"The Most Beautiful Scar on Earth": China National Geographic's Top 10 Karst Valleys

Maling River, also known as "Clear Water River," is a tributary of the Nanpan River in the upper reaches of the Pearl River. Originating from Laochang in Panzhou, Guizhou, it stretches 142.5 kilometers. Within Xingyi City, the Maling River has created an awe-inspiring miracle—a magnificent canyon over 70 kilometers long and more than 300 meters deep, hailed as "the most beautiful scar on Earth." It is home to hundreds of waterfalls of varying sizes, creating a breathtaking spectacle. In 2011, China National Geographic ranked the Maling River Canyon as one of China's top 10 most beautiful karst valleys, placing it third. [Location] Maling River Canyon Scenic Area, Xingyi City, Qianxinan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province [Transportation Guide] Take a train to Xingyi Station, then transfer to a bus (take Route 82 and transfer to Route 7, changing at the Guoshu Farm Station), which takes about 40 minutes. Take a long-distance bus from Guiyang to Xingyi, which takes about 5 hours. Alternatively, fly directly to Xingyi Wanfenglin Airport and then take a car to various attractions. Self-driving tourists, please remember to park your car in the "Dachaiwo parking lot," where parking is free. [Ticket Information] Tickets: CNY 35 per person (enjoy half-price discount under Guizhou's national scenic spot policy) Elevator: CNY 40 per person (round trip) Rafting: CNY 200 per person Visit duration: About 3 hours, possibly 4–5 hours including photography time. [Main Attractions] Wanma Pentium Waterfall Group, Sea Lion Bridge, Natural Bridge, Natural Bridge Viewing Platform, Broken Bridge, Maling River Bridge. [Accommodation Recommendations] Located only 5 km from Xingyi city center, it is recommended to stay in Xingyi city center. It is only a half-hour drive from the scenic area to the city center, which has a pleasant environment and affordable prices. In the evening, you can also go to the night market to sample Guizhou's special snacks and satisfy your taste buds. [Recommended Itinerary] Xiaoqingshan Entrance/Exit → Shuanghong Bridge → Huanglong Waterfall → Sea Lion Hall → Wanma Pentium Waterfall → Dachaiwo Entrance/Exit → Maling River Canyon Bridge. Walking route: Dachaiwo Entrance → Fork in the road → Wanma Pentium Waterfall → Back to the fork in the road → Xiaoqingshan Entrance/Exit. In addition, the surrounding Fenglin Buyi, Wanfenglin, Wanfeng Lake, and Yubulu Tiankeng Scenic Area are also worth a visit and should not be missed.