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The Gongyu Rock Scenic Area, located in the eastern-central part of the Xianju Scenic Area, covers an area of 31 square kilometers and is one of the key scenic spots within the area. Its secluded location has earned it the nickname "Shangri-La" of East China. Gongyu Village, comprised of Shangping and Xiaping villages, is nestled in the mountains at an altitude of 600 meters. Surrounded by peaks exceeding 1,000 meters, the village forms a small basin enclosed by the Gongyu Mountains.
Most visitors to Gongyu are hikers and campers. To reach Gongyu Village, you first have to climb a mountain path, then descend to the village. The village offers simple accommodations and meals in humble farmhouses. Enjoy a bowl of free-range chicken and a bowl of homemade bayberry wine – the sour and sweet flavors are truly delightful.
In Gongyu, there are stone pillars formed by volcanic lava landforms. The most worthwhile thing to see is of course the lush green terraced fields in summer and golden yellow in autumn. At night, the sky is full of stars and the surroundings are silent.
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Gongyu in Taizhou, Zhejiang, is known for its rich cultural history and rural charm. It is home to ancient temples, traditional wooden architecture, and peaceful countryside landscapes. The town is an excellent example of Zhejiang's local customs, agriculture, and cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into both history and nature.
Gongyu is located in Taizhou, Zhejiang Province. It can be accessed by taxi or bus from the main city center of Taizhou. There are no metro stations in the area, but taxis are widely available for visitors. For those traveling by car, the town is well connected by roads, making it accessible for private vehicles as well.
There are no specific opening hours for Gongyu itself as it is a rural area, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (March to May, September to November). This is when the weather is mild, and you can experience the town's scenic beauty without the extremes of summer heat or winter cold.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Gongyu. However, individual attractions, such as temples or cultural sites, may charge small entry fees, which can be paid directly on-site. Tickets for these locations are available on the day of your visit.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required for Gongyu or its attractions. However, if you are planning to visit during a peak tourist season or local festival, it may be worth checking in advance for ticket availability, especially for events or guided tours.
A stay of 1-2 days is recommended to fully explore Gongyu. This will allow you to visit the main attractions, enjoy the local culture, and take in the surrounding natural beauty at a relaxed pace.
Guided tours are available at some cultural sites in Gongyu, and they are typically offered in Mandarin. It is advisable to book these tours in advance if you prefer an English-speaking guide, as availability may vary.
Start by visiting the Gongyu Ancient Temple in the morning, followed by a stroll through the local markets and village areas. In the afternoon, take a scenic walk or boat ride along the nearby rivers or lakes, and explore the rural landscapes for a peaceful retreat.
There are no special night visits or light shows in Gongyu. However, if you are visiting during a local festival, there may be special cultural performances or night markets that provide a unique experience.
Gongyu is a relatively peaceful town with fewer crowds compared to major tourist destinations. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays and outside of major holidays and festivals, such as Chinese New Year or the National Day holiday.
Basic facilities, such as toilets, small local restaurants, and shops, are available in Gongyu. For more extensive shopping or dining options, it’s advisable to head to Taizhou city, which offers a wider variety of services.
Most of Gongyu is accessible for elderly visitors and children, but some of the rural pathways and temple areas may involve uneven terrain. It is advisable to check with local guides about accessibility if you have specific mobility concerns.
Cash is commonly used in Gongyu, especially for small purchases in local markets. However, mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also accepted in many shops and restaurants. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting remote areas.
Local restaurants in Gongyu serve traditional Zhejiang dishes such as seafood, dumplings, and noodles. For more diverse dining options, Taizhou city is nearby and offers a range of Chinese and international restaurants.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Gongyu, especially due to the influence of Buddhist culture. Halal food options may be limited, but there are some restaurants in Taizhou offering these options.
There are a few guesthouses and local hotels in Gongyu, offering basic accommodation. For more luxurious stays, it’s best to head to Taizhou city, which offers a wider variety of hotels, including international chains.
Souvenir shops in Gongyu offer local crafts such as handmade textiles, traditional ceramics, and Zhejiang-specific products like tea and dried fruits.
From Gongyu, you can take a bus or taxi back to Taizhou city, where there are transport options for longer trips, including buses, trains, and flights to other parts of Zhejiang or China.
