Tianxing Bridge, Guizhou: Explore Karst Waterfalls and the Stone Forest
Tianxing Bridge, Guizhou: Karst Waterfalls and Stone Forest
Tianxing Bridge is one of Guizhou’s most lyrical karst landscapes. Located on the southwestern Guizhou Plateau, this scenic area weaves water and limestone into a striking natural gallery: cascading waterfalls, winding caves, and a water-on-stone forest that looks almost sculpted. As a key part of the larger Huangguoshu Scenic Area, Tianxing Bridge is famed for its floating stone forest and the “Silver-Chain” plunge. Designated a national key scenic area in 1982, it’s an essential stop for anyone exploring Guizhou’s karst wonders.
1. Tianxing Bridge’s Core Charm: Karst Wonder of Water and Stone
Tianxing Bridge Scenic Area sits in Anshun, Guizhou, about 6 km from the famous Huangguoshu Waterfall and covers roughly 7 square kilometers. The site showcases the best of karst topography: water-carved stone forests, dramatic caves, and clustered waterfalls that create scenery described as “a view every three steps, a painting every five.”
The water-on-stone forest is the area’s signature attraction. Clear streams snake among bizarrely shaped limestone pillars to produce the illusion of stone standing in water and water running over stone. One particularly striking feature is the natural triple-arch called the “bridge-on-bridge-on-bridge,” where three layers of stone bridges stack like a deliberate artwork. Around these rocks, banyan trees and vines wrap and grow in such a way that you’ll see “tree wrapped by stone” or “stone wrapped by tree” formations—a vivid example of life and rock coexisting.
Tianxing Cave is another highlight: a 1.8 km limestone cave filled with countless stalactites, stalagmites and curtains of calcite. Under lighting, the cave becomes a subterranean palace. Outside the cave the 30-meter Silver-Chain Waterfall (Yinlian Zuitan) drops into a deep pool, the thin, silvery ribbon of water contrasting sharply with jagged rock—a scene both delicate and dramatic.
2. Best Time to Visit: All Seasons Shine, Summer Stays Cool
Tianxing Bridge is scenic year-round, but May to October is the prime visiting season. Summer rains swell the waterfalls and enliven the streams, making the stone-and-water scenery more dynamic. June–August can be warm, yet the shaded walkways and cool creek water make the area a popular summer retreat.
Spring and autumn (March–April, September–October) offer mild weather, lush vegetation and excellent photography conditions. Winter (November–February) sees fewer visitors; mist and low clouds can cloak the falls and stone forest in ethereal beauty.
Tip: After a rain, when sunlight breaks through the canopy, the stones and waterfalls appear especially fresh—ideal for photographers seeking dramatic light and reflections.
3. Routes and Recommended Duration: Half-Day to Full-Day Options
The scenic area is divided into three main zones: Tianxing Basin, Tianxing Cave, and the Water-on-Stone Forest. Routes are flexible depending on time and interest.
– Essential half-day (3–4 hours): Focus on the water-on-stone forest and the Silver-Chain Waterfall to experience the core karst scenery.
– In-depth full day (5–6 hours): Explore Tianxing Cave, the stone forest, and multiple waterfall clusters. Follow the trails for a deeper, more immersive experience.
Most paths are well-designed and flat, but some sections require climbing stone steps—wear slip-resistant hiking shoes. Families with young children or older travelers can take the electric shuttle inside the park (separate ticket) to reduce walking.
4. Getting There and Tickets: Practical Travel Tips
Tianxing Bridge is inside the Huangguoshu Scenic Area in Anshun and is easily accessible:
– From Guiyang: Take high-speed rail to Anshun West (about 30 minutes), then a tourist bus to Huangguoshu Scenic Area (about 1 hour).
– By car: Drive from Guiyang on the G60 Hukun Expressway—roughly a 2-hour trip. The park has convenient parking.
– Inside the park: Shuttle buses connect Tianxing Bridge and Huangguoshu Waterfall; the ride takes about 15 minutes.
Ticketing: Tianxing Bridge is included in the Huangguoshu combined ticket (peak season RMB 160 per person; off-peak RMB 150), which typically includes the park shuttle. Discounts are often available for students and seniors—book in advance through official channels when possible.
5. Facilities and Visitor Experience
– Signage and tours: The park provides bilingual signage and some audio guides for rent.
– Food and rest: Snack stalls and rest areas offer local Guizhou specialties like sour soup fish and siwawa (rice roll snacks).
– Crowds: Peak periods (July–August and National Day) are busy. Entering before 8:00 a.m. helps you avoid the largest crowds.
6. Where to Stay: Base Yourself Near Huangguoshu
To fully enjoy Tianxing Bridge and nearby Huangguoshu Waterfall, stay in Huangguoshu Town or Anshun city:
– Upscale: Huangguoshu Guesthouse — close to the attractions with comfortable facilities.
– Budget: Numerous guesthouses and economy hotels around the park offer affordable, convenient options.
Conclusion: Tianxing Bridge — A Poetic Karst Secret
Tianxing Bridge is more than a bridge: it’s a natural museum carved by water and stone. From the graceful Silver-Chain waterfall to the surreal water-on-stone forest and the mysterious cavern halls, the area reveals the artistry of karst geology. If you travel to Guizhou, don’t miss this hidden jewel beside Huangguoshu Waterfall—its combination of delicate beauty and dramatic rock formations makes for an unforgettable visit.
