
The Chishui Grand Waterfall Scenic Area (also known as the Shizhang Cave Scenic Area) is located in southern Chishui City, Guizhou Province, on the upper reaches of the Fengxi River, a tributary of the Chishui River. It is a National AAAA-level scenic area and a key component of the Chishui National Scenic Area. Located in the Danxia landform area, the waterfall is the second largest in China. Along the way, visitors can admire the Danxia landform, alpine waterfalls, and bamboo forests. The Chishui Grand Waterfall is at its most spectacular, located at the bottom of the valley.
The Chishui Grand Waterfall Scenic Area boasts natural and cultural attractions such as the Shizhang Cave Grand Waterfall, the Zhongdong Waterfall, the Qibing Ancient Trail, the Rotating Stone Wonder, Xiangxi Lake, a hundred acres of camellias, the Shizhu Peak, the billion-year-old Ganoderma lucidum, the Huishui Temple rock carvings, and Red Army slogans. Smaller attractions such as the waterfall viewing platform, Longines Bay, Feihong Bridge, the seemingly roadless area, the Fairy Stage, and the Dark Waterfall Rock also add to the park's charm.
Adult ticket: 90 RMB for entrance fee/20 RMB for sightseeing bus ticket
Half-price ticket: Full-time university students with a bachelor's degree or below, and senior citizens aged 60-69 who are not registered in Guizhou Province, etc. with valid ID.
Free tickets: Children under 14 years old or children 1.4 meters tall or below, people 60 years old and above in Guizhou Province, people 70 years old and above who are not registered in Guizhou Province, people with disabilities, active military personnel, disabled military personnel, retired military cadres, journalists, etc. with valid ID.
Chishui Waterfall is one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in Guizhou Province, with a historical significance tied to its location in the Chishui River Valley. It has long been an area of interest for local communities and visitors due to its natural beauty and importance in regional folklore and culture.
Chishui Waterfall is located in Zunyi, Guizhou Province, China. The most common way to get there is by taxi or private car from the city center of Zunyi. Public transportation options may be limited, so it's best to arrange transportation in advance or take a guided tour.
The waterfall area is open year-round, and the best time to visit is in the summer and autumn months when the water flow is strongest and the surrounding nature is lush and green. The ideal visiting hours are between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
The entrance fee for Chishui Waterfall is typically around 50-70 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and some local tour operators also offer combined packages. It's recommended to buy tickets directly at the waterfall or through reputable tour companies.
It’s not necessary to book tickets in advance, except during peak travel seasons like national holidays when the site can get crowded. Booking in advance can be done through local travel agencies or online platforms if you prefer a guided tour.
Visiting the waterfall and surrounding areas typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the trails, taking photos, or relaxing by the river. If you are interested in visiting nearby attractions, you may want to allocate up to half a day.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer basic English-speaking guides depending on availability. Audio guides are not typically offered, but a local guide can provide valuable insights about the site.
The best viewpoints are from the designated viewing platforms on both sides of the waterfall, offering clear views of the cascading water. The nearby bridges also provide great spots for photos with the river and waterfall in the background.
Start by visiting the main waterfall and enjoy the surrounding views from the designated platforms. Afterward, walk along the trails to explore the nearby riverside areas and other scenic spots. If time allows, visit the nearby cultural and historical sites.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Chishui Waterfall. However, the area can be quite peaceful in the evening if you choose to visit during off-peak hours.
The waterfall can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays outside of the peak tourist season, particularly in the spring or fall.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available near the waterfall. Small shops sell local snacks, water, and souvenirs. There are also a few restaurants in the vicinity where you can enjoy local Guizhou cuisine.
The main areas around the waterfall are accessible, but the terrain can be uneven, and there may be some stairs and steep paths. Elderly visitors or those with mobility issues should be cautious, but children can generally enjoy the site with supervision.
Cash is commonly used, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in most areas, including the entrance and nearby shops.
There are several small local restaurants near the waterfall offering traditional Guizhou dishes, such as sour fish soup, spicy tofu, and rice noodles. Some cafes near the entrance serve refreshments for visitors.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in the form of rice and vegetable dishes. However, vegan and halal options may be limited, depending on the restaurant.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels in the Zunyi area, about 30-40 minutes away by car. For more luxurious options, you can stay in Zunyi city and take a day trip to the waterfall.
Local souvenir shops sell items such as handmade crafts, local textiles, tea, and small religious or spiritual items. You can also find locally made snacks and packaged goods for souvenirs.
The best transportation options after visiting Chishui Waterfall are by taxi or private car. For longer trips, you can return to Zunyi city where buses and trains are available for onward travel.