## Yanjin, Yunnan Travel Guide: Explore the Canyon Rock City and Traverse Ancient Paths

Yanjin, Yunnan Travel Guide: Explore the Canyon Rock City and Traverse Ancient Paths Yanjin, nestled deep within the Wumeng Mountains in northeastern Yunnan, is a narrow county carved out by the rushing Guan River. Known as the "Canyon Rock City," its houses are terraced like rice paddies on steep cliffs, with trains passing through the town, forming a thrilling and unique three-dimensional scroll painting. This place is not only a geological marvel but also steeped in history, from the Qin Dynasty's Five-Foot Road to the Han Dynasty's establishment of Nan'guang County. **As the city grows on cliffs and time solidifies in the canyon, are you ready to embark on an adventure in this vertical world?** **I. Best Time to Visit** * **Spring and Autumn (March-May, September-November):** The climate is most comfortable and pleasant, with moderate temperatures and less rain, making it the golden season to visit Yanjin. Spring sees mountains covered in blooming flowers, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. * **Avoid the Rainy Season (June-August):** Yanjin experiences concentrated rainfall, which can easily lead to geological hazards like landslides and rockfalls, posing significant traffic and safety risks. **It is strongly not recommended** to visit during this period. * **Winter (December-February):** Temperatures are low, and it's damp and cold. There might be fog or freezing rain in the mountainous areas, so be sure to dress warmly for travel. **II. How to Get There** * **Train/High-speed Rail: ** **Preferred method!** * High-speed Rail: Take a high-speed train to **Yanjin South Station** (located in Shizi Town, Yanjin County, about 30 km from the county seat). From the station, you can take a shuttle bus or a taxi (shared rides are common) to the county seat (Yanjing Town). * Regular Train: You can take a regular train to **Yanjin Station** (the old station, located within Yanjing Town's urban area, but with fewer services compared to high-speed rail). * **Long-distance Bus:** * There are frequent buses from **Zhaotong City** Bus Station directly to Yanjin County (Yanjing Town), taking about 2-3 hours. * Buses are also available from **Yibin City (Sichuan)**, **Shuifu City**, and other locations. * **Self-driving:** * Navigate to "Yanjing Town, Yanjin County." Main routes include G85 Yin-Kun Expressway (exit at Yanjin South Station/Shiziba) or G247 National Highway (scenic but with many curves and dangerous roads). **Be sure to note** that mountain roads are narrow, with sharp turns and steep slopes. Risks are higher during the rainy season, so drive cautiously. **III. Recommended Core Attractions** 1. **Yanjin County (Yanjing Town) - Canyon Rock City Marvel:** * **Highlights:** This is Yanjin's most stunning "calling card." The entire county seat is built along the steep slopes on both sides of the Guan River canyon, with the narrowest point being only about a hundred meters wide. Buildings are tall and densely packed, layered one upon another, creating an incredibly striking visual effect. The Guan River flows through the town, and the old suspension bridge (Yanjin Bridge) is a classic photo spot. * **Experience:** Wander through the narrow, steep alleyways of the **Old Street** to experience the daily life of the mountain city residents; find different angles (such as across the river, or from high viewpoints) to photograph the panoramic view of this "linear city"; experience the unique scene of trains (or high-speed trains) roaring above or below the urban area. * **Suggestions:** Allocate at least half a day for leisurely exploration. Morning or evening light is best. 2. **Doushaguan Ancient Town - Gateway to the Millennium Ancient Path:** * **Highlights (about 22 km from the county seat):** * **Five-Foot Road Relics:** Well-preserved ancient post road built during the Qin Dynasty, with deep hoof prints, serving as important evidence of the Southern Silk Road. Step on it yourself to touch a thousand years of history. * **Bo People's Hanging Coffins:** Clearly visible mysterious ancient Bo people's coffins on the sheer cliffs across the Guan River, an unsolved mystery with great visual impact and cultural value. * **Tang Dynasty Yuan Zi Inscription Cliff:** A national key cultural relic, carved by Yuan Zi, an imperial censor during the Tang Dynasty, when he was commissioned to confer titles on Nanzhao. It is an important stone inscription witnessing the relationship between the central government and the frontier regions of Yunnan. * **Ancient City Gate (Shimen Pass):** A strategically important pass in ancient times, where one man could hold off an army. * **Bo Road Ancient Charm Archway, Guanyin Pavilion, etc.** Ancient town architecture. * **Experience:** Walk along the Five-Foot Road to feel the weight of history; gaze at the hanging coffins, sparking endless imagination; visit the stone inscriptions to learn about the prosperous Tang Dynasty; taste local snacks in the ancient town. * **Suggestions:** Allocate at least 3-4 hours. This is the essence of Yanjin's history and culture. Can be combined with the county seat for a full day's itinerary. 3. **Miaoba Terraces (relatively far from the county seat, inconvenient transportation):** * **Highlights:** Located in Miaoba Town, though not as grand in scale as Yuanyang or Longji, they are carved into the mountainside with beautiful lines, appearing more rustic and natural. The scenery is best in spring and autumn (during irrigation or harvest season). * **Experience:** A hidden gem for photography enthusiasts, experience the original ecological agricultural landscape. * **Note:** **Transportation is relatively inconvenient**, self-driving or chartered car is recommended. It is advisable to check road conditions and the best viewing spots in advance (e.g., Minzheng Village, Xiaozhai Village). More suitable for travelers with ample time seeking niche scenery. 4. **Dali Mountain (about 40 km from the county seat):** * **Highlights:** Yanjin's highest peak, covered by primeval forest. Sea of clouds, sunrises, and rhododendron seas (in spring) are highlights. There is a temple (Dali Mountain Temple) at the summit. * **Experience:** Hiking, getting close to nature, overlooking the mountains, watching the sea of clouds and sunrise (requires staying overnight at the summit or waking up early). * **Note:** Not highly developed, suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. Need to confirm road conditions and weather, and be fully prepared (food, water, equipment). **IV. Authentic Food Recommendations** * **Yanjin Silkie Chicken:** A national geographical indication product! The meat is tender, delicious, and highly nutritious. A must-try! Various cooking methods: clear stew (original flavor), yellow braised (rich and flavorful), and stewed with Gastrodia elata (nourishing) are all classics. * **Tung Leaf Rice Cake (Tongye Baba):** A local specialty snack. Glutinous rice or corn flour is used to wrap fillings (red bean paste, sesame, minced meat, etc.), then steamed wrapped in fragrant tung leaves. It's soft, sticky, delicious, and has a unique plant aroma. * **Yanjin Pickled Chili/Pickles:** The local chili peppers are of good quality, and the pickled chili and pickles made from them are sour, spicy, and crispy, making them excellent appetizers and side dishes, often used as condiments or accompaniments. * **Tofu Pudding Rice:** A simple and hearty local fast food. Tender tofu pudding served with a spicy dipping sauce (mainly made with dried chili paste) and rice. * **Cured Bacon:** Farm-made cured bacon, with a rich smoky flavor, fatty but not greasy, delicious whether stir-fried or steamed. * **Bamboo Shoots:** Bamboo shoots are abundant in the mountainous areas. Fresh or dried bamboo shoots are common ingredients, delicious when stir-fried with meat or added to soup. * **Where to Eat:** Home-style eateries in the alleyways of the county's Old Street, restaurants along the street in Doushaguan Ancient Town, and local markets.