[2025 Qujing Attraction] Travel Guide for The Source of Zhujiang River (Updated Jul)

🌄【Qujing Three Days and Three Nights Nanny-Level Guide｜Unlock the Eastern Yunnan Secret with 1200 RMB Per Person, Including Internet Celebrity Check-in Tips】🌄 ✔️ Traverse the Mars Sand Forest featured in "Joy of Life" (June off-peak for fewer crowds and best shots) ✔️ Immersive experience of Ming and Qing dynasty copper merchants' culture + intangible cultural heritage copper craft ✔️ Unlock the night view spot at South City Gate for a Chang’an vibe photo ✔️ Local-guided feast on steamed rice noodles, sour soup fish, and thin bean jelly ✔️ Stay at a hot spring hotel + starry sky tent for a full experience 📅【Itinerary】 ▫️Day 1: Red Earth Rhapsody Through Time 📍Morning: Luliang Colorful Sand Forest (Ticket 50 RMB, 08:00-18:00) ▫️Must-do: Check in at the sand sculpture group filming location of "Joy of Life," wear functional style outfits to shoot sci-fi photos among red sandstone peaks, use drone cloud-penetration mode for a Mars-like effect ▫️Avoid: Camel rides in the scenic area are not cost-effective; walking exploration is recommended 🍜Noon: Luliang County "Majie Steamed Rice Noodles," adding braised beef and sweet soy sauce is the soul 📍Afternoon: Luoping Jiulong Waterfall Group (Ticket 65 RMB, open until 19:00 in summer) ▫️Activities: Take the cable car from the east gate to the mountaintop, hike down to admire the ten-level waterfall, shoot wedding dress waterfall photos at the second viewing platform, and in summer, take a bamboo raft to get close to the "First Jiulong Waterfall" 🌃Evening: Stay at Luliang Wyndham Hotel (new five-star hot spring hotel opening in 2025), soak in the hot springs to relieve fatigue ▫️Day 2: Ancient City Charm and Meadow Pastoral Song 🌅Early morning: Drive 1.5 hours to Huize Ancient City (Free) ▫️Must-do: Check in at Jiangxi Guild Hall, Tang Jiyao’s Former Residence, buy the three-hour limited sugar leg broken crisp bun at the old east gate, experience handmade copper craft DIY (80 RMB/person) 🍜Noon: "Tongxiang Renjia" for copper hot pot + buckwheat cake, paired with Huize thin bean jelly 📍Afternoon: Dahai Grass Mountain (Ticket 30 RMB) ▫️Activities: Hike 200,000 mu of alpine meadows, wildflowers everywhere in summer, chance to meet shepherd flocks, shoot fresh Japanese-style photos at the mountaintop windmill group 🌌Evening: Stay at Dahai Grass Mountain starry sky tent camp, perfect for stargazing in summer ▫️Day 3: Pearl River Source and City Lights 📍Morning: Pearl River Source Scenic Area (Ticket 45 RMB) ▫️Explore: Hike Maxiong Mountain, check in at the "One Drop of Water Feeds Three Rivers" geographic landmark, visit underground river caves, enjoy the rhododendron sea in April (June replaced by secret hiking) 🍜Noon: Eat Pearl River Source ecological fish feast in the scenic area, recommended copper pot boiled fish 📍Afternoon: Qujing South City Gate Square (Free) ▫️Photo spots: 1️⃣ Climb the city corridor on the west side of the city tower to shoot symmetrical shadows, noon top light adds drama 2️⃣ Lantern street on the east side for blue hour night scenes, wear a black coat + red scarf for full atmosphere 3️⃣ City opening ceremony every Saturday at 9:00, ancient costume honor guard is very immersive 🛍️Before departure: Buy small jars of Xuanwei ham at "Dian Yi Tang" on Qilin Lane, and vacuum-packed Qujing leek flowers at "Fu Pai Yuanzi" as souvenirs 🚗【Transportation Guide】 ▫️High-speed rail: Kunming → Qujing North Station 40 minutes, Guangzhou → Qujing North Station 6 hours ▫️Car rental: 400-600 RMB/day (SUV recommended, safer for remote scenic spots) ▫️Within city: Bus line 3 connects South City Gate, Qilin Water Town, and other attractions, 2 RMB per ride 🍽️【Food Map】 ▪️Breakfast: Steamed rice noodles on Zhenxing Road + old-fashioned cream cake on Qilin Lane ▪️Lunch: Fumanlou (old brand of Xuanwei cuisine, must order ham stewed chicken) ▪️Dinner: Zhao’s pea jelly at South City