New Zealand mayor impressed by Guiyang karst scenic area

Grant Smith, mayor of Palmerston North, New Zealand, led a delegation on Oct 24 to Tianhetan Scenic Area, operated by the State-owned Guiyang Industrial Development Holding Group, saying, "We explored caves, took a boat ride, and saw so many visitors within two hours. It's amazing."

Grant Smith (right) visits the Tianhetan Scenic Area by boat on Oct 24. [Photo/official website of Guiyang Industrial Development Holding Group]

Tianhetan Tourist Resort, a national 4A-level scenic area, features distinctive karst landscapes of mountains, rivers, caves, pools, waterfalls, natural stone bridges, and canyons.

The resort's Kongling Cave, a water cave stretching about 1,200 meters, features a winding underground waterway and striking stalactite formations, while Yinhe Palace, a dry cave extending nearly 2,000 meters across three levels, is known for its varied stone curtains and stalagmites.

Smith and his delegation explored Yinhe Palace and asked the guide about cave formation and conservation. The delegation then boarded a boat and traveled along the underground river in Kongling Cave, surrounded by rugged rock walls and clear waters. Smith repeatedly described the experience as "incredible".

"I'll recommend Guiyang to more people when I return," Smith said, adding that the visit gave him a more direct impression of the city, and that he would consider bringing more delegations to Guiyang to experience its scenery and culture firsthand.