Zhaopu Ecological Cycling Corridor in Zhaotong

Zhaopu Ecological Cycling Corridor (昭璞绿道) is a scenic greenway located in the outskirts of Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, China. This 42-kilometer cycling path is a national 3A-level tourist attraction and is the only outdoor greenway in Yunnan Province. It connects the Dashaobao Nature Reserve (大山包自然保护区) with the city center of Zhaotong, offering a stunning journey through diverse natural landscapes such as fields, villages, rivers, mountains, and towns.

The greenway is built according to the technical standards of a fourth-grade highway, with a design speed of 10 km/h. It features a colorful asphalt surface, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable cycling experience. Designed with low-impact development, the Zhaopu Greenway integrates nature and culture, and aims to foster economic growth through tourism, cultural exploration, and outdoor activities.

With its combination of ecological beauty and cultural richness, the Zhaopu Greenway offers cyclists, photographers, and tourists an opportunity to explore a variety of landscapes throughout the four seasons, including vibrant spring flowers, summer streams and waterfalls, golden autumn fields, and snow-covered hills in winter.

Zhaopu Ecological Cycling Corridor is Yunnan's first countryside greenway, designed not only as a tourist and sightseeing route linking the Dashanbao Nature Reserve (大山包自然保护区) to Zhaotong City but also to fulfill an ecological and technological mission. The greenway, based on Dashanbao's primary highway, adheres to four-lane road standards, with a designed speed of 10 km/h. The path is paved with colorful asphalt concrete, stretching 36.29 km from Zhaolu Station (昭鲁驿站) to Jiufang Station (酒坊驿站) in Ludian County (鲁甸县), built by the China Railway 11th Bureau (中铁十一局).

2. Ecological and Smart Features

Once fully connected, the greenway will feature an "ecological corridor" system consisting of one belt, five stations, four parks, and five scenic spots. The entire corridor will be equipped with advanced electromechanical systems and a greenway database, enhancing the intelligence and functionality of the system. This integration of technology and ecology aims to offer visitors a seamless and environmentally friendly experience while exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Key Features:

Length: 42 kilometers

Road Standard: Fourth-grade highway

Design Speed: 10 km/h

Surface Material: Colorful asphalt concrete

Tourist Rating: National 3A Tourist Attraction

Average Daily Visitors: 1,200–2,000

Development and History

As one of Zhaotong’s "Top Ten People’s Welfare Projects" in 2017, the Zhaopu Greenway was developed in phases, with the first phase covering 36.29 kilometers completed in 2022. The project was confirmed as Yunnan’s first dedicated outdoor cycling greenway during a site inspection in 2019. To promote public health and outdoor activities, a large fitness event was held at its opening, attracting over 500 participants.

By 2024, the greenway was seeing daily visitor numbers exceeding 1,000, and it has been included in the “Dashaobao Scenic Area Infrastructure Development Project” for further upgrades. The greenway is also a key element in promoting the integration of tourism and sports in the region, hosting international events like mountain biking competitions and marathons.

Landscape System and Functional Zones

The Zhaopu Greenway is structured around an eco-corridor system known as "One Belt, Five Stations, Four Parks, and Five Scenic Views":

One Belt:

The road scenic belt connecting Zhaoyang District (昭阳区) and Ludian County (鲁甸县).

Five Stations:

Zhaolu Station (昭鲁驿站)

Jiufang Station (酒坊驿站)

Other service stations along the route, offering rest areas and facilities.

Four Parks:

Herbal Health Resort (药膳养生庄园)

Plateau Agricultural Experience Park (高原农业体验园)

Silk Road Cultural Town (丝路风情小镇)

LeLong Eco-Village (乐龙生态新村)

Five Scenic Views:

Lingbo Zhenliu (凌波枕流)

Qiongtai Night Moon (琼台夜月)

Woye Tianyuan (沃野田园)

Xiangyun Fish Shadows (乡韵渔影)

Langqiao Yifei (廊桥仪飞)

Throughout the year, the greenway offers a diverse range of landscapes, including vibrant flowers in spring, cascading waterfalls in summer, golden fields in autumn, and snow-capped mountains in winter. The design incorporates evergreen spruce and cedar forests, with flowering trees like cherry blossoms and osmanthus scattered along the route.

Smart Infrastructure and Services

The greenway is equipped with modern smart infrastructure to enhance the visitor experience:

Weather Monitoring System: Integrated real-time data including weather updates and intelligent voice communication systems.

Charging Stations: Available at all service stations along the route.

Wi-Fi and Surveillance: Free Wi-Fi coverage and security monitoring along the greenway.

Energy-efficient Lighting: Ensures energy conservation while providing scenic lighting for evening visitors.

