2025 Daguan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in February)

The complete 2025 Daguan County travel guide: Must-see attractions, unique experiences, and practical tips. Overview of Key Attractions Huanglian River Scenic Area: Admire a collection of 47 unique waterfalls, including Xiannv Waterfall (Fairy Waterfall) and Qinglang Waterfall (Lover's Waterfall), alongside canyons, caves, and dove trees. The area offers interactive experiences like the "Water Curtain Corridor". Plan for 3–4 hours. Summer is the best time to visit. Tickets cost CNY 68 (discounts available for students and seniors). Take a bus from Zhaotong Bus Station to Daguan County (CNY 15), then a taxi or local bus to the scenic area (approx. 3 km from the county seat). Shanhaidong Cave: Inspired by the *Classic of Mountains and Seas*, this cave features stunning light and sound displays depicting mythical scenes like Nuwa Mending the Sky. Boat tours are available inside the cave. It's an ideal summer retreat. Open from 09:00–17:30. Plan for 2–3 hours. Nearby homestays offer immersive cultural experiences. Luohanba Primeval Forest and Sanjiangkou Nature Reserve: Luohanba offers a serene escape into untouched nature, while Sanjiangkou boasts rich biodiversity. Perfect for hiking and nature observation. These less-traveled destinations are a must-see for nature enthusiasts. Featured Experiences Culture & Customs: Participate in the traditional "Tongguanjie Dispelling Dampness and Cold" festival or visit the villages surrounding Shanhaidong Cave to experience Yunnan's ethnic culture. Food & Specialties: Don't miss local delicacies like bean curd and spicy chicken. Local specialties include *Zhaotong* gastrodia and Pu'er tea. Outdoor Adventure: Go rock climbing and explore caves at Huanglian River Scenic Area. Qinglongdong Canyon is ideal for geology enthusiasts. Practical Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: Summer (May–September) for spectacular waterfalls and a cool escape in Shanhaidong Cave; autumn (October) for stunning fall foliage in some areas. Transportation: Zhaotong serves as a transit hub. Take a high-speed train or flight from Kunming to Zhaotong, then a bus to Daguan (approx. 4 hrs). Taxis and chartered cars are available from the county seat to most attractions. For some destinations, like Luohanba, self-drive or car rental is necessary. Accommodation: Hotels in the county seat offer great value. Consider homestays near scenic areas, such as Shanhaidong Cave, for an authentic local experience. Important Notes: Wear non-slip shoes for hiking in some areas. Caves can be cold and damp, so dress warmly. Check the weather forecast and be aware of potential landslides during the rainy season. Suggested Itineraries 2-Day Trip: Day 1: Huanglian River waterfalls in the morning, Qinglongdong Cave in the afternoon, and dinner in the county seat featuring spicy chicken and cured meat. Day 2: Explore Shanhaidong Cave in the morning, hike in Luohanba in the afternoon, and return. 3-Day In-depth Trip: Add a visit to Sanjiangkou Nature Reserve or participate in a cultural heritage market. For the latest information, check the local tourism website or contact the scenic areas directly. Immerse yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of Daguan County.

Encounter Daguan and embark on a unique journey. In the northeast of "Colorful Yunnan," lies a hidden gem—Daguan County. It may not be as famous as Dali, but it possesses an untouched, pure simplicity. Once you arrive, a unique journey quietly begins. Step into Daguan, and rolling mountains greet you. The Huanglian River waterfalls cascade down the mountains like silver ribbons, splashing and sparkling like crystal pearls in the sunlight. Standing beneath the falls, feel the immense power of nature and listen to the thunderous roar, washing away the hustle and bustle of city life. Follow the winding mountain roads, and ancient villages appear nestled among the landscape. Wooden houses dot the hillsides, smoke curling from their rooftops, painting a serene and peaceful rural scene. Enter the villages, and warm villagers welcome you with local delicacies, each dish filled with the warmth of home. As night falls, lie beneath the starlit sky of Daguan, where the stars seem close enough to touch. Here, time slows down, and every moment is filled with poetry. Encountering Daguan is a profound dialogue with nature and life, a place where the soul finds its harbor.

