Anlong County

Introducing Anlong County

Anlong County, located in southwestern Guizhou Province and belonging to Qianxinan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, is a renowned historical and cultural city in the province. With its unique mountains and rivers and breathtaking scenery, Anlong County is a renowned tourist destination in Yunnan, Guangxi, and Guizhou, known as the "Little Kunming." Anlong Zhaodi is Guizhou's largest summer retreat for lotus viewing; the Wanfeng Lake Scenic Area, with its myriad peaks and vast expanse of misty waters, is considered the highest in the southwest; the Yaoshengqiao Dam is the tallest dam in Asia; and the county is home to the former residences and ruins of numerous prominent figures from the late Qing Dynasty onwards, as well as the quaint and solemn Southern Ming Imperial City. The "Tomb of the Eighteen Ming Masters" at the foot of Tianbang Mountain in Anlong—the site where 18 officials, including Wu Zhenyu, were martyred at the end of the Southern Ming Dynasty—is a renowned local historical site.

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Most Popular FAQs for Anlong County

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

Anlong County is located in the southwest of Guizhou and is renowned for its karst landscapes, limestone caves, and ethnic diversity. The region is home to Miao and Dong ethnic groups, preserving rich cultural traditions such as unique architecture, folk arts, and festivals. The county is also known for its agricultural production, particularly rice and tobacco.

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

Anlong County is located in the southwest of Guizhou Province, around 200 km from Guiyang, the provincial capital. The easiest way to get there is by bus or taxi from Guiyang, with direct bus routes available. Once in Anlong, local transportation such as taxis or private vehicles are recommended for exploring the region.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The region is open to visitors year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November) when the weather is mild and the countryside is most scenic. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter may be cold and foggy, limiting outdoor activities.

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

Most natural attractions, such as the caves and hiking routes, have a small entrance fee, generally ranging from 20-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased onsite or through local travel agencies. Some attractions may also allow online booking.

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

For most attractions, booking in advance is not necessary, except during peak travel seasons or for specific cultural performances. It is advisable to book tickets a few days in advance during national holidays or festivals.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Anlong County, including its natural sites, ethnic villages, and cultural performances, 2-3 days would be ideal. This allows enough time for hiking, visiting caves, and experiencing local customs.

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

• Anlong Caves, known for their stunning limestone formations and underground rivers.
• Local Miao and Dong ethnic villages, where visitors can learn about traditional customs and crafts.
• The scenic countryside, including terraced fields, rivers, and mountains, perfect for hiking and photography.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer services in English, especially in the more tourist-oriented areas. Audio guides are generally available at major attractions like the Anlong Caves.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The entrance to Anlong Caves offers a dramatic view of the karst formations.
• The terraced fields in the countryside provide fantastic photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.
• Ethnic villages with traditional wooden houses offer authentic cultural photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by visiting the Anlong Caves in the morning, followed by a hike around the surrounding countryside.
• In the afternoon, visit local Miao and Dong villages for a cultural experience and traditional performances.
• End the day by exploring nearby rivers and enjoying the peaceful landscape.

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

Night visits are generally not available in most natural attractions, but some ethnic villages may offer evening performances of traditional music and dance. These events are most common during festivals or cultural celebrations.

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

Anlong County is generally not crowded, except during the peak seasons, such as national holidays (Chinese New Year, Labor Day, National Day). Weekdays and non-holiday periods tend to be less crowded, making them ideal for a more relaxed visit.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available at major attractions. You can also find small local shops selling snacks and souvenirs in and around the town center and tourist spots.

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

While the main town area is generally accessible for elderly and children, some natural attractions, like the caves and hiking areas, may be difficult for disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. It’s recommended to check specific sites for accessibility details before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in Anlong County, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and tourist sites.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local restaurants offering traditional Guizhou dishes, including rice noodles, spicy hot pots, and grilled meats. You’ll also find small cafes serving local tea and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially in local restaurants serving traditional dishes. Halal food may be limited, but can be found in larger towns or catering to Muslim communities.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in Anlong County. For more upscale accommodations, visitors may need to travel to nearby cities like Guiyang, which offers a wider range of hotel options.

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

Nearby attractions include the Wuyang River, the Zunyi Red Army Memorial, and the historic town of Liupanshui. These sites can be easily combined with a visit to Anlong County for a broader exploration of Southwest Guizhou.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Anlong County offer traditional handicrafts such as Miao embroidery, silver jewelry, and local pottery. You can also find items like rice cakes and herbal teas as unique local gifts.

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

From Anlong County, buses and taxis are available to nearby cities like Guiyang. Long-distance buses are the most common form of transportation for continuing your trip to other parts of Guizhou Province.