The Zhenyuan Post Office is not just a historical site but also a charming destination for those interested in the heritage of postal services. The following activities are recommended:

Zhenyuan Post Station, located near No. 67 Xinzhong Street in Zhenyuan County , has a history of over 700 years. According to the introduction to Zhenyuan Post Station, it was established in the Yuan Dynasty and was then called " Zhanchi " .
A tour of the entire post office hall reveals a stark contrast to your typical post office experience. The walls, shelves, and counters are filled with traces of postal history and culture, complementing the Qing Dynasty postbox, the bronze sculpture of a Pixiu, the introduction to the Zhenyuan Post Office, and the couplets outside the hall.
What is even more romantic is an antique imitation of the Qing Dynasty's Panlong mailbox, standing outside the red gate. It is shining with golden light after being soaked by rain. Passers-by come forward to take pictures, and some even go over to take a closer look with great interest.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than half an hour
free
The Zhenyuan Post Office was established during the late Qing Dynasty and is one of the oldest post offices in the region. It played a significant role in connecting the remote areas of Guizhou with the rest of China and the world. The building stands as a testament to the development of postal infrastructure in the area.
The Zhenyuan Post Office is located in the town center of Zhenyuan, Guizhou. It is easily accessible by taxi or on foot from most central locations in the town. There are no metro services in this area, but buses may be available from other parts of Guizhou.
The Zhenyuan Post Office is open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is best to visit in the morning on weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busier with tourists.
The Zhenyuan Post Office is free to visit. However, there may be a small charge for postal services or special exhibitions. There is no need to buy tickets in advance, as entry is free.
No advance booking is required to visit the Zhenyuan Post Office. Visitors can walk in during opening hours.
Visiting the Zhenyuan Post Office takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. This includes exploring the building and possibly purchasing postcards or using postal services.
The main highlights inside the Zhenyuan Post Office are the old-fashioned postal counters, the collection of historical stamps, and the architectural details that reflect the history of the building. The original postal equipment is also a unique feature.
Guided tours are not commonly available at the Zhenyuan Post Office. However, some staff may provide brief information about the history of the building in Mandarin. It is best to explore on your own, with informational signs available inside.
The best photography spots are outside the post office, where you can capture the building’s architectural details, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is best.
Upon entering the Zhenyuan Post Office, start by exploring the historical postal counters, then move on to the exhibition of old postal equipment. Spend some time at the stamp collection, and if interested, purchase a postcard at the counter.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Zhenyuan Post Office. However, the building is well-lit at night, and you can view the exterior even after the office hours.
The Zhenyuan Post Office is generally not very crowded. It is least crowded during weekdays, especially early in the morning.
The Zhenyuan Post Office has basic facilities, including toilets and a small shop selling postcards and souvenirs. There are no food or water facilities inside the building, but local shops and restaurants are nearby.
The Zhenyuan Post Office is accessible for elderly and children, though the building has stairs and may not be fully accessible for disabled visitors. It’s advisable to check with local staff for assistance if needed.
Cash is the preferred method of payment, especially for postal services or souvenirs. Mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted in nearby shops, but may not be available inside the post office itself.
There are several local restaurants and cafes nearby offering traditional Guizhou cuisine, including rice noodles, pickled vegetables, and spicy snacks. Some local eateries are within walking distance from the post office.
Vegetarian options are available at some local restaurants, with tofu and vegetable dishes commonly served. Halal food options are limited but can be found in larger towns in the region.
There are a few guesthouses and mid-range hotels close to the Zhenyuan Post Office. For a wider selection, you can stay in Zhenyuan town, where there are more accommodation options ranging from budget to higher-end.
Nearby attractions include:
There are souvenir shops near the post office selling postcards, local artwork, and traditional handicrafts such as embroidery and carvings.
After visiting the Zhenyuan Post Office, taxis, private cars, or buses are the best options for continuing your trip to other attractions like Zhenyuan Ancient Town or the Wuyang River.