Wanshan District

Introducing Wanshan District

Wanshan District, part of Tongren City, Guizhou Province, serves as the city's main urban area. Located in eastern Guizhou Province, within the heart of the Wuling Mountain region, it borders Hunan to the east and Chongqing to the north. It serves as the hub and link between Guizhou Province and the Central Plains, earning it the nickname "Gateway to Eastern Guizhou." The district encompasses 10 townships (towns, sub-districts), covers an area of ​​842 square kilometers, has a registered population of 170,000, and a permanent population of 270,000, of which the Dong ethnic group accounts for 79.4% of the total population.

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Most Popular FAQs for Wanshan District

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

Wanshan District, once known as China’s “Mercury Capital,” was a major global mercury mining center. Its mining history dates back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties, shaping the region’s economy and culture.

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

• Located in Tongren City, eastern Guizhou Province.
• Accessible from Tongren Phoenix Airport or Tongren Railway Station by bus or taxi (about 30–40 minutes).
• Local buses connect major tourist spots within the district.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Main attractions open 8:00–17:00.
• Best time: March–October for mild weather and green mountain scenery.

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

• Wanshan Mine Park: around ¥60–¥80 per person.
• Tickets can be bought onsite or via Chinese travel apps like Ctrip or Meituan.

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

Advance booking not required except during national holidays or local festivals.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1 day is enough for Wanshan District; 2 days if combining with nearby Fanjing Mountain.

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

• Wanshan Mercury Mine National Mine Park.
• Wanshan Lake and karst caves.
• Miao ethnic villages and cultural museums.

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

Guided tours available in Chinese; English-speaking guides may be arranged through major tour agencies in Tongren.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Mine Park observation platforms for panoramic mountain views.
• Wanshan Lake for reflections and sunset shots.
• Local villages for cultural portraits and rural scenery.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start with Wanshan Mine Park → Industrial Museum → Wanshan Lake → Miao village visit.

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

Some evening light shows are held at the Mine Park during holidays; night photography around Wanshan Lake is popular.

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

• Usually quiet except for weekends and Chinese holidays.
• Weekdays are best for fewer crowds.

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

Toilets, food stalls, and rest areas available at major attractions; small souvenir shops near entrances.

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

Most areas are accessible, but cave and mountain paths may require moderate physical fitness.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) widely accepted; cash useful for small shops and markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local eateries serving Guizhou-style spicy dishes near the Mine Park.
• Family-run restaurants around Wanshan town center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian dishes like tofu, bamboo shoots, and rice noodles available; halal food limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Wanshan Hotel.
• Tongren Wyndham Grand Plaza (30 mins away).
• Local guesthouses and homestays near attractions.

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

• Fanjing Mountain (UNESCO site, 1 hour away).
• Tongren Ancient City.
• Yuping Dong scenic area.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Mercury mine-themed minerals, handicrafts, and Miao embroidery.

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

• Bus or taxi to Tongren city center.
• High-speed train from Tongren to Guiyang or Zhangjiajie.
• Flights from Tongren Phoenix Airport to major Chinese cities.