I've been to Zhaotong and don't recommend visiting in April.

April is a beautiful time when spring flowers are still in bloom - perfect for traveling. If you haven't decided where to go this month, you must add Zhaotong to your list! This hidden gem city in northeastern Yunnan has both breathtaking natural scenery and unique cultural charm, promising an unforgettable travel experience. Follow this detailed 3-day Zhaotong itinerary to begin your amazing journey! 📅Day 1: Zhaotong Ancient City - Long Family Ancestral Hall - Cherry Blossom Corridor at Yudong Reservoir Morning: After arriving in Zhaotong, head to the Ancient City first. This area epitomizes Zhaotong's history and culture. Walking on the stone-paved roads and touching the ancient buildings, you can almost hear echoes of the past. The shops along the streets offer various unique souvenirs. Noon: Find a small restaurant in the Ancient City to try the local specialty - oil cake with mung bean soup. The golden crispy oil cake paired with smooth and fragrant mung bean soup, topped with green onions and chili, creates a burst of happiness that instantly awakens your taste buds. Afternoon: Visit the Long Family Ancestral Hall, built by Long Yun, the Chairman of Yunnan Province during the Republic of China period, for ancestral worship. The building features unique architecture that is both dignified and elegant. Here you can experience the rich historical atmosphere and learn about that period of history. Evening: Head to the Cherry Blossom Corridor at Yudong Reservoir. April is peak cherry blossom season, with miles of cherry trees in full bloom creating a pink cloud-like effect. Walking under the cherry trees as petals float in the wind feels like being in a pink fairy tale. It's perfect for photos - every shot looks amazing. Night: Return to the city center and try Zhaotong's BBQ skewers at the night market. The beef skewers sizzle over charcoal, sprinkled with secret spicy powder, creating an irresistible aroma. You won't be able to stop eating them. Pair with a cold tamarind juice for the perfect meal. 📅Day 2: Dashanbao Morning: Get up early and head to Dashanbao, a national nature reserve with vast alpine meadows and wetlands. Enjoy the scenery outside your window and breathe in the fresh air - it's incredibly refreshing. Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near Dashanbao Scenic Area. Try the local chicken soup with Gastrodia elata. Made with Gastrodia from Xiaocaoba and free-range chicken, this nutritious soup has a rich flavor that will energize you. Afternoon: Enter Dashanbao Scenic Area and climb Jigong Mountain for a panoramic view of the grand canyon with its 2,600m vertical drop and steep cliffs - it's breathtaking. You can also see the patchwork landscape and soaring birds (though black-necked cranes may not be visible in April, other views are still spectacular). Run and play freely on the grassland to experience nature's vastness and beauty. This is also a perfect photo spot - with blue skies, white clouds, and green mountains, every shot looks great. Night: Stay at a guesthouse near the scenic area. Come out at night to stargaze, away from the city noise, and enjoy the peace and beauty. 📅Day 3: Huanglian River Scenic Area - Return Journey Morning: Visit Huanglian River Scenic Area, known as the "Waterfall Village of China" with over 40 waterfalls of different sizes and shapes within 5 square kilometers. Walk along the plank road to admire the dense forest flowers and clear springs, experiencing nature's masterful work. You can also watch Miao ethnic dance performances and experience rich Miao culture. Noon: Try local farm dishes at a nearby restaurant. The sour vegetable and red bean soup is recommended - it's tangy and delicious. Afternoon: Pack up and return home with wonderful memories. 📸Photo Spots: - Cherry Blossom Corridor at Yudong Reservoir: Stand under cherry trees with pink blossoms as background for romantic, beautiful photos. - Jigong Mountain at Dashanbao: Stand at the cliff edge with the grand canyon as backdrop for impressive photos. - Huanglian River Waterfalls: Capture dynamic shots with splashing waterfalls. 🍱Food Recommendations: Besides the previously mentioned oil cake with mung bean soup, BBQ skewers, chicken soup with Gastrodia, and sour vegetable red bean soup, try: - Shuifu Ran Noodles: Chewy noodles mixed with bean sprouts, crushed peanuts, chili oil and other seasonings - satisfyingly spicy and delicious. - Sour Spicy Wonton Noodles: Perfect combination of wontons and noodles in a appetizing sour-spicy broth. 🏠Accommodation Suggestions: - Stay in downtown Zhaotong on the first night for convenient transportation and dining options, with hotels and guesthouses at various price points. - Stay at a guesthouse near Dashanbao Scenic Area on the second night for easy access to sunrise viewing and exploring while experiencing local culture. ❗Travel Tips: - Weather in Zhaotong can be unpredictable in April. Bring rain gear and warm clothes. - Some scenic areas have rough mountain paths. Wear comfortable sports shoes for walking. - Be careful about food hygiene when trying local dishes to avoid stomach issues. 💕The beauty of Zhaotong needs to be experienced in person. This April, pack your bags for an impromptu trip - Zhaotong will surely leave you with beautiful memories!