Anshun to Kaili: A Scenic Guizhou Drive Guide

The S55 highway from Anshun to Kaili cuts through the karst landscape of central Guizhou, passing the massive Huangguoshu Waterfall. This 180-kilometer route takes around 2.5 hours, but the number of sights invites a longer journey.

The area's limestone geology dates back 200 million years, creating the dramatic peaks and caves visible from the road. The route is the most direct connection between two of Guizhou's major cities, yet it's the journey itself that offers a window into the province's rural heart.

The journey passes through the Huangguoshu Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The waterfall itself drops 77.8 meters and spans 101 meters, making it the largest in Asia. The surrounding area is a network of caves and karst formations.

Local commerce thrives along the route, with small roadside stalls selling dragon fruit (火龙果) and waxiang duck (腊香鸭). For a deeper dive into how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, check the linked guide.

Kaili is a hub for Miao and Dong ethnic cultures, with villages like Langde Shangzhai located 30 km south of the city. Traditional silverwork and batik fabrics are sold at local markets.

Fuel stations cluster at Anshun and Kaili, with a lone station 20 km east of Huangguoshu—fill your tank early. Diesel and unleaded gasoline are available, but prices are 0.5 yuan higher than in urban centers.

The S55 is a toll road; expect to pay 95 yuan for a standard car. Credit cards are accepted at toll booths, but carrying cash speeds up the process. Tolls are collected at entry, reducing congestion on the route.

• The route is part of the national expressway network; road signs are in Chinese and English.
• Average fuel cost for the trip: 80-100 yuan, depending on vehicle efficiency.
• Google Maps may not be reliable; use Amap or Baidu Maps for real-time navigation.

The S55 is a well-tarmac’d dual-carriageway with guardrails and clear signage. In winter (December-February), fog reduces visibility; use low beams and maintain a speed under 60 km/h in foggy sections. Summer (June-August) brings heavy rainfall, so check weather forecasts before departing.

The road is suitable for families, with several rest areas every 40 km featuring clean toilets and children's play equipment. For pets, the route is permitted, but pets must be crated or on a leash at stops. It's advisable to bring a mat for picnics.

Fatigue management: take breaks every hour at designated rest zones. The most scenic rest area is at Fujia Bridge, with a photogenic view of the Beipan River Gorge. Hidden off-route spots include the Duoyi Cave, a lesser-known karst cave 10 km southeast of Huangguoshu.

Things to do between Anshun and Kaili include visiting Tianlong Tunpu, a Ming-dynasty military settlement, and tasting sour fish soup (酸汤鱼) at roadside eateries—a local specialty.