Hidden Autumn Spot in Simian Mountain! Land Rock Cliff Paintings, with Photography Guide

While tourists are checking in at Wangxiangtai Waterfall, seasoned explorers have already turned to another treasure—the Land Rock. This massive Danxia cliff, as if painted with natural pigments, becomes even more vibrant under the autumn sunlight. It is Simian Mountain’s most underrated hidden spot and a secret paradise for photographers.
"Theme Route: Geological Art Appreciation Line"
Theme: Appreciate the naturally formed colors and patterns of the Danxia landform and capture geological art masterpieces. Route: Take the sightseeing bus from the scenic area entrance to the Land Rock stop → Walk slowly along the plank road, admiring the cliff from different angles and distances → Focus on finding natural patterns on the cliff that resemble people or animals → Create your shots at the best photo spots → After the visit, take the bus to the next attraction.
"Highlight Recommendation: Value Proposition Style"
“Very few people! This cliff, comparable to Zhangye Danxia’s colorful cliffs, can be seen right here in Chongqing!” “Worth the ticket price! Just the details of Land Rock are enough to shoot all afternoon, the light and shadow changes are stunning!” There are no crowded tourists here, so you can quietly search, discover, compose, and enjoy the joy of creation.
"📸 Camera Position List: Shoot National Geographic-Level Masterpieces"
✅ Panoramic Position: Use a wide-angle lens at the viewing platform to capture the full view of Land Rock, showcasing its grandeur as a “natural mural.”
✅ Detail Close-up Position: Use a telephoto lens to zoom in on the most colorful and uniquely textured parts of the cliff; the abstract images are highly artistic.
✅ Human Element Position: Have a companion stand at an appropriate spot on the plank road with the cliff as the background, using human scale to highlight the magnificence of nature.
✅ Light and Shadow Waiting Position: In the afternoon, when sunlight slants on the cliff, colors and three-dimensionality are strongest—this is the golden time for shooting.
"In-Depth Experience: Searching for 'Abstract Paintings' on the Cliff"
I spent a long time quietly standing on the plank road, gazing at this huge red cliff. At first, it was just a spectacular red, but when you calm down, you’ll find countless flowing color bands, like the spontaneous brushstrokes of an abstract master. I tried to identify those patterns: there’s a galloping horse here, and there’s a pensive old man there... The joy of discovery is far more interesting than simply taking a check-in photo.
"Practical Information: ✍🏻 Useful TIPS"
✍🏻 Best Time: After rain when the sky clears, the cliff colors are most saturated and bright. The angle of autumn afternoon sunlight is ideal for shooting.
✍🏻 Equipment: Both wide-angle and telephoto lenses are essential. A polarizing filter (CPL) can eliminate reflections and make colors stand out more.
✍🏻 Safety: The plank road is wide and safe, but do not climb over the guardrails or get close to the cliff edge.
✍🏻 Combined Visit: Land Rock is not far from Wangxiangtai Waterfall and can be arranged for a joint visit.
"Food and Accommodation: Scene-Based Recommendations"
When visiting Simian Mountain, it is recommended to stay in hotels or lodges within the scenic area for convenient early morning and evening light shooting. The mountain’s cured bacon, spring water tofu pudding, and various bamboo shoots are all delicious and must-try. This hidden geological art gallery awaits your lens to interpret it.