Located in Enshi City, Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hubei Province, the Enshi Grand Canyon is a national 5A-level tourist attraction covering a total area of 300 square kilometers. The core scenic area spans 35 square kilometers, with the canyon stretching 108 kilometers long, averaging 200 meters in depth and reaching up to 400 meters at its deepest point. Renowned for its majestic canyon landforms, diverse karst landscapes, and rich Tujia ethnic culture, it's hailed as a "World Geological Wonder" and the "Oriental Colorado".
History and Culture
The Enshi region where the canyon is located is home to Tujia and Miao ethnic groups, boasting a long history of ethnic culture and traditions. Numerous traditional Tujia villages and folk customs are preserved around the canyon.
Archaeological evidence shows that the Ba people inhabited this area as early as the pre-Qin period. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it became an important Tusi (chieftain) territory, leaving behind rich cultural relics. The cliffside plank path in the scenic area was originally an ancient transportation route carved by the Ba people.
The canyon region preserves unique Tujia intangible cultural heritage including stilt houses, hand-waving dances, and wedding crying customs that continue to this day.
Main Attractions
Yunlong Ground Fissure
Stretching 3.6 kilometers with an average depth of 75 meters (maximum 100 meters), this extremely rare geological formation features steep cliffs with waterfalls cascading down, creating a spectacular "Thread of Sky" view.
Seven-Star Village
At 1,500-1,900 meters above sea level, this landmark consists of seven uniquely shaped stone peaks resembling the Big Dipper. Notable formations include "The Incense Stick" and "Twin Towers".
Cliffside Plank Path
This 488-meter path suspended 300 meters vertically on a cliff face is considered "the world's most dangerous walkway". At its narrowest point (1.2 meters wide), it offers thrilling panoramic views.
Dragon Gate Stone Forest
Covering 5 square kilometers, this karst landscape features thousands of stone pillars and peaks forming a maze-like terrain, including famous formations like "Welcoming Pine" and "General Rock".
Cuisine
Enshi Potatoes
A local specialty, these potatoes have a uniquely sweet and floury texture due to the area's climate and soil. Popular preparations include pan-fried potatoes and potato with cured pork.
Tujia Cured Meat
Made from local pork through traditional salting and smoking processes, this reddish, flavorful meat can be steamed, stir-fried, or used in hot pot - a must for Tujia hospitality.
Hezha
A traditional Tujia dish of unfiltered soybean paste cooked with vegetables, known as "Tujia tofu pudding" for its creamy texture and nutritional value.
Nearby Cuisine
Farmhouse restaurants around the area offer authentic Tujia dishes like pickled peppers, oil tea soup, and corn cakes at reasonable prices.
Ticket Information
Package tickets: Peak season (Mar 1-Nov 30) 170 yuan (includes shuttle); Off-season (Dec 1-Feb 28) 130 yuan. Yunlong Ground Fissure requires separate 50 yuan ticket. Discounts available for students and seniors with ID.
Opening Hours
Open year-round 8:00-16:00 (extended to 17:00 in peak season). Shuttles operate 8:00-17:30. Allow 4-6 hours for visit.
Recommended Itinerary
One-day tour: Morning shuttle to Yunlong Ground Fissure; Lunch at visitor center; Afternoon at Seven-Star Village via cliff path; Return evening. Fit visitors can opt for hiking routes.
Transportation
- Self-drive: About 1.5 hours (60km) from Enshi via Enshi Avenue and Tunyu Highway
- Bus: Tourist shuttles from Enshi Bus Station (2 hours)
- Flight: To Enshi Xujiaping Airport, then taxi/shuttle to scenic area
Must-see Attractions
- Yunlong Ground Fissure: Rare geological wonder with spectacular waterfalls
- Seven-Star Village: Iconic landscape of seven unique stone peaks
- Cliffside Plank Path: Thrilling 300m-high walkway with canyon views
- Dragon Gate Stone Forest: Maze-like karst formations
Travel Tips
- Best seasons: Spring and autumn (Apr-Jun, Sep-Nov)
- Wear comfortable, non-slip hiking shoes for steep sections
- Use park shuttles to conserve energy in vast area
- Bring rain gear and sun protection for changeable mountain weather
- Respect local ethnic customs, especially in villages
Precautions
- Some high-altitude areas may cause altitude sickness
- Cliff path not recommended for those with acrophobia or heart conditions
- Protect environment - no littering or damaging geological features
- Spotty cell service - download offline maps in advance
- Purchase authentic local products at reputable shops
- Some trails may close in rain - check weather beforehand