Perhaps Ziyuan County’s name doesn’t ring a bell yet. This is a hidden gem in Guangxi, China, ready to be discovered. Ziyuan County is located in the northeast of Guangxi. It borders the province of Hunan to the north. It falls under the administration of Guilin.
Ziyuan County offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The county is home to diverse ethnic minorities. These include the Miao and Yao. This adds a vibrant splash of culture to the area. In 2022, the minority population accounted for over 22% of the total. That equates to 40,200 people.
Ziyuan County is known for its stunning landscapes. It is in the hinterland of the Yuechengling Mountains. Maoer Mountain, the highest peak in South China, is located here. This mountain is a source of the Yangtze River and the Pearl River.
The county’s climate is a subtropical monsoon climate. Its high altitude means mild temperatures prevail. This makes it perfect for visiting in any season.
Ziyuan County is rich in minerals and forests. It is a key forestry county, known for Chinese fir and moso bamboo. The forest coverage here reaches an impressive 83.01%.
Ziyuan County has abundant tourism resources. Green mountains, clear waters, and unique stones define the landscape. Bajiaozhai is a highlight. It has been named a World Natural Heritage site. Locals call it the soul of red sandstone. The Zijiang River offers scenic drifting experiences. The Wupaihe River is known as China’s best drifting resort.
In 2005, China National Geographic Magazine called Ziyuan County one of China’s most beautiful places. In 2014, it was named “the Most Beautiful China destination for cultural tourism”. The Mid-July River Lantern Festival is a significant cultural event. It was even selected as a national intangible cultural heritage.
Ziyuan County is divided into several administrative areas. These include Ziyuan Town, Zhongfeng Town, and Meixi Town. There are also ethnic townships such as Chetian Miao Ethnic Township. The languages spoken here are as diverse as the population. These include Chinese, Miao, and Yao.
Ziyuan County offers a refreshing escape. Its natural beauty and cultural richness make it an unforgettable destination.