How to plan a trip to Zhaotong? This 6-day itinerary will take you to all the best spots in Zhaotong, including attractions and food. Start your Zhaotong trip now! / 🚩Itinerary: Day 1: Depart from Shanghai🛫 and arrive in Zhaotong. Start your Zhaotong trip and get ready to explore this beautiful land! Day 2: Long Family Ancestral Hall - Zhaotong Ancient Town - Sixth Patriarch Cultural Square Visit the ancient Long Family Ancestral Hall, stroll through Zhaotong Ancient Town to feel the historical charm, and finally head to Sixth Patriarch Cultural Square to experience the cultural charm. Day 3: Doushaguan - Huanglian River Scenic Area Visit the ancient Doushaguan, then head to Huanglian River Scenic Area to enjoy the natural beauty and leisure time. Day 4: Dashanbao Black-necked Crane Nature Reserve Head to Dashanbao to explore the home of black-necked cranes and feel the magic and magnificence of nature. Day 5: Xiaocaoba Ecotourism Area Explore Xiaocaoba, get close to nature, and enjoy the fun and comfort of ecotourism. Day 6: Depart from Zhaotong🛫 and return to Shanghai. End your pleasant Zhaotong trip and return with a full load! / Must-visit attractions: Huanglian River Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Ma'anshan Community, Huanglianhe Village, Cuihua Town, Daguan County, Zhaotong City Opening hours: 8:30-17:30 Duration: 1 hour This is a great place to experience the charm of nature, featuring spectacular waterfalls and dense bamboo forests. Zhaotong Ancient Town ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Near No. 279, Beizheng Street, Zhaoyang District, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province Opening hours: All day Duration: 1-3 hours The ancient town combines Qing Dynasty architecture with French style. Strolling through it is like traveling through time and space, feeling the weight of history and exoticism. Xiaocaoba Ecotourism Area ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Linchang Group, Xiaocaoba Township, Xiaocaoba Town, Yiliang County, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province Opening hours: 08:30-17:30 Duration: 1 day This is a natural treasure with rolling mountains and endless forests, perfect for a whole day immersed in nature, enjoying peace and beauty. / Some tips: - Customs: Respect local customs, be polite, and experience the unique folk culture of Zhaotong. 🙌 - Photo spots: Zhaotong Ancient Town and Dashanbao Scenic Area are not to be missed. Leave your travel mark! 📸 - Airport transportation: Plan your route in advance. There are airport buses from the airport to the city center for convenient travel. 🚌 - Food: Try Zhaotong Gastrodia Hot Pot and small meat skewers to taste the authentic flavors and let your taste buds dance. 🍲🍡 / Zhaotong is so beautiful, don't miss it! Bring your friends and go on a trip now! 🎒✨

Huanglian River Waterfall Guide for Zhaotong Travel Huanglian River Scenic Area is located in Daguan County, Zhaotong City, only 5 km from the county seat, 60 km (1 hour drive) from Zhaotong City, and about 400 km (4.5 hour drive) from Kunming. It is a rare spectacle of a waterfall group. Take advantage of the National Day holiday to see the great rivers and mountains of the motherland. Huanglian River Waterfall, the hometown of Chinese waterfalls, is definitely the top summer resort around Zhaotong during this holiday! Get close to nature, open your arms, and breathe in the fresh air~ Navigate to "Huanglian River Scenic Area", the entrance to the scenic area is the unfinished building complex, which is the parking lot (free of charge). Play time The entire scenic area takes about 2-4 hours to visit, with a round-trip hike of about 4 km. Some of the steps are slightly steep, but you can still walk around slowly with the elderly and children. 🍚Food: There are fried potatoes and other snacks and drinks for sale in the scenic area, as well as fresh bamboo shoots picked by nearby villagers (price unknown, not inquired). During the National Day holiday, there is a music beer food festival at the entrance of the scenic area, with many food stalls. Accommodation: There is a hot spring hotel at the entrance of the scenic area, and it is not far from the county seat and Zhaotong City. It is recommended to stay in the city for easy transfer. Essentials: It is often rainy and foggy here, and the humidity is high, so remember to bring a coat. Tips for playing and taking photos📸 The most beautiful waterfalls are Fairy Waterfall, Water Curtain Corridor, and Moon Waterfall, and they are also very beautiful for taking photos, so don't miss them when you go there~ Let the world see a different Yunnan! See the great rivers and mountains of the motherland

