Top 5 Attractions in Anshun: Waterfalls, Caves & Ancient Towns

I've been guiding tours in Guizhou for over a decade, and Anshun always surprises first-timers. Most people think it's just Huangguoshu Waterfall — but there's way more. Here are the five spots I never skip when showing friends around. And I'll tell you exactly how to avoid the crowds and save money.

1. Huangguoshu Waterfall – the Showstopper

This is China's largest waterfall (77.8m high, 101m wide). In summer, the roar is deafening. But here's the trick: go early. I mean, arrive at the park gate before 8:30 AM. After 10 AM, tour buses flood in.

Ticket & Access

Getting there: From Anshun city, take bus line 'Anshun–Huangguoshu' (30 min, 22 RMB). Or join a minibus from Kaili or Guiyang. I prefer the bus because you can nap.

What most guides don't tell you

Bring a raincoat! The spray at the waterfall viewing platform soaks you in seconds. There are vendors selling cheap ponchos (5 RMB) but they rip easily. Also, the best photo spot is at the 'Waterfall Cave' path — you walk behind the falling water. Do that at 9 AM when the sun hits the mist; you'll see rainbows.

Wear non-slip shoes. I've seen too many people slip on wet stone stairs. Avoid weekends if possible.

2. Longgong Cave – the Underground Secret

Longgong (Dragon Palace) is a massive limestone cave system with underground rivers and boat rides. It's less crowded than Huangguoshu but equally impressive.

Ticket & Access

Getting there: Take bus No. 9 from Anshun Railway Station (1 hour, 15 RMB). Or take a taxi (about 80 RMB).

Insider tips

The cave is chilly (16°C year-round) — bring a light jacket. The boat ride goes through narrow passages; watch your head. I always tell my groups: the second boat section is more spectacular. Don't rush back after the first boat; keep walking deeper for the waterfall inside the cave.

Also, the 'Huaguo Mountain' section is a bit of a tourist trap — skip it if short on time.

3. Tianlong Tunbao Ancient Town – Ming Dynasty Living

This is a preserved military settlement from the Ming Dynasty. The locals still wear traditional costumes and speak an ancient dialect. It's like stepping back in time.

Ticket & Access

Getting there: Bus from Anshun East Bus Station to Pingba (25 min), then local bus to Tianlong (15 min). Total 40 min.

What to do

Watch the 'Dixi' (ground opera) performance — it's UNESCO listed. The masks are incredible. After that, walk the stone alleyways and try the local snack 'er kuai' (rice cake). I recommend the fried version with chili.

One mistake tourists make: they visit only the main street. Go behind the main street to see the real residential areas where old ladies embroider. They'll sell you handicrafts for a fair price.

4. Getu River National Park – for Adventurers

Less known but my personal favorite. It's a karst landscape with a huge natural bridge, rock climbing routes, and a crystal-clear river. Not crowded at all.

Ticket & Access

Getting there: Best to hire a driver for the day (around 300 RMB from Anshun). Public buses are infrequent.

My advice

Bring a swimsuit if you dare — there's a spot for river swimming. But the water is cold even in summer. The hanging walkway near the natural bridge is not for the faint-hearted. I bring clients who want a workout.

Plan for 3–4 hours. And pack lunch; the on-site restaurant is mediocre.

5. Yunfeng Tunpu – the Laid-Back Alternative

Another tunpu (military village) but smaller and less touristy than Tianlong. I send my repeat visitors here. The entrance fee is only 20 RMB.

What's special

The stone architecture is photogenic. There's a small working distillery where you can taste the local rice wine (80 proof! — not for lightweights). I always buy a bottle for gifts.

Getting there: Take bus to Pingba, then a motorbike taxi (15 min, 20 RMB).

Spend about 1.5 hours here. Combine with Tianlong if you're pressed for time.

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