Zhenyuan Ancient Town

The Wuyang river makes a tight S through Zhenyuan, so the town sits on both banks with the water bending back on itself, and stone bridges and steps connect the two halves. It was a port and garrison on the route between the interior and the southwest, prosperous enough that guild halls were built by merchants from other provinces. Its landmark is Qinglong Dong, a complex of Buddhist, Daoist and Confucian buildings stacked against a cliff on the far bank, connected by stairs and galleries pinned to the rock. Lanes of old houses climb the hillsides, and the riverfront is lit at night.

Highlights

• The river bend - the S-curve of the Wuyang through the town.
• Qinglong Cave - temple buildings stacked against the cliff face.
• The guild halls - merchant associations from other provinces.
• The lit riverfront - the town reflected in the water at night.

When to go

March to June and September to November for mild weather; Guizhou is frequently overcast. Evenings on the river are the most attractive. Holidays bring crowds to the waterfront.

Before you go

Some restoration is heavy-handed and new building in old style is extensive. Qinglong Cave charges entry and involves steep stairs. English is almost absent.

Nearby

Kaili lies southwest; Fanjingshan is northeast.