Located in Zhenning Buyei and Miao Autonomous County of Anshun City, Guizhou Province, Huangguoshu Waterfall is one of China’s most famous natural wonders and one of the largest waterfall clusters in the world. Known for its grandeur, beauty, and power, it is often hailed as the “First Waterfall of China” and the largest in Asia. As a symbol of Guizhou, Huangguoshu Waterfall attracts countless visitors with its breathtaking scenery, unique karst landscape, and rich cultural heritage.
A Grand Natural Spectacle
Standing 77.8 meters high and 101 meters wide, the main waterfall of Huangguoshu resembles a silver river cascading from the heavens. During the rainy season, torrents of water roar down the cliffs with thunderous force, creating clouds of mist that can be seen from afar. When sunlight hits the drifting droplets, rainbows often appear, adding a touch of dreamlike beauty to the magnificent view.
At the foot of the waterfall lies the deep and tranquil Rhinoceros Pool. The emerald-green water mirrors the cascading curtain above, creating a serene contrast to the roaring falls. Standing near the pool, visitors can feel the mist against their skin and hear the reverberating roar of nature—a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Unique Karst Landscapes and Waterfall Cluster
The region surrounding Huangguoshu is a classic example of karst topography, shaped over millions of years by water erosion. This has given rise to a landscape of caves, gorges, and multiple waterfalls. In addition to the main fall, there are 18 smaller waterfalls in the area, collectively forming the grand Huangguoshu Waterfall Cluster.
Among them, the Doupotang Waterfall is widely known as the filming site of the famous Chinese TV series Journey to the West. It is the widest waterfall in the group, with layers of water cascading like folded silk. The Tianxingqiao scenic area features the “Stone Forest on Water,” where streams weave through peculiar limestone formations, creating an otherworldly landscape. Meanwhile, the Yinlianzhuitan (Silver Chain) Waterfall, with its slender, shining streams, embodies a softer, more graceful beauty.
The Harmony of Power and Elegance
‎Huangguoshu’s charm lies not only in its sheer power but also in its grace and versatility. In spring, blooming flowers and lush greenery adorn the cliffs, creating a scene of vitality; in summer, the waterfall reaches its most majestic form, thundering down with immense power; in autumn, golden hills and a shimmering cascade paint a tranquil, poetic picture; in winter, even as the water flow diminishes, the waterfall retains a quiet, crystal-like beauty. Each season reveals a different side of its splendor.
One of the most fascinating experiences at Huangguoshu is exploring the “Water Curtain Cave” behind the waterfall. Walking through the misty passage, visitors can look out through the curtain of falling water and feel its vibration echoing through the cave. The sound, the sight, and the cool moisture combine to create a thrilling sensory encounter with nature itself—something unique to Huangguoshu.
Culture and Legend Intertwined
Huangguoshu Waterfall is not only a natural wonder but also a place rich in legend and culture. Among the local Buyei and Miao ethnic groups, there are many ancient tales about its origin. One legend tells of a massive yellow-fruit tree that once stood here, shading the entire valley. When the earth shifted and the mountain cracked, a great river poured through, creating the waterfall that took its name—“Huangguoshu,” meaning “Yellow Fruit Tree.”
The waterfall has also inspired many writers and travelers. The great Ming Dynasty geographer Xu Xiake mentioned it several times in his travel diaries, marveling at its power and beauty. In modern times, it gained even greater fame through film and television, especially as a key location in Journey to the West, allowing audiences across China to witness its splendor.
Balancing Tourism and Ecological Protection
As tourism in Guizhou flourishes, Huangguoshu has become a world-renowned eco-tourism destination. The local government emphasizes sustainable development, ensuring that sightseeing routes and facilities coexist with the protection of water resources and vegetation. Visitors can thus enjoy the majestic scenery while also appreciating the harmony between humanity and nature. Today, Huangguoshu stands not only as a symbol of natural beauty but also as a model of ecological preservation.
Huangguoshu Waterfall, with its magnificence, grace, and mystery, is truly a masterpiece of nature—a gift from the land of Guizhou to the world. Whether you come from near or far, the moment you stand before the roaring cascade, feeling its mist and power, you will be moved by the raw force and beauty of the earth. More than a scenic attraction, Huangguoshu is a spiritual experience, a dialogue between humankind and nature. With its eternal flow, it continues to tell the story of the planet’s majesty and life’s enduring wonder.
