Zhaotong Travel Guide: Discover Hidden Gems in Northeast Yunnan

Located in northeast Yunnan, Zhaotong offers magnificent natural scenery, rich history, and unique cuisine. It's definitely worth a visit. Let this guide lead you on a journey to Zhaotong! Highlights 1. Dashanbao: This area combines mountains, wetlands, grasslands, lakes, and waterfalls. It's also a wintering habitat for the black-necked crane, a national first-class protected animal. Stroll through the vast meadows, admire the picturesque scenery, and experience the tranquility and magnificence of nature. The best time to visit is autumn and winter, when the black-necked cranes are here. Tickets cost CNY 98. Opening hours: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm. 2. Huanglianhe Scenic Area: Famous for its waterfalls, the area boasts 47 waterfalls of varying sizes and shapes, such as the Fairy Waterfall and the Duge Waterfall. The waterfalls are magnificent, surrounded by lush trees. Walking through them is like entering a paradise. Tickets start from CNY 55. Opening hours: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. 3. Western Grand Canyon Hot Springs: This area features unique natural landscapes and abundant hot spring resources. There are various hot spring pools in the scenic area. Soaking in the hot springs will relax your body and mind. The hot spring water is of excellent quality and good for your skin. Tickets start from CNY 118. Opening hours: 10:00 am - 12:00 am. 4. Zhaotong Ancient City: Known as the "City of Guild Halls," it was an important post on the Southern Silk Road. It still retains Qing Dynasty architecture, blended with French style. Stroll along the ancient city's flagstone roads, visit Dou Street, and experience the historical charm and vibrant atmosphere. Free entry. Open all day. 5. Shanhai Cave: The cave features peculiar landscapes. The stalactites are stunning under the light, and technological elements add to the fun. Tickets start from CNY 88. Opening hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm. Local Specialties 1. Zhaotong Small Meat Skewers: These grilled beef skewers are tender, spicy, and savory. They are a signature dish of Zhaotong. Paired with a special dipping sauce, they are incredibly delicious. Masi Barbecue is a recommended restaurant that was featured on the TV show "A Bite of China." 2. Yougao Erkuai: This is the main breakfast for Zhaotong people. The yougao (fried cake) is crispy, and the erkuai (rice cake) is soft and glutinous. Spread with peanut butter, sweet sauce, and chili sauce, it offers a rich and unforgettable taste. 3. Tianma Qi Guo Ji (Gastrodia Chicken Soup): This soup is made with gastrodia and chicken. The broth is delicious and nutritious, with health benefits. Qingyiyuan Wild Mushroom Hot Pot Restaurant is a recommended place to try it. 4. Xidoufen (Pea Flour Soup): This soup is made from peas boiled into a paste. It has a light yellow color and a delicate fragrance. Sprinkled with chopped green onion, chili powder, and other seasonings, it is delicious when paired with youtiao (fried dough sticks) or yougao. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Downtown Hotels: For convenient travel, choose the Wyndham Grand Plaza Royale Zhaotong. Located in the city center, it's a great place for family vacations. Vienna International Hotel (Zhaotong Hongxing Hepu Square Branch) offers convenient dining options nearby, with good service and breakfast. 2. Scenic Area B&Bs: When visiting Dashanbao, you can stay in a B&B near the scenic area, which is convenient for watching the sunrise, sunset, and black-necked cranes. However, accommodation options are limited, so it's recommended to check and book in advance. Transportation Guide 1. External Transportation: ◦ By air: Zhaotong Zhaoyang Airport has flights to and from some cities. From the airport to the city, you can take the airport bus, a taxi, or a ride-hailing service. ◦ By train: Zhaotong Railway Station has trains to and from Kunming, Chengdu, and other cities. It's recommended to check train schedules and book tickets in advance. 2. Local Transportation: ◦ By bus: Bus routes cover the main urban areas, making travel convenient. You can check route information at bus stops. Some routes support scan-to-pay. ◦ By taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis have reasonable starting fares, and ride-hailing services are convenient to use. These are common ways to get around the city. ◦ By car: Driving allows for flexible itineraries. However, parking may be difficult around scenic areas during peak season, so plan your parking in advance. Itinerary 3-Day Itinerary • Day 1: Arrive in Zhaotong in the morning. Visit Zhaotong Ancient City, stroll through the old streets, experience the historical charm, and try local snacks like yougao erkuai. In the afternoon, go to Wanghai Park to enjoy the lake view. In the evening, try Zhaotong small meat skewers and other delicacies at the Hailou Road Night Market. • Day 2: Spend the whole day at Dashanbao, enjoying the natural scenery and watching black-necked cranes (in autumn and winter). • Day 3: Visit Huanglianhe Scenic Area in the morning to see the waterfalls. Return to the city in the afternoon and prepare for your departure.