DAY 02： GUIYANG TO WENG'AN COUNTY

Photography Highlights: YANGPI CAVE WATERFALL

Yangpidong Waterfall

Yangpidong Waterfall is located in Muke Village, Qingzhen City, Guiyang City, Guizhou Province.

It is a waterfall in a cave and also the outlet of an underground river. The waterfall has a drop of 41 meters and is about 20 - 30 meters wide

The cave is more than 50 meters high, more than 30 meters wide and more than 500 meters long. It is named Yangpidong (Sheepskin Cave) because it is shaped like a sheepskin.

It is a typical karst landform, integrating karst landscapes such as rivers, terraced fields, multi - level waterfalls, skylights, sinkholes, karst caves and valleys. It is a karst sinkhole underground river waterfall.

The waterfall originates from the cliff. On both sides are steep cliffs with lush trees.

ATTENTION:

Yangpi Cave Waterfall was dawnhill in the valley, no well stone steps,  no handrails leading, which takes about 45 minutes for most people and 25 minutes for the fastest.

Porter Service：We can arrange for villagers we know to carry your camera bag and tripod at the parking of the Yangpi Cave Waterfall for 200 yuan. and waiting for us untill we are fisnish shooting, carry the camera bag and tripod uphill to the parking. 

camera lens:

Most of the lenses here are very useful. The wide-angle lens range from 14-24mm Nikon (16-35mm Canon) to 24-70mm is used for most shooting, but sometimes in the case of a sea of clouds, the 70-200mm lens is used to capture isolated peaks in the clouds, speedboats lying in the Li River (Phoenix Baiwei in October), and small boats. Here, a lens with a range of 200mm, 135mm, or even 150mm is not needed.

Yangpi Cave Waterfall

Tianxin Village is a relatively remote shooting paradise for the photographyer.  It is 35 kms far away from Guilin city. In the early morning without tourists, you can shoot and create freely, but occasionally there are some local photographers. The Local farmer ware the old Palm leaves raincoat  with the buffalo will be waiting for you even in the early morning.

Pano  Guilin Wetland Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105mm F4

Guillin

Pano  Guilin Wetland Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105mm F4

Guillin

DAY 3:  WENG'AN TO QINGLONG 

Photography Highlights: Chuandong River Waterfall 

Appearance and Scale: The river is more than 50 meters wide, with a riverbed drop of more than 10 meters. The waterfall is about 50 meters wide and 10 meters high. When the water rises and flows rapidly in summer, the waterfall becomes wider and louder.

Longji Rice Terrces Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4

Longji

Longji Rice Terrces, DJI Air2s, F2.8

Longji

Unique Landscape: There is a horizontal cave in the waterfall wall that runs through both cliffs. The bottom of the cave is flat and pedestrians can pass through it, offering a wonderful experience of "walking through the river without getting feet wet". 

Longji Rice Terrces Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 14 mm F1.8

Longji

There are 3 cliff breaks in the middle of the horizontal cave, forming 3 water curtain caves of different sizes in parallel, with the largest one in the middle.

Longji Rice Terrces Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4

Longji

Longji Rice Terrces Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4

Longji

Baling River Bridge

Bridge Parameters: The main span of the bridge is 1088 meters. The approach bridge on the east bank is 940.4 meters long, and the one on the west bank is 200 meters long. The total length of the bridge is 2237 meters. The height from the bridge deck to the Baling River surface is 370 meters. The width of the main bridge deck is 24.5 meters, and the designed speed is 80 kilometers per hour.

Longji Rice Terrces Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4

Longji

At dusk, the setting sun drapes the Baling River Bridge in a gorgeous afterglow, dyeing the entire bridge in a warm orange - red hue.

At this time, the outline of the bridge becomes more prominent against the backdrop of the sunset, forming a beautiful picture together with the surrounding mountains and rivers. 

DAY 4： QINGLONG 

Photography Highlights: The 24 Bends，Sanwang Xianren Bridge Sunset

The 24 Bends

The 24 Bends Anti - Japanese War Highway is located at the 2337 km milestone of National Highway G320, in the southern suburb of Qinglong County, Qianxinan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province. It was formerly known as "Ya Guan".

The straight - line distance from the foot of the mountain to the top is about 350 meters, and the vertical height is about 260 meters. It is built in an "S" shape along a slope with an inclination angle of about 60 degrees, winding its way to the pass for about 4 kilometers.

Nestled in Qinglong County, the 24 Bends stand as a captivating masterpiece of nature and engineering, inviting photographers to embark on a visual odyssey.

As the first light of dawn spills over the rugged terrain, the serpentine road twists and turns, each bend a new chapter in the story of this iconic site. 

