Zhaotong City Travel Guide

Zhaotong, the "key" to northeastern Yunnan, is dominated by the vast Wumeng Mountains and the roaring Jinsha River. The autumn scenery of Xiaocaoba in Yiliang and the ancient path of Doushaguang hide the collision of mountains, waters, and history.
⛺【Must-Visit Local Spots】:
1. Doushaguang: An ancient Silk Road stronghold known as "One Man Guards the Pass." The remains of the Qin Dynasty’s five-foot road are embedded in the cliff walls, Bo people’s hanging coffins dangle from sheer cliffs, and the pass tower overlooks the Zhuti River, showcasing majestic and perilous views.

2. Xiaocaoba: In autumn, the mountains are ablaze with red leaves, streams flow through forests, and waterfalls hang down. Attractions like "Foguang Rock" and "Lover’s Waterfall" make it a secret spot for hiking and photography.

3. Dashanbao: A plateau wetland interspersed with meadows, where black-necked cranes winter in the cold season. The cliffside sea of clouds at Jigong Mountain is magnificent, resembling a fairyland.

4. Zaxi Conference Site: A red revolutionary relic, with a museum displaying artifacts that restore the history of the Long March. The old streets retain the revolutionary atmosphere of the past.
🛬【Travel Itinerary】:
3-day trip: Day 1 Arrive in Zhaotong → Visit the ancient path and hanging coffins at Doushaguang → Overnight in Yanjin; Day 2 Enjoy autumn at Xiaocaoba → Head to Dashanbao in the afternoon; Day 3 Watch black-necked cranes / sea of clouds → Visit Zaxi Conference Site before departure.
🏨【Accommodation Guide】:
In the city, choose Zhaotong Junyi Hotel (near the business district); at Dashanbao, stay in scenic area guesthouses (meadow views from the window).
🧡【Tips】:
Transportation: Self-driving is recommended (mountain roads are common). Zhaotong Airport has direct flights; Dashanbao can be icy in winter, so snow chains are necessary.

Food: Try Zhaotong small meat skewers, fried cakes with bean powder, and gastrodia stewed chicken. The night market on Tuanjie Road in the city is a good place to sample these.

Post by _33_1994_Lisa | Aug 31, 2025