Hou'er Tiankeng Guide | Giant Swing, Monkey Ear Sinkhole, Guiyang

Hou'er Tiankeng Scenic Area (Monkey Ear Sinkhole) is a striking geological formation and adventure destination located in Shitou Village, Kaiyang County, Guiyang City, Guizhou Province. Approximately 80 kilometers from downtown Guiyang, this massive karst sinkhole draws visitors for two distinct reasons: its remarkable shape that resembles a monkey’s ear when viewed from above, and the high-adrenaline Giant Swing that launches participants over a 280-meter drop.

Unlike many purely scenic sinkholes in China, Hou'er Tiankeng has developed into what outdoor enthusiasts call “China’s Super Natural Adventure Park.” The combination of a well-preserved primeval ecosystem at the bottom, cliffside hiking trails, and extreme sports makes it a compelling stop for travelers who want more than a quick photo from a platform. This guide covers what to expect, how to plan a visit, and whether this spot matches your travel style.

Where Is Hou'er Tiankeng and How to Get There

Hou'er Tiankeng is situated in Shitou Village, Kaiyang County, about 80 km northeast of Guiyang city center. The drive typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on road conditions and traffic.

Public transport options exist but require a transfer: take a bus from Guiyang’s Jinyang Bus Station to Kaiyang County, then a local minibus or taxi to Shitou Village. Many travelers find it more convenient to join a private tour or hire a driver for the day, as the last stretch is rural.

The scenic area is not inside Guiyang city itself, so plan for a half-day or full-day excursion from the capital. If you are based in Guiyang, an early morning departure is recommended to allow enough time for both the swing activity and the hike down to the sinkhole floor.

What Makes Hou'er Tiankeng Unique? Geological Wonder and Name Origin

The name “Hou'er” (Monkey Ear) comes directly from the contour of the sinkhole’s rim. When viewed from a high cliff or via drone photography, the edge of the crater forms the shape of a long, curved monkey ear. This whimsical resemblance sets it apart from many other karst sinkholes in China, which are typically circular or oval.

Geologically, Hou'er Tiankeng is a classic karst tiankeng formed by the collapse of an ancient underground river hall. Over millions of years, water eroded limestone beneath the surface, creating a vast cavity.

When the ceiling could no longer support its own weight, it collapsed, leaving this 300-meter-wide, 280-meter-deep opening. The exposed walls reveal layered limestone strata and moss-covered rock, and the flat floor at the bottom hosts a microclimate that supports a lush, isolated forest.

This formation is not rare in Guizhou, but the combination of easy access, extreme sport infrastructure, and the unique shape makes Hou'er Tiankeng notable even among Guizhou’s many sinkholes.

Top Experiences at Hou'er Tiankeng

The Giant Cliff Swing

The Giant Swing is the headline attraction. Installed on the edge of the cliff, the swing uses a long rope system to launch participants out over the sinkhole, reaching speeds and heights that deliver a genuine free-fall sensation. Swinging over a 280-meter deep abyss with a panoramic view of the crater and surrounding peaks is the main reason adventure travelers come here.

Important considerations:

• The swing requires a certain level of physical fitness and no serious medical conditions.
• Weight and age restrictions may apply. Verify directly with the scenic area before booking.
• Weather can cause cancellations; rain or strong winds may halt the activity.
• It is not a walk-up activity. Plan to spend extra time on safety briefings and waiting for your turn.
• If you are traveling with companions who do not want to swing, there is a viewing platform at the launch point.

Cliffside Hiking Trails

For those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground, the cliff walkway is a well-built route that follows the rim of the sinkhole. The path gives you a sense of the scale of the crater—looking straight down into the dark green basin, hearing the echo of the underground river, and seeing the cliff walls rise on the opposite side.

The trail is not extremely long, but it involves steep sections and some exposed edges, with handrails and safety barriers in most vulnerable spots. Sturdy footwear is essential, and anyone with a fear of heights should assess their comfort before committing to the full loop.

Exploring the Primeval Bottom Ecosystem

A steep path descends from the rim to the bottom of the sinkhole. The walk is demanding—count on at least 30–45 minutes down, and longer coming back up. At the bottom, the environment changes dramatically. The air becomes cooler and more humid, and the dense vegetation blocks much of the sunlight. Ancient vines, ferns, and mosses cover the ground, and the sound of the underground river is constant.

