Poetic Millennium-old Town — Zhenyuan

Zhenyuan Ancient Town is located in Zhenyuan County, Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province. The Wuyang River flows through the town in an "S" shape, dividing the ancient town into two parts, creating a unique layout of "nine mountains embracing one river, one river dividing two towns." With over 2,000 years of history, Central Plains culture, local ethnic cultures, and foreign cultures have intermingled here, forming a uniquely inclusive cultural environment known as a "labyrinth of traditional culture." Recommended Attractions 1. Qinglong Cave Ancient Building Complex: Integrating Buddhist halls, Taoist temples, Confucian academies, and guild halls, it's known as the "Museum of Ancient Architecture in Guizhou." Built along the cliff, its architectural style is exceptionally unique, like an artistic treasure embedded in the cliff. Admission: 60 yuan. 2. Wuyang River: A national key scenic area with crystal-clear green water and unique mountain peaks on both banks. Taking a boat tour allows you to enjoy the poetic canyon scenery, earning it the reputation of "Little Three Gorges." Admission: 40 yuan, boat ticket: 100 yuan. 3. Shiping Mountain: The highest point in Zhenyuan, offering panoramic views of the ancient town and Wuyang River scenery. Experience the tranquility and beauty of the ancient town. Admission: 30 yuan. 4. Heping Village: The only well-preserved prisoner-of-war camp of the National Government's Military and Political Department in China, a historical witness to Japanese imperialism's invasion of China. Here you can learn about the history of the Anti-Japanese War. Free admission with ID card. 5. Tianhou Palace: Built to commemorate the sea goddess Mazu and serve as a Fujian provincial guild hall, it features elegant architectural style and reflects Zhenyuan's past prosperity. Admission: 30 yuan. 6. Zhou Dawen's Former Residence: The former home of early revolutionary activist Zhou Dawen and the site of the Zhenyuan Branch of the Communist Party of China, important for understanding Zhenyuan's revolutionary history. Free admission with ID card. Food Experiences 1. Sour Fish Soup: Zhenyuan's signature dish, featuring tender rice-paddy fish in fermented rice soup, with a sour and spicy flavor that stimulates the appetite. Recommended: Miao Boma Sour Fish Soup, 50-80 yuan per person. 2. Zhenyuan Dao Vegetable: A salty and fragrant side dish made from pickled kohlrabi, can be served with porridge, stir-fried with meat, or wrapped in spring rolls. A local intangible cultural heritage food available at street-side shops at affordable prices. 3. Fried Rice Cake: Glutinous rice flour wrapped around red bean paste and deep-fried, crispy outside and chewy inside, delicious when dipped in sweet and spicy sauce. Commonly found on streets, 2-3 yuan each. 4. Lamb Rice Noodles: Featuring a flavorful broth with minced garlic and roasted chili peppers, pairs great with fried rice cakes. Average price: 10-15 yuan. 5. Rice Tofu: Made from rice, served with fish mint herb, Litsea oil, and other seasonings. Smooth texture, 5-10 yuan per serving. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Riverside Guesthouses: Recommended to stay in guesthouses along the Wuyang River, offering 270-degree unobstructed views of the beautiful river and night scenery, such as Viewing Terrace Guesthouse, priced at 200-500 yuan. 2. Zhenyuan Biaoju Daheguan Hotel: A distinctive inn with traditional architectural style that blends with the ancient town atmosphere. Clean and tidy rooms, priced at 300-600 yuan. 3. Zhenyuan Pulo Hotel: Excellent location with convenient transportation and dining options nearby. Complete facilities, priced at 200-400 yuan. Travel Tips 1. Best Time to Visit: Suitable for travel year-round. Summer offers a cool retreat and the lively Dragon Boat Festival; autumn has pleasant weather and picturesque scenery. 2. Transportation - High-speed Rail: Take the high-speed train from Guiyang North Station to Zhenyuan Station, then take a taxi or bus to the ancient town. - Train: Affordable trains run directly to Zhenyuan from Guiyang, Kaili, and other places. - Self-driving: Navigate to "Zhenyuan Ancient Town." Parking is available but may be crowded during holidays. 3. Ticket Information: Zhenyuan Ancient Town is free to enter, but some attractions require separate tickets. 4. Important Notes - The ancient town has many stone paths that may be slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. - Respect local customs and traditions, especially in areas where ethnic minorities live. - In summer, take precautions against sunburn and mosquitoes; pay attention to safety when participating in activities like river rafting. Zhenyuan Ancient Town is like a melodious ancient tune, each note telling a story of the passing years, each melody exuding tranquility and beauty.