Hailong Village in Zunyi

Hailongtun Village (海龙屯村) is a historic settlement in Huichuan District (汇川区), Zunyi City (遵义市), Guizhou Province (贵州省). It is best known for the Hailongtun Tusi Site (海龙屯土司遗址), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only one of its kind in Guizhou.

Built in 1257 during the Southern Song Dynasty (南宋), Hailongtun served as the stronghold of the Bozhou Yang Tusi (播州杨氏土司) for over 700 years, until its destruction during the “Bozhou Campaign” (平播之役) in the late Ming Dynasty (明代). Perched atop a mountain, the site features dramatic medieval-style fortifications, nine interconnected mountain passes, and palace ruins—offering a rare glimpse into China’s frontier military history. Combined with ethnic culture and rural scenery, it is one of Zunyi’s must-visit destinations.

Ethnic Culture & Traditions

Hailongtun Village is home to a mix of Han, Gelao (仡佬族), and Miao (苗族) communities, each contributing to its rich cultural landscape.

Gelao Heritage

• High-Platform Lion Dance (高台舞狮): A national intangible cultural heritage performance featuring acrobatic lion dancing on elevated platforms.
• San Yao Tai Banquet (三幺台): A traditional multi-course feast combining tea, wine, and food ceremonies, representing the highest level of hospitality.

Tusi Cultural Experiences

• Dress in traditional Hanfu, try ancient games, and explore recreated Tusi life in immersive cultural zones.
• Evening light shows such as Tusi Legends (屯堡风云) bring historical battles to life through projection technology.
• Hands-on workshops include lacquer art, floral crafts, and incense making.

Seasonal Activities

• Autumn and winter courtyard tea gatherings (“stove tea”) with roasted snacks create a cozy local experience.

Local Cuisine

Must-Try Dishes:

• Zunyi Lamb Noodles (遵义羊肉粉): Rich broth made from lamb bones, paired with tender meat and chili.
• Changwang Noodles (肠旺面): Spicy noodles with pork intestines and blood curd, a Guizhou classic.
• Tusi Banquet (土司宴): A traditional feast including cured meats, tofu dishes, free-range chicken, and fish hotpot.
• Oil Tea with Sticky Rice Cakes (油茶泡粽粑): A savory Gelao breakfast specialty.
• Roast Whole Lamb (烤全羊): Often served near scenic viewpoints, best reserved in advance.
• Local Snacks: Huanggaoba (黄糕粑) and tofu noodles offer simple, affordable flavors.

Top Attractions

Hailongtun Tusi Site (海龙屯土司遗址)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Asia’s best-preserved medieval mountain fortresses. Built along steep terrain with nine strategic passes.

• Feihu Pass (飞虎关) & “36-Step Sky Ladder” (36步天梯): The steepest and most dramatic प्रवेश point.
• Feilong Pass (飞龙关): Main प्रवेश to the summit, featuring stone arches and inscriptions.
• Chaotian Pass (朝天关): The most intact gateway with panoramic views.
• New Palace Ruins (新王宫遗址): Remains of the Tusi ruler Yang Yinglong’s palace.

Tusi Town (土司小镇)

A reconstructed cultural town at the base of the mountain, featuring workshops, performances, dining, and accommodations.

Hailongtun Star Camp (海龙屯星空营地)

A scenic hillside glamping site offering stargazing, private courtyards, and family-friendly activities.

Accommodation

• Hailongtun Star Camp (海龙屯星空营地): Premium glamping with modern amenities and panoramic views.
• Muyouzhi Inn (木有枝客栈): Cozy wooden guesthouse in Tusi Town with traditional charm.
• Longyan Inn (龙岩客栈): Convenient stay within the scenic area, offering dining and lodging.
• Zunyi City Hotels: Wider options with easy access (about 30 minutes away).

Getting There

Location: Hailongtun Village (海龙屯村), Huichuan District (汇川区), Zunyi (遵义市)
Distance: ~20 km from downtown Zunyi

By Car: ~30 minutes from Zunyi city center
By Public Transport:
Train to Zunyi Station → bus to Maocaopu Station → local bus (Route 2 or 23) to Hailongtun

On-site Transport: Shuttle buses  are recommended due to the large and mountainous terrain.

Travel Tips

Tickets & Hours:

•  Shuttle bus required
• Opening Hours:
  • Apr–Oct: 08:30–18:00
  • Nov–Mar: 09:00–17:00

Recommended Visit Duration: 3–4 hours

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring & Autumn: Pleasant weather and best scenery
• Winter: Snow-covered ruins create a dramatic atmosphere

Visitor Advice:

• Wear non-slip shoes; trails are steep with stone steps
• Bring water, snacks, and weather protection
• Consider hiring a guide for deeper historical insight
• Combine with nearby sites like Loushanguan Pass (娄山关) and Zunyi Conference Site (遵义会议会址) for a 1–2 day itinerary

Responsible Travel:

• Protect the World Heritage site—no climbing or defacing structures
• Follow safety guidelines near cliffs and passes
• Respect local ethnic customs and traditions