In 2023, a smart tourism initiative was launched, which includes digital services like visitor flow monitoring and electronic guides, providing a more efficient and connected experience for tourists.

Social and Economic Impact

The Zhaopu Greenway is a key driver of economic growth in the region, fostering the integration of tourism, sports, and agriculture. It has contributed to:

Tourism + Sports: Hosting major events like the Wumeng Plateau International Marathon and mountain biking competitions.

Tourism + Agriculture: Promoting local agricultural products, such as apples and peppercorns, to tourists along the greenway.

Tourism + Transportation: Creating a one-hour tourism circle linking the Dashaobao Scenic Area (大山包景区) with the city center of Zhaotong.

In 2022, the greenway attracted over 330,000 visitors, directly benefiting 27 new agritourism businesses and helping more than 1,500 households increase their income. The greenway has also significantly boosted the brand value of the Dashaobao Scenic Area and improved the quality of life for local residents.

Visitor Information and Activities

Transportation Options:

Self-Drive: Ideal for those who prefer flexibility.

Taxis and Ride-hailing: Available for direct transport to the greenway.

Public Bus: Take buses No. 12, 5, or Zhaolu Express to Heini Station (黑泥地站).

Visitor Service Numbers:

Zhaolu Station: 0870-8831222 (Located next to Phoenix Interchange Bridge, Zhaoyang District)

Jiufang Station: 0870-8832111 (Located in Xinjie Town, Ludian County)

Local Cuisine:

Sloth Café (树懒咖啡厅): At Zhaolu Station, this café serves Yunnan’s famous small-batch coffee, freshly ground and processed from locally grown beans. It’s a must-try for coffee enthusiasts.

Farmhouse “Kill Pig” Meal (杀猪饭): Served in Heini Village, near Zhaolu Station, this traditional dish reflects the local Zhaotong flavors, offering simple yet delicious farm-to-table dining.

Activities and Photography Routes:

Cycling and Fitness: Visitors can enjoy cycling along the greenway, with the option to rent bikes at Zhaolu Station. The station also features a swimming pool and fitness center operated by a well-known local brand, offering various recreational options.

Photography Spots: The greenway offers numerous scenic spots perfect for photography, including blooming fields, vineyards, and picturesque reservoirs. Some recommended locations include:

• Sanjia Village: The "Red Rose" grapes here glisten after rain, making for beautiful photos.

• Longchongzi Reservoir: The clear water reflects the sky and surrounding greenery, offering stunning views.

• Zhuangcheng: Visit the apple orchards, where ripe apples are ready for picking and photographing.

• Mules and Horses Tunnel: A mysterious tunnel with a winding path, adding a sense of adventure to your journey.

Tips for Visitors:

Pre-Visit Check: Call ahead to check if the greenway is open and if local businesses are operating.

Safety First: Be mindful of your safety, avoid running or playing, and watch out for pedestrians and cyclists.

Slow Down: Reduce speed when passing through tunnels, bridges, or steep sections.

Respect the Environment: Dispose of trash properly and care for public facilities along the greenway.

Emergency Help: If needed, contact the service numbers or emergency services along the route for assistance.

Cycling Guide to Zhaopu Ecological Greenway

The Zhaopu Ecological Cycling Corridor (昭璞绿道) in Zhaotong is a perfect destination for those seeking an immersive cycling experience through lush landscapes, picturesque villages, and tranquil riversides. The greenway offers various recreational activities, perfect for cycling enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers alike.

Transportation Options

You can reach Zhaopu Greenway via multiple modes of transportation:

1. Self-Driving

Driving your own car is a great option for flexibility, especially for visitors arriving from Zhaotong city or nearby areas.

2. Taxis and Ride-Hailing

You can easily book a taxi or use ride-hailing services like Didi for direct access to the greenway.

3. Public Transportation

Take public buses No. 12 or No. 5 to reach the Zhaolu Express Bus (昭鲁快捷公交) line, which will bring you to Heini Station (黑泥地站), the nearest stop to the greenway.

Visitor Services and Contact Information

Zhaolu Station (昭鲁驿站)

Phone: 0870-8831222

Address: Next to the Phoenix Interchange Bridge, Zhaoyang District, Zhaotong City.

Jiufang Station (酒坊驿站)

Phone: 0870-8832111

Address: Xinjie Town, Ludian County, Zhaotong City.

Local Cuisine

Sloth Café (树懒咖啡厅)

At Zhaolu Station, Sloth Café serves locally grown Yunnan coffee. Every coffee bean is handpicked and processed by the café itself, ensuring a rich and aromatic coffee experience. The coffee here is delicate, flavorful, and full-bodied—perfect for coffee lovers looking to savor the taste of Yunnan.

