Zhaodi Dyke Scenic Spot in Anlong County, Qianxinan

Zhaodi Dyke Scenic Spot

Lying in the northeastern suburb of Anlong County, Guizhou Province, the Zhaodi Dyke Scenic Spot is famous for its beautiful natural scenery and splendid historical culture. The spot is surrounded by hills on three sides with the county on the fourth side, and covers an area of approximately 5 square kilometers (about 1235 acres).

Introduction of Zhaodi Dyke Scenic Spot

The Zhaodi Dyke is lined by weeping willows on both sides. This dyke was originally built in 1694, in the Qing Dynasty. In successive eras, the dyke was added to in height by several meters. Originally, the dyke was built to protect the city wall, prevent flood and promote communications and was donated by Zhao Guolin, a military officer of the Qing Dynasty. It took over one year to build the dyke. Later, to commemorate his contributions, the dyke was named Zhaodi Dyke.

Around the dyke, there are numerous views. To the eastern end of the dyke stands a grand archway and to the south, a paddy field which directly leads to the county. A lake, the Green Sea, lies on the north of the dyke, covering an area of 600 mu (about 98 acres). The west of the dyke is connected to a hill. On the hill, pavilions built in different dynasties can be found here and there. Many stone carvings have been left here. In the year of 1848 of the Qing Dynasty, a pond was opened on the side of the dyke. Later, it became a lotus pond with Five Lotus-Enjoying Pavilions above it. These pavilions are linked together by a long bridge. The lotus gives off a fragrant smell when flowering.

In addition, in the vicinity of the dyke there are a number of historic sites. For example, the Eighteen Officials' Tombs built during the Ming Dynasty, the grave of Zhang Linxiang together with Ma Hetu (two leaders of an uprising of the Hui group in the Qing Dynasty) and the Imperial Drill Ground of the Ming Dynasty.

Lotus City

Zhaoti, integrating historical humanities and natural scenery, has become the largest, and most favored, lotus resort on the Guizhou Plateau. Zhaodi lotus, coming out of the mud but keeping purity and showing enchanting charisma thanks to the clean brook, extend over 5,000 meters and spread fragrance everywhere. During the height of summer, the lotus blossoms attract visitors from all directions. Qu Bridge Colorful Pavilion floats on the flowered sea, all colors of fish swim between the lotus leaves, with the fresh breeze blowing gently and hidden fragrances lingering on.

Anlong Mountains and Water

Anlong County is characterized by odd mountains, beautiful flowers and breathtaking scenery. The Towering Tiger-head Mountain and Crane, with luxuriant trees, are praised as a “natural biological gene pool” by experts; Du Mountain Karst Cave is composed of underground caves, over-ground penetrating caves and a combination of naturally-formed kits, which is rarely seen away from this miraculous landscape. Wanfengwu Tiger-head Scenic Spot, formed by the Tiansheng Bridge-Class First Power Station Dam, is filled with ridges and peaks, and mist and ripples; charming and gentle. The picturesque, ethnic villages and the graceful and varied ethnic charm also help to attract visitors, providing an unparalleled experience.

How to Get There

Getting to Anlong is easy. Simply take the train from Beijing or Shanghai to Guiyang, and then a bus from Guiyang Long-distance Station to Anlong County.

Useful Travel Tips

• CNY 40 for the Zhaodi Dyke Scenic Spot (including the Zhaodi, the Lotus Pool, the Mid - Hill Pavilion and the Tombs o the Generals in the Green Sea) CNY 80 (including the Zhaodi Dyke Scenic Spot, the Wolong Cave, the Eighteen Officials' Tombs, Tianbang Mountain and the Xingyi Examination Hall)

Main Attractions in Guizhou

• Wumeng Grassland in Panzhou City
• Shiqian Hot Spring in Tongren
• Leigongshan Nature Reserve
• Suoga Long Horn Miao Ethnic Group Scenic Area
• Yushe National Forest Park in Shuicheng County
• Wumeng Mountain National Geopark 
• Maotai Town
• Chishui National Scenic Zone 
• Jiucaiping in Bijie
• Zunyi Meeting Site
• Daqikong Scenic Area in Libo County
• Caohai Lake in Bijie
• Baili Azalea Forest Park in Bijie

Edited by  Lynette Fu/付云锐