Zhenyuan

Introducing Zhenyuan

Zhenyuan County, located in the Wuling Mountains in eastern Guizhou Province, belongs to Qiandongnan Prefecture. The Wuyang River flows through the city from west to east, creating a unique Tai Chi-shaped ancient city landscape: "Nine mountains embrace a river, and one river divides the city into two." Hailed by tourists from both China and abroad as the "Venice of the East," Zhenyuan County is known as the "Venice of the East."

Zhenyuan, with its unique geographical location, is known as the "key to Yunnan and Hubei, and the gateway to eastern Guizhou." It was also a crucial stop on the Southern Silk Road, connecting the central plains of Hunan and Hubei to Yunnan and Guizhou, and on to Myanmar, India, and other Southeast Asian countries. Parts of its historic "Eight Great Halls" and "Twelve Opera Houses" remain intact today, fostering a unique and inclusive culture. Zhenyuan is the birthplace of China's national heavy industry. The Qingxi Ironworks, a joint-stock enterprise founded by Li Hongzhang and Zhang Zhidong during the Westernization Movement, still stands in Zhenyuan, offering visitors a glimpse into its former glory.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Best time to travel in spring and autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended 1-day tour

Zhenyuan Ancient Town

Established as a county in the fifth year of Emperor Gaozu of the Han Dynasty, Zhenyuan boasts a history of over 2,200 years, making it the oldest city on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. Zhenyuan's mother river, the Wuyang River, flows through the city in an S-shaped pattern, forming the Bagua diagram. This is why Zhenyuan is also known as the Bagua Ancient Town.

Wuyang River

The Wuyang River, located in Zhenyuan, Shibing, and Huangping counties near Kaili City, encompasses scenic spots such as the Wuyang River Three Gorges, Yuntai Mountain, Tiexi River, and the ancient city of Zhenyuan. It blends natural landscapes, historical sites, and ethnic customs, with unique karst landforms along its banks. Lush waters, precipitous peaks, and unique gorges are the defining characteristics of the Wuyang River.

Guizhou Gaoguohe Scenic Area

The Gaoguohe Scenic Area is a canyon-style tourist destination, comprised of primeval forest gorges, deep pools, treacherous rapids, and cascading waterfalls. Within its 40 square kilometers, the scenic area boasts a rich natural botanical garden of towering ancient trees, exotic flowers, and diverse plants.

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Most Popular FAQs for Zhenyuan

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Zhenyuan, located in Southeast Guizhou, is a historic city with over 2,000 years of history. It was once a strategic town during the Tang Dynasty and later became an important cultural and trade center in the region. Zhenyuan is famous for its ancient buildings, particularly the Dragon and Tiger Temple, as well as its picturesque landscape along the Wuyang River.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Zhenyuan is located in the southeastern part of Guizhou Province. To get there, you can take a train or long-distance bus from Guiyang, the provincial capital, which is about 2-3 hours away by car. Once in Zhenyuan, you can easily explore the town by walking or taking a local taxi.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Zhenyuan is open for visitors year-round, with the best times to visit being from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild. Avoid visiting during the peak summer months (June to August), as it can be crowded and hot.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Zhenyuan's main attractions like the Dragon and Tiger Temple is generally around 30-50 RMB (4-7 USD). Tickets can be purchased on-site, and online booking options may also be available, especially during peak seasons.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary, except during major holidays and peak tourist seasons (April to October). It is advisable to book 1-2 days in advance if visiting during these times.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Zhenyuan, including the ancient town, temples, and scenic spots, you will need about 2-3 days. A day trip can cover the main highlights, but to enjoy the area at a leisurely pace, 2 days is recommended.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Dragon and Tiger Temple, one of the most iconic landmarks in Zhenyuan.
• The ancient streets and buildings of Zhenyuan Old Town, showcasing traditional architecture.
• The Wuyang River, where you can enjoy boat rides and see the stunning karst landscape.
• Mountains and temples surrounding the town, offering hiking opportunities and panoramic views.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available for larger groups, though it is advisable to check in advance. Audio guides are less common but can be found in some attractions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the top of the Dragon and Tiger Temple, you can get a panoramic view of the town and surrounding mountains.
• The Wuyang River offers great photography opportunities, especially during boat rides and at sunrise/sunset.
• The old streets of Zhenyuan, with their traditional buildings, provide great shots of ancient architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by visiting the Dragon and Tiger Temple for panoramic views.
• Take a boat ride along the Wuyang River to enjoy the natural beauty.
• Stroll through the ancient streets and visit the Miao ethnic villages for cultural experiences.
• End your visit with a hike to one of the surrounding mountains for more views and tranquility.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, there are no night tours or light shows available in Zhenyuan, though the old town can be charming to explore at night. Special cultural performances may be available during festivals or peak seasons.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Zhenyuan can be crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially during the spring and autumn seasons. Weekdays during the off-season (November to February) are the least crowded times to visit.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities such as toilets, food vendors, and water stations around the main attractions. Small shops sell local snacks and souvenirs. Rest areas are available for visitors to relax during their sightseeing.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Zhenyuan is mostly accessible for elderly and children, especially the main town areas. However, some of the mountainous regions and temple sites may be challenging to reach due to steep paths or stairs. Wheelchair access may be limited in certain areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted in Zhenyuan. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller vendors, so it's good to carry cash or use mobile payment apps.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are various local restaurants and cafes in Zhenyuan offering regional Guizhou dishes, such as spicy hotpot and rice noodles. In the old town area, you’ll find small eateries with local snacks and drinks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is available in many local restaurants. Vegan options may be limited but can be found at some places. Halal food may be harder to find, but larger towns nearby may offer more options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several budget and mid-range hotels in Zhenyuan Old Town, including Zhenyuan Hotel and some guesthouses.
• For more upscale options, you can stay in larger hotels on the outskirts of the town.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Huangguoshu Waterfall, located about 2-3 hours from Zhenyuan, is one of the largest waterfalls in China and a popular day-trip destination.
• Fanjing Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another notable destination within a 3-4 hour drive.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops around the old town selling traditional Miao ethnic crafts, tea, and local snacks. Popular souvenirs include embroidered textiles, handmade jewelry, and carved wooden items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Zhenyuan, you can take a bus or train to nearby cities such as Guiyang or Anshun. Taxis and local buses are available to continue to other attractions like Huangguoshu Waterfall or Fanjing Mountain.