Guilan Mountain (归兰山), located in Duyun City, Guizhou Province, China, derives its name from the indigenous language of the Shui ethnic group. “Guì” signifies the peaks flanking the streams, while “lán” refers to the streams themselves. Thus, Guilan Mountain is embraced by extraordinary peaks with streams meandering through its midst. Standing at an elevation of 1025 meters, Guilan Mountain comprises three main scenic areas: Nose Rock Scenic Area, Grand Canyon Scenic Area, and Salang Golden Mountain Scenic Area. The mountain features numerous waterfalls, with the Thousand-Foot Waterfall being the most spectacular. From a distance of a hundred meters, its thunderous roar and the spray of water create a captivating sight, especially during sunset when the sunlight paints the scene with vibrant colors, adorned by mesmerizing rainbows, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors.
It’s worth noting that Guilan Mountain remains relatively undeveloped, with steep paths. The ascent along narrow trails takes about one and a half hours, making it an excellent destination for hiking and camping enthusiasts, but less suitable for elderly individuals.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Guilan Mountain
- Vlog about Guilan Mountain
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in Duyun
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
Location and Transportation
Guilan Mountain is situated within the territory of Yanghe Shuizu Township, Duyun City, Qiannan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province, China. It is approximately 50 kilometers away from the urban area of Duyun City.
Due to its relatively remote location and undeveloped status, reaching Guilan Mountain by public transportation can be time-consuming. Therefore, self-driving is generally more convenient for accessing the area.
Highlights of Guilan Mountain
Eight Immortals Bathing Pools (八仙浴池)
The Eight Immortals Bathing Pools consist of eight naturally formed large stone basins, intricately nestled amidst the landscape. Crystal-clear streams flow through these basins, filling them with pristine water. The smooth and seamless surfaces of the stone basins provide a perfect spot for bathing. Legend has it that when the Eight Immortals visited this area during their earthly travels, they were captivated by its beauty. On a scorching day, Han Xiangzi suggested taking a bath here, which everyone agreed to. However, as one of the Immortals, He Xiangu, was a female, she opted to bathe in a separate basin located slightly away from the others, hidden by bushes and vegetation. Hence, seven basins are found together while the eighth is situated in a more secluded spot. Local villagers often stop here to rest and bathe while gathering firewood in the mountains.
Pig Trough Beach (猪槽滩)
Pig Trough Beach is a section of the Yanghe River, flanked by steep cliffs covered in lush vegetation. According to legend, in ancient times, a pig dragon caused trouble in the river until it was subdued by Zhang Sanfeng, an immortal passing through the area, who threw a stone trough into the river to calm it down. Today, a segment of the riverbed in the middle of the gorge is entirely composed of seamless crustal rocks, resembling pig troughs, hence the name “Pig Trough Beach.”
Sun-drying Pavilion (晒天楼)
Located atop a mountain ridge opposite Jiumen Slope, the Sun-drying Pavilion is a massive stone platform that juts out abruptly, earning the nickname “hanging in the sky at the summit.” It overlooks a cliff that drops a hundred meters below. Sitting on this platform feels like floating amidst the clouds, with the constant fear of a sudden plunge. Legend has it that in ancient times, a young couple deeply in love faced opposition from their families. Unable to be together, they tragically chose to end their lives by leaping hand in hand from this cliff. After their deaths, they were said to have transformed into azaleas, their tears staining the mountainside red. This tragic tale has left a mark on the landscape, evoking sympathy from all who hear it.
Vlog about Guilan Mountain
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Hiking Trail and Duration:
The hike to the base of the main waterfall usually takes around 1 hour via the trail. For the return journey, you can opt for the lower path, which may lead you to another waterfall at the foot of the mountain. The entire hike, including water play and breaks, typically takes about 5 hours.
Camping and Outdoor Activities:
If you plan to camp or have a barbecue outdoors and have a lot of equipment to carry, consider hiring locals to help you transport your gear up the mountain. The cost for this service usually ranges from 50 to 100 yuan, depending on the amount of equipment and distance.
Near the waterfall point, there are multiple flat camping grounds available. You can choose a suitable spot based on your preferences. Additionally, there are two restrooms and a garbage collection center provided for visitors’ convenience.
Before it gets dark, there is a small shop available where you can purchase essentials such as water and instant noodles. They may also offer tent rentals if needed.
