The real-life Temple Run!! A place featured in National Geographic

Finally arrived at the location featured in National Geographic! It feels like stepping into a real-life Temple Run!! Upon entering this stone kingdom, the towering stone block-built towers on both sides, and countless huge totem stone faces, shock and overwhelm the senses! Many might be intimidated by these totem faces with varied expressions, but understanding the stories and culture behind them, this strange, mysterious, and art-filled place is sacred and awe-inspiring! In the 1990s, artist Song Peilun gave up his commercial career, returned to his hometown in Guizhou, rented this 300-acre barren mountain, and used his lifetime savings and energy to create his vision of the "Ancient Yelang Kingdom." Every stone tower and totem face here is not a simple copy, but his modern interpretation and artistic creation of the lost Yelang culture and Guizhou’s Nuo opera masks. The entire scenic area cleverly utilizes the downstream karst landscape and streams, with stone forts, small bridges, flowing water, and green trees forming a picturesque scene. The works blend Guizhou’s native Yelang culture and Nuo opera mask elements, all made from local natural stones, pottery shards, and earthenware, gradually merging with the natural environment over time. Visiting here is to see a magnificent historical monument, a landscape of earth art, and also an old man’s dream, and an interpretation of a lost ethnic culture. 🪨 Cultural Experience at the Attraction Handicraft Experience: Sometimes there are pottery workshops in the park where you can make your own small pottery piece, echoing the artistic theme of Yelang Valley. Nuo Opera Performance: At specific times (such as weekends or holidays), the small theater in the park hosts original Nuo opera performances, a great opportunity to learn about local folk culture (check the park for exact showtimes before your visit). 📸 Best Photo Spots 1. The large stone pillar group at the castle entrance, with staggered stone statues, is spectacular 2. The giant stone gate in the middle of the park, perfect for blockbuster-style photos 3. The standalone stone house by the creek, full of artistic vibe 💡 Practical Information 📍 Address: Yelang Valley Karst Ecological Park, Shiban Town, Huaxi District, Guiyang City ⏰ Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM (ticket sales stop at 5:30 PM) 🎫 Tickets: 20 RMB per person, half price with student ID 🚌 Transportation: Recommended to drive or take a taxi, about 50 minutes from the city center Tips: 1. Dress Code: Walking and stairs are required inside the park, so please wear comfortable, non-slip flat shoes. 2. Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for cool and comfortable weather. In summer, watch out for sun protection. Guizhou has frequent rain; after rain, the stones in Yelang Valley are covered with moss, adding charm but making paths slippery, so be careful. 3. Respect: This is a heartfelt art piece, please protect the environment, do not climb on statues or graffiti. 4. Mindset: Come with an appreciation for "earth art" and "personal dreams," and learn about the Yelang culture behind it. Hiring a guide can help you better understand the stories behind each piece.