This Stop: Zhenyuan County, Southeast Guizhou

Zhenyuan in Southeast Guizhou is like a pearl nestled among mountains and rivers. The winding Wuyang River flows through the town, its emerald waters reflecting ancient buildings with blue-brick walls and dark-tiled roofs, whispering tales of a thousand-year legacy. The Qinglongdong (Green Dragon Cave) complex clings to the cliffs, showcasing exquisite architecture blending Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, where upturned eaves dance with misty clouds. At night, the town sparkles with lights as boats glide across the shimmering river, painting a living ink-wash scroll where ancient charm meets vibrant life, utterly enchanting[Chin][Chin][Chin][Chin][Chin][Chin][Chin].

### I. Zhenyuan Overview
**Location**: Northern Qiandongnan Prefecture, with the Wuyang River dividing the town into a "Taiji" (yin-yang) layout—"nine mountains embracing one river, one river splitting two towns."
**Historical Significance**: A National Historic and Cultural City (founded 2,200 years ago), a key water-land hub in Southwest China during the Ming-Qing dynasties, and a melting pot of diverse cultures.
**Transport Tips**: High-speed rail to "Zhenyuan Station"; explore the town on foot, by bus, or rented e-bike.

### II. Top Attractions
**1. Qinglongdong Ancient Architecture Complex (5A)**
Highlights: Ming-Qing cliffside buildings blending Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism; panoramic town views.
Must-see: Ziyang Academy, Wanshou Palace, Yuhuang Pavilion; best photographed at dusk.

**2. Wuyang River Scenic Area (National)**
Experience: Boat tours through "Three Gorges" (Peacock Spreading Tail, Three-Step Waterfall), Guilin-like landscapes, and crystal-clear waters.

**3. Zhenyuan Ancient Town (Free)**
Alleyways to explore: Sifangjing Lane, Fuxing Lane, Renshou Lane—cobblestone paths lined with Ming-Qing Huizhou-style courtyards.
Cultural sites: Zhou Dawen’s Former Residence, Fu Family Compound, Tianhou Palace (Fujian Guild Hall).

**4. Shiping Mountain (¥30)**
Perks: Summit views of the town’s Taiji layout, ancient Great Wall ruins; most magical at dawn with mist.

**5. Tiexi Scenic Area (¥50)**
Hiking route: Dragon Pool (mentioned in *The Scholars* by Wu Jingzi), jade-green streams, and bamboo forests.

**6. Zhusheng Bridge (Free)**
History: A 600-year-old bridge with a three-story Kuixing Pavilion; stunning nighttime reflections.

**7. Heping Village Site (Free)**
Background: A WWII Japanese POW camp, offering insights into anti-war history.

### III. Immersive Experiences
- **Night cruise on Wuyang River**: Admire illuminated shores and folk music from riverside bars.
- **Traditional costume photoshoot**: Rent Miao/Dong ethnic attire for portraits at Qinglongdong or ancient alleys.
- **Nightlife**: Float lanterns on the river, savor grilled fish and sweet rice wine at night markets.
- **Cultural workshops**: Watch dragon boat races (Dragon Boat Festival), Miao Lusheng dances, or learn Dong embroidery.

### IV. Cultural Snapshot
- **Military heritage**: Ming-era garrison town layout.
- **Merchant legacy**: Eight guild halls (Fujian, Jiangxi, etc.) from the Ming-Qing trade boom.
- **Religious diversity**: Qinglongdong’s tri-faith harmony; Tianhou Palace’s rare inland Mazu worship.

### V. Local Flavors
**Must-try**: Sour Fish Soup (Wuyang River catch), Braised Pork with Preserved Vegetables (intangible heritage), tofu pudding, ash-water rice cakes.
**Food streets**: New Bridge Night Market, Panlong Bridge Snack Street—try grilled tofu pockets, sticky rice chicken, bacon noodles.
**Souvenirs**: Zhenyuan aged preserved vegetables, Qingjiu liquor, Miao silver jewelry.

### VI. Stay Suggestions
- **Riverside inns**: Like Daheguan Posthouse, with window views of the water.
- **Courtyard guesthouses**: Such as Xunmei·Riverside or Muyunju, for serene, stylish stays.

### VII. Sample Itinerary (2D1N)
**Day 1**: Qinglongdong → Zhusheng Bridge → Ancient Town stroll (lunch: sour fish) → Shiping Mountain sunset → Wuyang River night cruise.
**Day 2**: Wuyang River boat tour → Tiexi hike → Heping Village → Departure.

**Tips**:
- Pack light rain gear and non-slip shoes for mountain showers.
- Respect ethnic customs; avoid close-up photography without permission.
- Summer: mosquito repellent; winter: windproof jackets.