China Rock Climbing

Rock climbing, often called the “ballet on the cliffs,” originated from mountaineering and combines technical skill, adventure, and artistic movement. It challenges strength, endurance, coordination, and mental focus, making it one of the most thrilling extreme sports.

With Speed climbing debuting as an official event at the 2024 Paris Olympics, climbing is gaining global attention. China, with its diverse landscapes, is rapidly emerging as a world-class climbing destination. From the karst peaks of Guilin and picturesque outdoor cliffs in Yangshuo, to modern indoor climbing gyms in Beijing and Shanghai, and rugged natural crags in Sichuan and Yunnan, climbers of all levels can find suitable challenges. Thanks to its distinctive geography, China has become a hotspot for passionate climbers worldwide.

Top China Rock Climbing Destinations for Passionate Climbers: 

1. Getu River (格凸河), Ziyun, Guizhou — Traditional Free Climbing & Karst Wall Experience

Getu River in central Guizhou is renowned internationally for its extraordinary karst landscape and abundant rock walls. The area combines rivers, caves, stone forests, and cliffs, creating a dramatic and challenging environment for climbers.
Free climbing here has a long history, dating back to ancient cliff burials. Locals developed impressive free-climbing skills to place coffins in cliffside caves, a tradition preserved by the so-called “Spider Men.” Beyond burials, they also harvested natural nitrates from cliffs to make gunpowder, a survival skill passed down for centuries.
Today, Getu River offers over 200 climbing routes, ranging from 5A to 9A+, including advanced lines designed by international climbing champions and many routes created by local climbers. Certified by the International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation as a “Climbing Mecca,” it attracts climbers from over 30 countries, including Spain, France, and Austria.
Climbers visiting Getu River can experience world-class rock climbing while immersing themselves in the traditional Miao culture and stunning natural scenery—a rare combination of extreme sport and cultural adventure in China.

Address: Getu River Scenic Area, Ziyun Miao and Buyei Autonomous County, Guizhou Province

2. Liming Village (黎明村) — Asia’s Largest Traditional Climbing Site

Liming Village in Yulong Naxi Autonomous County is part of “Yangshuo’s Sport Climbing Zone,” surrounded by towering red sandstone cliffs. Cracks formed by erosion are ideal for traditional climbing. In 2010, American climber Michael Dobie and Chinese climber Zhou Lei introduced traditional climbing here, making it Asia’s largest traditional climbing site.
With over 500 routes ranging from 5.8 to 5.13, varied crack types, solid rock, and pleasant weather for nine months a year, Liming Village has become a pilgrimage site for climbers of all levels who want high-quality rock climbing amidst stunning scenery.

Address: Liming Lisu Township, Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Guangxi

3. Yue Zhao Rock Field (月照岩场), Liupanshui, Guizhou — World-Class Karst Climbing

Yue Zhao Rock Field in Liupanshui, Guizhou, is set in a typical karst region with abundant natural rock walls. The Niubidong area is famous for its pristine cliffs and diverse climbing styles. Covering around 200,000 m², the grey-white rocks have honeycomb-shaped holes formed by rain erosion, offering natural holds suitable for climbers from beginners to professionals.
The site features over 300 climbing routes, including three five-star climbing areas and Guizhou’s only outdoor international standard artificial climbing wall. Wangdiao Cliff hosted the 2023 Climbing Invitational, showcasing world-class natural rock. A 666-meter Via Ferrata route with high drops and hanging paths provides an exhilarating outdoor adventure.
Yue Zhao Rock Field integrates mountains, water, rocks, and scenery, with vertical cliffs and solid rock, making it a unique, world-class climbing destination in China. Excellent facilities ensure climbers enjoy both challenge and comfort.

