"Ancient Town of Taiji, by the Wuyang River! This thousand-year-old town spoiled by mountains and rivers hides so many Miao borderland charms.

🌟 Essential Travel Guide to Zhenyuan Ancient Town
📅 Recommended Duration: 2-3 days
**Theme**: Ancient town stroll + landscape & culture + nightscape experience

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📌 **Itinerary**
**Day 1: Cultural Exploration of the Ancient Town**
**Morning**: Stroll along the Wuyang Riverbank and capture the panoramic view of the "Taiji Ancient Town" (best spot: Shiping Mountain Viewing Deck, ticket ¥30).
**Afternoon**:
Visit the Qinglongdong Ancient Architecture Complex (¥60): A cliffside temple blending three religions, climb Yuhuang Pavilion for a bird’s-eye view of the Wuyang River’s "S" curve.
Explore ancient alleys like Sifangjing Lane and Fuxing Lane to discover Ming-Qing residences, and try Yuanjia Tofu Shop’s specialties (sweet fermented rice + tofu noodles).
**Evening**:
Night cruise on the Wuyang River (¥80): Admire the illuminated reflections and enjoy the new light show + artificial mist fantasy.
Riverside supper: Try grilled fish with tofu or sour fish soup (recommended: Miaoboma/Guangming Red Sour Soup).

**Day 2: Nature & Hidden Gems**
**Option A (Leisurely)**:
Wuyang River cruise (¥140, includes ticket): Marvel at karst peaks like "Peacock Spreading Its Tail" and "Jiang Taigang Fishing."
Hike Tiesi Stream (¥50): Discover the inspiration for "The Dragon God’s Sister’s Wedding" from *The Scholars* and admire the sapphire-blue deep pool.
**Option B (Thrilling)**:
Gaoguo River Rafting (¥187): An 11-km canyon adventure with crystal-clear water, perfect for summer.

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✨ **Highlights**
**Free Attractions**: Heping Village (WWII refugee site), Zhou Dawen’s Former Residence, ancient docks.
**Folk Activities**: If visiting during festivals, catch the "Dragon God’s Sister’s Wedding" parade (recreating *The Scholars* scenes).
**📸 Photo Spots**: New Bridge for night lights, Zhusheng Bridge for Qinglongdong reflections.

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🍜 **Must-Try Foods**
**Breakfast**: Yuanjia Tofu Pudding (original/spicy) + crispy fried glutinous rice cakes.
**Meals**: Sour fish soup (rice-field fish + Miao red sour broth), Dao-style braised pork (intangible cultural heritage dish).
**Snacks**: Yaoji Tofu Pudding, iced bayberry (summer refresher).

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🏡 **Accommodation Tips**
**Riverside B&Bs**: Xunmei·Riverside (near Qinglongdong), Yongfurong·Riverside Courtyard (balcony with misty views).
**Budget-Friendly**: ¥100–300/night in the ancient town; choose B&Bs with parking if driving.

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🚌 **Transport Guide**
**Train**: Guiyang → Zhenyuan (4 hrs, ¥41.5), then a ¥10 taxi to the ancient town.
**Drive**: Navigate to "Zhenyuan Ancient Town" via S25/S306; parking is limited.

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💡 **Tips**
Wear anti-slip shoes for Shiping Mountain’s slippery paths; bring spare clothes for summer rafting. Hangzhou/Foshan citizens enjoy free entry to Qinglongdong and Shiping Mountain (show ID).

Zhenyuan’s beauty lies in its misty cobblestone mornings and riverfront nightscapes. This guide combines natural wonders, millennia of heritage, and authentic flavors—an ideal short getaway! 🌉