Discover the magnificent grandeur of Guizhou’s Huangguoshu Waterfall with this practical guide! Focusing on its three core scenic areas (Main Waterfall, Tianxingqiao, Dopotang) , it covers transport routes, seasonal outfits, budgets and travel tips comprehensively. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast chasing stunning views or a casual traveler, it helps you plan efficiently for an immersive experience of Asia’s largest waterfall and Guizhou’s natural charm.
In-Depth Tour of Huangguoshu Waterfall’s Core Scenic Areas
Huangguoshu Main Waterfall – The Thrill of Asia’s Largest Waterfall
As the centerpiece of the Huangguoshu Waterfall Group, the Main Waterfall stands 77.8 meters high and 101 meters wide, ranking as Asia’s largest and one of the world’s famous karst waterfalls. Its turbulent waters plunge down cliffs, splashing mist that often forms rainbows in sunlight, offering a breathtaking spectacle. Multiple viewing platforms allow perspectives: the front platform showcases the full view with cooling mist; the side platform reveals water crashing against rocks; and Rhinoceros Pool below is perfect for capturing reflections and the thunderous sound.
- Ticket: Included in the Huangguoshu all-inclusive ticket (160 CNY/person for peak season March-November; 100 CNY/person for off-season December-February), valid for 2 days covering three scenic areas; Transport: Mandatory sightseeing bus (50 CNY/person) to Main Waterfall Station, 10-minute walk to core viewing platforms; optional hiking trail to the bottom with stream and vegetation views.
- Travel Tips: Visit early morning or evening to avoid 10:00-14:00 tour group crowds; best views in June-August (abundant water) with waterproof jacket and non-slip shoes; fewer tourists in December-February for a peaceful experience; use a waterproof camera or cover to protect devices from mist.
Tianxingqiao Scenic Area – A Karst Secret Journey
Adjacent to the Main Waterfall, Tianxingqiao is hailed as a “natural karst geological museum” integrating rocks, water, forests, caves, lakes and waterfalls. The 3-kilometer scenic area has upper and lower sections, with the latter boasting more stunning scenery. Key attractions: “Shusheng Bu” (Birthday Steps) with 365 date-engraved slabs for birthday photos; “Tianxing Cave” with fantastic stalactites illuminated by colored lights; “Silver Chain Waterfall” where water spills evenly over travertine, soft and graceful, contrasting with the Main Waterfall’s grandeur.
- Ticket: Included in the all-inclusive ticket; Transport: Sightseeing bus to Tianxingqiao Station, 2-3-hour walk; skip upper section for key spots if short on time.
- Travel Tips: Wear non-slip shoes for wet stone paths; bring mosquito repellent in summer; carry water and snacks for long walks; stay safe near unguarded viewing platforms.
Dopotang Waterfall – A Gentle Encounter at a “Journey to the West” Location
The widest in the Huangguoshu Group (105 meters wide, 21 meters high), Dopotang features gentle waters forming a unique wide curtain. It served as a filming location for the ending song of the 1986 Journey to the West, evoking nostalgia with the classic scene of Tang Seng and his disciples crossing the river. The flat beach below allows close-up views of cool waters.
- Ticket: Included in the all-inclusive ticket; Transport: Sightseeing bus to Dopotang Station, 5-minute walk; 1-hour visit suffices.
- Travel Tips: Visit first to avoid crowds; spectacular “roaring waterfall” in July-August flood season; pose at “Journey to the West” themed photo spots.
Dopotang Waterfall
Huangguoshu Waterfall Seasonal Temperature & Outfit Guide
Spring (March-May): Warm, Windy with Large Day-Night Temperature Differences
– Temperature: Daily average 10℃-22℃, cool nights (5℃-10℃) with occasional light rain.
– Outfit Recommendations: Layered dressing – thin long-sleeve T-shirt/knitwear, thin sweater/fleece, windproof jacket/waterproof coat; jeans with thin thermal underwear; comfortable sneakers/hiking shoes; accessories: thin scarf, baseball cap, foldable umbrella.
– Notes: Light-colored clothes for photos with green vegetation; apply SPF30+ sunscreen; non-slip shoes for rainy paths.
Summer (June-August): Hot, Rainy with Optimal Waterfall Views
– Temperature: Daily average 22℃-30℃, 3-5℃ cooler in the scenic area, frequent showers/thunderstorms.
– Outfit Recommendations: Cool and breathable – short-sleeve T-shirt, shorts/light long pants, sunscreen jacket/waterproof jacket; breathable sneakers/hiking shoes (avoid sandals); accessories: sunhat, sunglasses, sun mask, SPF50+ sunscreen, portable rain gear, waterproof device cover.
– Notes: Book tickets 1-3 days in advance for peak season; confirm opening status after heavy rain; carry mosquito repellent and stay hydrated.
Autumn (September-November): Cool, Pleasant with Little Rain
– Temperature: Daily average 12℃-23℃, cool nights (8℃-12℃), clear skies.
