Anshun, Guizhou: A Comprehensive In-Depth Travel Guide

Here is a detailed travel itinerary for exploring Anshun, Guizhou in depth: Day 1: Arrival in Anshun – Marvels of Nature • Morning: Upon arrival, head to Huangguoshu Waterfall Scenic Area. Visit Doupotang Waterfall, the widest waterfall in the Huangguoshu group and a filming location for the 1986 TV series "Journey to the West." • Noon: Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant and savor local Anshun delicacies. • Afternoon: Continue exploring Huangguoshu Waterfall Scenic Area, admiring the aquatic stone forest and karst caves of Tianxingqiao Scenic Area. • Evening: Stay overnight in Anshun and try local specialties like Anshun Guajuan (rice rolls) and spicy chicken. Day 2: Culture and History Exploration • Morning: Visit Longgong (Dragon Palace) Scenic Area, home to China’s longest water-eroded cave. Take a boat tour to explore the "Most Beautiful Water Cave in China" and witness the unique "Xuantang" phenomenon where "the water spins while the mountain stands still." • Noon: Dine at a restaurant near Longgong Scenic Area. • Afternoon: Travel to Tianlong Tunpu Ancient Town, a 600-year-old military settlement preserving Ming Dynasty traditions, including Fengyang Han costumes, Dixi opera, and stone architecture. • Evening: Enjoy local specialties like the Tunpu Military Stove Banquet in the ancient town. Day 3: Ethnic Culture and Natural Scenery • Morning: Explore Jiuzhou Ancient Town, strolling through Ming and Qing Dynasty alleys and admiring the scenic blend of Wuyang Lake, ancient lanes, and traditional batik art. • Noon: Try Jiuzhou Spicy Chicken, a local dish made with free-range chicken, chili peppers, and spices. • Afternoon: Visit Ziyun Getu River Cave, where you can witness the mysterious "Heaven and Earth Divine Light," the world’s highest ancient riverbed site "Chuanshang Cave," and thousand-year-old cliff burials. • Evening: Dine at a nearby farmhouse restaurant and enjoy homemade dishes. Day 4: Departure • Morning: Free time before departure. • Noon: Enjoy a final meal of local cuisine in the city. • Afternoon: Depart Anshun. Key Attractions: • Huangguoshu Waterfall: Asia’s largest waterfall (77.8m tall, 101m wide), featuring 18 cascades and a filming site for "Journey to the West." • Longgong Scenic Area: Home to China’s longest water-eroded cave (15km), the grand "Dragon Gate Waterfall," and the Buddhist cave "Guanyin Cave." • Tianlong Tunpu Ancient Town: A 600-year-old military village preserving Ming Dynasty customs, costumes, and stone architecture. • Jiuzhou Ancient Town: A 2,300-year-old capital of the ancient "Qielan Kingdom," blending Wuyang Lake, historic alleys, and batik art. • Ziyun Getu River Cave: Features the "Heaven and Earth Divine Light," the "Chuanshang Cave" ancient riverbed, and cliff burials. Local Highlights: Anshun is a key tourist city in Guizhou, renowned for its natural wonders and cultural heritage. It’s home to Huangguoshu Waterfall ("China’s Waterfall Town"), Longgong, and Getu River. The local cuisine, like Guajuan and spicy chicken, is also a highlight. Local Specialties: • Anshun Guajuan: Thin rice wraps filled with sour-spicy fillings. • Huajiang Dog Meat: A specialty of Guanling County, known for its tender texture and rich flavor. • Jiuzhou Spicy Chicken: Free-range chicken cooked with chili peppers and spices. • Anshun Batik: Traditional indigo-dyed handicrafts with intricate patterns. Recommended Local Eateries: • Restaurants near Huangguoshu Waterfall: Try scenic-area specialties. • Anshun city restaurants: Sample Guajuan and spicy chicken. • Jiuzhou Ancient Town street stalls: Taste Jiuzhou Spicy Chicken. Cost Guide: • Tickets: - Huangguoshu Waterfall: ¥160/person (half-price for students/seniors). - Longgong Scenic Area: ¥150/person. - Jiuzhou Ancient Town: Free. - Getu River Cave: ~¥60/person. • Food: Snacks ¥20–50/person; meals ¥50–150/person. • Lodging: Budget hotels/guesthouses ¥150–300/night. Budget-Friendly Stays: • Anshun city hotels (e.g., Jinjiang Inn): Affordable and convenient. • Huangguoshu Waterfall guesthouses: Close to the scenic area. • Longgong Scenic Area guesthouses: Scenic and peaceful. Travel Tips: 1. Transport: Public transit is available, but renting a car or hiring a driver is recommended for flexibility. 2. Shopping: Buy local products at reputable stores to avoid counterfeits. 3. Dining: Choose well-reviewed restaurants to ensure quality and fair prices. 4. Weather: Pack sun protection and warm layers for Guizhou’s variable climate.