Town of Gastrodia Elata · Hometown of Generals

Zhaotong Yiliang County — The hometown of General Luo Binghui and the origin of Gastrodia Elata in China. A 2-day 1-night itinerary explores the Xiaocaoba primitive forest, visits the Luo Binghui General Memorial Hall, and summits the Chaotianma Nature Reserve. Experience the perfect fusion of the northeast Yunnan ecological barrier and red culture.

1950m
Chaotianma Elevation
China's Town of Gastrodia Elata
Geographic Indication
Primeval Forest
Xiaocaoba
Red Holy Land
Hometown of Generals
Yiliang Xiaocaoba
Yiliang County Xiaocaoba Primeval Forest Autumn Landscape
An ecological picture scroll composed of autumn colorful forests and waterfall groups

Yiliang County Two-Day One-Night Eco-Red Culture Tour

Primeval Forest + Red Culture + Alpine Meadows, feel the charm of the hometown of generals

Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Xiaocaoba Scenic Area, Luo Binghui Memorial Hall, Chaotianma Nature Reserve, Luozhe River Grand Canyon
Target Audience
Nature lovers, red culture seekers, photographers, study tours
Per Capita Budget
¥300-¥500
01
Primeval Forest Exploration
Town of Gastrodia Elata
Trip Highlights

Full day tour of Xiaocaoba Scenic Area

Attraction Schedule
Xiaocaoba Scenic Area
A provincial-level scenic area with a forest coverage rate of 78.8%, containing attractions such as Chaotianma and Niujiaoyan. It is known as the "Green Gem of Northeast Yunnan," and the autumn colorful forests are particularly spectacular.
Chaotianma Waterfall Group
The core landscape of Xiaocaoba, featuring over ten waterfalls including the Yinhe Flying Waterfall and the Yunu Waterfall. The highest drop is 40 meters, with mist filling the air and a majestic momentum.
Gastrodia Elata Technology Demonstration Park
The display center for China's Town of Gastrodia Elata, featuring a Gastrodia Elata cultivation base, processing workshops, and a museum, showcasing cultivation techniques and medicinal value.
Practical Information
Travel Tips
  • Wear anti-slip shoes for forest hiking
  • Bring rain gear for waterfall areas
  • Protect wild plants
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Xiaocaoba Eco Cabins
  • Gastrodia Elata Theme Hotel
  • County boutique guesthouses
02
Red Culture Experience
Hometown of Generals
Trip Highlights

Visit the memorial hall in the morning, summit Chaotianma in the afternoon

Attraction Schedule
Luo Binghui General Memorial Hall
A national patriotic education base, displaying the life story and revolutionary relics of General Luo Binghui, including a memorial square, a general statue, and a cultural relics exhibition hall.
Chaotianma Nature Reserve
A provincial-level nature reserve, with the main peak at an altitude of 1950 meters. It contains primeval forests, alpine meadows, and rare flora and fauna, serving as an important ecological barrier in northeast Yunnan.
Luozhe River Grand Canyon
A provincial-level geological park, with the canyon cut deep by 800 meters. It features a glass viewing platform, cliff plank roads, and rafting sections, showcasing the geological wonders of the Jinsha River tributaries.
Practical Information
Special Experiences
  • Red culture study tour
  • Alpine meadow hiking
  • Taste Gastrodia Elata cuisine
Return Trip Suggestions
  • Reserve time for local specialties
  • Yiliang Gastrodia Elata
  • Bamboo shoot products

Yiliang County Must-Try Foods

Gastrodia Elata Steamer Chicken

A local specialty medicinal dish, made by steaming free-range chicken with Gastrodia Elata slices in a steamer pot. The soup is fresh and delicious, known as the "Wumeng Nourishing Supreme," embodying the concept of food as medicine.

Yiliang Gastrodia Elata

A National Geographical Indication product with a high gastrodin content and excellent quality. It is known as the "Ginseng of Zhaotong" and is registered as a National Agricultural Product Geographical Indication.

Tongzi Leaf Cake (Tongzi Ye Baba)

A traditional Yi ethnic snack, made by steaming glutinous rice mixed with bean paste wrapped in Tongzi leaves. It is fragrant, soft, and glutinous, known as a "forest delicacy" and a healthy food.

Yiliang County Travel Tips
Best Seasons
  • September-November: Xiaocaoba colorful forest season
  • April-June: Azalea sea season
  • July-September: Gastrodia Elata harvesting season
Cultural Etiquette
  • Maintain silence in the memorial hall
  • Respect Yi ethnic customs
  • Do not pick protected plants
Safety Reminders
  • Be safe against slipping when hiking in the forest
  • Do not cross guardrails on canyon plank roads
  • Watch out for geological disasters in rainy season
Transportation Guide
  • 2-hour drive from Zhaotong to Yiliang
  • Car rental recommended between scenic spots
  • Mountain roads are winding with many slopes
  • County attractions are walkable