Kaiyang Stone Enclosure Wonder Palace

Kaiyang Stone Enclosure Wonder Palace

Kaiyang Stone Enclosure Wonder Palace

The Kaiyang Stone Enclosure Wonder Palace (formerly known as the Monkey Ear Tiankeng) Scenic Area is located in Taowowo Village Group, Shitou Village, Chengguan Town, Kaiyang County, Guizhou Province. Its geographical coordinates are longitude 106°59’56.5’’ to

107°00’16.6’’, latitude 27°04’57’’ to

27°05’27’’. The scenic area features a combination of tiankengs (natural sinkholes), steep cliffs, underground rivers, and waterfalls, embodying a blend of wonder, danger, mystery, and seclusion. Caves and underground rivers are intricately distributed, while hanging waterfalls and flowing springs cascade from above. Unique ecological phenomena such as blind fish and blind frogs add to the mystical allure. The main attraction is the Stone Enclosure Group — a collapsed vertical-shaft tiankeng with a pit mouth diameter of over 300 meters, a depth of more than 280 meters, and a maximum bottom diameter of over 280 meters. Experts have confirmed it to be a unique karst geological wonder on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. Within the pit, four caves of varying sizes are located to the east, west, south, and north. These caves host well-developed and diverse stalactites, offering rich and varied visual landscapes. One of the cave’s underground rivers extends 2.5 kilometers north to the side of the Kainan Road and 7 kilometers east to the Macha River Hot Springs. The local climate is pleasant, with an average temperature of around 18°C. The area enjoys well-preserved vegetation, with forest coverage exceeding 80%. A thrilling section of the National Autocross Rally passes right through the scenic area. Moreover, the region is home to various ethnic minority groups, offering a rich tapestry of folk culture. The rare “Jiaojiao Miao” people maintain ancient and primitive craftsmanship methods, as well as traditional entertainment forms such as lion and dragon dancing, circle singing and dancing, and distinctive costume culture. These elements hold high value for both sightseeing and academic research. The site is not only a scenic attraction but also an ideal destination for developing activities such as rock climbing, exploration, and bungee jumping.