Gate + Cuanwei grilled rice cakes ▪️Late night snack: Ashima BBQ on Wenchang Street, Jianshui tofu + Zhaotong small meat skewers bursting with juice 💡【Practical Tips】 1️⃣ June is rainy, bring a folding umbrella + waterproof shoes, Jiulong Waterfall is spectacular in high water but slippery 2️⃣ Strong UV on the plateau, SPF50+ sunscreen + physical sun protection are essential 3️⃣ Huize Ancient City is closed on Mondays, plan accordingly 4️⃣ South City Gate Square area is prone to weekend traffic jams, suggest off-peak travel 5️⃣ Follow "Qujing Culture and Tourism" for real-time festival and event info 📸【Photographer’s Secret Tips】 ✔️ Use a wide-angle lens to capture the layers of sand peaks in the Colorful Sand Forest, add grain in post-processing for better shots ✔️ Shoot the archway light and shadow at Huize Mosque in the early morning with a wide-angle lens for grandeur ✔️ Use a tripod and long exposure for South City Gate night scenes, avoid crowd interference Qujing, this underrated small city in eastern Yunnan, boasts both the natural wonders of karst formations and the lively atmosphere of an ancient city. In three days, from alien sand forests to meadow starry skies, from century-old ham to intangible cultural heritage crafts, every step is full of surprises. Save this guide now, and you’ll be the next social media star! #QujingTravel #YunnanHiddenTravelSpots #InternetCelebrityCheckIn #TripcomTravelNotes #ThreeDaysThreeNightsGuide

5-Day Essential Itinerary - Day 1: Qujing City Tour. Arrive in Qujing in the morning and visit Liaokuo Park to admire the elegant pavilions and winding paths. Climb Jingning Pagoda for a panoramic city view. In the afternoon, explore Qujing Museum to learn about the city's history and culture. In the evening, head to South City Gate to enjoy the ancient tower's night view and sample local snacks nearby. - Day 2: Qilin District Nature Tour. Visit Qilin Water Town in the morning to experience Jiangnan-style scenery with small bridges and flowing water, along with rich ethnic culture. In the afternoon, go to Zhujiangyuan (Pearl River Source) to discover the river's origin and enjoy forests, streams, and waterfalls. - Day 3: Luoping Scenery Tour. Arrive in Luoping in the morning and visit Jinji Peak Cluster to marvel at the karst landscape and rapeseed flower fields (best viewed after Chinese New Year). In the afternoon, explore Jiulong Waterfall Group with its ten-tiered waterfalls. - Day 4: Shizong Cultural Experience. Visit Shizong Phoenix Valley in the morning to experience ethnic culture and unique natural landscapes. In the afternoon, see the colorful sand formations at Shizong Colored Sand Forest. - Day 5: Huize History & Nature Tour. Visit Huize Ancient Town in the morning to see Ming-Qing architecture like Huize Confucian Temple and ancient city walls. In the afternoon, go to Daicao Mountain to enjoy alpine meadows and pristine forests. Food Recommendations - Spicy Chicken: Gong's Spicy Chicken in Zhanyi features tender meat with aromatic chili. - Steamed Ersi Noodles: Jingchenyuan's chewy noodles served with free bone broth are delicious. - Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles: Huiqiaoyuan's version comes with rich toppings and flavorful broth. - Huize Ham: Tender and fragrant ham from Huize Ancient Town. - Potatoes: Qujing's roasted potatoes can be paired with 20+ seasonings for varied flavors. Accommodation Suggestions - Qujing City: Atour Hotel Qilin Commercial Street offers great location near South City Gate with many dining options. - Luoping: Choose hotels or inns in Luoping County for convenient access. - Huize: Stay at charming ancient-style inns like Huize Yunshang Xiaozhu near the old town. Transportation Guide - External: First reach Kunming, then take a 1-hour high-speed train or bus to Qujing. - Internal: Use buses, taxis, or ride-hailing in Qujing. For distant sites like Luoping or Huize, take long-distance buses or rent a car.

