2 days
Moderate
Discover the beauty and charm of Dongchuan Red Land and Nizhu River Grand Canyon on a 2-day private personalized guided tour from Kunming with a private vehicle. Visit the Dongchuan Red Land Scenic Area and the Nizhu River Grand Canyon, and take in the views from the Yunduan Glass Bridge and the 520 Observation Deck.
Day 1 - Dongchuan Red Land
Depart from Kunming in a private vehicle to the Dongchuan Red Land Scenic Area which will take around 2.5 hours. Arriving at the first stop, the Luoxiagou Scenic Spot. visitors will be greeted by a magnificent view of terraced fields. The terraces, with their red soil backdrop, are like a giant work of art created by nature. The layers of the terraces, combined with the green crops growing on them, create a vivid contrast of colors. The early morning light casts a soft glow over the area, making it an ideal spot for photography.
Next, proceed to the Jinxiuyuan (Splendid Garden) Scenic Spot. This place is a veritable palette of nature. The red soil here is interspersed with patches of yellow, green, and purple, creating a mesmerizing pattern that seems to have been painted by a master artist. Surrounded by the vast red soil, the tree forms a striking visual contrast, and its unique shape makes it a great subject for photography.
After enjoying the sunset, drive to Xuanwei city for dinner before proceeding to Nizhu River Resort Hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2 - Nizhu River Grand Canyon
Nizhu River Grand Canyon is situated near Pu Li Town in Xuanwei City, Yunnan Province. It is a tributary on the Beipan River and home of a beautiful and magical Grand Canyon in Xuanwei.
There are many things to do at the Nizhu River Grand Canyon
1) the world's longest outdoor sightseeing cliff elevator
2) the China's highest elevated cable-stayed glass suspension footbridge
3) the world's highest cantilever glass viewing platform
It is also close to:
4) the world's highest bridge -- Beipanjiang (Duge) Bridge (the bridge deck is 565.4 meters above the river surface, with a total length of 1,314.4 meters)
5) the world's 3rd highest bridge -- Puli Bridge @ 485m.
Nizhu River Yunduan Glass Bridge Experience. This is the highlight of your trip - the Nizhu River Skywalk. Take the Qingqyun Ladder, followed by a cableway ride to the impressive 365-meter-long Yunduan glass footbridge that is suspended a staggering 317 meters above the canyon. As you step onto the bridge, you'll feel a thrill of excitement and a touch of nervousness. But once you start walking, you'll be completely captivated by the panoramic views of the river, the towering cliffs, and the dense forests below. The transparent walkway gives you a truly unique perspective, as if you're floating in mid-air.
Nizhu River 520 Observation Deck Experience. From the Yunduan Glass Bridge, walk to the 520 Observation Deck at 470 meters above ground, extending 68 meters beyond the cliff).
At the end of the day, drive back to Kunming with a stopover for dinner.
Aether Tours offers a private tour combining two of Yunnan’s most stunning landscapes: Dongchuan Red Land, with its breathtaking red soil terraces, and Nizhu River Grand Canyon, a hidden natural wonder with dramatic cliffs and deep valleys. This tour is ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
WHY VISIT NIZHU RIVER GRAND CANYON?
ACCESSIBILITY & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Altitude Consideration:
Dongchuan Red Land (东川红土地) is one of China’s most stunning natural landscapes, known for its vivid red soil, golden wheat fields, and contrasting green vegetation. Often compared to a painter’s palette, this destination is a dream for photographers and nature lovers.
WHY VISIT DONGCHUAN RED LAND?
ACCESSIBILITY & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Altitude: 1,800m–2,600m – No major altitude sickness concerns, but some may experience mild dizziness.
WHY BOOK WITH AETHER TOURS?
Aether Tours specializes in curated, private travel experiences that go beyond the typical tourist routes. Whether you’re seeking stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, or hidden gems, our tours are designed to provide an authentic, hassle-free, and personalized journey.
Packing the right essentials can enhance your comfort, safety, and overall experience while traveling. Here’s a list of must-have items for any trip, including seasonal and destination-specific recommendations.
ESSENTIAL PACKING LIST
Tip: Avoid bright white or reflective clothing for photography—neutral or earthy tones blend better with the landscape.
Tip: If you are sensitive to altitude, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol before the trip.
Tip: Try local Yunnan dishes at village restaurants for an authentic experience!