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Detian Scenic Area is located in Daxin County, Chongzuo City, Nanning District, southwestern Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The scenic area is home to more than 40 national-level scenic spots , including Detian Waterfall, Mingshi Farmland, Shatundie Waterfall, Heishui River and other landscapes.
The landscape of Detian Scenic Area stretches for hundreds of miles, forming a 100-mile landscape gallery. The clear and tranquil Mingshi River stretches like a turquoise glass passageway between the mountains and the water. Phoenix-tail bamboos stand tall and graceful on both banks, their tips drooping and swaying gently in the breeze, resembling the graceful figure of a beautiful woman after a bath. On the banks, banana trees sprout new green, kapok trees blaze like fire, and newly sown red soil stretches across the distant ridges of emerald green.
The reflection of the mountain peaks on the still and serene Mingshi River creates another charming and graceful Guilin landscape painting.
In spring, red cotton trees bloom in profusion, their brilliance resembling clouds; in summer, green peaks bathe in water, and flowers and trees flourish; in autumn, the cool breeze brings a golden glow to the ground; in winter, the peaks rise steeply, and the mountains appear hazy. Whether sunny or cloudy, each season possesses its own unique charm.
Detian Waterfall
It is the fourth largest transnational waterfall in the world and the largest in Asia. It originates from the Guichun River in Jingxi County, Guangxi, and flows year-round. It flows into Vietnam and then back to Guangxi. It falls over a cliff near Detian Village in Daxin County and becomes a waterfall.
Mingshi Tianyuan
The scenic area, encompassing a 20- kilometer radius , is a place of picturesque beauty, surrounded by mountains and water, earning it the nickname "Little Guilin." Here, lush bamboo lining the banks, dotted with farmhouses, and traversed by single-log bridges, rice ears sway, farmers carrying hoes, and shepherds playing in the water—the scenery is beautiful and tranquil, imbued with the idyllic charm of southern China. Beautiful peaks, a mirror-like river, boats gliding into the horizon, lush bamboo, verdant rice paddies, and the local charm of waterwheels, canals, and single-log bridges. Take a boat trip on the river, and experience the mirror-like reflections of bamboo groves, mountains, blue sky, and white clouds. This is complemented by the flowing water, the chirping of birds, and the barking of chickens and dogs in the villages. This is a truly enchanting and idyllic setting.
Recommended play time: about 1 day
Detian is famous for its breathtaking Detian Waterfall, which straddles the border between China and Vietnam. It is one of the largest waterfalls in Asia and is historically significant as a natural border between the two countries. The region is also known for its rich ethnic diversity, particularly the Zhuang and Yao people.
Detian is located in the southwestern part of Guangxi Province, near the border with Vietnam. To reach the waterfall, the best option is to take a bus or taxi from Baise, the nearest city. The journey takes about 2 hours by road. The area is not served by metro or walking paths, so using local transport is necessary.
Detian Waterfall is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (March to May, September to November) when the weather is mild and the waterfall is at its fullest. It is advised to visit early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee for Detian Waterfall is generally around 50-80 RMB per person, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Online ticket sales may also be available through local travel agencies or platforms.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, though it is recommended during peak travel seasons (such as Chinese public holidays). Booking a day or two ahead can help avoid long waiting times.
A visit to Detian Waterfall typically takes 2-3 hours. This includes time for exploring the waterfall, taking a boat ride, and walking around the surrounding park. If you plan to visit nearby villages or take part in additional activities, you may need more time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some local guides may offer basic English. Audio guides are not typically available, but the area is small, and signage in Mandarin is provided for most visitors.
Start by walking to the main observation platforms for views of the waterfall, then take a boat ride along the river to get a closer look. Afterward, explore the surrounding park and trails, and end your visit with a stop at the nearby ethnic villages.
Night visits are not available at Detian Waterfall, and there are no light shows. However, the waterfall and surrounding areas are especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and crowds are fewer.
Detian Waterfall can get crowded during peak seasons, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities available, including toilets, water stations, and rest areas. Small local shops sell snacks, souvenirs, and bottled water. For more substantial meals, you will need to head to nearby towns or Baise.
The area around the waterfall can be uneven and hilly, which may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the main observation platforms are accessible with minimal walking. It is recommended to check with the site for specific accommodations before visiting.
Cash is commonly used, and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Credit cards are not typically accepted at small shops or ticket counters in the area.
There are small local eateries near the waterfall serving traditional Guangxi food, such as rice noodles and grilled meats. For more options, you can head to Baise city, which offers a wider range of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian options are available at most local restaurants, particularly vegetable stir-fries and tofu dishes. Vegan and halal food options may be limited in more remote areas, but can be found in larger towns such as Baise.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels near Detian Waterfall, though for more options, it's best to stay in Baise. Hotels in Baise range from budget to mid-range and offer easy access to the waterfall via public transport or taxi.
Souvenir shops near the waterfall sell items like ethnic crafts, local textiles, and handmade jewelry. You can also find tropical fruits and snacks unique to the region.
After visiting Detian, you can take a bus or taxi to Baise for further travel within Guangxi or to other nearby destinations. For longer trips, the Baise bus station offers connections to other major cities in Guangxi and beyond.