This bottom ecosystem is a highlight for nature photographers and biology enthusiasts. The microclimate inside the pit differs significantly from the surrounding area, supporting species that do not grow on the surface. Exploring the floor is best done in the morning when light filters down through the opening, creating dramatic lighting.

Seasonal Waterfalls

During and after the rainy season (June to August), waterfalls cascade over the cliff edges into the sinkhole. The sight of water plunging 200 meters into the lush green basin, combined with mist rising, is one of the most photogenic moments at Hou'er Tiankeng. By late autumn and winter, the waterfalls may reduce to a trickle or stop completely, so this experience is season-dependent.

Best Time to Visit and Weather Considerations

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and lower chance of rain. The vegetation is lush in spring, while autumn brings clear skies and stable conditions for the Giant Swing.

Summer (July and August) is the rainy season—waterfalls are impressive, but trails can be slippery, and the swing may close during storms. Winter (December to February) is cooler, with less vegetation and no waterfalls, but far fewer crowds.

The scenic area is at an altitude of 1,250 meters, which is moderate. Most visitors will not notice any altitude effects, but those who are unusually sensitive to elevation may feel slight shortness of breath during the steep descent and ascent.

Who Should Visit and Who Should Skip

Ideal for:

• Adventure travelers who want a genuine extreme sport experience in a natural setting.
• Photographers interested in geological formations, contrasts of light and shadow, and drone perspectives (check local drone regulations before flying).
• Nature lovers who appreciate primary forest and karst landscapes.
• Travelers in Guiyang looking for a day trip that combines hiking and adrenaline.

Probably not for:

• Visitors with severe acrophobia (fear of heights) – even the walkway can be challenging.
• Travelers with limited mobility, as the paths are steep and uneven, and there is no elevator or cable car to the bottom.
• Families with very young children – the steep sections and edge exposure are not stroller-friendly.
• Anyone on a tight schedule who does not want to spend 4–6 hours at one site.

Safety and Preparation Tips

1. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes. The trails can be wet, especially after rain.
2. Bring water and snacks. There are limited food options at the scenic area.
3. Check weather forecasts. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or strong winds, especially if you plan to use the swing.
4. Confirm swing availability in advance. Call or message the scenic area before you travel if the swing is your primary goal.
5. Budget for a paid ticket. Hou'er Tiankeng is a paid scenic area; ticket price and inclusion of certain activities should be confirmed on arrival or through official channels.
6. Consider hiring a local guide or driver. This simplifies transport and provides up-to-date conditions without language barriers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Hou'er Tiankeng located?
It is located in Shitou Village, Kaiyang County, Guiyang City, Guizhou Province.

Why is it called "Monkey Ear" Tiankeng?
The name comes from its unique shape. When viewed from a high vantage point, the rim of the sinkhole looks like a giant monkey's ear.

What activities can I do there?
Besides sightseeing and hiking, the area is famous for extreme sports, particularly the Giant Swing (Cliff Swing), as well as cliff walking and other outdoor adventures.

How deep is the sinkhole?
The maximum depth is approximately 280 meters, and the diameter of the mouth is about 300 meters.

What is the best time to visit?
The best times are generally April to June and September to November when the weather is mild. Summers (July–August) can be wet and slippery but offer lush greenery and waterfalls.

How difficult is the hike to the bottom?
The descent is steep and takes about 30–45 minutes. The return climb is more strenuous. A moderate fitness level is expected.

Can I do the Giant Swing if I am afraid of heights?
The swing is an extreme activity. If you have significant fear of heights, it is better to enjoy the view from the platform instead.

Is there a cable car?
No cable car exists. Access to the bottom is via a hiking trail only.

Are there restaurants or shops inside the scenic area?
Basic snacks and drinks may be available at the entrance, but it is wise to carry your own food and plenty of water.

Final Thoughts

Hou'er Tiankeng stands out as a destination that offers both natural wonder and human-powered thrills. Its monkey ear shape, deep karst pit, and the signature Giant Swing create a memorable day trip from Guiyang.

The experience rewards those who are willing to hike, brace the heights, and spend time exploring the unique ecosystem at the bottom. Whether you come for the adrenaline or the geology, the sinkhole leaves a lasting impression of Guizhou's raw landscape.