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The complete 2025 Daguan County travel guide: Must-see attractions, unique experiences, and practical tips.

Overview of Key Attractions

Huanglian River Scenic Area: Admire a collection of 47 unique waterfalls, including Xiannv Waterfall (Fairy Waterfall) and Qinglang Waterfall (Lover's Waterfall), alongside canyons, caves, and dove trees. The area offers interactive experiences like the "Water Curtain Corridor". Plan for 3–4 hours. Summer is the best time to visit. Tickets cost CNY 68 (discounts available for students and seniors). Take a bus from Zhaotong Bus Station to Daguan County (CNY 15), then a taxi or local bus to the scenic area (approx. 3 km from the county seat).

Shanhaidong Cave: Inspired by the *Classic of Mountains and Seas*, this cave features stunning light and sound displays depicting mythical scenes like Nuwa Mending the Sky. Boat tours are available inside the cave. It's an ideal summer retreat. Open from 09:00–17:30. Plan for 2–3 hours. Nearby homestays offer immersive cultural experiences.

Luohanba Primeval Forest and Sanjiangkou Nature Reserve: Luohanba offers a serene escape into untouched nature, while Sanjiangkou boasts rich biodiversity. Perfect for hiking and nature observation. These less-traveled destinations are a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

Featured Experiences

Culture & Customs: Participate in the traditional "Tongguanjie Dispelling Dampness and Cold" festival or visit the villages surrounding Shanhaidong Cave to experience Yunnan's ethnic culture.

Food & Specialties: Don't miss local delicacies like bean curd and spicy chicken. Local specialties include *Zhaotong* gastrodia and Pu'er tea.

Outdoor Adventure: Go rock climbing and explore caves at Huanglian River Scenic Area. Qinglongdong Canyon is ideal for geology enthusiasts.

Practical Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Summer (May–September) for spectacular waterfalls and a cool escape in Shanhaidong Cave; autumn (October) for stunning fall foliage in some areas.

Transportation: Zhaotong serves as a transit hub. Take a high-speed train or flight from Kunming to Zhaotong, then a bus to Daguan (approx. 4 hrs). Taxis and chartered cars are available from the county seat to most attractions. For some destinations, like Luohanba, self-drive or car rental is necessary.

Accommodation: Hotels in the county seat offer great value. Consider homestays near scenic areas, such as Shanhaidong Cave, for an authentic local experience.

Important Notes: Wear non-slip shoes for hiking in some areas. Caves can be cold and damp, so dress warmly. Check the weather forecast and be aware of potential landslides during the rainy season.

Suggested Itineraries

2-Day Trip: Day 1: Huanglian River waterfalls in the morning, Qinglongdong Cave in the afternoon, and dinner in the county seat featuring spicy chicken and cured meat. Day 2: Explore Shanhaidong Cave in the morning, hike in Luohanba in the afternoon, and return.

3-Day In-depth Trip: Add a visit to Sanjiangkou Nature Reserve or participate in a cultural heritage market.

For the latest information, check the local tourism website or contact the scenic areas directly. Immerse yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of Daguan County.