Introducing Foguangyan Scenic Area
The Foguangyan Scenic Area (formerly known as the Five Pillar Peak Scenic Area) is located in Yuanhou Town, Chishui City, Guizhou Province, and is a World Heritage Site. The scenic area features peaks, many of which are over 1,200 meters high, with dramatic cliffs and valleys. The exposed strata are all red fluvial-lacustrine sedimentary rocks from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
This unique landform, through the combined effects of differential weathering, gravitational collapse, and wind and rain erosion, has shaped countless unique Danxia landforms, including pagodas, castles, needles, columns, rods, square mountains, and peak forests. Red rock cliffs, unusual peaks and rocks, cliff faces and caves abound, and the cliffs appear a vibrant crimson. This is my country's largest, most uniformly exposed, and most distinctive Danxia landform scenic area.
Climate and best time to travel
Guizhou rains a lot, so it is recommended to pay attention to the weather forecast and choose sunny weather to travel; mosquitoes are very strong in scenic areas in spring and summer, so you need to bring long sleeves, long pants and mosquito repellent.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
"One mountain has four seasons, and the weather changes every ten miles" is the most authentic portrayal of the ecology of Foguangyan Scenic Area. This is the scenic area with the best development, most complete exposure, and most typical characteristics of China's Jurassic and Cretaceous Danxia landforms.
The scenic area is divided into two parts: Foguang Rock and Five Pillar Peak. Foguang Rock looks like a red, wordless heavenly book, with a cascading waterfall, which is particularly spectacular. Five Pillar Peak is composed of five Danxia peaks in the shape of towers, with a unique shape.
Tickets
Adult ticket: 90 yuan; Adult ticket + round-trip sightseeing bus: 115 yuan
Attraction opening hours
The off-season is from December to March of the following year, 8:00-16:30, and the peak season is from March to November, 8:00-17:00.
Most Popular FAQs for Foguangyan Scenic Area
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Foguangyan Scenic Area is renowned for its geological formations, waterfalls, and Buddhist cultural heritage. The site features caves with historic carvings and inscriptions, reflecting local religious and historical significance.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Location: Zunyi, Guizhou Province, approximately 40–50 km from the city center.
- By bus: Local buses from Zunyi city to the scenic area are available.
- By taxi: Direct taxis or ride-hailing from Zunyi city provide convenient access.
- Private car: Recommended for flexibility due to limited public transport inside the area.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Opening hours: Usually 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Best times: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and waterfall flow; mornings to avoid crowds.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Entrance fee: Approximately 80–100 CNY for adults; discounted tickets for children and seniors.
- Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via official online booking platforms.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advance booking is recommended during weekends and holidays; 1–2 days in advance is usually sufficient.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
3–4 hours for hiking, cave exploration, and sightseeing; a full day is ideal to enjoy the area leisurely.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Main Foguangyan cave and religious carvings.
- Waterfalls and cliffside trails.
- Panoramic viewpoints over the valley and rivers.
- Forest trails and nature spots along the hiking routes.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Chinese; English-speaking guides may be arranged in advance. Audio guides are limited.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Cliffside paths overlooking the main waterfall.
- Foguangyan cave entrance and interior carvings.
- Forest trails with panoramic valley views.
- Sunrise or sunset views from elevated viewpoints.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Entrance → Main trail along cliffs → Foguangyan cave → Waterfalls → Scenic viewpoints → Return via forest paths → Exit.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are generally not available; special tours or events are occasional and usually announced seasonally.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Weekends and public holidays are busier.
- Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public toilets near main entrances and scenic spots.
- Small restaurants and snack stalls near the entrance.
- Rest areas and benches along trails.
- Limited souvenir shops at the entrance or parking area.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Partially accessible; some trails are steep and rocky, limiting wheelchair access and requiring caution for elderly or children.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Mobile payments and cards are accepted at main ticket counters and restaurants; cash is useful for small vendors.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local Guizhou cuisine restaurants near the entrance.
- Small cafes and snack stands along main tourist paths.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are limited; halal options are scarce, mostly local specialties.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotels in Zunyi city, 40–50 km away.
- Guesthouses and local inns near the scenic area entrance.
- Budget accommodations for travelers seeking proximity to the site.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Zunyi Conference Memorial Site.
- Maotai Town (famous for Chinese liquor).
- Nearby karst landscapes and river valleys.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenirs include local crafts, Guizhou specialty foods, and postcards of scenic views.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or ride-hailing services back to Zunyi city or nearby towns.
- Private car or tour buses for visiting nearby attractions like Maotai or Zunyi historic sites.
