Water Curtain Cave in Anshun

Water Curtain Cave at Huangguoshu Waterfall: Walk Behind One of Asia’s Most Spectacular Waterfalls

Nestled within the Huangguoshu Waterfall Scenic Area (黄果树瀑布景区)—home to China’s largest and one of Asia’s most iconic waterfalls—Water Curtain Cave (水帘洞) is more than a natural cave. It is a legendary adventure brought to life.

The cave became famous as a filming location for the classic 1986 television adaptation of Journey to the West, in which it represented the mythical home of the Monkey King. Stretching approximately 134 meters behind the thundering waterfall, this naturally formed cave offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience: walking through a curtain of rushing water, looking out through cascading streams, and standing where sky, water, and rock merge into a surreal landscape.

Unlike conventional waterfall viewpoints, Water Curtain Cave allows visitors to step directly behind the falls and experience the power of nature from within. You can feel the cool mist on your skin, hear the deafening roar of the 101-meter-wide waterfall, and watch dynamic rainbows dance across the spray. Combining Chinese mythology, karst geology, natural beauty, and adventure, it is widely regarded as the crown jewel of Huangguoshu and one of the most unforgettable attractions in Anshun (安顺).

🌊 Unforgettable Experiences: Walk Through a Waterfall

The magic of Water Curtain Cave lies in its extraordinary viewing perspective. Six natural cave windows, five spacious chambers, and three underground springs form a fascinating passage that feels both wild and dreamlike.

Behind-the-Waterfall Viewing

Follow the narrow, mist-covered path carved into the cliff behind Huangguoshu Waterfall (黄果树瀑布). As you walk through the cave, the 77.8-meter-high cascade crashes down only a few meters away, creating a shimmering curtain of water between you and the outside world.

Through the cave’s natural windows, visitors can watch the waterfall plunge into Rhinoceros Pool (犀牛潭) below. The view is both dramatic and surreal, creating the sensation of floating between the cave, the waterfall, and the open valley.

Dynamic Rainbow Spectacle

On sunny days, usually between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, sunlight passes through the dense waterfall mist and produces vivid, constantly changing rainbows. The colorful arcs appear to move with the spray and can sometimes seem close enough to touch.

This natural phenomenon is traditionally described as “Snow Reflecting River Clouds” and is considered one of China’s most spectacular natural light displays. It also provides excellent opportunities for memorable travel photography and Instagram-worthy images.

Journey to the West Nostalgia

Fans of Journey to the West will enjoy discovering elements inspired by the legendary home of the Monkey King, including stone carvings, murals, and replicas connected with the famous story.

Even visitors unfamiliar with the novel or television series can appreciate the cave’s mysterious atmosphere. Surrounded by rushing water, shadowy rock formations, and drifting mist, the passage feels like a scene from an ancient Chinese fairy tale.

Natural Karst Formations

Along the route, visitors can admire unusual karst formations created by millions of years of water erosion. Highlights include formations known as “Hanging Cactus,” featuring stalactites shaped like desert plants, and “Ancient Banyan Roots,” where twisting rock patterns resemble the exposed roots of an old banyan tree.

These formations reveal the geological history of the cave and demonstrate how flowing water has gradually shaped the limestone landscape of Huangguoshu.

⭐ Why Water Curtain Cave Is a Must-Visit in Anshun

A World-Rare Waterfall Perspective

Very few places in the world allow visitors to walk directly behind a waterfall nearly 78 meters high. Travelers frequently describe Water Curtain Cave as the highlight of Huangguoshu and a true bucket-list experience.

The attraction offers an unusual opportunity to interact with nature in a way that feels both intimate and monumental. Instead of simply observing the waterfall from a distance, visitors can hear, feel, and almost touch its power.

Strong Cultural Significance

As an internationally recognized Journey to the West filming location, Water Curtain Cave connects Chinese mythology with universal themes of exploration, courage, and adventure.

It is especially meaningful for international travelers who want to experience a famous natural landscape while also learning about one of China’s most influential literary and television traditions.

Suitable for Visitors of Different Ages

Although the cave route includes some gentle climbing and narrow sections, it is accessible to most visitors. Children often enjoy the mist, flowing water, and colorful rainbows, while adults are impressed by the overwhelming power and scale of the waterfall.

Free rain ponchos are normally provided to help visitors stay dry, although some spray and mist are part of the experience and add to the sense of adventure.

Easy to Combine with Other Huangguoshu Attractions

Water Curtain Cave is located within the main Huangguoshu Waterfall Scenic Area and can easily be included in a full-day visit.

