Qiubei

Introducing Qiubei

Qiubei County is located in southeastern Yunnan Province, with coordinates ranging from 103°34′ to 104°45′ east longitude and 23°45′ to 24°28′ north latitude. It borders Guangnan County to the east across the Qingshui River, Yanshan County and Kaiyuan City to the south, Mile and Luxi Counties to the west across the Nanpan River, and Shizong County and Xilin County of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region to the north. The county measures 100 kilometers from east to west and 70.5 kilometers from north to south, with a total area of ​​4,997 square kilometers. At the end of 2007, Qiubei County had a total population of 459,000. Eight ethnic groups, including Han, Zhuang, Miao, Yi, Yao, Bai, Hui, and Bo, reside within the county. Ethnic minorities total 287,000, accounting for 62.52% of the total population. The county government is located in Jinping Town, located at an altitude of 1,452 meters. It is 280 kilometers from the provincial capital, Kunming, and 114 kilometers from the prefecture capital, Wenshan.

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Most Popular FAQs for Qiubei

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

Qiubei is known for its stunning karst landscapes and ethnic diversity. The area is culturally significant for the Yi, Zhuang, and Miao communities, showcasing traditional architecture, festivals, and handicrafts. Its natural scenery makes it an important ecological and tourist destination in southeastern Yunnan.

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

Qiubei is located in Wenshan Prefecture, southeastern Yunnan. It can be reached by bus or car from Wenshan City or Kunming. Local transport includes taxis and buses connecting scenic areas and villages.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is mild and the lakes and landscapes are at their most scenic.

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

• Puzhehei Scenic Area: approximately 120–150 RMB, tickets available online or at the entrance.
• Local village visits and minor attractions may have small entrance fees, payable on-site.

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

It is recommended to book tickets 1–3 days in advance for major scenic spots like Puzhehei, especially during weekends or holidays. Smaller attractions generally do not require advance booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days are ideal to explore the main scenic areas, lakes, karst hills, and local ethnic villages comfortably.

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

• Puzhehei lakes and karst formations
• Boat trips through the caves and waterways
• Local Yi and Zhuang villages
• Scenic viewpoints in karst hills
• Wetlands and natural photography spots

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

Guided tours are mostly in Chinese, with limited English options available at Puzhehei. Audio guides are generally available in Chinese only.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Boat rides on Puzhehei lakes for reflections and karst formations
• Cliff-top viewpoints over the lakes and valleys
• Traditional villages and ethnic markets
• Wetland areas during sunrise or sunset

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a boat tour of Puzhehei lakes, hike nearby karst hills, visit ethnic villages, and finish with wetlands for photography. Allocate one full day per main area.

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

Night activities are limited, but some local villages host evening cultural performances or festival events. Scenic areas are mainly visited during daylight.

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

Peak season coincides with national holidays and summer months. Weekdays from April to June and September to October are the least crowded.

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

Facilities include restrooms, small restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and rest areas at major scenic spots.

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

Most scenic areas and lakes are suitable for children and elderly visitors. Hilly trails and some village areas may be challenging for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted; carrying some cash is recommended for smaller vendors and village shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local restaurants near Puzhehei serving Yunnan cuisine
• Small cafes and tea houses in scenic areas
• Street food vendors in ethnic villages

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants; Halal options are limited and mainly in Wenshan City.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotels and guesthouses in Qiubei town
• Resorts and inns near Puzhehei Scenic Area
• Homestays in ethnic villages for cultural immersion

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

• Puzhehei Wetlands and Karst Lakes
• Funing Scenic Area
• Nearby ethnic minority villages and markets

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local handicrafts, embroidered textiles, ethnic jewelry, teas, and small wooden carvings.

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

• Bus or taxi to Wenshan City or Kunming
• Private car rentals for exploring surrounding scenic areas
• Regional flights from Wenshan Airport