Zhao Liying Recommends This Hidden Gem, Featured on National Geographic's Must-See List!

Jinyun, the small town recommended by Zhao Liying, is also a must-see destination according to National Geographic! What's so charming about it? Check out this super detailed 2-day, 1-night travel guide, and follow it for a perfect trip! Getting There - High-speed Rail: Take the high-speed train directly to Jinyun West Station for a convenient and efficient journey. - Car: Navigate to "Jinyun," approximately a 2.5-hour drive. Enjoy the scenic route and the freedom of a road trip. Itinerary - Day 1: Yanxia Stone Village → Heyang Ancient Houses → Hotel Wander through Yanxia Stone Village, and experience the rustic world of stone houses, stone bridges, and stone paths. It's like stepping into a paradise. In the afternoon, head to Heyang Ancient Houses to explore the timeless charm of this thousand-year-old village and touch the traces of history. Return to the hotel to rest after. - Day 2: Yandang Study → Niweng Cave (Dufeng Academy) → Zhutan Mountain → Dinghufeng Peak → Xiandu Temple → Little Red Cliff In the morning, check in at Yandang Study, a literary space transformed from a quarry cave, where you can bask in the sun and enjoy the fragrance of books. Then, step into Niweng Cave to admire the cliff carvings left by literati from the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage. Afterwards, visit Zhutan Mountain to encounter the picturesque scenery of the "Old Man Leading an Ox," check in at Dinghufeng Peak to appreciate the majestic "No. 1 Bamboo Shoot Under Heaven," experience the mystical atmosphere of the ancient Xiandu Temple, and finally, stroll along Little Red Cliff, following Longgeng Road to admire the unique scenery of cliffs and streams. Highlights - Zhutan Mountain: The iconic "Old Man Leading an Ox" scene, with Dinghufeng Peak as the backdrop and the ox strolling along the stone path on the water, looks like a fairyland, especially in the morning mist. It's a fantastic photo spot. - Dinghufeng Peak: Known as the "No. 1 Bamboo Shoot Under Heaven" and the "No. 1 Peak Under Heaven," it's a filming location for Chinese Paladin and Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils. The entrance fee is CNY 90, and it's the only paid attraction in the scenic area. - Niweng Cave: Large and small caves are connected, filled with cliff carvings by literati from various dynasties, creating a rich cultural atmosphere. - Yandang Study: Ingeniously transformed from a quarry cave, with scattered bookshelves and a wide selection of books, bathed in sunlight, it's a perfect spot for atmospheric photos. - Xiandu Temple: The oldest temple building in Jinyun with written records, it's full of historical charm. - Little Red Cliff: Located next to the visitor center, with steep cliffs by the stream, the Longgeng Road on the mountainside is a natural plank road offering unique views. Accommodation Recommendations Xuanyuan Culture Street is the perfect place to stay, with numerous guesthouses and farm stays offering both local experiences and comfortable, convenient services.