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Yankeng Ziyun Valley is located in Lanke Mountain, southeast of Dinghu District, Zhaoqing City, within the Xijiang Lingyang Gorge Provincial Nature Reserve. Yankeng boasts a long history of mining and processing Duan inkstones. China's highest-quality Duan inkstones are produced in Ziyun Valley's three renowned pits: Laokeng, Kengzi, and Mazikeng. Here, visitors can admire the millennium-old pits where inkstone was mined during the Tang Dynasty, and admire the annual bloom of the Lanke Fairy Bell (Cyclops davidiana). The area also boasts a cable bridge, an outdoor development area, a green corridor, ruins of ancient mills, a ravine rainforest oxygenation valley, and Dong ethnic group song and dance performances. Following the stream below, visitors enter the picturesque valley.
Here there are thousand-year-old pits where inkstones were mined during the Tang Dynasty. Here you can also see the annual blooming bellflower, also known as the Lan Ke Fairy Bell. There are also iron chain bridges, outdoor development bases, green corridors, ruins of ancient mills, a valley rainforest oxygen valley, and Dong ethnic group song and dance performances. Following the stream at your feet, you will enter the picturesque valley.
Scenic spot tickets: Adult ticket: 50 yuan/person Student ticket: 40 yuan/person.
Tickets for the Natural Landscape Park: Adult ticket: 30 yuan/person Student ticket: 20 yuan/person
8:00-17:30
Ziyun Valley, located in Zhaoqing City, is known for its stunning natural beauty and geological formations. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. The valley is significant for its biodiversity and the scenic tranquility it offers to visitors.
Ziyun Valley is located in Zhaoqing City, Guangdong Province. It can be accessed by taxi from Zhaoqing city center, or by local bus services. For those driving, it is well connected by road.
The valley is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the valley is at its most picturesque.
The entrance fee is typically around 50-80 RMB, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local travel websites.
It is advisable to book tickets in advance during weekends or holidays, especially in peak tourist seasons. A day or two in advance should suffice for most visitors.
Allow 3-4 hours to explore the valley fully, especially if you plan to hike the trails and enjoy the scenic spots.
Guided tours are available, primarily in Mandarin. Some tours may offer English-speaking guides, but it’s best to inquire in advance if you require one.
Start by exploring the main waterfall area, then hike along the designated trails to visit the clear pools and caves. End your visit with a relaxing time at a quiet spot near the water.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available. The valley is best visited during daylight hours for the full experience of its natural beauty.
The valley tends to be less crowded on weekdays, particularly in the early mornings. Weekends and holidays can see a higher number of visitors.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets, rest areas, and small shops offering snacks and souvenirs. Drinking water stations are also provided along the trails.
The main areas are accessible for elderly and children, though some trails may be more challenging. It's recommended to check with local guides for accessibility details for disabled visitors.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cash may be needed in certain small shops or for local transportation.
Vegetarian options are available at some local eateries. However, vegan and halal food options might be limited in the immediate area.
There are souvenir shops near the entrance selling local handicrafts, wooden carvings, and nature-inspired souvenirs.
