Shizhu, Chongqing

Qianye Grassland: A Karst Wonderland of Stone Forests and Firethorn Seas in the Clouds

🚙Road Trip 📸Photography 🏕️Camping 🛤️Highland Aesthetics(高原美学)

Altitude

1,300m

Best Time

🌸 ☀️ 🍂

Ticket

Paid

ℹ️

About This Attraction

Qianye Grassland, located in the Shizhu Tujia Autonomous County of Chongqing, is a spectacular ecological gem hidden in the hinterland of the Wuling Mountains. Situated at an average altitude of 1,300 to 1,500 meters and covering an area of over 6,600 hectares, it is renowned as a "Karst Large Grassland" that uniquely combines the rugged magnificence of northern prairies with the delicate beauty of southern landscapes. Unlike typical flat grasslands, Qianye offers a multi-dimensional scenery characterized by the harmonious interweaving of "mountains holding grass, grass hiding stones, and stones growing trees." This creates a distinctive landscape where thousands of white limestone rocks are scattered across emerald meadows like flocks of sheep, earning it the reputation of having "Ten Thousand Acres of Stone Forest".

The name "Qianye" is derived from the local dialect, depicting the wild and vast nature of the grassland dotted with thousands of stones. Culturally, this land is steeped in the traditions of the Tujia and Miao people who have lived and grazed their livestock here for generations. One of the most iconic features of Qianye Grassland is the "Ten Thousand Acres of Firethorn" (Pyracantha). These shrubs, locally known as "Red Army Grain" for their historical significance as a food source during hard times, transform the landscape into a breathtaking sea of red berries during autumn and winter, contrasting vividly with the white snow or green grass.

1.Visitors to Qianye: Grassland can explore a variety of natural wonders. The Forest Sinkhole (Tiankeng) is a massive natural pit hidden within the grassland, surrounded by dense primitive forests that create a mysterious "hole in the sky" effect. For those seeking activity, the grassland features a racecourse for horse riding, tracks for mountain biking, and designated areas for camping. The campsite is known for its high-quality water sources and lack of light pollution, making it a premier destination for stargazing and enjoying the tranquility of the plateau night. whether strolling through the mist-shrouded stone forest in the morning or capturing the golden hues of the sunset over the firethorn bushes, Qianye Grassland offers a retreat into a world where stone and wood, wildness and serenity coexist in perfect harmony.

✨ Why Visit Qianye Grassland

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Karst Stone Forest on Grassland

Marvel at the unique geological landscape where thousands of strange limestone rocks are scattered across vast green meadows, creating a "stone forest" effect that perfectly blends rock and vegetation.

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Ten Thousand Acres of Firethorn

Witness the spectacular transformation of the landscape in autumn and winter when the firethorn bushes burst into a sea of bright red berries, offering a stunning visual contrast known as "Red Army Grain".

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Forest Sinkhole (Tiankeng)

Explore a massive, mysterious natural sinkhole surrounded by dense primitive forests, offering a unique geological adventure and a glimpse into the earth's depths.

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Highland Camping & Stargazing

Enjoy a peaceful night under the stars at one of the dedicated campsites, known for their clear air, high visibility, and serene environment perfect for astronomy enthusiasts.

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Tujia Ethnic Culture

Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Tujia people who inhabit this region, adding a layer of historical and human warmth to the wild natural scenery.

Location & Nearby

📍 Shizhu, Chongqing • 🏔️ 1300m elevation

Frequently Asked Questions - Qianye Grassland Travel Guide

Where is Qianye Grassland located?

It is located in Shizhu Tujia Autonomous County, Chongqing Municipality, in the southeastern part of Chongqing.

What is the best time to visit? The best time is from May to October. May to August offers lush green grass and wildflowers with cool temperatures (avg. 20°C). September to October is ideal for seeing the red firethorn berries and autumn colors. Winter offers snow scenery.

What activities are available? Visitors can enjoy sightseeing, photography, camping, horse racing, mountain biking, karting, and exploring geological features like the stone forest and sinkhole.

Is it suitable for camping? Yes, Qianye Grassland is a well-known camping destination with designated campsites and good water sources, making it excellent for outdoor stays.

What is the altitude? The average altitude is approximately 1,300 to 1,500 meters.

Why do you include Chinese characters and Pinyin in the descriptions for Qianye Grassland?

We provide the original Chinese names and Pinyin to make your travel smoother. Since English is rarely spoken in remote parts of Western China, you can easily show these Chinese names to local taxi drivers, hotel staff, or police when asking for help, or copy-paste them directly into Chinese navigation apps like Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Maps.