Colorful forest hiking routes around Chengdu! Absolutely perfect. The autumn wind is blowing, the cold is coming, the stream is yellow, and the leaves are red. Autumn is already beautiful, and I can't stop thinking about the colorful forest! This is the most colorful forest I've ever seen, with layers of colors and a passionate atmosphere. Recommended routes: East Route: Suitable for the elderly and children, mainly hiking, about 5 km. It is recommended to walk down the trail from the Blue Crystal Hotel, which is easier! West Route: Take the sightseeing bus to the 30°N Square, take the cable car to the top of the mountain to see the sea of clouds, take the sightseeing bus, and then walk to the Red Stone Beach (you are likely to see sambar deer here), walk to the Niujingou Viewing Platform, and enjoy the red leaves all over the mountains. This is the most beautiful and concentrated place for red leaves! Continue to take the bus to the Deer Pool, where the autumn water and red leaves are beautiful! Very photogenic! Recommended photo spots: ① Longyin Trail ② Jiaoshan Sea of Clouds, if you're lucky, you will see a rainbow and snow-capped mountains in the same frame. ③ The forest at the entrance of Red Stone Beach ④ Colorful Valley - Niujingou's red leaves ⑤ The trail around the Deer Pool Tips There are many wild monkeys, so prepare trekking poles or sticks in advance.

Coordinates and Introduction Huanglian River Waterfall Cluster is located within the territory of Daguan County, Zhaotong City, only 5 kilometers away from the county seat, 60 kilometers away from Zhaotong City area (1-hour drive), and about 400 kilometers away from Kunming (4.5-hour drive). It is a rare spectacle of waterfall clusters. Transportation Navigate to "Huanglian River Scenic Area", where the entrance is located at the unfinished building complex That is the parking lot (free of charge) Tickets 60 RMB per person, no other charges besides the ticket (the gate of the scenic area is right after getting off at the parking lot, no tour bus, no cable car) Touring Time The whole scenic area takes about 2-4 hours to visit, with a round-trip walking distance of about 4 kilometers. Some steps are slightly steep, but it's manageable to stroll through with the elderly and children at a leisurely pace. Accommodation There is a hot spring hotel at the entrance of the scenic area, and it is not very far from the county seat and Zhaotong City area. It is recommended to stay in the city area for convenient transfers. Attire Huanglian River Scenic Area is often shrouded in rain and fog with high humidity, remember to bring a coat. Touring and Photography The most beautiful waterfalls are the Fairy Waterfall, Water Curtain Corridor, and Old Man Moon Waterfall, and they are also very photogenic. Definitely do not miss them when you visit! Cuisine There are snacks and drinks for sale in the scenic area, such as fried potatoes, as well as freshly picked bamboo shoots from nearby villagers (price unknown, not inquired).

★There is no admission fee for Dashanbao, only a transportation fee for the scenic area. ★The fare from the visitor center to Dahai Zi (Black-necked Crane) is 68 yuan (round trip), and from the visitor center to Jigong Mountain (including the glass plank road) is 98 yuan (round trip). To enter the glass plank road, you need to show the 98 yuan scenic area transportation ticket. There is no discount for purchasing both, and the scenic area transportation ticket is only valid for the day. ★The scenic area transportation basically departs in a rolling manner, there is no limit to the departure frequency. In the afternoon, I was alone on the bus, didn't wait too long, and still went to the glass plank road. ★The ticket has the visitor center's phone number. The latest time for the scenic area transportation to stop is 6:30 pm, but you can call to arrange for a pick-up (for example, if you watch the sunset on Jigong Mountain too late). This is a promise from the scenic area, but I haven't tried it. ★The scenery of the Jigong Mountain hiking plank road is good. The horse riding road and the hiking plank road are two lines, the former is much closer than the latter. I walked the hiking plank road on the way there (taking pictures while walking, about 1 and a half hours to the end), and walked the horse riding road on the way back (about half an hour on foot), the viewing angles are different. ★Overall, the scenery of Dashanbao is magnificent and domineering, worth a visit! The dance of the Black-necked Crane depends on luck, and the feeding time is currently not fixed! ★Drones are not allowed in the Black-necked Crane viewing area, but they can fly on Jigong Mountain. However, the wind is too strong to fly.

