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Explore the geological formations, hike through the scenic trails, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The geopark is also famous for its rare and diverse plant species, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Guanshan National Geopark, located at the southern foot of Taihang Mountain in Huixian County, Henan Province, is a geological relic wonder formed by landslides and fissures 2.5 billion years ago . It is a national geological park represented by Stone Pillar Forest, Red Stone Gorge, and One Line Sky, and features landslides and fissures, waterfalls, clear streams and pools, and flying clouds and seas.
The scenic area comprises three major scenic areas: Pangu River, Huashan, and Baibao Cave. It stretches from the Shanxi provincial border in the west to the Shimen River in the east, from the foot of the mountain in the south to Baligou in the north. The landscape gallery, landslides and fissures, and ancient mining relics bear witness to the evolution of the Guanshan region's landscape. The spectacular Wolong Waterfall, the rippling emerald waters of Longtan Lake, the charming Shidao Courtyard, the cascading waterfalls of Hongshiyuan, the majestic and treacherous Yixiantian (One Line Sky) and the mysterious and profound Baibao Cave offer breathtakingly beautiful scenery.
The scenic area is majestic and spectacular. The terrain drops straight down from Zhongshan Mountain, which is more than 1,600 meters high, from north to south, forming a whole connected giant peak. Its majestic momentum is incomparable to Mount Tai, and its steep shape rivals Mount Hua. Looking from the North China Plain, it looks like a giant rock rising from the ground, running across the east and west, stretching for more than 20 kilometers. It looks even more magnificent and spectacular when viewed up close.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
60 yuan/person
8:00-18:00
Guanshan National Geopark is renowned for its geological significance, featuring ancient rock formations, fossil sites, and a variety of mineral deposits. The park's landscape is shaped by millions of years of natural processes, making it an important site for geological research and eco-tourism.
The park is located in the Guanshan area of Henan Province. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from Nanyang City. There are no direct metro connections, but buses to the nearby towns can be taken before a short taxi ride to the park entrance.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural surroundings are most vibrant. Avoid peak summer months to bypass larger crowds and intense heat.
The entrance fee is approximately 60 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased at the park entrance, and some travel platforms also offer the option to buy tickets online.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless visiting during peak holiday seasons. A day or two ahead is sufficient if you plan to buy online.
To fully explore the park, including its trails and geological exhibits, 3 to 4 hours is recommended. If you're keen on hiking or photography, it could take up to 6 hours.
Key highlights include the Guanshan Mountain, geological formations such as the layered rock structures, fossil sites, and scenic viewpoints offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer limited English-speaking guides during peak tourist seasons.
The highest points of Guanshan Mountain offer stunning views of the geopark's natural features. The layered rock formations are also an excellent subject for photography, especially during the golden hour in the early morning or late afternoon.
Start at the main entrance, follow the designated trails that lead to the higher vantage points for panoramic views, and stop at the geological exhibits along the way. Don’t miss the fossil sites near the park’s center.
Night visits are not available as the park closes after sunset. There are no light shows, but special tours may be offered during peak seasons, particularly related to the park's geological significance.
The park can be busy on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, outside of peak tourist seasons.
The park has basic amenities such as toilets, rest areas, and drinking water stations. There is a small shop selling souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. However, more food options can be found outside the park in nearby towns.
The park is mostly accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some of the trails may be challenging. It is recommended to take shorter, easier routes if mobility is a concern. Facilities for disabled visitors are limited, but some areas are accessible by paved paths.
Both cash and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted at the park. Cards are not commonly accepted, so it's best to use mobile payment or carry cash.
There are a few small restaurants near the park entrance, serving traditional Chinese meals. For a wider selection, it’s recommended to head into Nanyang City, where there are more dining options.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local restaurants near the park. Halal food may be harder to find, but there are options in Nanyang City for those who seek it.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels in Nanyang City. For a more scenic stay, there are small guesthouses and resorts near the park, offering closer access to nature.
Nearby attractions include the Nanyang Museum and the Ancient Tombs of the Han Dynasty. These can be easily combined with a visit to Guanshan National Geopark for a comprehensive exploration of the area.
The park has souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, geological replicas, and nature-themed souvenirs. Popular items include rock samples, postcards, and small geological models.
The best transportation options to continue your trip are taxis or ride-hailing services like Didi. Local buses are also available, but taxis are more convenient for tourists.
