Huangguoshu Waterfall Overview
One of the largest and most spectacular waterfall groups in Asia. The main waterfall cascades down a sheer cliff of 77.8 meters and is unique for the natural Water Curtain Cave (Shuilian Dong) hidden directly behind the roaring water curtain, allowing visitors to touch the falls from the inside.
Huangguoshu Waterfall Opening Hours & Tickets
- 07:30–18:00 (Ticket checking for specific sub-areas like the Water Curtain Cave may close early at 17:00)
- Best season: June to October during the summer flood season, when the water volume reaches its dramatic peak.
- Ticket note:
An integrated ticket covers entry to the three main areas (Doupotang, Tianxing B...
Essential Huangguoshu Waterfall Visitor Information
- Enquiries: +86 851 33592136
- Eco-shuttle buses
- Grand outdoor escalator (separate fee)
- Large visitor reception centers
- Luggage storage lockers
- Public restrooms
- Western and local food courts
How to Get to Huangguoshu Waterfall
Take a high-speed train to Anshun West Railway Station, then board a direct tourist shuttle bus to the Huangguoshu ticket office (approx 45 minutes). Direct express buses also run from Guiyang city center.
Huangguoshu Waterfall Travel Safety & Advice
Dial 120 for medical emergency. First-aid clinics are active at the entrances of all three major scenic zones with English-assist support.
Huangguoshu Waterfall Travel FAQ
I only have 2 days in Guizhou – is it worth it?
Short answer: only if you accept you'll see one highlight. Fly into Guiyang, take the first train to Anshun, and spend the day at Huangguoshu. Sleep in Anshun, then either spend the next morning at Qingyan Ancient Town or a quick half-day at the Miao village near Kaili. It's rushed, but you'll get a taste. Don't even attempt to add Xingyi or Fanjingshan.
Is a 7-day trip too long for Guizhou?
Actually, 7 days is perfect if you enjoy hiking and culture. Beyond the classic loop, you can head southwest to Malinghe Canyon or the massive Wanfenglin peaks. Many travelers tell me they wished they had a 8th day. Just be honest about your fitness – Fanjingshan is 7,800 steps of pure lung burn.
How do I book tickets to Guizhou's scenic spots as a foreigner?
The most convenient method is to book through Trip.com or Klook – both have English interfaces and accept passports. For Huangguoshu, the official WeChat mini-program has a passport option, but it's all in Chinese. If you're stuck, buy at the on-site 'Foreigner Ticket' window – it exists, though you might wait 10 minutes. Don't trust black-market ticket sellers; they often sell expired group tickets.
Is Guizhou safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Guizhou is generally very safe. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The biggest risks are traffic and pickpockets in crowded bus areas. I've sent dozens of solo female clients, and the only complaints they had were about the steep stairs and spicy food. Use same travel common sense you would in any city: keep your bag zipped, avoid walking alone in unlit areas after midnight, and share your live location with a friend.
What's the best time of year to visit Guizhou?
November to March tends to be cloudy and wet. For waterfalls, May to September brings the most water – but during Chinese holidays (first week of May and first week of October), Huangguoshu becomes a sea of tourists. I always suggest late April or late September: good weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices.
Is it safe to travel to Guizhou as a solo tourist?
Yes, overall it’s very safe. Crime is low, and locals are genuinely curious about foreigners. The biggest risks are getting lost and falling on slippery paths. I’d recommend staying in well-reviewed guesthouses and keeping your belongings close in crowded areas, but you won’t face violent crime.
What should I do if my international card doesn’t work at a ticket office?
That’s common. Carry 300-500 RMB in cash as backup. Also, show your passport — some offices can process foreign cards. If that fails, ask a staff member to help you pay via Alipay; you can give them cash. It sounds weird, but it works. My last resort is to call my guide or use a pay-by-link from Trip.com.
Can I visit Guizhou without speaking Chinese?
Honestly, it’s hard but doable. You’ll rely on translation apps and pointing. Trains and major attractions have English signs. But I recommend booking tours through a local agency for at least the first day. After that, you get the hang of it.
How long should I spend in Guizhou to see the main attractions?
A minimum of 5 days for the classic loop. If you want to include Fanjingshan, plan for 7 days. Don’t try to do Huangguoshu and Xiaoqikong in one day — that’s a common mistake my clients regret.
Do I need to book the Guiyang to Anshun high speed train in advance?
Not necessarily. Ticket availability is usually fine, except during Chinese national holidays (Oct 1-7, May 1-3, etc.). But since it's so easy to book on Trip.com, just do it the night before to save stress.
Recent Reviews
Honestly, a bit disappointed. I came during the dry season (February) and the water flow was really weak—just a trickle compared to the pictures. The rock formations and surrounding scenery are still pretty, but without the full roar of the falls, it felt like an overpriced park. The maintenance of the walkways was okay, but some railings were rusty. For the entrance fee and the long bus ride from Anshun, I expected more. Maybe it’s better in summer, but I wouldn’t recommend it when water levels are low.
Solid four stars. The waterfall itself is massive and impressive—no denying that. We visited on a weekend in summer, so it was packed. Long queues for the scenic elevator and bottlenecks on the narrow paths. The experience was still great, but the crowds made it feel a bit rushed. Also, the ticket price is on the higher side for a domestic attraction. If you can go on a weekday or off-season, I’d definitely recommend it. Otherwise, manage your expectations for the crowds.
I’m a landscape photographer and this place is an absolute dream. The best time to shoot is early morning when the light hits the mist just right—I got some ethereal sunbeams. The viewing angle from the bottom is iconic, but don’t miss the side trails for a more dramatic perspective. Also, bring a rain cover for your camera; the spray is relentless! I spent over three hours here and didn’t even notice the time. Only wish they’d open a bit earlier for sunrise, but still a five-star experience.
We brought our two kids (ages 7 and 9) and they were absolutely mesmerized. The viewing platforms are well-maintained and safe, and there are plenty of spots to take photos without feeling too crowded. The kids loved getting soaked by the mist and running through the cave behind the falls. A few souvenir stalls and snack spots along the way, which was handy. It’s a bit of a trek from the entrance to the actual waterfall, but there’s a long escalator you can take for a small fee—saved our legs. Highly recommend for families!
Absolutely breathtaking! The sheer power and roar of the waterfall is something you have to experience in person. We went in late spring, and the volume was incredible—mist was spraying everywhere, and we even got a double rainbow right over the main drop. The walk through Water Curtain Cave behind the falls was surreal; you can feel the thunder in your chest. Easily the highlight of our Guizhou trip. Worth every penny and the hike down the stairs (good shoes needed!). 10/10 would come again.
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