Zigong 自贡 — Dinosaur City — Lantern Festival Capital
Zigong (自贡) is famous for three things: dinosaurs, lanterns, and salt. The Zigong Dinosaur Museum is one of the world's largest. The Lantern Festival attracts millions. Salt mining history spans 2,000 years.
One of the world's largest dinosaur museums. Built on an actual excavation site. 100+ dinosaur skeletons. UNESCO listed fossil site.
Hours: 8:30–17:30
Admission: ¥40
China's largest lantern festival — January-February. Massive illuminated sculptures. UNESCO intangible heritage craft.
Hours: 18:00–22:00 (Jan-Feb)
Admission: ¥100
Zigong was China's salt capital for 2,000 years. Museum shows ancient drilling techniques and salt wells.
Hours: 9:00–17:00
Admission: ¥20
Working ancient salt well — world's deepest hand-drilled well (1,000m). Traditional salt production demonstration.
Hours: 8:00–17:00
Admission: ¥15
Year-round lantern exhibition. History of Zigong's lantern craft. Miniature festival displays.
Hours: 9:00–17:00
Admission: Free
Riverside walks and boat rides. Evening illuminations.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Admission: Free
Day 1 - Main Attractions: Visit top must-see landmarks. Try local specialty dishes at well-reviewed restaurants. Continue with museums or cultural sites. Evening city skyline lights.
Day 2 - Nature and Culture: Hiking, parks, or nearby natural attractions (3-4 hours). Local street food for lunch. Visit temples or old towns. Evening night market.
Day 3 - Hidden Gems: Explore lesser-known neighborhoods. One last meal at famous local restaurant. Souvenir shopping at pedestrian streets.
Getting local information: Visit the local tourist information center (usually near train stations or city squares). Free maps and event schedules available.
Using public transport: Most Chinese cities have affordable bus networks (2-3 RMB per ride). Buy a local transport card for convenience.
Evening safety: Chinese cities are generally safe at night. Stick to well-lit main streets after 22:00. Avoid unlicensed taxi services.
Photography etiquette: Ask permission before photographing locals, especially elderly people and children. Temples may prohibit indoor photography.
LocalSIMcards: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom all offer tourist SIMs (30-50 RMB/week) at airport counters.