Yuanmou Earth Forest after 4 p.m., when the pillars turn gold
Yuanmou county, northern Chuxiong
Wind and rain have carved thick layers of ancient sand, gravel and clay into a maze of pillars, towers and cones. The Wumao area has a walking trail through the formations, and the landscape is often used as a film location. Late-afternoon light brings out the reds and yellows; at noon it looks flat.
What locals sayMost posts say to go late in the afternoon and stay for sunset, when the colors are at their best.
- Cost
- About ¥70
- Time
- 2 hours · 4 p.m. to sunset
- In Chinese
- 元谋土林 物茂土林
Based on what locals and regular visitors share, checked against current sources · Updated September 2026. Details change — check opening times locally.