Other major attractions nearby include the karst valleys, stone forests, streams, and natural bridges of Tianxingqiao Scenic Area (天星桥景区), as well as Doupotang Waterfall (陡坡塘瀑布). Together, these sites provide a comprehensive introduction to the dramatic natural landscapes of Anshun.

📍 Practical Information for Visitors

Location

Water Curtain Cave is located in the core area of Huangguoshu Scenic Area, within Zhenning Buyei and Miao Autonomous County (镇宁布依族苗族自治县), Anshun City, Guizhou Province.

Cave entrance coordinates: 25.9936°N, 105.6971°E

The coordinates can be used with Google Maps or Apple Maps. International visitors may also search for “Water Curtain Cave Huangguoshu.”

Opening Hours

During the peak season from April to October, the scenic area is generally open from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

During the off-season from November to March, opening hours are generally 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. The last entry is usually approximately one hour before closing.

Opening hours may be adjusted because of weather conditions, visitor capacity, maintenance, or scenic-area management requirements.

Tickets and Scenic-Area Transport

Admission to Water Curtain Cave is included in the Huangguoshu Scenic Area Pass, and no separate cave entrance ticket is normally required.

The adult scenic-area pass, usually valid for two days, costs approximately RMB 220, or about USD 31. A discounted pass of approximately RMB 110 may be available for eligible students, seniors aged 60–69, and children between 1.2 and 1.4 meters tall.

Free admission may be available for children under 1.4 meters, seniors aged 70 and above, active military personnel, and visitors with disabilities. Valid identification or supporting documents are required.

A sightseeing bus ticket costing approximately RMB 50 is mandatory for most visitors. The shuttle network connects the major attractions within the large scenic area and is essential for traveling between Huangguoshu Waterfall, Tianxingqiao, Doupotang Waterfall, and other sightseeing zones.

Transportation from Anshun

From downtown Anshun, take a direct bus from Anshun East Bus Station (安顺汽车东站) to Huangguoshu. The journey takes approximately one hour and costs around RMB 22.

After arriving at the scenic area, transfer to the internal sightseeing bus for transportation to the main waterfall and Water Curtain Cave entrance.

Transportation from Guiyang

From Guiyang (贵阳), take a high-speed train to Anshun West Railway Station (安顺西站). The train journey takes approximately 30 minutes and costs around RMB 46.

Direct shuttle buses from Anshun West Railway Station to Huangguoshu usually take approximately one hour and cost around RMB 22.

Transportation from Nearby Hotels

Many hotels, guesthouses, and resorts around Huangguoshu provide complimentary or scheduled shuttle services to the scenic-area entrance. Visitors should confirm departure times and reservation requirements with their accommodation in advance.

💡 Water Curtain Cave Travel Tips

Wear Non-Slip Shoes

The cave path is constantly wet, and some sections can be slippery because of waterfall spray and underground water. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are strongly recommended. High heels, smooth-soled shoes, and open sandals should be avoided.

Use a Rain Poncho

Free ponchos are generally provided near the entrance, but bringing your own lightweight raincoat can offer better protection. Visitors carrying cameras, mobile phones, passports, or other valuable items should also use waterproof bags or protective covers.

Arrive Before the Main Crowds

Try to reach Water Curtain Cave before 9:00 AM, especially during weekends, public holidays, and the peak travel season. Waiting times can reach one hour when visitor numbers are high.

An early arrival also provides a more comfortable walking experience and better opportunities for taking photographs through the cave windows.

Protect Your Camera and Mobile Phone

The mist behind the waterfall is heavy, and water droplets can quickly cover cameras and phone screens. A waterproof camera, waterproof phone case, or sealed protective pouch is highly recommended.

Keep a dry cloth available for cleaning the lens before taking photographs.

Allow Enough Time

Allow approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to explore Water Curtain Cave and the immediate waterfall area. Visitors planning to see the major attractions throughout Huangguoshu Scenic Area should reserve at least 3 to 4 additional hours.

A full-day visit is recommended for travelers who also want to explore Tianxingqiao Scenic Area and Doupotang Waterfall.

Language Assistance

English signs are available at several important locations within the scenic area. Staff members at major entrances, ticket counters, and visitor-service centers may also be able to assist with basic questions in English.

For a smoother visit, international travelers can save the Chinese names 水帘洞, 黄果树瀑布, and 犀牛潭 on their phones to show drivers or scenic-area staff when necessary.