Must-See! Zhenyuan Ancient Town: A Detailed Travel Guide

Your Ultimate Guide to Zhenyuan Ancient Town Millennial Zhenyuan, Inked in Elegance Zhenyuan Ancient Town, nestled in the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture of Guizhou, is one of the four ancient towns of Guizhou, boasting a rich history of over 2,300 years. The meandering Wuyang River flows through the town, shaping it into a Tai Chi pattern, earning it the nickname "Venice of the East." Here, mountains and rivers intertwine, exuding an ancient charm. Easy Access with Multiple Transportation Options - High-speed Rail/Train: Regular trains arrive directly at Zhenyuan Station. A 10-minute taxi ride costing about ¥10 will take you to the ancient town. For high-speed rail, disembark at Sansui Station or Kaili South Station and transfer to a bus for a 1.5-hour ride. - Car: A 3.5-hour drive from Guiyang, entirely on the expressway. - Bus: Direct buses are available from Guiyang, Kaili, Tongren, and other locations. Must-See Attractions: Discover the Beauty of Zhenyuan - Qinglongdong Ancient Architectural Complex (¥60): Built on a cliff, this complex blends three religious cultures. Open from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, it offers panoramic views of the Wuyang River. - Shiping Mountain (¥30, free before 7 am and after 7 pm): Ascend to the summit for breathtaking views of the town's Tai Chi layout. Sunrise and nighttime offer spectacular scenery. - Wuyang River Scenic Area (¥40, boat ticket ¥100): Take a boat tour to admire the stunning karst landscape. - Ancient Alleyways (free): Explore the Ming and Qing dynasty alleyways, such as Sifangjing Alley, and experience the unique "crooked doors and slanted paths." Culinary Delights of Zhenyuan: Savor Authentic Flavors - Sour Soup Fish: Local red sour soup paired with fresh fish. Miao Bo Ma Suan Tang is recommended. - Tofu Pudding: Yuan Jia Doufu Lao Dian offers sweet and savory tofu pudding, both smooth and refreshing. - Zhenyuan Daocai Steamed Pork with Preserved Vegetables: A melt-in-your-mouth, non-greasy dish, recognized as intangible cultural heritage. Comfortable Accommodation: Dreamy Stays in Zhenyuan - Wuyang River Riverside Inns: Inns on the north bank (near the new bridge) are recommended, offering captivating night views from river-view rooms. - Guesthouses within the Ancient Town: Zhenyuan Biaoju Yizhan, for example, offers a taste of old-world charm. Itinerary Planning: Explore Zhenyuan with Ease - One-Day Tour: Qinglongdong → Ancient Alleyways → Shiping Mountain (sunset) → Wuyang River Night Tour. - Two-Day Tour: Day 1: Qinglongdong - Museum - Ancient Alleyways - Shiping Mountain Night View; Day 2: Wuyang River Boat Tour/Tiexi Hiking. Travel Tips - Guizhou experiences frequent rainfall. Pack rain gear and non-slip shoes, as the stone-paved roads can be slippery. - Take sun protection and mosquito repellent measures in summer and dress warmly in winter. - Walking or renting a bicycle (¥20/day) is sufficient within the ancient town. Taxis have a starting fare of ¥6. In Zhenyuan, slow down and savor the poetic life of "wandering through a thousand-year-old ink painting."