Live Your Best Lives
Explore the ancient ruins and historical structures within the Zhaotong Ancient Cultural Site. Visit the old temples and learn about the local culture and customs of the region. Enjoy walking through the preserved streets and gardens, which reflect the traditional architecture of the area.
The Zhaotong Ancient Cultural Site is located in Guoshandong Village, Tangfang Second Community, Beizha Town, north of Zhaotong City. The cave is over 40 meters long, over 10 meters wide, and about 5 meters high at its highest point. In 1982, the city's cultural relics survey team discovered some mammal fossils and a human tooth. The discovery of this first early Homo sapiens fossil was named "Zhaotong Man," filling the gap between the ape-man stage and the late Homo sapiens stage.
Following the discovery of Paleolithic remains within the rear cavern, a Neolithic site was discovered at the foot of a collapsed rock formation to the left of the front entrance. The cave is higher in front and lower in the back, with the site sloping inward. Numerous pottery fragments are exposed on the surface. Preliminary exploration indicates a cultural layer over a meter deep, covering an area of approximately 10 square meters. Unearthed artifacts include stone axes and adzes, both of which are crudely polished. The pottery is predominantly sand-tempered red pottery, followed by sand-tempered gray pottery, all with a rope-shaped surface. Vessel shapes include long-necked, pointed-bottom jars, single-handled, ring-footed jars, ring-bottomed bowls, small flat-bottomed cups, flared-rimmed jars, and cauldron-shaped vessels.
The plateau continental monsoon climate; Zhaotong ancient cultural relics are cultural tourist attractions, suitable for travel in all seasons.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
Free and open
Open all day
Zhaotong Ancient Cultural Site is an important historical landmark that reflects the culture and traditions of the region. The site contains ruins dating back several centuries and offers a glimpse into the life and customs of the people who once inhabited the area.
The site is located in the city of Zhaotong in Yunnan Province. You can reach the site by taxi or bus from the city center, or take a local minivan for a more direct route. Walking may be a longer option, depending on your location.
The site is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee for the Zhaotong Ancient Cultural Site is around 20-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the site or from local ticket vendors. It is recommended to buy tickets on-site, though online options may be available for group tours.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for individual visitors, but it may be advisable for larger groups or during peak tourist seasons. Typically, booking 1-2 days in advance is sufficient if you prefer a guaranteed spot.
You will need approximately 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the Zhaotong Ancient Cultural Site, including walking around the ruins, visiting the temples, and enjoying the surrounding gardens.
The must-see highlights include the ancient temples, the preserved streets with traditional architecture, and the old stone carvings that depict local history. The serene gardens and scenic views around the site are also worth a visit.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Some tours may offer English-speaking guides, though availability can vary. Audio guides are typically available in Mandarin and English, depending on the season and demand.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the ancient temple structures, where you can get panoramic views of the surrounding area. The old streets and stone carvings also offer excellent opportunities for photography.
Start by entering through the main gate, explore the ancient temple complex, and then walk through the preserved streets to admire the local architecture. End your visit by walking through the gardens for a peaceful retreat.
Night visits and light shows are generally not available at Zhaotong Ancient Cultural Site. It is recommended to visit during the day for the best experience.
The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit during weekdays, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls are available near the entrance. There are also small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs within the site.
The site is moderately accessible for elderly or disabled visitors, although some parts of the ancient ruins may involve uneven terrain or steps. It is best to check in advance for any specific accessibility requirements.
Cash is accepted at most locations within the site. Mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in the area, and some shops may also accept credit cards.
There are local restaurants and cafes around the site offering traditional Yunnan cuisine. Most of these are located in the nearby town, within walking distance from the site.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many local eateries. Halal food options are limited but can be found in some restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near the Zhaotong Ancient Cultural Site. These range from budget accommodations to mid-range hotels, many offering easy access to the site and other local attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Zhaotong Old Town and local temples. You can also explore the surrounding nature, such as the local parks and scenic areas, which are easily accessible from the site.
There are souvenir shops selling handmade crafts, local textiles, and wooden carvings. Popular souvenirs include traditional Yunnan ethnic jewelry and small statues representing local culture.
After visiting, you can take a taxi, bus, or local minivan to explore other parts of Zhaotong or to travel to nearby towns and attractions. Public transportation is available, and taxis are easily accessible from the site.