Route: Zhujiangyuan Hiking → Haifeng Wetland → Exploring Cuan Culture → Jinjifeng Peaks → Huize Ancient Town Recommended Accommodation: Qujing City (1st night), Luoping/Shizong (middle two nights), Huize (last night) Transportation: High-speed train to Qujing (about 2 hours from Kunming), flexible travel by chartered/shared cars within the city. **Day 1: Zhujiangyuan Primeval Forest Hike** **Morning** Zhujiangyuan Scenic Area (Ticket: ¥60, Sightseeing Bus: ¥20) Hiking Route: Climb to the summit of Zhujiangyuan (about 3 hours) for a panoramic view of karst peaks and underground caves. Tips: Wear anti-slip hiking shoes and bring trekking poles; cable car available for descent (¥50 one-way). **Noon** Lunch: Local farmhouse restaurants near the scenic area Must-try: Steamed Ersi (Qujing intangible cultural heritage), Pickled Pork Knuckle Hotpot (recommend "Old Brand Sour Pork Knuckle"). **Afternoon** Zhanyi Haifeng Wetland (Ticket: ¥50, Electric Cart: ¥30) Hiking Route: Wooden boardwalk through the wetland (2 hours), observe black-necked crane habitats and sunset over reed marshes. Transport: Chartered car round-trip from Qujing city (~¥300, 2-hour drive). **Evening** Accommodation: Shizong/Luoping Hot Spring Hotel (e.g., "Duoyi River Hot Spring Hotel" to relax after hiking) Dinner: Buyi Ethnic "Eight Bowls" (sour bamboo shoot fish, five-color sticky rice). --- **Day 2: Cuan Culture Exploration** **Morning** Cuan Baozi Stele Pavilion (Free, reservation required) Visit the "Gem of Southern Steles" to learn about the Cuan family's millennium-long rule. Location: Yuezhou Town, Qilin District, Qujing; taxi recommended (~¥50). Cuan Longyan Stele (Free) A must-see for calligraphy enthusiasts, paired with Cuan Baozi Stele as the "Two Cuan Treasures." Location: Inside Luliang Colorful Sand Forest Scenic Area (Ticket: ¥100). **Noon** Lunch: Luliang Banquet (recommend "Ban Duck House," served with steamed Erkuai and braised meat). **Afternoon** Cuan Mansion Ruins (Free) Explore the former residence of the Cuan family and learn about ancient southern political centers. **Evening** Accommodation: Qujing City Hotel (e.g., "Qujing Guanfang Hotel") Late-night Snack: South Gate Night Market (grilled Erkuai with braised meat, Governor Shaomai). --- **Day 3: Jinjifeng Peaks & Luosi Terraces** **Morning** Jinjifeng Peaks (Free) Hike through karst peaks; arrive before 6:30 AM for "Peak Sea of Clouds" photography. Transport: Chartered car round-trip from Luoping (~¥150, 1-hour drive). **Noon** Lunch: Luoping Cured Pork with Erkuai (recommend "Buyi Family Restaurant"). **Afternoon** Luosi Terraces (Free) Overlook circular terraces—spring rapeseed flowers or autumn golden rice (best captured by drone). **Evening** Accommodation: Luoping Inn (e.g., "Jiulong Impression Inn") Dinner: Fuyuan Pickled Pork Knuckle Hotpot (with buckwheat cakes). --- **Day 4: Huize Ancient Town & Jiangxi Guildhall** **Morning** Huize Ancient Town (Free) Stroll through Ming-Qing streets, visit Jiangxi Guildhall (national heritage site) and Huguang Guildhall. Highlights: Painted ceiling of Jiangxi Guildhall’s opera stage, Ancient Town Imperial Exam Museum. **Noon** Lunch: Huize Pea Paste with Fried Dough Sticks (recommend "Lamb Eight Bowls" old shop). **Afternoon** Dahaicao Mountain (Ticket: ¥30) Hike through Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau meadows, admire rolling grasslands and wind turbine arrays (self-drive or chartered car recommended). **Evening** Return: High-speed train to Kunming or direct flight. **Notes:** 1. Hiking gear: Bring mosquito repellent for Haifeng Wetland; backpack with water for Zhujiangyuan. 2. Cuan Culture: The steles use ancient characters—download a translation app in advance. 3. Photography: Arrive 1 hour before sunrise at Jinjifeng Peaks; avoid noon light at Luosi Terraces. 4. Tips: Be cautious with silver workshops in Huize Ancient Town; budget guides available near Jiangxi Guildhall.

