Zunyi Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to see, and where to stay in Zunyi, China, with this comprehensive travel guide. Find out about the history, culture, and local customs of this region.


Introduction to Zunyi

Zunyi is a city in the Guizhou province of Southwest China. It’s a city that is steeped in history, and because of this, it has become a popular attraction for tourists looking to embrace the culture of the region. Zunyi is set amidst the hills and mountains, offering visitors stunning natural scenery and numerous outdoor activities. Besides, the region is home to ancient architecture, captivating cultural heritage and some mouth-watering cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Zunyi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Zunyi is home to several culturally significant attractions such as:

  1. Zunyi Conference Memorial Site: This memorial site is dedicated to the communist meeting that took place in 1935. The venue of this meeting is significant to the communist cause in China and was attended by Mao Zedong himself.
  2. Meitan Revolutionary Site: This site is a place where the last battle of the Red Army’s Long March occurred. The revolutionary spirit is embodied by the story of the exhausted Red Army soldiers who rallied and overcame the forces of the enemy, inspiring many others in their cause.
  3. Zunyi Museum: The museum showcases the local history, including ancient artifacts and folk customs.

Natural Attractions of Zunyi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Zunyi’s natural beauty is well-known among tourists and locals alike. Numerous parks and nature reserves can be explored by visitors, including:

  1. Huangguoshu Waterfall: Huangguoshu is one of the biggest waterfalls in China, and is located about 150 kilometers from Zunyi. It is surrounded by lush green forests and offers lovely scenery to explore.
  2. Sanlaozhai Scenic Area: Situated in Zunyi city, Sanlaozhai is famous for its stone pillars and for offering a panoramic view of the city. Visitors can explore the scenic views and take in nature in its purest form.
  3. Zunyi Botanical Garden: This garden is home to various plant species and features numerous walking paths and gardens to enjoy.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zunyi

Zunyi boasts plenty of hiking and biking trails, setting it apart as a region of beauty and outdoor adventure. The hiking and biking routes include:

  1. Zunyi Mountain Trail: The trail is 10 kilometers in length and provides an unparalleled view of the whole city.
  2. Zunyi Meitan Road Cycling Trip: This is a 90-kilometer trip along the Meitan River, featuring natural scenery and ancient architecture.

Best Things to Do in Zunyi: Activities and Tours

Apart from enjoying the scenic views, there are other activities and tours to indulge in, such as:

  1. Cultural Discoveries: Explore the local culture by attending festivals, visiting museums and cultural events in the city.
  2. Food Adventures: Savor the unique cuisine of Zunyi by visiting local markets and food stalls.
  3. Shopping Spree: Discover an array of local products at the region’s markets, including jewelry, handicrafts, clothing, and other items.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zunyi

An ideal Zunyi itinerary will involve immersing oneself in the beauty and cultural heritage of this city. Here’s a sample itinerary that can be used for a week-long trip:

Day Activity
1 Arrival, relaxation
2 Zunyi Conference Memorial Site and other historical sites
3 Hiking Zunyi Mountain Trail
4 Meitan Revolutionary Site
5 Huangguoshu Waterfall
6 Sanlaozhai Scenic Area
7 Relaxation and shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Zunyi

Zunyi encapsulates the best of China’s culinary traditions, with a unique Guizhou twist. Visitors can treat their taste buds to:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Sour Fish Soup: This dish features fish, sour vegetables, spices, and chili powder in a hot and sour broth.
  2. Sour Soup Dumplings: This dish brings together unique fermented ingredients in the filling to create a tangy and flavorful soup inside the dumpling.
  3. Bowl of Chili Noodle: Noodles are served in a bowl of chili sauce with minced pork, scallions, and garlic.

Local Beverages

  1. Maotai: Known as China’s National Liquor, Maotai is distilled liquor made from fermented sorghum.
  2. Black Tea: Guizhou Black tea is a premium variety that comes from the rocky terrain surrounding Zunyi.

Where to Stay in Zunyi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Zunyi offers various accommodation options in different price ranges. Some of the top places to stay are:

  1. Zunyi International Hotel: This luxury hotel offers unparalleled comfort and luxury in the heart of the city.
  2. Lixin International Hotel: Another luxury hotel with state-of-art amenities.
  3. Jinjiang Inn: This economy hotel has comfortable rooms and excellent amenities at affordable prices.

What to Buy in Zunyi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Zunyi has a rich culture and history, and visitors can bring a piece of it back home as souvenirs. Some of these include:

  1. Moxi Silver: Zunyi is a famous place for silver processing, and Moxi Silver is known for its pure texture and quality. It’s a perfect gift for people who enjoy wearing jewelry.
  2. Preserved Fruits: Zunyi’s local preserved fruits are a delicacy you can’t afford to miss. These make perfect souvenirs or gifts for loved ones.
  3. Zunyi Fan: These fans are made of bone or wood frames and feature colorful and intricate designs painted on silk.

Local Culture and Customs of Zunyi

Zunyi has a rich history and diverse culture.

The people of Zunyi are very respectful and value their cultural identity, and it is important to be polite and respectful towards the customs and traditions of this region.

Best Time to Visit Zunyi

The best time to visit Zunyi is during the autumn months, from September to November, when the weather is mild, and the trees have turned into beautiful colors. The spring months from March to May are another great time to visit when the flowers are in full bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zunyi

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  2. Try out the local food and drinks.
  3. Be friendly and approachable.

Don’t:

  1. Wear too revealing clothing in public spaces.
  2. Photograph strangers without their permission.
  3. Be disrespectful towards local culture or beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zunyi

Zunyi is generally safe, but it is always a good idea to take precautions when traveling. Try to avoid visiting any areas that are considered ‘off the beaten path’, especially when traveling alone.

Health in Zunyi

It is best to carry a first aid kit with any medications you need, and check with your doctor about any required vaccinations before your trip. You may also want to avoid tap water and only drink bottled water.

Getting to Zunyi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Zunyi

The closest airport to Zunyi is Zunyi Xinzhou Airport, which has daily frequent flights from major Chinese cities.

Bus Stations Near Zunyi

Zunyi Bus Station is the main bus station, connecting Zunyi to the rest of the province, as well as other cities in China.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a taxi or hire a private car to get around Zunyi.

How to Get Around in Zunyi

Zunyi has an excellent transportation system, with buses, taxis, and bicycle rentals available. Visitors can also rent a car if they prefer to explore around on their own.

Where to Go Next from Zunyi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Zunyi is a great place from which to visit other fascinating Chinese destinations such as:

  1. Guiyang: The capital city of Guizhou province, Guiyang, is full of stunning natural scenery, provincial parks, and fantastic dining options.
  2. Anshun: Visitors can explore Anshun’s ancient caves and the acclaimed Huangguoshu Waterfalls.
  3. Chongqing: As China’s largest city, Chongqing has many superb dining options, fantastic art galleries and museums.

Conclusion

Zunyi is a city with a rich cultural heritage and offers visitors a unique insight into Chinese history, breathtaking natural scenery, and vibrant traditions. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient history, outdoor adventures, or fascinating local culture, Zunyi has something to offer everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can experience the best of what Zunyi has to offer.

Zunyi skyline Zunyi skyline