A free scenic spot full of ambiance—Zhenyuan
This ancient town, listed as a national 5A-level tourist attraction, is like a dazzling pearl inlaid in the land of Southeast Guizhou. Despite thousands of years of vicissitudes, it still retains its simplicity and tranquility.
Zhenyuan, the name itself carries a sense of detachment from the mundane world. It is not as bustling as some popular tourist spots, but tells its own story quietly and with an understated, elegant demeanor.
The ancient town is nestled against mountains and by the water, gently embraced by the Wuyang River, which draws a perfect 'S' shape here, dividing the town into north and south banks. The old government city and the old garrison city face each other across the river, like guardians of time, witnessing the historical changes.
Walking through the alleys paved with bluestone slabs, you are flanked by ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, revealing past glories between the carved beams and painted rafters.
Every brick and tile here, every patch of moss, seems to whisper, recounting Zhenyuan's glorious past as an important post station and commercial hub in the southwest region.
There is no aggressive promotion, no expensive tickets, just silently waiting, for those who truly appreciate it to arrive. Here, you can immerse yourself in every corner for free, experiencing the indescribable beauty and harmony of its antiquity.
In the early morning, you can see locals washing clothes and fishing by the river, while the faint scent of tea drifts from the old teahouses, mingling with the mist in the distant mountains to form moving pictures.
In the evening, when the setting sun shines on the ancient city walls, the golden glow reflects off the river, and at that moment, you may forget the passage of time, wanting only to immerse yourself in this rare tranquility.
Although Zhenyuan Ancient Town has such a rich historical and cultural heritage and natural scenery, it seems to be gradually marginalized by the torrents of time, less noisy, more serene.
In this corner of the world forgotten by time, there are no crowded crowds, no commercial hawkers, only the sediment of history and the gifts of nature.
Zhenyuan, a place that inspires awe and emotion without the need for excessive embellishment, quietly awaits the visit of each traveler, offering true rest and purification for the soul.
Zhenyuan Ancient City·Zhenyuan