Zhenyuan Ancient Town – Ticket, Opening Hours, Location, and Highlights

Zhusheng Bridge, initially built during the Ming Dynasty in the Hongwu era, was originally named “Xi Bridge.” It was later renamed “Zhusheng Bridge” to commemorate Emperor Kangxi’s birthday during the Qing Dynasty. The bridge piers date back to the Ming Dynasty, while the bridge body is a product of the Qing Dynasty. It is said that due to several instances of flash floods from the Yang River, the bridge was repeatedly destroyed. It wasn’t until the first year of Yongzheng (1723) that the bridge was finally completed. With a length of 135 meters, a width of 8.5 meters, and a height of 14 meters, the bridge features a three-story pavilion. Zhusheng Bridge was a vital passage connecting Hunan and Guizhou provinces and has been referred to as the “throat of Hunan and Guizhou.” The bridge is particularly stunning at night when the lights illuminate the surroundings, creating a picturesque scene perfect for strolling or photography.

Situated on Zhonghe Mountain to the east of Zhenyuan Ancient Town, the Qinglong Cave Ancient Architectural Complex stands atop a steep and towering cliff. This complex represents a rare example of the integration of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. Initially constructed in the 21st year of the Ming Hongwu era (1388), it expanded during the Jiajing period with the addition of numerous temples, palaces, and academies. Subsequent renovations and expansions occurred during the Yongzheng and Qianlong periods, introducing commercial guild buildings like the Wanshou Palace and a theater.

Located on the east side of Wuyang River in Zhenyuan County, Shiping Mountain is characterized by its towering cliffs and steep slopes. Spanning 2.2 kilometers from east to west, the main peak reaches an elevation of 668.1 meters, with a relative height difference of 204 meters compared to the Wuyang River. The Yuhuang Pavilion atop the mountain is the highest point in the Zhenyuan Ancient Town, offering a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding area.

The mountain bears traces of an ancient dilapidated Great Wall on its back, a historical site from the Ming Dynasty when the Great Wall was built to resist border residents. If you have the interest and physical stamina, exploring this historical section of Great Wall can offer a glimpse into its storied past. Admission tickets for the Miaojiang Great Wall and Shiping Mountain are often sold together, allowing visitors to enjoy both attractions in a single visit.

Zhenyuan Ancient Town is composed of three interconnected streets – Xinzho Street, Xinglong Street, and Shuncheng Street. Lining these streets, like in many other ancient towns, are inns, restaurants, and shops. In addition to the main streets, the ancient town features intertwining alleys such as Sifangjing Alley, Fuxing Alley, and Renshou Alley, creating a network of winding pathways. The alleys showcase a unique blend of architectural styles, combining the charm of southern courtyards with the layout typical of mountain dwellings.

Wuyang River originates in the hinterlands of Miaoling in Weng’an and flows through the mountainous terrain of Qiandongnan before joining the Xinjiang River. The most picturesque stretch of the river is preserved in Zhenyuan. Covering a 95-kilometer stretch from the former Huangping Prefecture to the Moon Bay in the east of Zhenyuan, the Wuyang River Scenic Area encompasses eight famous canyons. These scenic areas boast numerous bays, challenging terrains, unique peaks, rocks, waterfalls, deep caves, and dense bamboo and woodlands. The Wuyang River provides a visual feast for visitors with its natural wonders and diverse landscapes, adding a touch to the historic ambiance of Zhenyuan Town.

Tiexi Stream Scenic Area

Yuntai Mountain, Shibing