Jianshui, a hidden gem in Yunnan, is full of surprises!

Yunnan, a land of magical charm, is home to countless hidden gems. Jianshui is undoubtedly one of its shining pearls, offering visitors a truly delightful experience! Jianshui, formerly known as Lin'an, exudes an ancient charm. As you step onto this land, you'll be immersed in its rich history. Every ancient stone slab, every weathered building, seems to whisper tales of the past. At the same time, Jianshui's streets and alleys are filled with a vibrant atmosphere. In the morning, the gentle sunlight bathes the quaint eaves as the sounds of street vendors fill the air. In the evening, the night market comes alive with lights and laughter as people gather to feast and enjoy each other's company. If you yearn for a carefree and leisurely life, seeking tranquility and freedom amidst the hustle and bustle of the world, Jianshui is the perfect destination for you. 🚗 Transportation: If you choose to travel by high-speed rail 🚄, it only takes about 2 hours from Kunming Station to Jianshui. During the journey, you can admire the beautiful scenery through the train window and feel the passage of time. Of course, if you prefer the freedom of self-driving, renting a car is also a great option. On a road trip, you can stop at will and explore the hidden gems along the way. 🌟 Must-see attractions in Jianshui: ✅ Jianshui Ancient Town 🏰: A visit to Jianshui is not complete without exploring its ancient town. It's like an open-air history museum, with numerous well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. Strolling through the ancient streets, the stone slabs under your feet seem to bear the weight of time. The ancient houses and shops along the streets exude historical charm with every brick and tile. You can imagine the bustling market scene hundreds of years ago, where people traded and lived, creating a vibrant picture of life. ✅ Chaoyang Tower: This landmark building of Jianshui Ancient Town was built in the Ming Dynasty. Having withstood hundreds of years of wind and rain, it still stands tall. Ascend to the top of the tower, and you'll be greeted by a gentle breeze and a panoramic view of the ancient town. The distant mountains, the scattered ancient buildings, and the bustling streets create a picturesque scene. ✅ Zhu Family Garden: Known as the Grand View Garden of Southern Yunnan, this Qing Dynasty residential complex blends the elegance of Jiangnan gardens with the grandeur of Southern Yunnan architecture. Stepping into the Zhu Family Garden is like traveling back in time to an ancient mansion. Pavilions, terraces, waterside pavilions, and corridors—every detail showcases the owner's ingenuity. Here, you can appreciate the charm of ancient architectural art and imagine the glory and prosperity of the Zhu family. ✅ Jianshui Confucian Temple: This is the largest and best-preserved Confucian Temple in Yunnan. Upon entering the temple, you'll be enveloped by a strong cultural atmosphere. The Dacheng Hall, Lingxing Gate, and other buildings exude solemnity and reverence. Here, you can learn about the profound Confucianism in traditional Chinese culture and appreciate the ancients' emphasis on education and culture. ✅ Double Dragon Bridge (Seventeen-Arch Bridge): As a landmark building in Jianshui, the Double Dragon Bridge is located further away from the urban area. But once you arrive, you'll find it well worth the trip. On a clear day, the blue sky and white clouds reflect on the shimmering water surface. The seventeen arches, arranged in a staggered manner, complement the surrounding idyllic scenery, creating a perfect backdrop for stunning photos. ✅ Jianshui Narrow Gauge Railway 🚂: This century-old narrow-gauge train is like a messenger of time. As you sit on the train, you can admire the beautiful countryside and ancient station buildings along the way. The green carriages slowly move along the tracks, making a "clanging" sound, as if telling stories of the past. However, if you plan to take the train, be sure to buy tickets in advance to avoid missing this unique experience. ✅ Swallow Cave 🕳️: This is a typical karst cave, boasting a vast interior. Stepping into Swallow Cave is like entering a mysterious underground world. The stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave come in various shapes and sizes, some resembling hanging swords and others like giant mushrooms, showcasing the wonders of nature. Looking up, you can also see flocks of swallows flying through the cave, adding a touch of vitality and dynamism. When you visit Jianshui, don't miss the local delicacies, such as the crispy tofu, smooth rice noodles, fragrant barbecue, and nourishing steam pot chicken. Food 🥘 recommendations 👉🏻 [1928 Shikong]: We stumbled upon this local restaurant near the narrow-gauge railway. As soon as you step inside, you'll be greeted by a retro atmosphere, as if traveling back in time. Here, you can savor authentic Jianshui cuisine, each dish bursting with local flavors. Whether you're capturing the moment with photos or indulging in the delicious food, you'll be thoroughly satisfied. 👉🏻 [Shuxi Brunch]: This is a stylish little shop. Their curry rice is fragrant and flavorful, leaving a lasting impression. The desserts and drinks are even more exceptional, with exquisite presentation and unique flavors that will keep you coming back for more. It was so delicious that I even brought my friends back for a second visit the next day. For accommodation, there are many characteristic homestays near the ancient town and Xianghui Bridge. The homestays near the ancient town are close to the attractions, making it convenient to get around and return to your accommodation after a day of exploring. The homestays near Xianghui Bridge offer better scenery, allowing you to wake up in the morning, open the window, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the beautiful natural scenery. You can choose based on your preferences. Jianshui, this hidden gem, awaits more people to discover its beauty and unique charm. I believe that once you set foot on this land, you'll create unforgettable memories.