🌟 **Qujing, Yunnan Travel Guide | Hidden Mountain Scenery + Foodie Paradise + Cultural Delights, Unlock it all!** 🌟 🌄 **Must-See Attraction Recommendations** 1️⃣ **Luoping Canola Flower Sea** 📅 **Best time to visit**: February-March (Golden Ocean) 📸 **Highlights**: Overlooking the flower fields from Jinji Peak, the spiral terraces of Luositian, and the Nine Dragons Waterfalls framed by the sea of flowers. 2️⃣ **Nine Dragons Waterfalls** 💧 **Features**: One of the most beautiful waterfalls in China, cascading like dragons. Abundant water flow in summer, serene in winter. 3️⃣ **Pearl River Source Scenic Area** 🌿 **Things to do**: Hike to the source of the Pearl River, watch the sea of clouds, admire wild plants and animals, and experience the wonder of "one drop of water feeding three rivers." 4️⃣ **Luliang Colorful Sand Forest** 🌈 **Fantastic experience**: Colorful sand dunes intertwined with karst landforms, like an alien planet, perfect for photos. 5️⃣ **Huize Ancient City** 🏯 **Historical charm**: Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, spot-hammered copper crafts, stroll along the bluestone roads, and travel through time. 🚗 **Classic Route Planning** **Day 1: Natural Wonders Tour** - Morning: 39 minutes by high-speed train from Kunming → Qujing, head straight to **Luoping Canola Flower Sea** (spring limited). - Afternoon: Explore the **Nine Dragons Waterfalls** and feel the coolness of the water mist. - Overnight: Stay in a characteristic guesthouse in Luoping County and taste the authentic **sour soup fish**. **Day 2: Culture and Hidden Gems** - Morning: Visit **Huize Ancient City**, check out the Confucian Temple and spot-hammered copper workshops. - Afternoon: Drive to **Luliang Colorful Sand Forest** for a sci-fi blockbuster photoshoot. - Overnight: Stay in a hotel in Qujing city center and enjoy barbecue at the night market. **Day 3: Pearl River Source Adventure** - Full day: Hike in the **Pearl River Source Scenic Area**, climb Maxiong Mountain, and enjoy the sea of clouds and the primeval forest. - Return: Take the high-speed train from Qujing back to Kunming, ending the journey ✨. 🚆 **Transportation Guide** - ✈️ **Airplane**: Fly directly to Kunming Changshui International Airport, then transfer to high-speed rail/bus to Qujing (39 minutes direct by high-speed rail). - 🚄 **High-speed Rail**: Kunming South → Qujing North, fastest 39 minutes, ticket price about 60 yuan. - 🚗 **Self-driving**: Depart from Kunming along the G56 Hangrui Expressway, about 2 hours' drive, suitable for independent travel. 🍜 **Foodie Paradise! Must-tries for food lovers** - **Xuanwei Ham**: Centuries-old craftsmanship, salty and rich, perfect with red wine. - **Zhan Yi Spicy Chicken**: Spicy, savory, and fragrant, tender chicken, perfect with rice. - **Qujing Steamed Ersi**: Soft and glutinous Ersi + secret sauce, a must-try for breakfast. - **Sour and Spicy Noodles/Fermented Tofu**: Soul food from street vendors, sour and spicy, appetizing. - **Clay Pot Chicken/Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles**: Classic Yunnan cuisine, the soup is incredibly delicious. 🛏️ **Accommodation Recommendations** - **Huize Ancient City Guesthouse**: Ming and Qing style courtyards, immersive historical experience (💰150-300 yuan/night). - **Qujing City Center Hotels**: Star-rated hotels in Qilin District, convenient transportation, such as **Qujing Guanfang Hotel** (💰300-600 yuan/night). - **Luoping Flower Sea Guesthouses**: Pastoral cottages by the canola flower fields, enjoy the scenery from your window (💰200-400 yuan/night). 💡 **Travel Tips** - 🌦️ **Weather**: Mild all year round, but with large temperature differences between day and night, bring a jacket + sunscreen. - 📸 **Photography**: It is recommended to shoot the Luoping flower sea in the early morning/evening for soft light. - 🚗 **Chartered Car Tour**: The attractions are scattered, so it is recommended to charter a car or drive yourself for flexibility and time-saving. --- **Qujing, an underrated gem!** From golden flower seas to thousand-year-old ancient cities, from delicious food to cloud-top hiking, every corner is full of surprises. Pack your bags and set off with this guide! 🎒✨

🎈Qujing Pearl River Source Scenic Area | Natural beauty✨ 😍Today, I want to share with you the Qujing Pearl River Source Scenic Area. This is the source of the Pearl River, and the scenery is simply amazing👏. As you step into the scenic area, the fresh air hits you, as if giving your lungs a natural spa. Walking along the path, you can see the babbling streams, and the clear water is like flowing crystal💎. The water pool at the source is calm and deep, making you marvel at the wonders of nature. On the Sanjiang Pavilion at the top of the mountain, you can see the distant scenery and the confluence of the three rivers. You can also see fossils here. The origin of humans is fish. There are also lush mountains and forests, with various trees intertwined, like a green ocean🌲. The sunlight shines through the gaps in the leaves, forming patches of light spots, like a dreamy fairyland. Whether you are strolling or taking photos here, it is super comfortable. Bring your friends and check it out!💕