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Things to Do in Anshun

Things to Do in Anshun

Anshun Guizhou, China Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Anshun's karst landscape has a stunning backdrop for exploring the outdoors, with a range of terrain for different activity levels.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Easy to Moderate Walks

Huangguoshu Waterfall Scenic Area trails are well-paved but include many stairs, extending several kilometers. Dragon Palace Cave offers easy walking within the cave system and relaxing boat trips.

Moderate Exertion

Getu River Scenic Area hiking involves stairs and uneven terrain. Boat rides and cable cars assist with bigger sections, but exploring cliffs and caves requires physical effort.

Long-Distance Trekking

Possible in more remote parts of Guizhou province, but these necessitate specialized planning, appropriate gear, and experienced local guides due to challenging terrain and limited infrastructure.

Water Sports & Adventure

  • Water-based activities are limited, mainly confined to boat rides within scenic areas like Dragon Palace Cave and Secureu River.
  • These boat rides are part of the sightseeing experience, not independent sports like rafting or kayaking.
  • Cliff Scaling: The sheer cliffs of Getu River attract professional rock climbers, but commercial extreme sports are not generally available for tourists.
  • Cycling: Regional roads or city parks offer cycling. Bike-sharing is in Anshun city for urban commutes. Mountain biking is not a developed visitor activity due to terrain.

Prepare for Hiking

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • Bring water and snacks.
  • Consider sun protection for open areas.
  • Layer clothing for varied temperatures.

Water Activities

  • Enjoy scenic boat rides.
  • Kayaking and rafting options are limited.
  • Water activities are integrated with sightseeing.
  • Check for local boat tour availability.

Cycling Insights

  • City parks for casual rides.
  • Bike-sharing options in Anshun city.
  • Mountain biking is not tourist-oriented.
  • Road conditions can be challenging for long rides.

Wildlife Viewing

Dedicated wildlife viewing tours or organized viewing tours for tourists are limited in Anshun. Birdwatching might be possible in some rural or forested areas, but do not expect large wildlife sightings.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Anshun's rich cultural heritage through direct experiences, from traditional performances to community interactions.

Workshops & Performances

  • Formal cooking or craft classes are uncommon in Anshun city. Informal workshops might exist in ethnic villages (e.g., batik, weaving, local cooking).
  • Dixi Opera (地戏) at Tianlong Tunpu Ancient Town: A local opera performed by farmers wearing ancient masks, depicting historical battles. Check performance schedules.
  • Ethnic Minority Festivals: Opportunities to witness traditional music, dance, and ceremonies. Dates vary significantly (e.g., Bouyei "March 3rd," Miao New Year).
  • Community-Based Tourism: Staying in a farm stay (农家乐) or guesthouse within an racial minority village provides direct support and interaction.

Language & Cultural Events

Language Learning

No formal language schools cater to short-term visitors in Anshun.

Bouyei "March 3rd" Festival

Celebrated in spring, this festival features traditional singing, dancing, and unique local foods. It is a joyful event with Bouyei people in traditional attire.

Miao New Year

Dates change (late autumn/early winter). This grand celebration includes elaborate feasts, traditional performances, and stunning displays of Miao costumes and silver jewelry.

Festival Planning

Time your visit with specific when the festival is for unparalleled cultural immersion. Check the Guizhou tourism calendar.

Local Interaction

Homestays and guesthouses in ethnic villages facilitate genuine interaction with local communities and support their traditions.

Respectful Engagement

Engage respectfully with local customs and traditions. A smile and a few Mandarin phrases contribute to positive interactions.

Relaxation & Wellness

Opportunities for relaxation and wellness in Anshun generally focus on traditional practices and natural settings.

Spa & Traditional Therapy

  • Some higher-end hotels in Anshun may have fundamental spa facilities or offer massage services.
  • Customary Chinese massage (推拿, tuīná) parlors are available in the city, offering therapeutic massages.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) hospitals and clinics offer acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other traditional therapies.
  • Prominent hot springs are limited directly within Anshun. Guizhou province has a number of hot springs resorts further away (e.g., Xifeng Hot Springs near Guiyang).

