Explore the serene river by boat, hike along the riverbanks to enjoy the lush natural surroundings, and visit the local villages to experience traditional Miao culture and hospitality.

The Yedong River, a major tributary of the Chong'an River, originates from the Longdong River in Weng'an County, Qiannan Prefecture, and flows through Weng'an, Fuquan, and Huangping. The river boasts crystal-clear waters, with peaks cascading down its banks. The 18-kilometer-long river boasts two natural bridges, one above the other.
The Shangyedong Natural Bridge is located at the junction of Xijiazhai in Weng'an and Dongbing in Fuquan. Standing 80 meters high and over 100 meters deep, the cave flows through a river, boasting waterfalls, skylights, unique stalactites, and a scenic landscape of Thousand Hills Field. Next to the water cave is a dry cave, 20 meters high and 10 meters wide, forming a twin cave connected to the water cave.
Best from June to October
Southeast Guizhou has beautiful scenery in summer and is a good place to escape the heat.
The climate in autumn is good, with clear skies and cool breezes.
Shangyedong Natural Bridge is located at the junction of Weng'an Xijiazhai and Fuquan Dongbing. It is 80 meters high and over 100 meters deep. The river flows through the cave, and there are waterfalls, skylights, unique stalactites, and a thousand-hill field canal landscape.
free
All day
The Yedong River is a vital waterway in Southeast Guizhou, known for its clean waters and the role it plays in supporting local agriculture and transportation. It also holds cultural significance to the local Miao communities.
Yedong River is located in the rural areas of Southeast Guizhou, near Kaili. You can reach it by taxi or local bus from Kaili, with private transport being the most convenient option.
The river is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the river is at its most picturesque.
There is no entrance fee for visiting the river. However, for boat tours or guided activities, there may be a fee, typically paid on-site.
Booking is generally not required for a visit to the river itself. However, it is advisable to book boat tours or accommodation in advance during peak seasons.
A visit to the Yedong River typically takes about 2-3 hours, allowing time for a boat ride, walking along the riverbanks, and visiting nearby villages.
The main highlights are the boat ride along the river, the lush greenery surrounding the area, and the traditional Miao villages located along the banks.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some guides offering services in English. It is recommended to book a guide to get a deeper understanding of the area.
The best viewpoints are along the riverbanks and from the boat ride. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for photography, especially with the mist over the water.
Start with a boat ride to see the river from the water, then explore the surrounding village areas. If you have time, hike along the river for panoramic views of the landscape.
Night visits are not typically available, but some local festivals may feature evening events, including traditional performances and cultural displays.
The river can be crowded during weekends and local holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the off-season (late autumn or early spring).
There are basic facilities like public toilets and small food stalls in the area. It's a good idea to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike or take the boat tour.
The area is generally accessible, but the terrain along the riverbanks can be uneven, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the area, especially the boat rides.
Cash is commonly used in the area, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted for tours and purchases.
There are local restaurants serving traditional Miao food, but options are limited. You can find more dining options in Kaili, the nearest city.
Vegetarian options are available, but halal food is not typically found in the area.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Kaili. For a more immersive experience, you can stay in a guesthouse in a nearby Miao village.
Nearby attractions include Xijiang Miao Village, Kaili Ethnic Culture Museum, and other Miao villages that offer insight into the region's culture and history.
Yes, there are shops selling Miao handicrafts like silver jewelry, embroidered textiles, and woven baskets, as well as local snacks and tea.
From Yedong River, you can take a taxi or bus back to Kaili. For further travel, public buses and private car hires are available to nearby attractions or cities.