Guanshan Canyon Scenic Area

Guanshan Canyon Scenic Area

Starting from Anhua Cave, cross bridges and wade through streams as you follow the Maxi Stream upstream for about 7 kilometers to Jiangjiaping Village. From there, you can only proceed by climbing up a steep mountain path, passing landmarks such as "Thunder Slope" and "Guogen Bridge." Beyond Guogen Bridge lies Guanshan (a thrilling and spectacular canyon) with ancient trees towering overhead. Passing through Guanshan will take you to Gaocheng Village in Dongshi Town.

It is said that in every mountain village in Anhua, there is its own “Guanshan,” which “governs feng shui” and is regarded by local villagers as a guardian deity. As a result, the “Guanshan trees” have never been cut down and are now even consciously protected with signboards. There is a local saying: “Thunder Slope, Guogen Bridge, four acres with one field, and a well in the middle of the field.” Legend has it that this was once a secret code that people had to know when entering the mountain villages. In today’s more open Gaocheng, outsiders no longer need to recite any codes upon arrival. Instead of wary glances, visitors are welcomed by the simple and honest local hospitality.

At the summit of Guanshan, standing majestically above the canyon, is “General Rock,” resembling a guardian deity guarding the entrance to the village. Legend has it that there used to be a “Honggong Stockade” on General Rock. In the past, Honggong and Heigong, former subordinates of Li Zicheng, sought refuge here. Taking advantage of the steep terrain of General Rock, they set up camp, fought against the rich to aid the poor, and became renowned across both Xinhua and Anhua counties.

The Guanshan Canyon Scenic Area is part of the Tea Horse Ancient Road Scenic Zone. Guanshan served as a vital mountain pass along the ancient tea-horse trade route, with mountain shapes on both sides rising like gates—acting as the entrance and exit for Gaocheng Mountain Village—hence the name “Guanshan.” Since ancient times, it has been revered as a guardian mountain of the region and is respected and protected by the people. The canyon features layered rocks and emerald hues, with cascading waterfalls and flowing springs, creating a beautiful and mysterious landscape. The terrain is rugged, dotted with massive boulders and towering cliffs, exuding a majestic aura. The oddly shaped rocks are arranged in an orderly fashion, varying in height, some resembling humans, objects, birds, or beasts—all masterpieces of nature’s artistry. Along the canyon, the path undulates with thrilling elements such as caves, plank walks, pontoon bridges, and sky ladders, offering visitors the excitement of exploring streams and canyons.

Beneath General Rock lies Guanshan Canyon, approximately one kilometer long, over ten meters wide, and reaching depths of up to one hundred meters. The journey is exceptionally treacherous, lined entirely with massive rocks. The cliffs on both sides are as sheer as if carved by knives and axes. The valley floor is home to a gentle stream, crystal clear to the bottom. Though small, the canyon resembles an exquisite miniature landscape, combining wonder and peril in one. It has become a sacred site for outdoor adventures such as hiking, rock climbing, and stream tracing. Having the chance to experience the thrilling adventure of Guanshan Canyon in Yiyang’s Anhua County is truly a highlight of life.