
This is the centerpiece of the entire scenic area. Standing 77.8 meters tall and 101 meters wide, it is one of the world's most famous waterfalls. The most unique experience is the Water-Curtain Cave, which allows you to view the outside world through the cascading water. Be sure to wear a raincoat before entering the cave and opt for non-slip footwear; raincoats are usually available for purchase outside the scenic area.
IV. Nighttime Activities: Light and Shadow Shows and Immersive Performances
There are two different experiences to be had at Huangguoshu at night.
Night tour tickets for Huangguoshu Great Waterfall: Adults ¥200 (eligible for concessions ¥150; children ¥100).
Night tour of Return to Journey to the West at Doupotang: Adults ¥240 (seniors ¥170; children ¥120).
1. Night Tour of Huangguoshu Waterfall
At night, the grand waterfall transforms into a natural screen for light and shadow shows—such as "Neon of the Nine Heavens" and "Divine Drums Praying for Water"—offering an experience completely different from the natural scenery seen during the day.
2. "Return to Journey to the West" – A Night Tour at Doupotang
This is an immersive, fantasy-style live-action performance. The audience follows the actors along mountain paths, personally experiencing classic scenes such as "Thrice-Beating the White Bone Demon" and the "Kingdom of Women." Familiarity with Journey to the West will make the experience even more engaging.
V. Local Cultural Experiences
Visiting a Buyi Village
In villages such as Shitouzhai near the scenic area, you can see traditional Buyi stone-slab houses and experience the atmosphere of local life.
Experience Intangible Cultural Heritage Batik
At high-end guesthouses like Jianglu·Cunxiao or at intangible cultural heritage workshops, you can learn to create your own batik piece under the guidance of a master artisan. Such a souvenir holds far more significance than an ordinary gift.
VI. What is there to eat locally?
It is recommended to dine at restaurants in Huangguoshu Town, as they generally offer better value for money than those inside the scenic area. Guizhou cuisine is characterized by sour and spicy flavors; here are a few dishes worth trying:
Sour Soup Fish: Fish cooked in a sour broth made from fermented wild tomatoes; appetizing and delicious, it is a signature dish of Guizhou.
Bobo Candy: Made from sesame and maltose, this treat is crispy, sweet, and fragrant—perfect as a souvenir.
Bouyei Five-Colored Glutinous Rice: Glutinous rice dyed with natural plant extracts; it is vibrant in color, soft, chewy, and slightly sweet.
Anshun Wrapped Rolls: Rice flour wrappers filled with ingredients like pickled radish and bean sprouts, drizzled with a secret sauce—bite-sized and delicious.
If you do not eat spicy food or zhe'ergen (fish mint), remember to specify "no spice" or "no zhe'ergen" when ordering.
Ⅶ. Where is the best place to stay?
Area near the scenic area entrance: Densely packed with hotels and offering convenient dining options, this area is within a 5–15 minute walk of the entrance—ideal for wrapping up a day trip or for a two-day in-depth visit.
Anshun city center: Offers a wider range of choices and lower prices, with convenient high-speed rail access—ideal for travelers on a budget or those who prefer staying in the city.
Shitouzhai / Huashishao Guesthouses: Traditional Buyi stone houses offering a quiet atmosphere and cultural charm—ideal for travelers who appreciate a rustic, countryside vibe.
For peak seasons such as summer vacation and the National Day holiday, it is recommended to book your accommodation one to two months in advance. Some hotels near the scenic area entrance also offer complimentary shuttle services.
Ⅷ. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the best season to visit?
The scenery is most spectacular during the high-water season (July–August); the weather is mild and also suitable for visiting from March to May and September to November.
Q2: Is it convenient if I don't speak Chinese?
Key signage is bilingual (Chinese and English), and basic English assistance is available at ticket offices and visitor centers.
Q3: How should I plan the sightseeing route?
The standard route is: Doupotang → Tianxingqiao → The Grand Waterfall. Even if you are short on time, do not miss the second half of the Tianxingqiao section.
Q4: What should I prepare for the Water Curtain Cave?
You must wear a raincoat, and your shoes should be non-slip; raincoats are usually sold outside the scenic area.
Q5: What is the most convenient way to get from Guiyang to Huangguoshu?
Take the high-speed train to Anshun West Station and transfer to the direct scenic area shuttle; alternatively, you can drive or hire a private car—the journey takes about two hours.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for reference only and was last updated on . Requirements and regulations may change. Always verify with official sources before making travel plans.
