Suichang County, Lishui, Zhejiang Travel

Suichang County, Lishui, Zhejiang — a hidden paradise in southern Zhejiang, home to famous attractions including Nanjianyan, Shenlong Valley, and Suichang Gold Mine. Experience pristine natural landscapes and profound cultural heritage in a 2-day 1-night trip.

1000+
Suichang Gold Mine Mining History (Years)
1700+
Dushan Ancient Village History (Years)
3000+
Nanjianyan Elevation (Meters)
20+
Suichang Local Specialties (Types)
Lishui Suichang Nanjianyan Sea of Clouds and Terraces Panorama
Nanjianyan Sea of Clouds & Terraces - Suichang's Iconic Landscape
Nanjianyan in Lishui Suichang is renowned for its sea of clouds, terraced fields, stone forests, and bamboo groves. As a National 4A Scenic Area, it is hailed as a "hidden paradise away from the mortal world" and a haven for photography enthusiasts.

Suichang County 2-Day 1-Night Eco-Adventure Trip

Cloud terraces, cascading waterfalls, gold mine exploration, ancient village discovery

Trip Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Nanjianyan, Shenlong Valley, Suichang Gold Mine National Mining Park, Dushan Ancient Village, Qianfo Mountain
Suitable For
Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, families with kids, history explorers
Per Capita Budget
¥400-¥1000
01
Cloud Paradise & Ancient Village Charm
Nanjianyan · Shenlong Valley · Dushan Ancient Village
Trip Highlights

Ascend Nanjianyan in the morning to witness the spectacular sea of clouds and terraces; explore Shenlong Valley in the afternoon to enjoy cascading waterfalls and gushing springs; stroll through Dushan Ancient Village at dusk and feel the charm of a millennium-old village.

Attractions
Nanjianyan
A National 4A Scenic Area, Nanjianyan integrates sea of clouds, terraced fields, stone forests, bamboo groves, and waterfalls into one magnificent landscape. Shrouded in mist year-round with distinct seasonal scenery, it is a premier destination for photography.
Shenlong Valley
Centered around the Shenlong Waterfall with a drop of over 70 meters, the valley features rushing torrents and majestic scenery. With a forest coverage rate exceeding 95%, it is a natural oxygen bar and a perfect summer retreat.
Dushan Ancient Village
First built during the Southern Song Dynasty and flourishing in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the village preserves a wealth of Ming-Qing architecture. Cobblestone streets, ancient dwellings, and memorial archways remain intact, making it one of the best-preserved ancient villages in southern Zhejiang.
Practical Info
Accommodation
  • Nanjianyan Scenic Area Homestays
  • Shenlong Valley Farmstays
  • Suichang County Hotels
Food Recommendations
  • Suichang Free-Range Pork
  • Shilian Chrysanthemum Tea
  • Suichang Roasted Sweet Potato
  • Yellow Rice Cake (Huang Migu)
  • Black Rice
Travel Tips
  • Nanjianyan is at high altitude; bring a jacket
  • Shenlong Valley trails are steep; wear comfortable sneakers
  • Dushan Ancient Village is perfect for slow strolling and photography
  • Mountain weather is changeable; bring rain gear
02
Gold Mine Exploration & Zen Landscape
Suichang Gold Mine National Mining Park · Qianfo Mountain
Trip Highlights

Explore Suichang Gold Mine in the morning and experience a millennium of mining history; visit Qianfo Mountain in the afternoon and immerse in Zen landscape culture; return in the evening.

Attractions
Suichang Gold Mine National Mining Park
A National 4A Scenic Area with a millennium-long mining history, it is currently the only scenic area in China authorized as the "China Gold Journey." Visitors can experience underground mining, visit the Gold Museum, and learn about gold smelting processes.
Qianfo Mountain
Featuring crystal-clear waters, bizarre rock formations, and deep valleys, the mountain boasts a naturally formed Maitreya Buddha rock statue standing over 300 meters tall. Known as the "Little Jiuzhaigou of Jiangnan," it is a scenic area that combines ecological sightseeing with Zen experiences.
Practical Info
Transportation
  • Suichang County has tourist shuttles to all scenic areas
  • Self-driving is recommended for some scenic areas
  • Mountain roads like Nanjianyan are winding; drive carefully
Ticket Info
  • Nanjianyan: ¥80
  • Shenlong Valley: ¥70
  • Suichang Gold Mine National Mining Park: ¥98
  • Dushan Ancient Village: Free
  • Qianfo Mountain: ¥80
Travel Tips
  • Safety helmets required for underground mine tours
  • Qianfo Mountain offers Zen meditation experiences
  • Purchase gold jewelry only at official scenic area stores
  • Large temperature differences in mountains; dress accordingly

Must-Try Foods in Suichang

Suichang Roasted Sweet Potato

A Suichang specialty made from locally grown premium red-heart sweet potatoes, roasted using traditional techniques. It has a sweet, soft, and glutinous texture with a unique flavor, making it an essential festive food for local celebrations.

Yellow Rice Cake (Huang Migu)

A traditional Suichang rice cake made from high-mountain glutinous rice mixed with plant alkaline water, giving it a golden color and chewy texture. It can be pan-fried, stir-fried, steamed, or boiled, and is a must-have for local New Year celebrations.

Shilian Chrysanthemum Tea

A specialty of Shilian Town, Suichang County, made from the flower buds of local wild chrysanthemums. It has detoxifying, liver-calming, and vision-enhancing properties. This natural health drink was presented as a tribute to the imperial court during the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

Suichang Free-Range Pork

Pork from free-range pigs raised in Suichang's mountainous areas, known for its tender texture and rich nutrition. Most commonly prepared by braising or boiling, it is a signature dish at local farmhouse banquets.

Suichang County Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • Spring (Apr-May): Blooming mountain flowers, high chance of sea of clouds at Nanjianyan
  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Cool off at Shenlong Valley, refreshing at Qianfo Mountain
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Golden terraces, pleasant climate
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Beautiful mountain snow scenery, great for photography
Must-Do Experiences
  • Photograph the sunrise sea of clouds at Nanjianyan
  • Experience underground mining at Suichang Gold Mine
  • Breathe fresh air under Shenlong Valley Waterfall
  • Stroll through the ancient village of Dushan
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: Approx. ¥300-400
  • Accommodation: ¥150-400/night
  • Dining: ¥100-200/day
  • Transportation: ¥80-150
  • Total: ¥400-1000
FAQ
  • How to get to Suichang? → Take a bus from Lishui Station directly to Suichang County
  • Best time for Nanjianyan sea of clouds? → 5:30-7:00 AM
  • Is Suichang Gold Mine suitable for kids? → Yes, great for learning about mining
  • What souvenirs to buy in Suichang? → Roasted sweet potatoes, Shilian chrysanthemum tea