Enshi Grand Canyon

What are the most recommended things to do in Enshi Grand Canyon?

At Enshi Grand Canyon, you can enjoy hiking, photography, and sightseeing in one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in China. The glass bridge and suspension bridges offer thrilling views of the canyon below. There are also opportunities for river tours, cave exploration, and exploring unique rock formations and waterfalls.


Introducing Enshi Grand Canyon

The Enshi Grand Canyon, located in Enshi City, Hubei Province—the world's selenium capital—is hailed by experts as comparable to the Grand Canyon in the United States. It forms a section of the Qingjiang Grand Canyon. The canyon boasts breathtaking scenery, including hundreds of miles of cliffs, thousand-foot waterfalls, towering peaks, pristine forests, and ancient villages.

Apart from the Grand Canyon, the biggest scenic feature is the typical and rich karst landforms on both sides of the river: there are tiankengs, fissures in the ground, natural bridges, caves (more than 200), layers of peaks, and large cliffs that are almost perpendicular to the Grand Canyon.


Climate and best time to travel

April and May are the best months. Enshi Prefecture experiences frequent rain and fog, with rain and heat occurring simultaneously. Therefore, it's best to avoid the rainy season when traveling to Enshi. Be sure to check the local weather conditions before departure.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yunlong Ground Crack

The Yunlong Fissure was formed at least 50 million years ago. The strata from the top to the bottom of the fissure were mainly formed between 210 million and 290 million years ago. It is 3.6 kilometers long, with steep banks, cascading waterfalls, and gurgling water at the bottom of the fissure. It connects to the Tianshui Underground River above and the vast Qingjiang River below.


Recommended number of days to visit: 1 day

Tickets

Tickets are 170 yuan per person, 110 yuan per ticket for Qixingzhai, and 40 yuan per ticket for Yunlongdifeng


Attraction opening hours

Peak season (March 1st - November 30th): 8:00-16:00

Off-season (December 1st - February 28th of the following year): 08:00-15:00



Most Popular FAQs for Enshi Grand Canyon

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Enshi Grand Canyon is famous for its natural beauty and geological features. It's a major tourist destination in Hubei known for its stunning landscapes, including mountain peaks, rivers, waterfalls, and unique rock formations. The canyon is considered a symbol of natural preservation in China and draws visitors from all over the world for eco-tourism and adventure tourism.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Enshi City, Hubei Province, the Enshi Grand Canyon can be reached by taxi or private car from Enshi's city center, approximately 30-40 minutes drive. For public transport, buses to the canyon area are available, but they might require transfers. Walking is not recommended due to the distance and terrain.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Enshi Grand Canyon is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is most favorable for hiking and outdoor activities. The summer months can be crowded, especially during holidays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Tickets for the Enshi Grand Canyon cost around ¥80-100. Tickets for specific attractions (like the glass bridge or river tours) may have separate fees. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the entrance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It's recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer and holidays). You can book 1-2 weeks in advance to ensure availability for specific activities like the glass bridge or river tours.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the Enshi Grand Canyon, you’ll need at least 4-6 hours. This will give you time to enjoy the main trails, viewpoints, and attractions like the glass bridge and waterfalls. If you plan to take part in more activities like river tours or hiking on extended trails, consider spending a full day.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • The Glass Bridge: A thrilling experience with views of the canyon below.
  • The Suspension Bridge: Offers a unique perspective of the canyon and surrounding landscapes.
  • The Waterfalls: Scenic spots perfect for photography.
  • The Cave Exploration: Explore underground caves and unique rock formations.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in English at the entrance or on request, especially for international visitors. It’s recommended to book a guide in advance for better language support.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The glass bridge offers the best viewpoint of the canyon's dramatic drop-offs and river below.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the Glass Bridge, then follow the main hiking trail which passes several key viewpoints. You can also take the suspension bridge for additional scenic views. If time permits, end with a river tour or visit the caves for a full experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows available at the Enshi Grand Canyon. However, some special tours, such as photography tours or cave exploration, may be available depending on the time of day.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The canyon can be crowded during the summer months and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays during the spring and autumn seasons, particularly early mornings.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and food stalls at the entrance and along the main trail. It's recommended to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you're planning to hike longer routes.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Enshi Grand Canyon is somewhat accessible for elderly and children, but some of the hiking trails and glass bridges may not be suitable for visitors with limited mobility. Stick to the main paths for easier access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted. Cash may be needed for small purchases at local stalls or for activities like souvenirs and local food.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local restaurants near the entrance serving regional specialties. More dining options are available in Enshi City, including Chinese and local cuisine like hotpot and noodles.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, and some restaurants in Enshi may offer halal food, but options may be limited in the canyon area. It's a good idea to check in advance or bring your own snacks.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are guesthouses and budget hotels in Enshi City. For a more nature-immersive experience, visitors can choose camping near the canyon or book local homestays.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • The Tujia Cultural Village offers insights into the Tujia ethnic culture and traditions.
  • The Enshi Grand Canyon Glass Bridge and waterfalls are close to other hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are small souvenir shops at the entrance selling items like local handicrafts, Tujia textiles, and traditional jewelry.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From the Enshi Grand Canyon, you can take a taxi or private car back to Enshi City. From there, trains or buses are available for onward travel to Wuhan or other major cities.