Xiaoshanxia Gorge Scenic Area in Zhenxiong County, Zhaotong
Chinese Name: 昭通镇雄县中屯小山峡风景区
English Name: Xiaoshanxia Gorge Scenic Area in Zhenxiong County, Zhaotong
The Xiaoshanxia Gorge Scenic Area is located in Zhitian River, Zhongtun Township, at the border of Yunnan and Guizhou provinces. It is 20 kilometers south of the county seat, with convenient transportation, just 500 meters from the major highways connecting Sichuan, Yunnan, and Guizhou. The scenic area integrates natural landscapes of mountains, water, caves, and gorges.
The Xiaoshanxia Scenic Area is a hidden natural treasure nestled in the mountains. Its mountainous and watery scenery is picturesque, attracting countless visitors to experience the unique charm of nature.
Attractions:
- Duo Jun Cave: Located on the west bank of Zhitian River in Zhongtun, 20 kilometers south of the county seat. Zhitian River, formerly known as Zhiliu River, is a tributary of the Wujiang River, originating from the ancient Niucheshan Ridge in Hezhang, Guizhou. The river flows eastward and then southward, with the upper reach known as Liusha River and the lower reach as Rewater River, with Zhitian River in the middle. The riverbanks are lush with green mountains, dense grass, and deep forests. Legend has it that the river used to flow northward into Changgou but was redirected by Luo Yingxiu, a sage in northeastern Yunnan folklore, who carved out several channels through the peaks and cliffs. The river now cascades southeast, creating a jade-like belt that winds around the Duo Jun Cave on the right bank, forming a stunning landscape known as the “Jade Belt Heavenly Palace.”
- Hui Bo Cave: This cave complements Duo Jun Cave and is filled with stalactites and various scenic spots like “Tianyun Sacred Turtle,” “Peacock Opening Screen,” “Lion Returning to the Cave,” “Two Dragons Seizing the Treasure,” “Underground Great Wall,” “Shallow Waters,” “Mercy Boat,” and “Group Dragons Paying Homage.” It is a breathtaking sight to behold.
Development and Investment:
In the past three years, over 2 million yuan has been invested, initially creating a tourism facility that integrates dining, accommodation, and entertainment. The area has welcomed over 200,000 visitors, and two French exploration organizations have preliminarily assessed it as having “high development value.”
How to Get There:
To reach the Xiaoshanxia Gorge Scenic Area:
- From Zhaotong City, take Highway G352 towards Zhenxiong County.
- Continue on the road to Zhongtun Township.
- Follow signs to Xiaoshanxia Gorge Scenic Area, which is approximately 20 kilometers south of Zhenxiong County.
