Introducing Zuojiang Scenic Area
The Longzhou Zuojiang Scenic Area, located southwest of Chongzuo City, Guangxi, is 180 kilometers from Nanning, the capital of Guangxi, and 66 kilometers from Cao Bang, Vietnam. It boasts a pristine and well-preserved natural environment. The river meanders through Longzhou like a green silk ribbon, revealing its most beautiful charm within the ancient city. Since ancient times, it has been known as "the Li River in the north, the Zuo River in the south." After visiting the Zuojiang River, the renowned Ming Dynasty traveler Xu Xiake exclaimed, "Yangshuo's mountains and rivers border the river, and the rocks on this bank are unmatched; Jianxi's cascading waters are peculiar, and the picturesque mountains of Yangshuo are even inferior to them."
Most Popular FAQs for Zuojiang Scenic Area
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Zuojiang Scenic Area includes the Zuojiang Huashan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It preserves ancient cliff paintings from 5th century BCE to 2nd century CE by the Luoyue people, and represents the ritual life tied to the Bronze Drum culture.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in southwestern Guangxi, Chongzuo City, especially Ningming County and Longzhou areas along the Zuojiang River.
- From Ningming, take a local transport to Tuolongqiao Dock, then a river boat to the cliffs.
- By road from Nanning: drive or take bus to Ningming, then local transport.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Huashan Rock Art scenic area: 08:00 to 18:00.
- Best time to visit: April to October, in dry and clear weather to better see the rock art and enjoy boat rides.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
The rock art scenic area generally offers free admission for the cultural landscape zone, but the boat ride for viewing murals costs around CNY 90 round-trip.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking is not strictly required, but for the boat cruises during peak season, reservations a day ahead is advised.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
2–3 hours is a suitable duration to take a boat cruise, visit the rock art cliffs, and stroll the paths.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Huashan Rock Paintings (the main cliff murals).
- Boat journey along the Ming or Zuojiang River to approach the cliffs.
- Riverside karst landscapes with lush hills and mirrored waters.
- Local exhibits or museums explaining Luoyue culture and the rock art.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and local guides may include some English. Exhibits may supply information via plaques or digital displays.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- From the boat approaching the cliff murals to capture their scale.
- High vantage points along the riverbank overlooking the curves of Zuojiang and cliff faces.
- Reflections of the rock cliffs in calm river waters during early morning or at dusk.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Start at the dock (Tuolongqiao), take boat cruise toward the murals, disembark to view rock art on foot, visit cultural exhibits, then return by boat. Extend by walking nearby trails.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
No regular night visits or light shows are known. Occasional cultural or folk performances may be organized by local operators.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
The scenic area is moderately crowded during summer and holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are the quietest.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Dock areas and visitor center usually have restrooms and drinking water.
- Small shops or kiosks near entrance or docking points selling snacks and drinks.
- Seating or rest areas along walking paths.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Boat and walking paths are manageable for many, but some cliffs and uneven terrain may be challenging.
- Children can enjoy the boat ride and cliff viewing; elderly may need assistance on steps or trails.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is useful, especially for boat fares or small vendors. In larger visitor centers, mobile payments may be accepted.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
Local Zhuang-style restaurants and riverfront eateries are available near the dock or at visitor centers.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are found in local restaurants; vegan or halal options may be limited and require asking.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Guesthouses or small hotels in Ningming County or riverside towns.
- Mid-range accommodation in Chongzuo city with transfer to the site.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Detian Transnational Waterfall, a large cross-border waterfall.
- Tongling Grand Canyon and other karst landscape areas.
- White-headed Langur National Nature Reserve nearby.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
Shops may sell local crafts, postcards of murals, ethnic Zhuang handicrafts, and small river-themed souvenirs.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Boat or road back to Ningming or Chongzuo city.
- Bus or taxi to nearby attractions like Detian Waterfall or between scenic areas.
- Private tours for multi-spot exploration in southwestern Guangxi.
