Just returned from Yunshe Village, and here are some hard truths

Tired of overcrowded tourist hotspots? It's time for an off-the-beaten-path adventure! In Tongren, Guizhou, lies a hidden paradise – Yunshe Village, where undiscovered poetic landscapes and rustic folk culture await, fulfilling all your desires for tranquility and beauty! 📍Address: Yunshe Scenic Area, Yunshe Village, Taiping Town, Jiangkou County, Tongren City, Guizhou Province 🎫Admission: Free! Free! Free! Important things must be said three times – zero barriers to experiencing nature and culture! 🚗Transportation: - High-speed rail: Arrive at Tongren Station, then take a taxi (about 1.5 hours, ~¥150) directly to Yunshe Village. Alternatively, take a bus from Tongren Chengbei Bus Station to Fanjingshan (passing Jiangkou County and Yunshe Village), fare ~¥19.5, journey ~2 hours. - Self-drive: Exit at Jiangkou Toll Station on Hangrui Expressway (G56), follow County Road X508 via the county town, and reach in about 10 minutes with scenic views along the way – a fantastic driving experience! 🌟Must-visit spots: 1. Shenlong Pond: The soul of Yunshe Village, with emerald-clear, unfathomable waters. Legend says it predicts weather – rising for sunshine, receding for clouds. Misty mornings create dreamlike scenes, perfect for drone shots. 2. Ancient Paper Mill: Witness 1,300-year-old traditional papermaking. Try crafting your own floral paper and feel the charm of intangible cultural heritage. 3. Wind-Rain Bridge: A typical Tujia mortise-and-tenon structure offering shade and stunning views. At dusk, watch sunset reflections on the river as time slows down. 4. Tujia Barrel Houses: Ming-Qing era stilted buildings with grey tiles and white walls. Wander through and touch ancient stones to hear echoes of history. 🍱Food recommendations: 1. Yao Family Rice Tofu: Chewy rice tofu with spicy chili oil and crispy pickles – a burst of Guizhou flavors. 2. Jiangkou Braised Pot: Assorted meats braised in rich sauce, dipped in special seasoning – absolutely delicious! 3. Iced Sweet Wine: Refreshing and sweet, a post-meal favorite among locals. 4. Hidden gem: Try sour soup horn fish at riverside farmhouses – tender fish in spicy broth with local litsea oil, unbelievably fresh! 🏡Accommodation: - Riverside homestay: "Gusu Courtyard" by Shenlong Pond, with water views and soothing nighttime sounds. - Budget option: "Jiujiu Inn" with homegrown vegetables and authentic farm-style cooking. ❗️Travel tips: 1. Summer brings mosquitoes – pack repellent bracelets or sprays. 2. Shenlong Pond's water is very cold; be cautious when swimming. 3. Weekends/holidays get crowded; weekdays offer more tranquility. 4. Follow instructions during papermaking workshops for safety. 5. Respect Tujia customs: remove shoes before entering homes, avoid touching ritual items. This holiday, don't hesitate – come to Yunshe Village for your own mountain-water rendezvous! Yunshe Scenic Area