Enchanted Karst Wonderland
by BRAXTON POWELL
Sep 5, 2025
Xingwen Shihai, this karst secret realm, is like a real-life exotic planet! The first time I saw this unique stone forest landscape, I was amazed. Huge stone pillars rise from the ground, forming a maze-like magical world🌄
Highly recommend staying at the Shihai Impression Hotel, just 500 meters from the scenic area entrance, with a super convenient location. The hotel features a simple modern style, spacious rooms, and the best part is that some room types have floor-to-ceiling windows with direct views of the distant Shihai landscape. The front desk service is very thoughtful and proactively informs you of the best times to visit~
Must-try immersive experiences👇
1️⃣ Enter the scenic area at 6 AM; the Shihai shrouded in mist feels like a fairyland, and the sunlight streaming through the stone crevices creates stunning light and shadow effects.
2️⃣ Climb the Buyun Platform at dusk to see the entire Shihai bathed in a magnificent golden-red glow under the sunset.
3️⃣ Don’t miss the "Tiankeng Dilou" (sinkholes and potholes) inside the park; standing on the glass platform overlooking the hundred-meter-deep pits is super thrilling.
4️⃣ The Geological Museum has many interactive exhibits where you can learn about the geological mysteries behind the formation of these unique stone forests.
Special reminders⚠️
- The scenic area is large, so comfortable sports shoes are recommended.
- In summer, pay attention to sun protection and bring enough drinking water.
- The best photo times are 2 hours after sunrise and 1 hour before sunset.
Accommodation recommendations:
1. Shihai Impression Hotel (closest)
2. Xingwen County Conference Center Hotel (high quality)
3. Shihai Holiday Hotel (best value)
One-day tour suggestion: Enter at 8 AM - have lunch at the scenic area restaurant - visit the Geological Museum in the afternoon - watch the sunset in the evening - enjoy Xingwen’s special Miao-style sour fish soup for dinner.
This place is really perfect for photography! Every snap looks like a blockbuster shot, and wearing solid-colored clothes makes the photos even better~
Post by BRAXTON POWELL | Sep 5, 2025