Use a wide - angle lens to capture the entirety of the 24 Bends, with the early - morning mist gently caressing the slopes, creating a dreamy, ethereal backdrop. Every click of the shutter freezes a moment in time, preserving the grandeur of this historical and scenic wonder.

Jinkeng Terrces Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4

Longji

Pano Longji Rice Terrces, DJI Air2s, F2.8

Longji

Sanwang Xianren Bridge Sunset

The Sanwang Xianren Bridge is a natural bridge, formed by the karst action of flowing water or the mechanical erosion of water flow, and it is related to groundwater.

The bridge body is composed of huge stones, which is a stone arch formed by the perennial erosion of a small stream on the rock. It is about 30 meters long, about 35 meters wide, and the lower space is about 4 meters high, opening towards the direction of the gully.

Pano Longji Rice Terrces, DJI Air2s, F2.8

Longji

Surrounding Environment: Sanwangping is an alpine grassland with an altitude of nearly 1,800 meters. The Xianren Bridge is hidden in it. The terrain is open and gently undulating, with deep grass and sparse forests.

Pano Longji Rice Terrces, DJI Air2s, F2.8

Longji

Waterfalls and Deep Pools: In the center of the stone pit, there is an open window with a diameter of about 3 meters at the end of the stream. The stream flows down from here to form a waterfall, and a pool is formed below the waterfall. The water in the pool overflows and falls into the valley.

Pano Longji Rice Terrces, DJI Air2s, F2.8

Longji

Cuiping Hilltop Sunset, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

DAY 5： QINGLONG TO LIBO

Photography Highlights: Libo's Small Seven - Hole Bridge

Libo Small Seven - Hole Scenic Area

Libo Small Seven - Hole Scenic Area in Guizhou is a fascinating natural wonder.

Scenic Features: The area is centered around the Small Seven - Hole Bridge, a stone bridge built in the Qing Dynasty. It has seven arches and spans the Baojing River, exuding a strong sense of antiquity. The clear and green water of the river flows gently under the bridge, creating a beautiful picture.

There are also numerous waterfalls like the Laya Waterfall and the Cuigu Waterfall. The Laya Waterfall is close to the road, with water splashing down like pearls, while the Cuigu Waterfall is majestic, cascading from the dense forest.

In addition, the Wolongtan is a highlight, with its emerald - green water and unique karst landform, looking like a beautiful emerald inlaid in the mountains.

Liriver Blue Hour, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Xingping

Libo's Small Seven - Hole Bridge stands as a sentinel of centuries - old charm. The bridge, with its weathered stones, arcs gracefully over the crystal - clear waters of the Blue River. Each slab tells a story of time passed, while the surrounding emerald - hued forests and cascading waterfalls create a symphony of colors and sounds.

Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the thunderous waterfalls. To capture their power, use a slow - shutter speed. This will make the water appear as a smooth, flowing veil, adding a sense of dynamism to your images. And when it comes to the lush forests, a wide - angle lens is your best friend. It allows you to encompass the vast expanse of greenery, highlighting the area's rich biodiversity. With these tips, your photos from Libo will be nothing short of spectacular.

Cormorant Fishing, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Xingping

Liriver Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Xingping

Clean the Walking Path, Connan 5D IV, 50 mm F2.8
Xingping

The shadows in the forest seem to hold secrets, and the play of light on the water is like a dance of spirits. Each photograph I take is a glimpse into this enigmatic world, a frozen moment that captures the essence of Libo's otherworldly charm. These images are not just pictures; they are portals to a place where nature's magic is ever - present.

Feeding Chichen in the front yard, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Reading 0ld Book in the living room, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

DAY 6： LIBO TO XIJIANG

Photography Highlights: Xijiang Thousand - household Miao Village

At dusk, the transformation is nothing short of spectacular. The entire village is illuminated by soft, orange - hued lights. From the viewing platform, the sight of thousands of lights twinkling against the darkening mountainside is a sight straight out of a dream.

Pano Xianggong Hill Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

It's a visual poem, a harmonious blend of human settlement and nature, and every photograph I take is a stanza dedicated to this unique beauty.

Terraced Fields: They go straight up to the sky along the mountains, layer upon layer, with different scenery in each season. In spring, they are filled with water like bright mirrors, and in autumn, the rice is ripe, turning golden. They are a vivid manifestation of the farming culture in the Miao village.

Pano Xianggong Hill Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Pano Liriver Sunset, DJI Air2S F2.
Xingping

Liriver Blue Hour, Connan 5D IV, 14 mm F1.8
Xingping

DAY 7： XIJIANG

Photography Highlights: Viewing Platform Sunset, Langde Miao Village

Viewing Platform: It is located on the top of the mountain opposite the Miao village. You can overlook the whole picture of Xijiang Thousand - household Miao Village. During the day, you can enjoy the scattered layout of the Miao village, and at night, you can admire the brilliant night view, just like stars falling into the world.

