Chongzuo, Guangxi, is not Bali, but it's been a hot topic on social media

Chongzuo, a border city in the southwest of Guangxi, is a place of enchanting landscapes and diverse charm, offering both beautiful natural scenery and rich Zhuang cultural heritage. This three-day itinerary will take you to explore transnational waterfalls, leisurely enjoy the pastoral landscapes, and immerse yourself in folk villages, unlocking the unique charm of Chongzuo and embarking on a magical border journey. Daily Itinerary Day 1: Waterfall Wonder Exploration Day 📍Detian Transnational Waterfall: The largest in Asia and the fourth largest transnational waterfall in the world, where the Guichun River cascades down, forming a magnificent group of waterfalls. Stand on the viewing platform to see the splashing water and gaze across at the scenery of Vietnam, feeling the grandeur of nature (Entrance fee: CNY 80, Sightseeing bus: CNY 35). 📍China-Vietnam Border Street: Adjacent to the waterfall scenic area, the street is lined with Vietnamese specialty goods, including perfumes, coffee, and wood carvings. Stroll through and taste Vietnamese snacks, experiencing the unique joy of cross-border shopping (expenses are self-managed). 📍Mingshi Pastoral: Arrive at Mingshi Pastoral in the evening, take a bamboo raft downstream, and enjoy the picturesque scenery of mountains and water on both sides. The pastoral, peaks, and green water create a beautiful picture, as if you are in a paradise (Bamboo raft ticket: CNY 120). Day 2: Leisurely Pastoral Day 📍Anping Xian River: Known as "Little Guilin," take a boat ride through its winding waterways, with green mountains on both sides, swaying bamboo, and occasionally playful water buffalo in the river, creating a leisurely and pleasant atmosphere (Boat ticket: CNY 80). 📍Heishui River National Wetland Park: The river is clear, and the lush vegetation on both sides presents a unique karst wetland landscape. Walk along the boardwalk, breathe in the fresh air, watch rare birds, and feel the tranquility and vitality of nature (free entry). 📍Encheng Water Town: A Zhuang ethnic settlement with ancient villages and simple folk customs. Participate in local folk activities such as bamboo pole dancing and mountain songs, and taste Zhuang specialty foods like five-color sticky rice and sour dishes, immersing yourself in the rich ethnic atmosphere (food expenses are self-managed). Day 3: Historical and Cultural Immersion Day 📍Pingxiang Friendship Pass: One of China's nine famous passes, majestic and grand, historically a strategic military location. Enter the pass tower to learn about the modern border wars, touch the ancient city walls, and feel the weight of history (Entrance fee: CNY 42). 📍Zuojiang Leaning Tower: One of the world's eight leaning towers, the tower leans but stands firm, a marvel. Take a boat on the Zuojiang River to view the leaning tower, blending with the surrounding mountains and waters, offering a unique charm (Boat ticket varies by route). 📍Chongzuo Zhuang Museum: Fully showcases Zhuang history and culture, from ancient costumes and utensils to folk customs, providing an in-depth understanding of the Zhuang people's development and the wisdom and charm of ethnic minorities (free, reservation required). Must-Try Foods: Taste of Chongzuo ✅Chongzuo Roast Pig: Crispy skin, tender meat, golden color, a bite releases rich flavors and aroma, average cost CNY 60–80 per person. ✅Qu Tou Egg: A partially incubated duck egg cooked and served with spicy and sour sauce, offering a unique taste for the brave, CNY 3–5 each. ✅Guanglang Noodles: Made from Guanglang tree, smooth and refreshing after mixing, sweet and nutritious, CNY 5–10 per bowl. ✅Sour Porridge: Known for its sour taste, with minced meat and vegetables added, it's a local signature dish, CNY 10–15 per bowl. Photo Tips: Capture Beautiful Moments 1️⃣In front of Detian Transnational Waterfall: From 10 am to 12 pm, with ample sunlight, use the majestic waterfall as a backdrop, wear bright clothes, stand at the edge of the viewing platform, and capture the moment when the water splashes, creating a stunning image with the waterfall. 2️⃣On the bamboo raft at Mingshi Pastoral: From 4 pm to 6 pm, with soft lighting, sit at the front of the bamboo raft, using the green mountains and pastoral as a backdrop, hold a bamboo hat, and take a leisurely boating photo. Side backlighting can outline the figure, creating a beautiful scene. 3️⃣In front of Pingxiang Friendship Pass Tower: Wear ancient costumes, use the majestic pass tower and ancient city walls as a backdrop, utilize light and shadow to highlight the three-dimensionality of the architecture, and take photos with a strong sense of history. The effect is better when the light is slanting in the morning or evening. Avoiding Pitfalls: Handy Tips 🚗Transportation: There are special buses or shuttles from the city to attractions, but they are infrequent. It's recommended to rent a car or carpool; prepare necessary documents for cross-border travel and follow regulations. 🍱Food: When trying Qu Tou Egg, choose reputable stalls to ensure food safety; when buying specialties from roadside stalls, check the quality to avoid being scammed. 🎫Tickets: For popular attractions like Detian Transnational Waterfall and Friendship Pass, purchase tickets online in advance for discounts and to avoid queues; some attractions offer combo tickets. 👟Clothing: Wear comfortable sports shoes for outdoor activities, and use sunscreen in summer; in border areas, be mindful of your behavior and respect local customs. Hidden Gems: Explore Lesser-Known Treasures 1️⃣White-Headed Langur Ecotourism Area: Observe the rare white-headed langurs up close, learn about their habits, and enjoy the well-preserved ecology in the reserve, feeling the wonders of nature. Ticket prices vary by project. 2️⃣Banmai Stone Tower: An ancient stone tower with serene surroundings, ideal for exploration and photography, feeling the weight of history, free entry. 3️⃣Longzhou Nonggang: With unique karst landscapes and dense forests, it's a great place for hiking, bird watching, and exploring natural wonders. Local guides are available, expenses are self-managed.