Introducing Qujing
Qujing, a prefecture-level city under the jurisdiction of Yunnan Province, is located in eastern Yunnan Province. It borders Guizhou Province and the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region to the east, Wenshan Prefecture and Honghe Prefecture to the south, Kunming City to the west, and Zhaotong City and Bijie City, Guizhou Province, to the north. It is an inland area within a frontier region. Known as the "Key to Yunnan and Guizhou" and the "Throat of Yunnan," Qujing is 120 kilometers from the provincial capital, Kunming. Covering an area of 28,900 square kilometers, it boasts diverse topography and ethnic customs. Eight ethnic groups—the Yi, Buyi, Zhuang, Miao, and Yao—are represented in Qujing, each with their own distinct languages, clothing, customs, and beliefs.
Most Popular FAQs for Qujing
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Qujing is a historic city in eastern Yunnan, known as a regional trade hub connecting Yunnan with Guizhou and Guangxi. It has a rich cultural heritage, including ethnic diversity, traditional crafts, and ancient temples. The surrounding geological sites, like the Earth Forest, make it significant for natural tourism.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in eastern Yunnan Province, east of Kunming.
- By train: Qujing is on the Kunming–Guangzhou railway and other regional lines.
- By bus: Intercity and local buses connect Qujing to nearby towns and attractions.
- By taxi or car: Convenient for exploring both city and nearby scenic areas.
- Walking: City center areas are walkable; some scenic spots require short hikes.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Most attractions: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Best times to visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for mild weather.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Earth Forest: ¥60–¥80 per person; tickets available at entrance or online through official portals.
- Temples and museums: ¥10–¥50 per site; purchase at entrance.
- City streets and markets: Free to enter.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Not required for most sites; recommended for popular attractions like Huize Earth Forest during holidays.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
2–3 days to cover the city, nearby natural attractions, and local cultural sites.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Zhanyi Ancient Town
- Huize Earth Forest
- Qilin Temple and other historic temples
- City parks and lakes
- Local markets and traditional streets
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are mostly in Chinese; some private English-speaking guides are available. Audio guides are limited.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Earth Forest hills for panoramic shots
- Ancient town streets for cultural photography
- Temple rooftops and pagodas
- City lakes and park areas
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Start with Zhanyi Ancient Town for cultural immersion, then visit Huize Earth Forest for nature and photography, and finish with temples, markets, and lakeside strolls.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Night visits to city streets, markets, and lakes are possible.
- Seasonal cultural performances may occur at festivals.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Weekdays outside Chinese holidays are least crowded; weekends and holidays see higher visitor numbers, especially at the Earth Forest.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public toilets and rest areas at main sites
- Restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors
- Shops for local crafts and souvenirs
- Parking and information centers at major attractions
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
City areas and park paths are generally accessible; Earth Forest involves uneven terrain and stairs, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is useful for small vendors; cards and mobile payments (WeChat, Alipay) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and main attractions.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local Yunnan cuisine restaurants
- Cafes in city center and near scenic spots
- Street food stalls offering regional snacks
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are available; halal options may be limited and require prior inquiry.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- City-center hotels and guesthouses
- Resorts near Earth Forest
- Local inns and boutique stays in Zhanyi Ancient Town
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Nearby karst landscapes and hills
- Other local temples and historic towns
- Hiking trails in surrounding countryside
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Local handicrafts and embroidery
- Dried fruits and spices
- Yunnan tea and tobacco products
- Traditional artifacts from ethnic minority groups
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Train or bus to Kunming or other nearby cities
- Private car or taxi for regional sightseeing
- Intercity buses connecting eastern Yunnan attractions
