Nanjiang Grand Canyon (Kaiyang Canyon Ecological Park)

　　Situated approximately sixty kilometers from Guiyang, the Nanjiang Grand Canyon in Kaiyang is renowned for its grand karst canyon scenery and a rich variety of waterfalls. It is a scenic area of high aesthetic and scientific value.

　　The canyon stretches over forty kilometers in length, with the deepest point reaching 398 meters. Scientific surveys indicate that the Nanjiang Canyon features ancient strata and steep river valleys, forming a classic mid-low mountain canyon landform that is both majestic and beautiful. The canyon contains over eighty natural attractions and more than forty waterfalls in various forms, with the highest drop exceeding 250 meters.

　　Currently, 18.4 kilometers of the scenic area have been developed. Visitors can experience thrilling rafting in the emerald-green waters, stroll along cliffside plank roads, or explore typical karst primeval forests. The cliffs are home to wild macaques and rhesus monkeys, while mandarin ducks and wild ducks swim in the river, and schools of fish are often visible. Fish eagles, egrets, and other birds soar above the river, creating a lively and wild atmosphere.

　　The Nanjiang Grand Canyon possesses abundant natural resources ideal for establishing an eco-tourism demonstration zone. Evening ethnic song and dance performances captivate visitors, while the natural spring swimming pool, vivid statues of Sakyamuni Buddha and Maitreya Buddha, as well as the Illusory Buddha Mountain formed by numerous appearing and disappearing Buddha figures, offer delightful experiences. Outdoor barbecues and the cross-river zip line further add to the enjoyment and relaxation.

　　The Nanjiang Grand Canyon's typical karst primeval forests not only create unique sights such as "forest on rocks" and "trees embracing rocks," but also ensure lush greenery and fresh air throughout the area. Waterfalls of various sizes and heights enhance the grandeur of the canyon. The steep cliffs add a bold character to the landscape. The thousand-meter-long plank walkway deep in the canyon is said to be the longest of its kind in China. Walking along it, visitors can enjoy pristine views, drink from mountain springs, breathe fresh air, take a forest bath, hike fitness trails, and listen to the sounds of insects and birds—an experience so refreshing it feels almost otherworldly. No wonder Professor Wu Zunan, a renowned geographer and environmental expert from the University of Hong Kong, described it as the “Shangri-La of Guizhou” after his visit.

　　Suggested Duration

　　2–4 hours

　　Transportation

　　Independent Travel:

　　1. Take a bus from Jinyang Bus Station to Kaiyang County. Inform the driver to drop you off at the Nanjiang Grand Canyon scenic area (boarding windows 42–50). Buses run from 7:00 to 19:00, every half hour, at a fare of 30 yuan, with the full journey taking about 2 hours. Bus schedules vary by season—please call Jinyang Bus Station before departure for the latest information. After getting off at the Nanjiang Grand Canyon intersection on Guiyang-Kaiyang Highway, you’ll need to take a motorcycle for the remaining distance to the canyon dock, as it’s a few li from the main scenic gate.

　　2. Take a direct shuttle bus from Guiyang Jinyang Coach Station to Nanjiang Grand Canyon. There are two daily services: 8:00 and 14:00 from Guiyang to Nanjiang, and 10:00 and 16:00 from Nanjiang to Guiyang. The ride takes about 2 hours, with a fare of 20 yuan. Schedules may vary slightly by season—confirm actual departure times at the station.

　　3. Take a long-distance bus from Kaiyang Bus Station (on Kaizhou Avenue) heading to Tuqiao. The bus passes by the Nanjiang Grand Canyon—just inform the driver to let you off there. Buses run daily at 8:30, 11:30, 14:30, and 16:30. The journey takes about 1 hour, with a fare of around 10 yuan.

　　Self-Drive:

　　1. Route: Guiyang → Xintianzhai → Shuitian → Yangchang → Machang → Shashang → Nanjiang Grand Canyon. The drive takes about 1.5 hours.

　　2. Take the Gui-Zun Expressway, exit at Jiuchang Station, and drive through Kaiyang County. Shortly after, you’ll see a signpost—going straight leads to Weng’an, while turning left takes you directly to Nanjiang Canyon.

　　Admission Fee

　　Peak Season (May 1 – October 31): 88 yuan; Off-Peak Season (November 1 – April 30): 78 yuan. Leisure Rafting Ticket (includes admission, rafting, and shuttle bus): 168 yuan. Adventure Rafting Ticket (includes admission, rafting, and shuttle bus): 188 yuan. Personal belongings must be stored during rafting at 10 yuan per time.

　　Opening Hours

　　8:00–18:00. Leisure Rafting ends at 17:00; Adventure Rafting ends at 15:00.

　　Location

　　Nanjiang Township, Kaiyang County, Guiyang City