Day 3: Fanjing Mountain

If you dream of traversing a pristine subtropical forest, Fanjing Mountain is the ideal destination. Hidden within its dense woods, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive Guizhou golden monkey, a species only found here.

Fanjing Mountain is part of the Wuling Mountain range in Tongren city, with an elevation of 2,572 meters and offering some of the most breathtaking vistas in the province.

Known as an "ecological island", it has the best-preserved primeval forest at its latitude and is home to more than 7,000 plant and animal species, including rare species dating back 70 million to 2 million years.

The mountain's unique geological formations, shaped over millennia, create a stunningly diverse, majestic landscape. Due to its elevation, the mountain shows distinctive vertical climate zones, with weather often differing between its base and summit.

The Hongyun Golden Peak is a distinctive landmark, offering incredible sunrise views. A radiant light cascades over the mountaintop as the sun ascends from behind the clouds, where you can get a bird's-eye view of Fanjing Mountain's vast beauty.

Fanjing Mountain also holds deep spiritual significance. Revered as a sacred Buddhist site, its name is derived from the Buddhist concept, symbolizing transcendence and serenity.

In July 2018, Fanjing Mountain was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site List, cementing its status as a global treasure.

Consider staying in the Yunshe village, which has winding streams, ancient bridges and the aroma of smoked meats, offering a glimpse into the timeless charm of rural mountain life.

Day 4: Zhenyuan Ancient Town

A three-hour drive from Fanjing Mountain brings you to Zhenyuan Ancient Town, a hidden gem in the mountains and valleys of southeastern Guizhou.

With over 2,000 years of history, Zhenyuan preserves the rustic charm of the Ming and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. The Wuyang River meanders through the town in an S-shape, dividing it into two parts — the former administrative city on the north bank and the ancient military garrison on the south. From above, the layout resembles a tai chi symbol.

As one of Guizhou's four major ancient towns, Zhenyuan is the perfect place to experience the leisurely pace of life in ancient time. By day, it resembles an ink-wash painting; at night, it transforms into a spectacle of lights.

After sunset, red lanterns light up along the river, with water reflections creating an enchanting scene. The cobblestone paths, lined with flickering lights, exude a tranquil, romantic atmosphere. Stroll along Heba Street to Minzhu Street, where well-preserved buildings adorned with lanterns set a picturesque mood.

The riverside is also dotted with cozy cafes and small bars where you can sip local rice wine while listening to the river's gentle flow. Must-try delicacies include green bean tofu pudding, tofu balls, bayberry soup, sticky rice and grilled fish.

Consider staying in a riverside guesthouse and waking up to views of the winding Wuyang River or enjoy the rainy nights and illuminated skylines from your window.