Mukong River · Bailong Cave Scenic Area

　　   This scenic area was formed after the Hongjiadu Reservoir was filled with water, creating a 50-plus-kilometer water tourism corridor along the main river channels in Nayong County, from Guazhong River (Jiudongtian) to Wuzuo River. It mainly includes the Mukong River in Shabao Township, Yizhong River in Lezhi Town, Sancha River and Guobi River in La’oba Township, as well as the Wuzuo River. Within this area, there are also two large high-altitude dry caves — Bailong Cave and Guanyin Cave — and Guojigai, a place rich in the vibrant culture of the Bouyei ethnic group.

　　   The starting point of the scenic area, Mukong River, is 22 kilometers from the county seat and only 47 kilometers from the Guiyi Expressway. It is a key route from Nayong County to Guiyang, Bijie, Dafang, and Qianxi, making transportation relatively convenient. Here, the Mukong River lakeside dock spans both banks, grand and magnificent, standing like a mighty pass. Not far from the dock, on the riverside halfway up the mountain, there is a natural cave called Guanyin Cave. Visitors can explore the cave first, where beautiful and unique attractions such as “A Single Stalwart Blossom,” “Thousand-Year Terraces,” and “The Imperial Palace” dazzle the eyes with their breathtaking beauty. From the dock, take a boat downstream, and you’ll see shimmering waves dancing joyfully, with a gentle breeze brushing your face, making you feel as if you are floating like an immortal. Standing at the bow of the boat, you can play with the water, sing out loud, or compose poetry. Before you know it, you’ll pass through Yizhong River and arrive at Sancha River.

　　   Sancha River is a uniquely distinctive midway water hub. Look — go 11 kilometers upstream to Mukong River, then another 25 kilometers up from Mukong River to reach Jiudongtian. To the right, it’s 10 kilometers upstream to Wuzuo River, and less than 5 kilometers downstream leads to Guobi River. These three rivers form three beautiful water branches that converge into Sancha River before rushing down to Zhijin’s Hongjiadu. Boating on the lake, you’ll see tree-lined banks and surrounding mountains, with water birds flying in pairs. Gazing into the distance, the shimmering lake and picturesque mountains complement each other, creating a truly refreshing scene.

　　   Continuing onward, in no time you’ll arrive at Wuzuo River. Wuzuo River lies along the Zhijin–Nayong trunk highway, just about 60 kilometers from Zhijindong. Both water and land transportation are quite convenient here. With its lush mountains, clear waters, pleasant climate, and abundant aquatic resources, it is a scenic destination offering a rich variety of experiences. On this vast and beautiful lake, you can fully enjoy the endless fun this water wonderland has to offer. When tired, rest in the shade of the trees along the shore; when thirsty, indulge in a world fragrant with fruits; when hungry, order a delicious, golden-brown specialty of Wuzuo — “Torch Fish” — and savor its unique flavor.

　　   Less than 3 kilometers from Sancha River lies Bailong Cave. Bailong Cave is a large high-altitude dry cave, located 30 kilometers from Zhijindong. The former is associated with the dragon, while the latter with the phoenix, standing in distant resonance. The cave features miraculously unique landscapes, with a new sight every few steps — look: “Lotus Treasure Pillar,” “Stone Monkey’s Birth,” “Heavenly King Holding a Pagoda,” “Fairy Offering Wine,” “Divine Turtle Crossing the River,” “Water Curtain Cave,” and over a hundred other attractions, all exquisitely lifelike and brimming with endless charm. It’s impossible not to marvel at the incredible craftsmanship bestowed by nature. A touching legend is also associated with this place: it is said that there was once a wealthy He family in the area who were kind-hearted and generous, helping the poor throughout their lives. Yet, they faced misfortune — every summer brought hailstorms, and every winter fires. In response, the He family head went to pray and make vows at Bailong Cave, asking the deities for protection. Moved by his sincerity, Guanyin Bodhisattva invited the grandson of the Dragon King of the North Sea, the young White Dragon, to guard the area and ensure peace. Thus, Bailong Cave became the dwelling of the White Dragon, hence its name. This White Dragon and the Golden Phoenix guarding Zhijindong often visited each other. Whenever heavy rains came, people could see a dragon and a phoenix battling the rain demon side by side in the clouds until the storm passed and the skies cleared, after which the phoenix would reluctantly fly back to Zhijindong, while the dragon would turn into a wisp of white smoke and drift back into Bailong Cave. Their love defied heavenly rules, so the heavens sent a river to separate them — that river being the mighty Wuzuo River.

　　   After hearing the beautiful and moving story of Bailong Cave, let’s finally explore the unique ethnic minority culture found here. About 3 kilometers from Bailong Cave lies the Bouyei village of Guojigai, which has a history of over 600 years. Nestled among overlapping mountains and towering forests, the scenery here is delightful. The Bouyei people are warm and hospitable, their homes elegant and rustic. The uniquely flavorful Bouyei-style zongzi and “cup rice” are unforgettable, and the beautiful Bouyei love songs are enchantingly melodious. Every year on the sixth day of the sixth lunar month, the village becomes especially lively, celebrating with a festive atmosphere. Young women dress up in their finest, adorning themselves with elaborately embroidered handkerchiefs and sachets, heading to the flower fair in hopes of finding their ideal “suitor.” Young men, full of vigor and spirit, gather early at the fair, hoping a girl will throw them a token of love. Everyone sings, plays instruments, and dances joyfully. The strong ethnic customs here will transport you to another captivating realm, adding boundless joy to your pleasant journey and leaving you with memories to cherish forever.