Wellness Insights

Yoga & Meditation

Anshun is not a developed destination for yoga or meditation retreats catering to international tourists. Consider Guiyang for more established options.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Anshun is inland, so there are no beaches. Some lodgings could have indoor or outdoor swimming pools, useful for relaxation, especially in summer.

Natural Escapes

The serene natural surroundings of scenic areas offer a tranquil setting for personal relaxation and quiet contemplation amidst nature's beauty.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music & Theater

Live music venues are limited. Local cultural centers or smaller venues might host classic shows. The Dixi Opera at Tianlong Tunpu is the main cultural performance.

Nightclubs & Bars

A few local nightclubs and KTV (Karaoke) venues exist in Anshun city center, mainly catering to local preferences. Anshun does not have a specific "bar district" or organized pub crawls.

Late-Night Options

Street food stalls remain open late, offering popular evening snacks and supper. KTV (Karaoke) is a popular late-night thing to do for locals and a fun group experience.

Shopping & Markets

Discover local treasures ranging from traditional markets to artisan crafts, finding unique souvenirs to not forget your trip.

Markets & Crafts

  • Local Wet Markets (农贸市场): Excellent places to find fresh produce, meats, local snacks, and experience daily life.
  • Artisan Workshops: Dedicated workshops for tourists are limited in Anshun city. Look for handcrafted items directly from artisans in ethnic minority villages.
  • Batik Fabrics (蜡染): Traditional textile art of the Bouyei and Miao people, with intricate patterns made with wax and dye.
  • Miao Silver Jewelry (苗族银饰): Intricate designs often depicting nature, mythical creatures, or totems. These are beautiful and culturally significant.

Souvenirs & Unique Finds

Local Teas

Guizhou is a tea-producing province. Look for local varieties like Du Yun Mao Jian or Zunyi Green Tea, offering unique regional flavors.

Chili Sauces & Fermented Products

Bring home the distinctive flavors of Guizhou cuisine, like various chili sauces and fermented vegetables, for an authentic taste reminder.

Bamboo Crafts

Various items crafted from bamboo reflect local resources and traditional skills, making for charming and practical souvenirs.

Luxury Shopping

Luxury and boutique shopping options are limited in Anshun. Major department stores and international luxury brands are mainly found in Guiyang.

Ethical Shopping

  • Purchase crafts directly from artisans.
  • Support reputable cooperatives in ethnic villages.
  • Verify authenticity over mass-produced items.
  • Avoid wildlife products.

Shipping & Customs

  • Shipping services like China Post and SF Express are available.
  • Be aware of export restrictions on cultural relics.
  • Check your home country's import regulations.
  • Keep receipts for significant purchases.

Helpful Shopping Tip

Browse & Inquire
  • When purchasing racial minority crafts, especially silverwork or batik, in villages, take your time to browse.
  • Ask artisans about their craft, materials, and the cultural meaning at the back of their work.
  • This approach frequently results in a more meaningful acquire and cultural connection.
Bargaining
  • In traditional markets and with individual artisans, gentle bargaining might be acceptable.
  • Approach it with a smile and good humor.
  • Do not bargain in modern stores or for food items with non-negotiable prices.

Booking Experiences

For booking various activities and unique experiences in Anshun and beyond, GetYourGuide offers a range of options, including tours and cultural events.

Activity Planning Summary

Experiences

  • Explore scenic hiking trails and boat trips in karst landscapes.
  • Witness Dixi Opera and partake in ethnic minority festivals for cultural immersion.
  • Relax with traditional Chinese massage or seek TCM treatments.
  • Browse local markets for unique handicrafts, teas, and chili sauces.

General Recommendations

  • Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking and varied terrain.
  • Carry local currency for street food and market purchases.
  • Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases for smoother interactions.
  • Check local schedules for performances and festival dates to optimize your visit.
Things to Do in Anshun. Activities, Experiences, Adventures