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Explore the stunning landscapes of Zhaixia Grand Canyon, take a thrilling hike along the canyon’s trails, and enjoy the picturesque views of waterfalls, cliffs, and lush greenery. The canyon is perfect for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Discovered in June 2004, the Zhaixia Grand Canyon, located in Zhaixia Village, 15 kilometers northwest of Taining County, Fujian Province, is a triangular formation formed by three interconnected canyons, resembling a golden dragon crouching amidst the mountains. It's also known as the Golden Dragon Valley. It's also the first geological expedition route established in Taining, and UN experts have hailed it as a "model scenic area for World Geoparks."
The three lush green canyons were formed by three geological processes: water erosion, gravitational collapse, and tectonic movement. UNESCO experts, during their on-site evaluation, declared: "Both its geological landscape and ecological environment are world-class." The Zhaixia Grand Canyon is an excellent place to view the Danxia landform, featuring typical red cliffs, caves, lanes, linear valleys, and a barrier lake. The "earthquakes and rifts" of Tongtian Gorge are deeply moving. A linear valley and a narrow rift cut deeply into the mountain, threatening to split it apart, yet plunging deep into the earth, a dark and eerie abyss.
At the top of an inverted red cliff, there is a concave rock with a diameter of about 20 meters. Hundreds of Danxia caves of different sizes and shapes have been carved out like the work of nature. Big caves are nested in small caves, and caves are within caves, like a family of caves. They hang high above the head, and from the bottom of the valley they look like the dome of a sacred temple, noble and majestic; they also look like a sky full of stars, dazzling the eyes.
The subtropical monsoon climate is suitable for all seasons.
Landslides and earth cracks, time and space tunnels, Tianqi Rock, and Yanqi Lake.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
40 yuan/person
March 1st - October 31st 08:00-18:00;
November 1st to February 29th, 08:00-17:00.
Zhaixia Grand Canyon is known for its majestic natural beauty and geological significance. It has become a popular destination for eco-tourism, offering a glimpse into the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The canyon also holds cultural importance in the local area.
Located in Sanming, Fujian Province, Zhaixia Grand Canyon can be accessed by taxi or bus from Sanming city. There is no metro service in the area, and walking to the canyon is not recommended due to the distance.
The canyon is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and early mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee is around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local tourism websites online.
Booking in advance is not required but recommended during peak seasons or holidays. Booking a few days in advance is sufficient.
To fully explore the Zhaixia Grand Canyon, plan for 3 to 4 hours, especially if you want to hike along the trails and enjoy the surroundings.
The must-see highlights include the spectacular waterfall, the deep canyon views, and the various hiking trails that provide different perspectives of the canyon’s beauty. The area’s rich plant life is also worth exploring.
Guided tours in Mandarin are available, and audio guides can be rented in Mandarin and English. The guides offer insightful information about the canyon’s flora, fauna, and geological features.
The best photography spots are near the canyon’s edge, where you can capture the sweeping views of the cliffs and waterfalls. The area near the main waterfall also offers excellent opportunities for panoramic shots.
It is recommended to start at the main entrance, take the trail leading towards the waterfall, and then explore the various viewpoints. Be sure to take your time enjoying the natural scenery and stopping for photographs along the way.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available. However, special tours during festivals or holidays may include extra activities, so it’s worth checking before you visit.
The canyon can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon when most tourists have left.
Facilities include toilets, rest areas, and food stalls near the entrance. Water is available for purchase, and small shops sell local snacks and souvenirs.
The canyon’s main trails are moderately challenging and may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. However, there are easier paths suitable for children and elderly tourists, but it’s advisable to check the specific trail difficulty before visiting.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted widely, and some cash may be needed for small purchases or areas where mobile payment options are unavailable.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the entrance offering Fujianese cuisine such as noodle dishes and dumplings. For more options, Sanming city is just a short distance away.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local restaurants. Halal food options may be limited in the area, so it’s best to inquire ahead if needed.
There are several hotels in Sanming, including mid-range options like Sanming Hotel, and budget accommodations closer to the canyon such as local guesthouses.
Other nearby attractions include Nanping Stone Forest and Baizhang Waterfall, which can easily be combined in a day trip with Zhaixia Grand Canyon.
Souvenir shops near the canyon sell local handicrafts such as carved wooden items, pottery, and postcards, as well as snacks like dried fruit and local teas.
After visiting, taxis or local buses are the best options for continuing the trip. Sanming Railway Station is nearby for connections to other cities, or you can catch a bus to other nearby attractions.
