Zhijin County

Introducing Zhijin County

Zhijin County is located in the Qianzhong Economic Core Area in the west-central part of Guizhou Province. It is a county under the jurisdiction of Bijie City, Guizhou Province. It is bordered by Dafang County and Qianxi County of Bijie City to the north, Qingzhen City of Guiyang City and Pingba District of Anshun City to the east, Xixiu District of Anshun City to the southeast, Puding County of Anshun City to the south, Liuzhi Special Zone of Liupanshui City to the southwest, and Nayong County of Bijie City to the west.

On September 25, 2018, it was awarded the honorary title of “2018 Comprehensive Demonstration County of E-commerce in Rural Areas” by the Ministry of Commerce.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate

The average annual temperature is 14.4℃, the highest extreme temperature is 33.5℃, the lowest is -3.0℃, the annual rainfall is 1479.3 mm, the annual sunshine time is 968.8 hours, the annual relative humidity is 80%, and the frost-free period is 342 days.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Zhijin County was designated a Guizhou provincial-level historical and cultural city in 1991. Zhijin boasts 74 cultural relics and historical sites, including the "Four Nunneries," "Four Pavilions," "Four Temples," "Four Ancestral Halls," and "Eight Great Temples," many of which date back to the Qianlong Emperor's reign during the Qing Dynasty. There are also over 20 natural attractions.

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Most Popular FAQs for Zhijin County

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

Zhijin County, located in the western part of Guizhou Province, is known for its rich history and cultural diversity. The area is home to several ethnic minorities, including the Miao and Buyi, who have preserved their unique traditions. Zhijin Cave, a natural wonder, is one of the largest and most impressive karst caves in China, attracting both tourists and researchers alike.

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

Zhijin County is located in the western part of Guizhou Province, China. To get there, you can take a bus from Guiyang (the provincial capital), which is approximately 150 kilometers away. There are no metro services in Zhijin, but taxis are available within the county for local travel.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Zhijin Cave is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November), when the weather is mild and the area is less crowded.

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

The entrance fee for Zhijin Cave is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the cave entrance, and some hotels or travel agencies in Guiyang may offer ticket packages.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for Zhijin Cave, although it may be helpful to do so during peak tourist seasons (e.g., national holidays). You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Zhijin Cave, plan for about 2 to 3 hours. This will allow enough time to enjoy the cave's main features and take a guided tour if desired.

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

Inside Zhijin Cave, must-see highlights include:

• The large main chamber, with towering stalagmites and stunning formations.
• The underground river that flows through parts of the cave.
• The various stalactites and formations, which are considered some of the most beautiful in China.

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

Guided tours are available at Zhijin Cave, and they are typically offered in Mandarin. Some English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it's best to confirm in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography in Zhijin Cave are:

• The central chamber, where the cave's largest formations can be captured.
• The entrance to the cave, where you can photograph the natural surroundings and the cave's entrance arch.
• Areas along the underground river, offering unique and dramatic lighting for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering the main chamber to see the largest stalactites and stalagmites. Then, walk along the path toward the underground river and continue to the deeper sections of the cave, where the formations become even more intricate.

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

Zhijin Cave is generally not open for night visits, and there are no light shows. However, during the day, the cave's natural lighting, combined with artificial lights, creates a dramatic effect that is ideal for exploration.

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

Zhijin Cave can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, particularly during the summer months. The least crowded times are during weekdays and in the off-season (autumn and winter).

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

Zhijin Cave has basic facilities, including toilets and a small rest area near the entrance. There are shops selling snacks and souvenirs near the entrance, and bottled water is available for purchase.

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

Zhijin Cave has some areas that are accessible to elderly and children, but the terrain can be uneven in places, so visitors should be prepared for some walking and stairs. Disabled visitors may find some parts of the cave difficult to navigate due to the natural landscape.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at Zhijin Cave, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the area. Credit cards are not commonly accepted in more remote locations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby Zhijin Cave, there are local restaurants serving traditional Guizhou dishes, such as rice noodles, spicy tofu, and hotpot. Some cafes in the area also offer basic refreshments.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants in Zhijin County. Vegan and halal options may be more limited, but some local eateries may accommodate specific dietary requirements upon request.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Zhijin County, with basic accommodations. For more luxury options, you may need to stay in Guiyang and take a day trip to Zhijin.

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

Other nearby attractions include:

• The ancient town of Zhenyuan, known for its well-preserved architecture and scenic views.
• The Wanfenglin Scenic Area, famous for its dramatic karst peaks and scenic hiking trails.
• The Maling River Gorge, a popular spot for river rafting and exploring the gorge's natural beauty.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near Zhijin Cave selling local handicrafts such as embroidered items, ethnic jewelry, and carved wooden objects. You can also find items related to the local Miao and Buyi cultures.

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

After visiting Zhijin Cave, you can return to Guiyang by bus or taxi. If you're planning to visit other attractions in Guizhou, renting a car or taking a bus to nearby scenic spots is the most convenient option.