4 must-visit tourist spots in Tongren, Guizhou, China!

Tongren is located in the eastern part of Guizhou Province, China, and nearby are popular tourist destinations such as Chongqing and Guiyang. The city is home to numerous nature reserves where wild red pandas and other animals live. Scattered throughout Tongren are attractions where you can experience unique natural landscapes and the rich culture of ethnic minorities. Although access to it is somewhat complicated, the emotional reward is well worth the effort.

Please note that some nature reserves within Tongren are restricted and cannot be visited freely. Therefore, it is recommended to join a tour departing from Guiyang or Chongqing in advance. This time, we’ll introduce three hidden gems in Tongren that are worth visiting.

1. Fanjing Mountain Scenic Area

Fanjing Mountain Scenic Area is located near the center of Tongren City. The mountain’s peak, Mount Phoenix, rises over 2,500 meters above sea level, and reaching the summit requires climbing more than 8,000 steps. However, don’t worry if you lack the stamina or time. Shuttle buses for tourists run between the mountain gate and the cable car station, allowing you to easily go up and down via cable car! Of course, for those confident in their fitness or who enjoy hiking, the view along the stairs is filled with breathtaking scenery, so challenge yourself when visiting Tongren!

At the summit, massive rocks tower above and are connected by bridges suspended at great heights—an exhilarating experience! On clear days, you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding structures, while on cloudy days, the mountaintop is enveloped in a sea of clouds, creating a mystical atmosphere. This is one of Tongren’s signature attractions and a must-see when visiting Guizhou Province.

2. Miao King City

Miao King City is located about an hour’s drive north from the center of Tongren. It is a popular tourist spot known for being the remains of a Miao fortress dating back to the Ming Dynasty, and today, Miao people still live there. Built in the 16th century to resist the Ming court, much of the fortress was later destroyed, but reconstructed walls and gates are now open to the public.

Within Miao King City, Miao villagers lead their daily lives—you can see people walking goats or calves and children playing, offering a glimpse of authentic local life not found in museums. If you’re interested in the history of the Miao people, this is a destination not to be missed!

3. Fenghuang Ancient Town

Fenghuang Ancient Town is often called the most beautiful town in China. The Tujia and Miao ethnic minorities live here, and traditional houses line the riverbanks. The best way to enjoy the scenery is by taking a small boat cruise along the river—relaxing and taking in the nostalgic charm of the town brings a sense of peace.

At night, Fenghuang Ancient Town becomes even more mesmerizing. The illuminated streets completely transform from their daytime nostalgia into a dreamlike, cinematic scene. Though it’s a bit far from Tongren, it’s a destination worth visiting.

4. Jiulong Cave Scenic Area

Jiulong Cave Scenic Area is a limestone cave located in Tongren and is one of the largest in all of China. To reach Jiulong Cave, you must cross the Jinjiang River by hand-rowed ferry or motorboat. From there, a short uphill walk leads to the main attraction—the limestone cave. The path can be uneven, so wear suitable shoes! As you climb while gazing at the terraced fields and the Jinjiang River, you’ll arrive at the cave entrance.

Jiulong Cave remains cool year-round, making it a perfect summer spot in Tongren. While there are many limestone caves worldwide, Jiulong Cave stands out for its vibrant lighting. The interplay of pink, green, orange, and blue lights against the stalactites creates a unique and magical atmosphere found only here. Inside, you’ll find stalactites of many fascinating shapes. When visiting Tongren in summer, it’s a great place to cool off and explore!

◎ Summary

Tongren, rich in nature, is home to many unique nature reserves. Its city center, though small, has restaurants and shops all within walking distance. You can easily spend a whole day sightseeing, making it a great destination for tours with free time. While there are buses and taxis within the city, it’s best to book one before leaving your country. When visiting Guiyang or Chongqing, be sure to include Tongren in your trip to experience a distinct atmosphere unlike the big cities—a truly authentic side of China!

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