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At Zhangshan Grand Canyon in Xuancheng, Anhui, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking through the stunning canyon trails, exploring the natural rock formations, and enjoying the scenic waterfalls. The canyon is known for its beautiful landscapes, making it a great spot for photography and nature walks. Adventurous visitors may also try rock climbing or river trekking.
The Zhuangshan Grand Canyon, also known as the Great Man Valley, is located 22 kilometers east of Jixi County. It is said that Emperor Huangdi once brought Rongchengzi and Fuqiu Gong to this mountain to collect herbs and make elixirs. Today, there are still relics such as the Emperor's Tomb and the Prime Minister's Tomb in the mountain. Therefore, Zhuangshan was called the Three Heavenly Capitals and the Three Kings Mountain in ancient times. During the Spring and Autumn Period, Wu and Yue used this as the boundary.
The scenic area is home to 43 national rare species and 13 national protected animals; there are more than 50 scenic spots with their own characteristics and mythological legends, among which " the stone statue of the great man, Baizhang Rock, Gourd Pond, and the flowers growing on the top of the crown " are the four wonders.
The stone statue of the great man stands on the bank of the Zhang River, facing due north and standing 3.83 meters tall. Viewed from the right, the broad forehead, receding hair, full cheeks, and wise and kind eyes bear a striking resemblance to the original. For this reason, the Zhangshan Grand Canyon is also known as the " Great Man Valley . "
Suitable for all seasons
There is only one trail in the Zhuangshan Grand Canyon. You can walk to the end and then return the same way.
The main attractions are: → Stone statue of Mao Zedong → Rhinoceros playing in the water → Greenery on Zhangshan Mountain → Divine horse grazing → Small Tianmen → Butterfly Pond → Divine Turtle Top Stone → Flower on the Crown → Tianmen Middle Gate → Longmen Spring → Dragon and Phoenix Appearing Auspiciously → Phoenix Wagging its Tail → Stone Coffin → Moonlight on Baizhang Rock → Buddha Light on Baizhang Rock → Baizhang Rock → Gourd Pond → Seven-Colored Pond → Tianmen Middle Gate → Pillar of Heaven → Three Mountains Competing for Beauty → Huihang Ancient Road → Sandie Spring → Baizhang Dragon's Roar → Dragon Bone
Recommended play time: 3-4 hours
54 yuan/person
8:00-17:00
Zhangshan Grand Canyon is a beautiful natural reserve located in Xuancheng, Anhui. It is famous for its unique geological features, such as steep cliffs, waterfalls, and dense forests. The canyon is also an important part of the local ecosystem and serves as a habitat for various species of flora and fauna. It holds cultural significance, as the area has been inhabited by locals for centuries, with many traditional practices still alive today.
Zhangshan Grand Canyon is located in Xuancheng, Anhui Province, China. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transport options may be limited, so it’s advisable to take a taxi or drive directly to the canyon. The journey takes about 1-2 hours depending on traffic and starting point.
The canyon is open to visitors year-round, with the best times to visit being during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. It is recommended to visit during weekdays or off-peak seasons to avoid large crowds.
The entrance fee to Zhangshan Grand Canyon typically ranges between 50 to 100 RMB, depending on the season and activities. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it’s also possible to book tickets in advance online through various travel platforms.
It’s not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but doing so may save time during peak seasons. Booking at least a few days in advance is recommended if visiting during holidays or weekends.
To fully explore Zhangshan Grand Canyon, including hiking and taking time for sightseeing, you should allow 4-6 hours. If you want to enjoy a more relaxed visit with breaks for photos or meals, it’s better to allocate a full day.
The must-see highlights include the main canyon area with its waterfalls, the forest trails, and unique rock formations. Don’t miss the lookout points offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the canyon’s winding paths.
Guided tours are available and are often in Mandarin, as the area is frequented by Chinese-speaking visitors. While audio guides may be available, they are mostly in Chinese. It’s a good idea to book a tour guide who can offer insights into the history and natural features of the canyon if you’re looking for an in-depth experience.
The best viewpoints are at the canyon’s higher elevation points, where you can capture sweeping views of the canyon’s rock formations, cliffs, and the surrounding natural beauty. The waterfalls also provide a fantastic photo opportunity, especially when the sun is at the right angle.
Start at the entrance, where you’ll find the main trail leading you through the canyon’s most iconic features. Follow the path along the river and waterfall areas for the most scenic views. If you're feeling adventurous, explore some of the more challenging routes to see hidden viewpoints and rock formations.
There are no night visits or light shows at Zhangshan Grand Canyon. The area is best explored during daylight hours for safety reasons and to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the canyon.
The canyon can get crowded during weekends and national holidays, especially in summer. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays or in the off-peak seasons, such as early spring or late autumn.
Basic facilities like public toilets and rest areas are available along the trails. There are also food vendors offering local snacks. It’s advisable to bring your own water, as the canyon’s trails can be strenuous, and the availability of bottled water may be limited in some areas.
While the canyon’s main areas can be accessed by most visitors, some parts of the trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled individuals due to the steep terrain. Children can enjoy the easier trails but should be supervised closely due to the natural environment.
Cash is still commonly used in some parts of the canyon, though mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in most areas. It's best to carry both cash and a mobile payment option to ensure convenience.
There are several small restaurants and food stalls near the entrance and along the main trails, offering local dishes and snacks. For more extensive dining options, you may need to travel to Xuancheng city.
Vegetarian options are available, as many dishes in the region include rice, vegetables, and tofu. Halal food options may be limited, but it’s possible to find vegetarian-friendly meals. It’s best to check with vendors beforehand if you have specific dietary needs.
Accommodations near Zhangshan Grand Canyon are available in Xuancheng city, where you can find a range of hotels from budget to mid-range. For a more rustic experience, there are also guesthouses closer to the canyon, providing basic amenities.
Other nearby attractions include the Xidi Ancient Village and the Tachuan Village, both offering a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and culture. These can easily be combined with a trip to Zhangshan Grand Canyon for a full day of exploration.
There are small souvenir shops near the canyon where visitors can purchase local handicrafts, including traditional Anhui-style items, snacks, and souvenirs related to the natural beauty of the area.
After visiting the canyon, taxis and private cars are the most convenient way to continue your journey to Xuancheng city or nearby attractions. Public transportation options are available, but they may not be as frequent or convenient for tourists.
