How to Spend 4 Days in Chishui Danxia: A Wilder Waterfall Cluster, Bamboo Sea, and Ancient Town on One Route Than Huangguoshu

Mr. Zhang from Malaysia contacted us last week after visiting Huangguoshu, seeking something unique. He saw photos of FOGUANGYAN in Chishui—red rock cliffs with white waterfalls cascading down—and asked if it's worth a special trip.

Chishui is Guizhou's most underrated World Natural Heritage site. Waterfall clusters, Danxia landforms, bamboo seas, and ancient towns are all concentrated in one area—you can explore it comfortably in 4 days without rushing or fatigue. Today, I'll lay out the itinerary and share the pitfalls to avoid.

4-Day Itinerary Overview

Day 1 Depart from Guiyang → Chishui → Bing'an Ancient Town → Stay in Chishui

Day 2: Foguang Rock & Wuzhu Peak → Stay in Chishui

Day 3: Sidonggou → Chishui Bamboo Sea → Stay in Chishui

Day 4: Chishui Grand Waterfall → Return to Guiyang or head to Chongqing

There is no direct high-speed rail from Guiyang to Chishui. By private car via the Rongzun Expressway, it takes 320 km and 4 hours to reach Chishui. The drive from Chishui to Chongqing takes only 1.5 hours, so many travelers choose to enter via Chishui and exit via Chongqing.

Day 1: Don't miss Bing'an Ancient Town

Cheng'an Ancient Town is 27 km from Chishui city center, a 30-minute drive. Built on massive boulders along the Chishui River, its stilt houses line the riverbank. The town remains undeveloped and is still home to original residents. Admission is 20. Plan about 90 minutes to explore. Lunch includes tofu rice and river-water tofu, costing 30–40 per person.

MeituShuo ReminderThe stone-paved streets of Bing'an Ancient Town are uneven and unsuitable for rolling suitcases. Travel light with a backpack; leave your luggage in the car.

Day 2: Foguang Rock is the highlight

Foguang Rock is the signature attraction of Chishui Danxia. The curved red cliff rises over 300 meters, with a waterfall cascading from its peak. Sunlight reflecting off the arc creates a "Buddha's Light" effect. The ticket costs 80 yuan and includes the sightseeing bus. Visit between 9 and 10 AM for the best lighting and photo opportunities. Allow 2 to 3 hours to explore the entire site.

Wuzhufeng and Foguangyan are adjacent. The combined ticket costs 120 yuan and takes about 1.5 hours to complete both sites in one day.

Avoid These PitfallsFoguang Rock has a steep set of stone steps that become slippery after rain. Wear non-slip hiking shoes. Shoe covers are sold at the park entrance for 10 per pair, but they offer limited traction. It's better to bring your own shoes with good grip.

Day 3: Sidonggou + Bamboo Sea, slower pace

Sidonggou features four waterfalls: the first is a wide curtain waterfall you can walk through, the second is Moon Pool—small and exquisite, the third is Flying Frog Cliff with a significant drop, and the fourth is White Dragon Pool, the most spectacular. The full hike takes 3 to 4 hours; admission includes shuttle bus access for 60 RMB.

MeituShuo ReminderSidi Gong has dense vegetation and many mosquitoes; bring insect repellent even in 9. The trail runs alongside a stream, and the stones are slippery—walk slowly and watch your step.

Head to Chishui Bamboo Sea this afternoon. Tickets are 30. A vast 10,000-acre bamboo forest blankets the hills; climb the observation tower for a panoramic view and stroll through the trails for 2 hours.

Day 4: Chishui Grand Waterfall, wake up early to avoid the crowds

Chishui Grand Waterfall, also known as Ten-Zhang Cave, is 80 meters wide and 76 meters high. It is the second largest waterfall in China after Huangguoshu. The ticket price of 80 includes a sightseeing bus tour. We recommend arriving before 8. Tour groups typically enter after 10, so mornings are less crowded and ideal for photography without waiting.

After viewing the waterfall, you have two options: return to Guiyang (4 hours) or continue north to Chongqing (1.5 hours).

Avoid These PitfallsThe mist from Chishui Grand瀑布 covers a wide area. Your phone is at risk of getting wet within 10 meters of the viewing platform, so be sure to use a waterproof pouch. These are also sold at the scenic area for 20 each; quality is decent.

How do I book a private car?

There is no public transportation between Chishui attractions. Sidonggou is 13 km from the city center, Foguang Rock is 40 km away, and Bamboo Sea is 30 km away. For groups of 4 or fewer, a 5-seat private car for 4 days (including fuel and tolls) costs approximately 2000 to 2400 yuan. For groups of 5 to 7, a 7-seat business van for 4 days costs 3200 to 3800 yuan.

If you choose Chongqing as the drop-off location, the driver can deliver the car to you there. An additional one-way fee of 300 to 500 CNY applies, which is more convenient than renting a new vehicle.

Say a few words

The Chishui route sees fewer visitors, but the Danxia waterfalls offer a completely different vibe from Huangguoshu. With red cliffs, white cascades, and green bamboo seas, you'll enjoy a quieter, more immersive experience. 4 days is just right; add Chongqing for a full week. Let us know your group size and duration, and we'll craft a detailed itinerary for you.

Read more

• Complete Guide to Visiting Huangguoshu Waterfall

• Guizhou + Chongqing 7-day combined tour: How to connect high-speed rail and private car?

• How much does Guizhou car rental cost? 2026 latest rates + how to choose a vehicle

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