Pingtang County

Introducing Pingtang County

Pingtang is a county located in the central southern part of Guizhou Province. Its major rivers are the Pingzhou and Caodu rivers. Mineral deposits include coal, iron, marble, and ceramic clay. Provincial Highway 312 passes through the county. Attractions include the Pingzhou River Valley Scenic Area, the Jiacha Scenic Area, the Longtang Scenic Area, the Kedu Caves, and the 500-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope, the world's largest telescope and known as China's Sky Eye. On September 25, 2018, the county was awarded the honorary title of "2018 Comprehensive Demonstration County for E-commerce in Rural Areas" by the Ministry of Commerce.

Climate and best time to travel

Climate: Subtropical humid monsoon climate

Best time to travel: All seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended places to visit: China Sky Eye - Longtang Lake - Qinglong Cave - Qinglong Gorge - Wolong Cave - Songcha Waterfalls - Hongyan Canyon

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Pingtang County

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

Pingtang County is rich in Miao culture and is known for its stunning natural landscapes. Guiding Yinzhai is a traditional Miao village famous for its cultural heritage, where visitors can explore ancient customs, art, and architecture. The county is also home to scenic spots that reflect the beauty of Guizhou’s karst landscapes.

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

Pingtang County is located in Guizhou Province, southwest China. To get there, you can take a flight to Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou, and then travel by bus or taxi to Pingtang County (about 2-3 hours). There are no metro services in this area, so taxis and private vehicles are the most convenient options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

There are no specific opening hours for Pingtang County itself, but it’s best to visit during the spring or autumn months (April to October) when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its best. The village of Guiding Yinzhai can be visited year-round.

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

The entrance fee to Guiding Yinzhai is typically around 40–60 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it is advisable to confirm prices with local tour operators or online platforms for any package deals or discounts.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it is recommended during peak travel seasons or holidays. Booking a day or two in advance is sufficient, especially if you plan on joining a guided tour.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Pingtang County and Guiding Yinzhai typically takes 3–4 hours if you focus on the village and surrounding natural sights. If you want to engage in hiking or cultural activities, you may want to allocate a full day.

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

• Guiding Yinzhai, a picturesque Miao village with traditional houses, architecture, and cultural experiences.
• The surrounding natural landscape, including waterfalls, rivers, and forests that are perfect for hiking and photography.
• Local markets where you can purchase Miao crafts and silver jewelry.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some local tour agencies may provide services in English, but it’s best to confirm in advance. Audio guides are generally not available, but local guides offer in-depth insights into Miao culture.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The hilltops around Guiding Yinzhai offer panoramic views of the village and surrounding landscapes.
• Close to the waterfalls and rivers, perfect for capturing the natural beauty of Pingtang.
• Traditional Miao architecture in the village provides great photo opportunities, especially during festivals.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the village of Guiding Yinzhai, learning about the local Miao culture and traditions. Then, take a walk around the natural landscapes, visiting nearby waterfalls, caves, and scenic spots. Finish your visit by stopping at the local market to buy souvenirs.

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

Night visits and light shows are not common in Pingtang County. Most activities and tours are focused on daytime exploration of the village and natural sites. Some festivals may feature evening events and performances, so it's worth checking the schedule in advance.

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

Pingtang County is relatively peaceful, but it can get crowded during Chinese public holidays and the summer months. The best time to visit for fewer crowds is in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), especially on weekdays.

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

Basic facilities such as public toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available in Guiding Yinzhai and surrounding areas. Local food stalls offer traditional Miao dishes, and small shops sell souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products.

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

The area is generally accessible for elderly and children, but some areas, like the hiking trails and natural scenic spots, may be difficult for disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and limited infrastructure for wheelchair access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted in Pingtang County. Cash is also accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting rural areas or smaller shops that might not accept digital payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local eateries offering traditional Miao food, including rice dishes, dumplings, and river fish. For more dining options, you may want to visit nearby cities like Guiyang, where more variety is available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, as the region uses a lot of vegetables in Miao cuisine. Halal food may be more difficult to find in the area, but there may be options in larger cities like Guiyang.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Local guesthouses and small hotels in Pingtang County offer basic accommodations.
• For more luxurious options, you can stay in Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou, which is about 2-3 hours away by car.

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

• Guiyang, the provincial capital, offers attractions such as the Huangguoshu Waterfall and Qianling Park.
• The Dragon Palace Cave (Longgong) and Tianlong Tunpu are other scenic spots that can be visited as a day trip from Pingtang.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional Miao silver jewelry, handmade crafts, and ethnic textiles. Other popular items include Miao-style clothing and local herbs.

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

• Private car or taxi is the most convenient option to continue your trip.
• Public buses are available to nearby towns and Guiyang city.