Pingshan Grand Canyon (屏山峡谷), named for its expansive mountain top and towering cliffs, is a stunning testament to nature’s artistry. Nestled within its wide expanse are picturesque homesteads surrounded by lush fields, serene ponds, and meandering paths adorned with mulberry trees and bamboo groves.
What sets Pingshan apart are the deep ravines that encircle its sides, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. Vertical cliffs soar into the sky, reaching heights that exceed 1000 meters, carving out a rare and magnificent canyon with meandering rivers and towering peaks. The Dragon Abyss Gorge, the Avoidance Gorge, and the Carved Cliff Gorge stand as testament to the whimsical hand of nature, with their bizarre and captivating rock formations reminiscent of sculpted masterpieces.
Spanning nearly 20 kilometers in length from north to south and less than 5 kilometers wide from east to west, Pingshan showcases a diverse array of terrain. Its unique topography, where cliffs loom tall and streams wind their way through, creates an unparalleled vista of canyons and crevices. The grandeur of the landscape, the beauty of its waters, and the sheer ruggedness of its cliffs render Pingshan Grand Canyon an unforgettable destination for any adventurer seeking the marvels of nature’s craftsmanship.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Pingshan Grand Canyon
- Vlog about Pingshan Grand Canyon
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in Enshi Suburbs
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 210 RMB including the admission and ferry service |
| Opening Hours | 8.30 – 15.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0718-5282222 |
Location and Transportation
Pingshan Grand Canyon is located in Hefeng County, Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hubei Province, China. For visitors arriving from other areas, reaching Pingshan Grand Canyon is convenient. Firstly, take a high-speed train to Enshi Laifeng Railway Station. From there, transfer to a tourist shuttle bus directly available at the station. This shuttle bus service is specifically designed to transport tourists to the Pingshan Tourist Scenic Area, and the journey typically takes around an hour.
Highlights of Pingshan Grand Canyon
Tusi Culture
In 2006, the Rongmei Tusi Site was recognized as the sixth batch of national key cultural relics protection units by the Chinese State Council. Among the various Tusi manors, the Pingshan Tusi Manor Site stands out as the largest and most renowned among the Rongmei Tusi sites discovered in Hefeng. Tusi culture, characterized by regional chieftain governance, is deeply embedded in the history of Pingshan, reflecting the grandeur and influence of the Tusi rulers in the area.
Red Culture
In February 1930, before the eastward advance of the Red Fourth Army, He Long established the Xiang-E Border Area Military Hospital on this treacherous terrain. This location, equipped with an arsenal and clothing factory, became the largest medical and military supply base for the Red Army in the Xiang-E Border Area at that time. Pingshan thus holds a unique place in history as a crucial medical and logistical hub for the Red Army, infusing the canyon with the rich hues of red culture and legendary tales from a pivotal era.
Tujia Social Rice
Social rice, a traditional food offering, is a significant element in the cultural practices of Chinese ethnic groups such as the Tujia, Miao, and Dong. Consumed mainly on the fifth day after the beginning of spring, known as the “Wu Ri,” people engage in rituals like “passing the social rice” to pray for a prosperous year, abundant harvests, and overall family harmony. As the fifth day belongs to the Earth element, it becomes a day dedicated to worshiping the Earth deity. The local custom of celebrating this day with social rice adds a unique cultural flavor to Pingshan, connecting the present with ancient traditions and reinforcing the spiritual significance of the land.
Vlog about Pingshan Grand Canyon
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Photography Opportunities:
- Floating Wooden Boat: You can rent a regular wooden boat for 20 yuan per person, which includes a photographer for 30 yuan. For two people, it’s 30 yuan without a photographer and 40 yuan with one. The photography session lasts for 1-2 minutes, and the photographer will guide you on posing.
- Kayaking: You have the option to paddle the kayak yourself for 78 yuan for half an hour. However, the river channel is only about 20 meters long, and it can be crowded.
Avoid Bad Weather: If the weather is not good, it’s advisable not to visit. After rainfall or during the days following rain, the water can be muddy, affecting the clarity of the views. Additionally, for photos with a perspective effect, it’s best to visit on a sunny afternoon. The afternoon sunlight is most beautiful due to the canyon blocking the light in the morning.
