Zunyi, the capital city in north Guizhou, is a place rich in history and natural beauty, offering a diverse range of tourist attractions.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
Site of the Zunyi Meeting: This is a two-storey wood and brick building of combined Chinese and Western architectural styles, located on Hongqi Road in the old section of Zunyi. In January 1935, the Red Army held a crucial conference here during the Long March. It is now a major cultural relic site under state protection and houses the Zunyi Conference Memorial Museum.
Lou Shan Pass Tourist Attraction: Also known as Lou Guan or Taiping Pass, it is the main peak of the Dalou Mountain range, located at the border of Zunyi and Tongzi counties. It holds great historical significance as a strategic pass and was the site of important battles. The scenery here is also magnificent, with mountains stretching as far as the eye can see.
Maotai Town: Famous for being the home of Maotai, one of the most renowned liquors in China. Visitors can tour the Maotai distillery, learn about the traditional brewing process that has been passed down for generations, and sample the famous liquor. The town also has a charming ancient street with traditional architecture and a lively atmosphere.
Chinese Liquor Culture City: Showcases the long history and profound culture of Chinese liquor, especially highlighting the production and culture of Maotai and other local liquors. It is a great place to learn about the art of liquor making and the cultural traditions associated with it.
Natural Landscapes
Chishui Danxia Tourist Area: Known for its unique danxia landforms, characterized by red sandstone cliffs and strange rock formations. The area also features beautiful waterfalls, such as the Chishui Grand Waterfall, which is a magnificent sight with water cascading down from a great height. The combination of the colorful rocks and the powerful waterfalls makes this a truly spectacular destination.
Jinding Shan: A pleasant day trip destination about 20 minutes northwest of Zunyi. It offers easy hiking opportunities and a chance to enjoy nature. Many visitors come here to catch the beautiful sunrise from the summit. There is also basic accommodation available for those who wish to stay overnight.
Hongshi Valley (Redstone Valley): Renowned for its rare danxia landscapes, with unique red rock formations and a beautiful stream running through the valley. It provides a great opportunity for photography and exploration, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
Chishui Bamboo Forest: Covering a large area, this bamboo forest offers a serene and peaceful environment. Walking through the forest paths, surrounded by tall bamboo groves, is a rejuvenating experience. It is also a great place for nature lovers and photographers.
Local Cuisine
Liu Er Ma Mi Pi: A popular snack made with thick flat rice noodles, served with a red oil sauce that contains Sichuan pepper, giving it a distinctive numbing and spicy flavor. It often comes with a few scraps of meat and preserved vegetables.
Yang Rou Fen: Rice noodle dish made with strips of mutton in a spicy broth. It is a favorite among locals, especially for breakfast or as a midnight snack. Many shops offer pickled cabbage and radishes on the side.
Dou Hua Mian: Consists of dou hua (a type of semi-firm tofu), long flat wheat noodles, and a separate bowl of preserved meat, spices, oil, soy, vinegar, and fresh mint leaves. To eat like a local, dip the noodles and dou hua in the sauce and then drink the soup at the end.
Festivals
Guizhou Wine Festival: Held throughout July and August, this festival is a great event for wine enthusiasts. It takes place in Chishui as well as Zunyi, offering a chance to taste a variety of local wines and experience the local wine culture.
Caishan Festival: Usually celebrated from the 1st to the 15th day of the first lunar month, this ethnic festival features traditional folk performances, singing, dancing, and various cultural activities. It is a great opportunity to experience the unique ethnic cultures of the region.
Practical Information
Getting There: Zunyi is accessible by plane, train, or long-distance bus. The city has its own airport, and it is also well-connected by rail to major cities like Guiyang and Chongqing. The bus journey from Guiyang takes about 2.5 hours.
Best Time to Visit: Zunyi has a subtropical humid monsoon climate, with no intense heat in summer and no severe cold in winter. The annual average temperature is 13-18℃, making it suitable to visit all year long. However, spring and autumn are considered the most pleasant seasons, with mild weather and beautiful scenery.
