99% of people don’t know where this is!
by Robbie Schmidt
Oct 25, 2025
The Danxia landscape of Gaoyiling in Chenzhou is truly a masterpiece of nature⛰️! The bright red mountains coil like a giant dragon✨, the emerald green lake wraps around like jade💦, and every shot you take looks like a stunning filtered photo📸! Although climbing requires some effort, the higher you go, the more breathtaking it gets!
📍 Scenic Area Address: Gaoyiling Village, Qiaokou Town, Suxian District, Chenzhou City, Hunan Province  
⌚ Recommended Visit Time: 3-4 hours
✔ Ticket Price: About 80 RMB for adults (including insurance)  
Free for children under 1.2 meters | Free for seniors over 65 | Half price with student ID  
It’s better to buy tickets online in advance for discounts!  
✔ Opening Hours: April to October 8:00-18:30 | November to March 8:30-17:30  
Last entry at 16:40 ⚠️  
✔ Free Shuttle Bus: From parking lot to scenic area, about 1 km  
Don’t walk foolishly🚌!
🚶♀️ Three Main Routes to Choose Without Regret
1️⃣ Classic Full Tour (Enter and exit from South Gate)  
⏳ 3-4 hours | Visit all attractions  
Route: Lianyi Bridge → Giant Stone Array → Climb Cloud Ladder → Hat Mountain → Hanging Walkway → Dragon Spine Ridge  
🔥 Tip: The Cloud Ladder is the steepest but can be bypassed
2️⃣ Easy and Time-saving Route (Enter and exit from North Gate)  
⏳ 2.5 hours | Fewer people and stairs  
Head straight to Giant Lizard Lake for photos📸
3️⃣ Lazy Risk Route (West Gate)  
❌ Not recommended! Narrow mountain roads prone to traffic jams  
If you insist, you can take a 15 RMB motorcycle🏍️
⚠️ Must-See Tips & Preparation Checklist
👟 Essential Gear:  
Non-slip hiking shoes | Light jacket | Sun umbrella  
(Rugged mountain paths + strong wind + intense sun)
🍔 Supplies to Bring:  
Drinking water | Snacks  
(Prices inside the scenic area are high💸)
📸 Photo Tips for Great Shots
🎬 Best Spots:  
① Giant Lizard River Viewing Platform (for panoramic shots)  
② Dragon Spine Canyon Walkway (people and scenery combined)  
③ Red Rock and Green Water Shore (for reflection shots)
🌿 Advanced Activities Recommended  
🎈 Cliff Swing: 30 RMB to challenge your courage  
🌊 Explore Water Danxia: Boat ride 200 RMB/person
📍 Nearby 2-Day Tour Itinerary  
Day 1: Dongjiang Lake Mist Scenery → Gaoyiling  
Day 2: Yangtianhu Grassland  
🍲 Food Highlights: Dongjiang Fish | Hehua Fish  
Eat to your heart’s content for about 50 RMB per person!
Post by Robbie Schmidt | Oct 25, 2025













