National Geographic didn't lie to me! This small city in Guizhou left me breathless with its beauty

Hello, I'm Darwin
Tongren, Guizhou is truly amazing to explore
A weekend is all you need for an ultimate landscape and cultural journey
Here's a relaxed 2-day-1-night itinerary you can follow directly
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📍Itinerary
✅Day1: Fanjingshan - Zhaisha Dong Village
Morning: Take high-speed rail to Tongren Station, then book a carpool to Fanjingshanju Hotel. Check in and rest briefly.
Noon: Head to Fanjingshan. Book tickets and shuttle bus on the official account 3 days in advance (do it earlier during peak season!). Take the cable car to save energy while enjoying stunning mountain views.
Afternoon: Visit the iconic Mushroom Stone, climb Red Cloud Golden Summit to experience the awe-inspiring "City in the Sky", overlooking endless mountains and rolling sea of clouds - perfect for photos!
Evening: After descending, visit Zhaisha Dong Village for local specialties like sour fish soup and Dong-style cured meat. Join the bonfire party to dance with locals.
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✅Day2: Zhaisha Dong Village - Yunshe Village
Morning: Explore the peaceful Dong village at dawn, experience local life, see ancient drum towers, and take photos on suspension bridges.
Noon: Have lunch in Zhaisha before heading to Yunshe Village.
Afternoon: Stroll through Yunshe Village to admire Tujia stilt houses. Visit Shenlong Pool (a magical deep pool that predicts weather) and experience traditional paper-making. Walk along the stream for a relaxing afternoon.
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🚗Transport Guide
External: Fly or take high-speed rail to Tongren Station. Many affordable carpool options to Fanjingshan.
Scenic areas: Fanjingshan has cable cars and shuttle buses. Zhaisha and Yunshe are walkable. Between sites, use taxis/local transport or arrange carpool in advance.
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🏠Accommodation
I stayed at Fanjingshanju Hotel, 2km from Fanjingshan's east gate - convenient, quiet and private. Features a large lakeside lawn perfect for camping and photos.
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🍜Food Recommendations
Sour Fish Soup: A Guizhou must-try with fresh fish in tangy broth.
She Rice: Steamed glutinous rice with bacon and wild herbs - uniquely fragrant.
Rice Tofu: Silky texture with spicy seasoning - incredibly satisfying.
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📝Notes
1. Fanjingshan has high altitude and low temperatures - bring jackets, sun protection and rain gear.
2. Respect local customs during cultural activities in Dong villages.
3. During peak season, plan all attractions and timings in advance.