Address: Shuangdong Village, Yue Zhao Street, Zhongshan District, Liupanshui City, Guizhou Province

4. Baishan mountain Rock Field (白山岩场), Yangshuo, Guangxi — China’s Top Climbing Challenge

Baishan Rock Field is one of the most challenging Yangshuo rock climbing destinations in China. Its famous “China Climb (中国攀)” (5.14a) route, first ascended by Liu Yongbang in 2008, remains the country’s first 5.14-grade route. The 27-meter cliff with a 30° overhang and solid white limestone is perfect for passionate climbers.
The field offers over 100 routes for climbers of all levels, attracting many domestic and international climbers, making it a premier destination for climbing enthusiasts in China.

Address: Lexiang Village, Gaotian Town, Yangshuo County, Guilin City, Guangxi Province

5. Moon Hill (月亮山), Yangshuo — Classic Climbing Site & Historical Landmark

Moon Hill is a natural wonder in Yangshuo with a giant arch at its peak resembling a full moon. Its towering, stable cliffs suit climbers of all skill levels. Routes range from 5a to 7c, including iconic climbs such as Moon Hill Cave, Yangjiao Peak (Ram’s Horn Peak), Chuan Yan Peak (Pierced Rock Peak), and Jinmao Chudong Peak (Golden Cat Emerging Peak).
Moon Hill is not only a climber’s paradise but also a historic site for outdoor rock climbing in China. China’s first outdoor climbing route was established here in 1972, and in 1990, Todd Skinner from the USA opened China’s first sport climbing route, making Moon Hill the birthplace of outdoor climbing in Yangshuo.

Address: Fenglou Village, Gaotian Township, Yangshuo County, Guilin City, Guangxi Province

6. Guoliang Wanshan (郭亮万仙), Henan — China’s First National Climbing Park

Guoliang Wanshan in Huixian, Henan, is China’s first “National Climbing Park,” covering 64 km² with a peak elevation of 1,672 meters. The park features majestic red cliffs and U-shaped valleys, with over 95% forest coverage.
With more than 300 climbing routes across various difficulty levels, including professional and amateur options, Wanshan offers an ideal playground for climbers. As a national 4A scenic area, forest park, and geopark, it attracts climbing enthusiasts from China and abroad.

Address: Taihang Mountains, Northwest Huixian, Henan Province

7. Yingxi Karst Peaks (英西峰林), Guangdong — “Little Guilin” Climbing Paradise

Yingxi Karst Peaks in Yingde, Guangdong, is a valley surrounded by mountains, reminiscent of Guilin’s landscape. Limestone conditions here are perfect for climbing, and routes have been developed since 2002. Today, multiple routes ranging from 5.8 to 5.13 attract climbers seeking challenges.
The climbing areas are mainly concentrated in Huanghua Town, with two cliffs in Jiulong Town. Routes are diverse, primarily sport climbing, with some traditional and multi-pitch lines. Peaks and caves also offer hiking opportunities, appealing to outdoor adventurers.

Address: Jiulong, Huanghua, Yanbei Towns, Yingde City, Guangdong Province

8. Sanjia Climbing Town (三甲攀岩小镇), Mashan, Guangxi — Professional Climbing & Via Ferrata

Sanjia Climbing Town, located in Guling Town, Mashan County, Nanning, Guangxi, is China’s first climbing-themed sports town. Nestled in typical karst terrain with serene surroundings, mountains, rivers, caves, and cliffs, it is ideal for outdoor adventure and extreme sports.
The area currently features over 500 professional climbing routes, ranging from 5.7 to 5.14 in difficulty, with 42 routes certified by the International Climbing Federation, covering both traditional and sport climbing. Cliffs average 35 meters in height, with a maximum drop of 112 meters and rock hardness of Mohs 6.5. Two Via Ferrata routes, totaling 1.2 km, combine vertical climbing and hanging walkways, suitable for general visitors.
Sanjia Climbing Town also hosts a national climbing school, training center, and outdoor climbing base, providing professional training and diverse experiences. A scenic riverside leisure area lets climbers enjoy nature while experiencing the thrill and fun of rock climbing

Address: Yangshan Village, Sanjia, Guling Town, Mashan County, Nanning City, Guangxi Province

Discover premier China climbing destinations and design your bespoke climbing adventure, blending world-class crags with rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert climber, China offers unique routes, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural heritage.