Plan at a glance
A separate linear canyon with different north and south exits
Tianzhu Mountain Grand Canyon is in Chazhuang Village, Tianzhushan Town, Qianshan. The north gate is near Tianzhu Mountain's Chazhuang Visitor Centre, while the south gate is at the other end. The canyon is about 3 km long and follows a one-way linear route, separate from the main Tianzhu Mountain Scenic Area.
Entering from the north and exiting from the south takes about 2 hours, with more downhill walking and level sections. The south-to-north direction adds uphill walking and stairs near the start. Budget about CNY 60 for the current entrance ticket; online channels may offer discounts.
Timing, reservations and who it suits
Opening times vary by season. The canyon can usually be entered with an on-site ticket; during public holidays or special events, crowd controls may apply according to the scenic-area notice. The streamside path suits families who want waterfalls, pools and forest walking, as well as visitors looking for a half-day water-and-valley stop after the main Tianzhu Mountain route.
The north-entry route is gentler, but the valley and waterfall sections still include stairs, wet rock and a fairly long walk. With older adults or children, pay attention to walking pace and the return vehicle.
Tickets and visit details
View visit options for this attraction and confirm the visit date and current arrangements before you go.
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Waterfalls, pools and the streamside path
Tongtian Waterfall is the canyon's main sight. Rainbow Pool, Yuanyang Pool and the man-made waterfall by Taoyuan Lake Dam are also along the sightseeing area. The path follows the stream through wooded sections and suits a slower nature walk.
Water volume depends on recent rainfall, so the flow may be thin in sunny or dry periods. A rainbow also depends on water, sunlight and viewing angle; plan around the waterfall and path rather than around a guaranteed rainbow.
The easier direction and the reverse direction
North to south takes about 2 hours and includes more level walking and downhill steps, making it suitable for average fitness levels, families with children or older adults, and visitors who prefer less uphill work. South to north puts more uphill walking and stairs at the start, for visitors willing to use more energy to see the canyon from the opposite direction.
Visitors who want to get close to the water or use the designated water-play areas can stay longer. Wear shoes with good grip and bring a light rain jacket or a change of clothes.
Build your day
Recommended direction: north gate in, south gate out
Park at the north-gate car park → enter from the north gate → follow the stream past Tongtian Waterfall, Rainbow Pool, Yuanyang Pool and the Taoyuan Lake Dam area → exit at the south gate. The route is about 3 km and takes around 2 hours. Follow the open streamside path; the sections near the water usually give the clearest views of the falls and pools.
After this route, you still need to return to the north gate for the car. Public return vehicles from the south gate are limited, so drivers should arrange a shuttle or taxi in advance.
Reverse direction: south gate in, north gate out
Enter from the south gate and walk north. The opening section has more uphill walking and stairs, and you finish at the north gate. If you choose this direction, put the heavier effort at the beginning and pay attention to the day's opening time and the south-gate return options.
There are few vehicles around the south gate. Starting the reverse route close to closing time makes the return more difficult, so drivers should arrange how to get back to the north gate before setting out.
Combine it with the main Tianzhu Mountain area
The Grand Canyon can be paired with the main Tianzhu Mountain Scenic Area during a Qianshan trip, but the two have different entrances, tickets and routes. If you also plan to climb the main peak, give the canyon and the main area their own complete time blocks instead of compressing them into one route.
Get there
From Qianshan Station towards Chazhuang
From Qianshan Station, a direct scenic shuttle runs to Tianzhu Mountain's Chazhuang Visitor Centre, with a fare of about CNY 10 per person. The north gate is close to Chazhuang Visitor Centre, but public-transport visitors still need a return plan between the north and south gates.
Drivers should navigate to “Tianzhu Grand Canyon North Gate Car Park” (天柱大峡谷北门停车场). Starting from the north gate is the simplest option. Your car does not move with you to the south gate, so a return minibus or taxi must be arranged separately.
Treat the two gates as the ends of a linear route
The north gate is the main entrance and the south gate is the other end. Before entering, check the vehicle, ticket and opening arrangements at both ends. After completing the canyon, return to the north gate or continue to your next stop using the available local transport.
Know before you go
Water levels and rainbows depend on the weather
Water is usually fuller during the rainy season and after rain, but rain also creates wet paths and puddles. On a sunny day with enough water, a rainbow may appear near the falls; sunlight angle and your viewing position affect whether it is visible.
Wet paths and water-play areas
The Tongtian Waterfall, pools and streamside sections include wet steps and rock surfaces, so shoes with good grip are useful. If you use a designated water-play or waterfall-interaction area, carry a rain jacket and spare clothes; availability follows the day's on-site arrangement.
There are few supply points in the canyon, so buy water and snacks before entering. Entry usually stops before closing time; in the afternoon, allow time for both the walk and the return transfer.
Eat after leaving the canyon
Several local restaurants are available near Chazhuang Visitor Centre. If you visit the Grand Canyon and the main Tianzhu Mountain area one after the other, keep meals, car collection and the transfer between the two scenic areas as separate parts of the day.