Local Specialty: "Kill Pig Meal" (杀猪饭)

Near Zhaolu Station, Heini Village (黑泥地村) offers the famous “Kill Pig Meal”, a hearty Yunnan-style feast featuring pork, rice, and other local specialties. It’s a flavorful, rustic meal that captures the essence of Zhaotong's culinary traditions.

Lanshan Café (澜山咖啡厅)

At Jiufang Station, Lanshan Café offers another delightful coffee experience. This well-known Zhaotong coffee chain provides signature drinks for visitors who want to take a break and enjoy a moment of relaxation. You can enjoy a cup of coffee or a pot of hot tea, then continue your journey or return home. If you're feeling hungry, the restaurant at Jiufang Station offers classic Zhaotong dishes such as Sour Soup with Cold Noodles (酸汤凉粉), Oil Cake with Rice Flour (油糕饵块), and Tianma Stewed Chicken (天麻炖鸡).

Recommended Cycling and Photography Routes

Zhaolu Station Services

Zhaolu Station is the starting point for cycling along the Zhaopu Greenway, offering a range of services for visitors:

1. Swimming and Fitness

The swimming and fitness area at Zhaolu Station is operated by Fic Fitness, a well-known fitness brand in Zhaotong. The gym is fully equipped to meet the needs of fitness enthusiasts. The swimming pool uses advanced heating and filtration systems, maintaining a comfortable water temperature of around 28°C, ensuring a pleasant swim experience. The pool area is equipped with large, electric skylights, allowing you to enjoy sunshine by day or the moon and stars by night.

2. Cycling Gear and Rentals

For avid cyclists, the exhibition area at Zhaolu Station offers high-quality bicycles, cycling apparel, and equipment for purchase. For those who prefer a more relaxed ride, bikes are available for rent in various sizes to accommodate individuals or groups. Choose the right bike for your journey and enjoy the pleasures of cycling through nature.

Photography Routes on the Greenway

For photography enthusiasts, Zhaopu Greenway provides countless opportunities to capture stunning landscapes. Here are some recommended routes:

1. Sanjia Village (三甲村)

When you reach Sanjia Village, you’ll be greeted by fields of “Red Rose” Grapes. After a summer rain, the grapes glisten with dew, their deep purple color shimmering in the sunlight. It’s a perfect moment to stop, take photos, or even visit the vineyard for a taste of these sweet, juicy grapes.

2. Changchongzi Reservoir (长冲子水库)

Next, head towards Changchongzi Reservoir, where the clear blue water looks like a giant mirror or a sapphire embedded in the earth. The surface reflects the blue sky, the lush grass, and the delicate Gesang flowers (格桑花), creating a breathtaking scene perfect for photography.

3. Zhuangcheng (砖城)

Continue your journey to Zhuangcheng, where you’ll find apple orchards filled with apples in various shades—red, green, and yellow. The sweet scent of apples fills the air, and you can stop by the roadside to take photos or contact the farmers for a more intimate tour of the orchard.

4. Mule and Horse Tunnel (骡马隧道)

The Mule and Horse Tunnel offers a bit of mystery and adventure. The winding tunnel leads you through a path of discovery, and at the end, you’ll encounter a serene village that feels like a hidden paradise.

5. Longshu Bazi (龙树坝子)

Once you exit the tunnel, you’ll arrive at Longshu Bazi, an open, tranquil space. The picturesque village, with its meandering river, green grass, and wildflowers, offers perfect photo opportunities of the countryside in its natural beauty.

Photography Tips and Recommendations

Golden Hour: For the best lighting conditions, plan your photography during the early morning or late afternoon to capture the soft, golden hues of the countryside.

Bring Extra Gear: Zhaopu Greenway offers plenty of diverse landscapes, so be sure to bring different lenses or cameras to capture wide shots and close-up details.

Respect the Environment: Remember to tread lightly while taking photos and avoid disturbing the local flora and fauna.

Zhaopu Greenway Event Coverage

1. Event Opening and Participation

On the morning of April 29th, the Zhaopu Ecological Cycling Corridor (昭璞绿道) hosted a grand opening ceremony and outdoor fitness competition. The event kicked off in the southern part of Zhaotong City (昭通市), attracting over 200 cycling enthusiasts and more than 300 cross-country hikers from all over China. The event marked a significant milestone in promoting outdoor activities and fitness culture in the region.

2. Event Results and Champion

After a thrilling competition, Cao Bo (曹波), a young athlete from Zhaoyang District (昭阳区), emerged as the winner with a time of 1 hour, 42 minutes, and 45 seconds, securing the championship title in the cycling race.