Live Your Best Lives
Visit the Jade Water and Golden Basin Observation Deck for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Take a leisurely walk along the viewing platforms, enjoy the serene environment, and capture the stunning views of the valley below. Perfect for photography, hiking, and enjoying nature.
The Yushuijinpen Scenic Area, located at the axis of the Pingtang Syncline, is a typical town nestled in a syncline valley. Primarily featuring rural villages and river valley scenery, it includes scenic spots such as the Yushuijinpen, Lotus Park, Jingzhou Scenic Area, and Yanghe Mountain. The county seat is nestled against Longnao Slope in the east, surrounded by the Pingzhou River on the south, north, and west. From the Jusheng Pagoda on Lotus Slope, the view resembles a bonsai .
Lianhua Hill and Jusheng Pagoda: Jusheng Pagoda stands atop Lianhua Hill. It is an eight-story, hexagonal tower standing 18.8 meters tall. One hundred meters below the tower is Wangcheng Pavilion, a double-eaved, hipped pavilion offering the best vantage point for viewing the " Jade Water and Golden Basin . "
When the rape flowers are in full bloom ( mid to late March ), the entire paddock is surrounded by the green river water, shaped like a basin and golden in color, hence the name " Jade Water Golden Basin ".
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
free
8:00-22:00
The Jade Water and Golden Basin Observation Deck offers a unique viewpoint to view the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding valley, and is significant for its natural landscape and role in eco-tourism in Guizhou.
The deck is located in Guiding Yinzhai, Guizhou Province. It can be reached by taxi or private vehicle from nearby towns such as Duyun. Public transport options may be limited, so a taxi is often the best option.
The observation deck is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and capture the best light for photography.
The entrance fee is approximately 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the observation deck or through local travel agencies.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it is advisable to book tickets a few days ahead to avoid long waits.
Exploring the observation deck and surrounding areas should take around 1-2 hours. If you plan to hike or explore further, additional time may be required.
The main highlight is the observation deck itself, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley, rivers, and surrounding mountains. The platform offers excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may not always be available. It’s recommended to arrange a guide in advance if you prefer an English tour.
The best viewpoints are directly from the observation deck itself, as well as the walking paths around the area. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for photography.
Start by visiting the observation deck for the main views, then take a walk along the paths that offer different perspectives of the valley and the surrounding natural environment.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available. However, the area is beautiful at sunrise and sunset, so visiting during these times is recommended for the best lighting.
The observation deck can be crowded during weekends and holidays. Weekdays, especially in the early morning, are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities like toilets are available. There are also small kiosks selling snacks and drinks. However, there are limited food options, so it’s best to bring your own if needed.
The deck is accessible for most visitors, including children and the elderly. However, the terrain around the deck may be challenging for people with mobility issues, as it involves some walking on uneven ground.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are more commonly used. Credit cards may not be widely accepted in some smaller kiosks.
There are small cafes and restaurants near the base of the observation deck offering traditional Guizhou food. For more dining options, nearby towns like Duyun have a wider selection of restaurants.
Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be limited, so it's best to check the menus in advance or inquire with restaurant staff.
Nearby accommodations include budget hotels in Guiding Town. For a more luxurious stay, Duyun offers a range of hotels with better amenities.
Nearby attractions include the Shuige Water Village and the Duyun City Museum. These can easily be combined into a day trip from the observation deck.
There are small souvenir shops selling local crafts, such as traditional tea sets, handmade pottery, and Guizhou-style textiles.
After visiting, taxis are the most convenient option for transportation to nearby towns or attractions. Public transport is available but may not be as frequent.