– Outfit Recommendations: Layered dressing – long-sleeve T-shirt/thin sweater, thick sweater/fleece, windproof jacket/thin down jacket; jeans with thin thermal underwear; non-slip hiking shoes; accessories: scarf, baseball cap/woolen cap, sunscreen.
– Notes: Book accommodation 1 month in advance for the best season; watch for frost on morning paths; carry water for dry weather.
Winter (December-February): Cold, Dry with Fewer Tourists
– Temperature: Daily average 2℃-12℃, sub-zero nights in mountainous areas, possible snow.
– Outfit Recommendations: Warm and windproof – fleece thermal underwear, thick sweater/fleece liner, heavy waterproof down jacket; fleece/down pants with thermal socks; fleece-lined waterproof non-slip hiking shoes; accessories: face-protecting hat, thick neck gaiter, waterproof gloves, snow goggles, warm patches, petrolatum for dry skin.
– Notes: Confirm opening hours in advance; wear non-slip shoes/ice cleats for icy paths; avoid strenuous exercise to prevent altitude sickness; carry cold medicine.
Huangguoshu Waterfall
Huangguoshu Waterfall Travel Transportation Guide
Ways to Reach Guizhou
- By Air
Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport offers frequent flights to major domestic and some international cities; Anshun Huangguoshu Airport (40km from the scenic area) has routes to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, with 1-hour transfer by airport bus/taxi. Longdongbao Airport (150km from the waterfall) connects to Anshun West Station via high-speed rail, then 1.5-hour scenic shuttle bus.
- By High-Speed Rail/Train
Guiyang North Station is the main hub linking major cities; 1-hour high-speed rail to Anshun West Station, then 40-minute scenic shuttle bus (25 CNY/person). Anshun Station (regular trains) connects to Anshun East Bus Station, then 1-hour bus to the waterfall (15 CNY/person).
- By Self-Driving/Group Tour
Self-driving from Guiyang takes 2 hours via Shanghai-Kunming Expressway, with parking lots (20 CNY/car/day) in the scenic area; group tours with guided routes, transport and tickets are hassle-free for first-time visitors.
Intra-Guizhou Transportation
- Metro/Bus
Guiyang’s metro covers key hubs; use “Qianshuang Chuxing” APP or Alipay/WeChat transit codes. Direct buses from Guiyang Jinyang Bus Station to the waterfall (2.5 hours, 50 CNY/person) run multiple times daily.
- Scenic Shuttle Bus
Direct buses from Guiyang (50 CNY/person) and Anshun (25 CNY/person) with guides, book in advance via official WeChat accounts.
- Charter/Carpool
Charter a car from Anshun (300-500 CNY/car/day) for flexible trips to the waterfall and surrounding attractions, with local drivers familiar with roads.
- Intra-Scenic Transportation
Mandatory sightseeing bus (50 CNY/person, valid for 2 days) circulates between core areas, with easy boarding at stations; optional hiking trails for natural views.
Huangguoshu Waterfall Travel Budget & Practical Tips
Budget Details
- Transportation Costs (Per Person)
– Arrival: Domestic flight 500-2000 CNY/person; high-speed rail 300-1200 CNY/person;
– Intra-provincial: City-scenic area bus 25-50 CNY/person; scenic shuttle bus 25-50 CNY/person; charter/carpool 150-300 CNY/person/day; sightseeing bus 50 CNY/person.
- Accommodation Costs (Per Person/Night)
– Near the scenic area: Budget guesthouse 150-300 CNY; mid-range hotel 300-500 CNY; high-end resort over 500 CNY;
– Anshun urban area: Budget hotel 100-200 CNY; mid-range hotel 200-400 CNY, convenient for next-day trips.
- Catering Costs (Per Person)
– Daily average 100-200 CNY; snacks 10-20 CNY/serving; main meals 50-100 CNY/meal; better value at village restaurants near the scenic area.
- Ticket Costs (Per Person)
– Huangguoshu all-inclusive ticket: 160 CNY/person (peak), 100 CNY/person (off-season); Longgong Scenic Area: 160 CNY/person (peak), 120 CNY/person (off-season); free ethnic villages, experience projects 30-50 CNY/person.
Practical Tips
- Ticket Reservation: Book 1-3 days in advance via official WeChat for peak season; split visits over 2 days to avoid crowds.
- Safety: Wear non-slip shoes; protect devices from mist; stay on trails in caves.
- Dining: Inform restaurants of low-spice preference; try local dishes at regular eateries.
- Shopping: Buy souvenirs from regular stores, bargain for scenic area items.
- Communication: Mandarin is widely spoken; simple gestures work for elderly ethnic residents.
Huangguoshu Waterfall’s grandeur lies in its misty plunge, karst secrets and village charm. This guide covers core attractions and practical info for an unforgettable trip. For customized itineraries, guaranteed vehicles or experienced guides, China Dragon Travel provides thoughtful full-service support to make your Huangguoshu adventure rewarding and memorable！