LirIver Blue Hour, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Fishman, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Photography enthusiasts, Xijiang Thousand - household Miao Village is a paradise waiting to be explored through your lens. The best time to start your shoot is at daybreak. The early morning light is soft and diffused, perfect for capturing the architectural details of the stilted houses. Use a wide - angle lens to take in the entire expanse of the village, with the houses cascading down the slopes.

Pano Liriver Sunrise with fishman, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Liriver Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Langde Miao Village

Photography enthusiasts, Langde Miao Village in Guizhou is a veritable paradise waiting to be explored through your lens. The best time to start your photographic journey is at dawn. The soft, diffused light at this time of day is perfect for capturing the architectural details of the stilt - houses. Use a wide - angle lens to take in the entire village, with its houses cascading down the slopes in a harmonious symphony of wood and stone.

Liriver Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Liriver Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

When it comes to capturing the local culture, the villagers are your best subjects. Don't be shy to approach them and ask for permission to take their photos. The women, in their elaborate traditional costumes with intricate embroidery and silver jewelry, are particularly photogenic. The men, with their strong features and confident demeanor, also make for great portraits.

Folk Culture: There is a unique clothing culture of the "Long Skirt Miao". Women wear embroidered clothes and striped skirts, and wear silver horn crowns. In addition, there are rich folk activities, such as the Climbing Festival on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, the New Rice Tasting Festival in July, the Miao New Year Festival in October, and the Drum Festival held once every thirteen years. When honored guests arrive, the Miao people will set up twelve blocks of wine, and welcome them by setting off iron cannons, firecrackers, playing mangtong and singing wine songs.

Dance and Art: The traditional Miao song and dance performances in Langde Miao Village are rich and colorful, including Lusheng Dance, Bronze Drum Dance, Golden Pheasant Dance, Bench Dance, etc. The rhythm is lively and the movements are graceful, with a strong ethnic flavor.

DAY 8： XIJIANG TO ZHENYUAN OlD TOWN

Photography Highlights: Zhenyuan Old Town

In the heart of Guizhou, Zhenyuan Ancient Town awaits, a haven for photographers. The meandering Wuyang River, like a silk ribbon, winds through the town, its waters reflecting the centuries - old architecture. 

LirIver Blue Hour, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Fishman, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Zhenyuan Ancient Town is a living postcard. The harmonious blend of traditional Chinese architecture and the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains makes it a photographer's paradise. The colorful lanterns that light up the night add a touch of romance and mystery. Whether you're focusing on the intricate carvings of the temples or the daily life scenes of the locals, every shot captures the essence of this charming town.

Pano Liriver Sunrise with fishman, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Liriver Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Liriver Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Liriver Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

DAY 9： YZHENGYUAN OLD TOWN TO MOUNT FANJIN

Photography Highlights: Zhenyuan Old Town Sunrise

As the sun rises, golden rays gently caress the tiled roofs of the ancient houses, creating a warm, inviting glow. Each corner, from the stone - paved alleys to the majestic city walls, tells a story of the past, ready to be frozen in your frame.

LirIver Blue Hour, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Fishman, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Mount Fanjing

Topography and Geomorphology: It features numerous steep cliffs and stone peaks, with a significant undulating terrain. The middle part of the mountain is high and the surrounding areas are gradually lower. The highest peak, Fenghuang Mountain, is 2,570 meters above sea level, forming an absolute elevation difference of nearly 2,000 meters with the Panxi Gully Mouth at the eastern foot of the mountain.

Pano Liriver Sunrise with fishman, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Liriver Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Hongyun Golden Summit: It is 2,493 meters above sea level, with a vertical height difference of about 90 meters. The Jinda Gorge in the middle divides it into two parts, which are connected by a sky bridge. The temples on both sides enshrine Sakyamuni and Maitreya respectively. 


Liriver Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Mushroom Stone: It is a square stone pillar made of sandy slate and quartz sandstone, larger on the top and smaller on the bottom, about 10 meters high. It is named for its mushroom - like shape.

Liriver Sunrise, Connan 5D IV, 24-105 mm F4
Yangshuo

Dawn at the Golden Summit

Before the day fully breaks, Mount Fanjing is still in slumber. I've been waiting patiently in the cold wind. When the first ray of dawn finally pierces through the thick clouds and lands on the Hongyun Golden Summit, in an instant, the solitary peak seems to be ablaze, shining with a sacred golden light. The Jinda Gorge divides the Golden Summit into two parts, and the temples on both sides stand solemn and serene in the light. I quickly press the shutter, and the telephoto lens firmly locks onto this scene, allowing the light to outline the magnificent silhouette of the Golden Summit in the camera, capturing this breathtaking dawn moment. Thus, the new - day legend of Mount Fanjing begins.