C debut plan Not only is Zhaotong, Yunnan rich in natural resources, it also has a profound cultural heritage. On this land, 28 ethnic groups live in harmony, forming a diverse ethnic culture. The blending of these cultures makes Zhaotong's cultural characteristics distinct and full of vitality and energy. Recommended ten scenic spots for self-driving tour in Zhaotong, Yunnan: Zhaotong, Yunnan - Zhaotong Ancient City - Qingguan Pavilion Park - Shenggeng Cultural Park - Sun Lake - Dashanbao Black-necked Crane Nature Reserve in Yunnan Province - Jigongshan Grand Canyon - Huanglian River Scenic Area - Doushaguan Ancient Town Scenic Area - Western Grand Canyon - Shaonvping Scenic Area - Zhaotong, Yunnan. Day 1, Zhaotong, Yunnan - Zhaotong Ancient City - Qingguan Pavilion Park - Shenggeng Cultural Park, Zhaotong Ancient City self-driving to Qingguan Pavilion Park traffic route: Zhaotong Ancient City - Chongyi Street - Youth Road - Hailou Road - Justice Road - Qingguan Pavilion Park. Zhaotong Ancient City: Located at the junction of Zhaoyang District, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province and Guizhou and Sichuan provinces, Zhaotong Ancient City has absorbed the essence of official architecture, temple-style architecture, residential architecture, etc. in its development of more than 200 years. Zhaotong Ancient City is most suitable for summer vacation, so it is positioned as Autumn City, a name that cannot be repeated in the world. It is China's Autumn City and the world's Autumn City, open all day for free. Qingguan Pavilion Park: Located opposite China Post on Gongyuan Road, Zhaoyang District, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. Originally named Sanduo Pond Pavilion, it was built by Wang Yu, the county magistrate in the 14th year of Jiaqing in the Qing Dynasty (1809). The pavilion is a two-story outer corridor water pavilion, with a stone bridge in front, covering an area of 305 square meters. It is said that Wang Yu was an honest official, hence the name Qingguan Pavilion. Open all day for free. Shenggeng Cultural Park: Located 50 meters north of the intersection of Zhaotong Avenue and Huancheng East Road in Zhaoyang District, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. The park includes six major scenic areas: Creative Water Street Entrance Area, Shenggeng Sky Time Culture Area, Jing Book Six Arts Self-cultivation Area, Binhu Ecological Viewing Area, Binhu Vitality Leisure Area, Autumn City Waterfront Health Area, as well as Shenggeng, Zhuzi Hundred Schools, Four Books and Five Classics, Poetry and Song Fu, Qin Chess Calligraphy and Painting Five Squares. Day 2, Shenggeng Cultural Park - Sun Lake - Dashanbao Black-necked Crane Nature Reserve in Yunnan Province. Sun Lake: An artificial lake in Wenping Town, Ludian County, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. Dashanbao Black-necked Crane Nature Reserve in Yunnan Province: Located near the Dashanbao Black-necked Crane National Nature Reserve on Huancheng North Road, Zhaoyang District, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. From early August to early October, the mountains are covered with flowers, oats, and fragrant grasslands in blocks and layers, colorful, turning the desolate Dashanbao into a dreamy world like a paradise. At this time, Dashanbao can be called a paradise for photographers. Play time: more than 3 hours. Opening hours: 08:00-18:00. Ticket reference: from 39 yuan/person. Day 3, Dashanbao Black-necked Crane Nature Reserve in Yunnan Province - Jigongshan Grand Canyon - Huanglian River Scenic Area. Jigongshan Grand Canyon: Located in the north of Ludian County, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. Play time: more than 3 hours. Opening hours: 08:00-17:30. Ticket reference: from 62 yuan/person. Huanglian River Scenic Area: Located in Ma'anshan Community Scenic Management Area, Daguan County, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. The scenic area is dominated by a group of waterfalls, interspersed with dreamlike cloud and mist peaks, which are beautiful. Opening hours: 08:30-17:30. Day 4, Huanglian River Scenic Area - Doushaguan Ancient Town Scenic Area. Doushaguan Ancient Town Scenic Area: Located near Shimen Village, Yanjin County, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. Doushaguan is a major transportation route from Sichuan to Yunnan. The Qin and Han Dynasties' "Five Feet Road" is a key point. The cliff carvings are on the huge rock. The terrain is dangerous. The cliff on the left is opposite to the dangerous rock on the opposite side of the river. It is like two huge stone doors, blocking the passage. It is a throat. During the Sui and Tang Dynasties, it was called "Shimen Guan". Play time: 1 day, opening hours: open all day. Ticket reference: from 60 yuan/person. Day 5, Doushaguan Ancient Town Scenic Area - Western Grand Canyon - Shaonvping Scenic Area - Zhaotong, Yunnan. Western Grand Canyon: Located at Baweicao, Shuifu County, Shuifu City, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. Play time: more than 3 hours. Ticket reference: from 140 yuan/person. Shaonvping Scenic Area: Located in the tourist town of Shuifu City, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. Take the time to come to Zhaotong, the scenery and customs here are very charming. Tips: For more guides, refer to Ctrip to make a plan.