Anshun Budget Travel: What It Costs & How to Save

Tired of blowing your budget on overpriced tours? I get it.

I've spent years dragging backpackers through Anshun — and there's a way to see this waterfall city for less than you'd spend on dinner. Trust me, it's easier than you think.

When I first planned an Anshun budget travel trip, I was stunned by how much you can save by skipping tourist packages and following a few local tricks. Most visitors get ripped off on transport and tickets — but you won't, after reading this.

Here's the secret: book your Huangguoshu ticket in advance, stay near the old town, and eat at the night market. That's how you keep costs under 300 RMB per day.

Why Anshun Is a Great Budget Destination?

Anshun is home to Huangguoshu Waterfall, China's largest waterfall and a UNESCO World Heritage site (well, it's part of the South China Karst). But unlike other famous Chinese tourist spots, Anshun hasn't gone completely overboard with pricing. You can still find decent meals for under 20 RMB and hostels under 80 RMB per night. It's a budget traveler's dream, especially compared to Beijing or Shanghai.

Also, the city itself is compact — you can walk from the train station to the old town in half an hour. That saves you a lot on inner-city transport.

How Much Does Anshun Budget Travel Really Cost?

Let me break it down for you. A realistic daily budget for a solo backpacker in Anshun is roughly 250-350 RMB per day. That includes transport, food, lodging, and one major attraction ticket. Here's a rough table:

Note: prices change, so always check official channels before your trip. But this gives you a solid baseline.

How to Save on Transportation to and Around Anshun?

Getting to Anshun is cheap if you take the high-speed train from Guiyang. The trip takes about 30 minutes and costs around 50 RMB. Avoid the slow train — it's barely cheaper and takes 2+ hours.

Once in Anshun, the city is small. You can walk between many budget hotels and the old town. For attractions, don't fall for taxi drivers quoted at 200 RMB for a day tour. Instead, use the public shuttle buses that depart from the Anshun Bus Station to Huangguoshu for about 20 RMB one way. Local bus 20 runs to the waterfall area (confirm the exact number at your hotel).

For getting around, I always tell my clients to use Alipay or WeChat Pay for everything — even the bus. Cash is rarely accepted. If you don't have them yet, set them up before you arrive. Also, download AMap (Gaode Maps) because Google Maps won't work well here. Save the Chinese name of your destination to show to drivers.

Another money saver: rent a bike or e-bike for exploring the old town — it's fun and costs just a few RMB per hour.

Where to Stay in Anshun on a Budget?

I've stayed at many cheap spots in Anshun. The best area for budget travelers is around the North Gate (北门) of the old town — it's walkable to night markets and bus stops. You'll find family-run guesthouses for 70-100 RMB per night. Use Trip.com or Klook to book, as they show English reviews and take foreign cards.

One of my favorites is Anshun Old Street Hostel (about 80 RMB per dorm bed). It's nothing fancy — the Wi-Fi is spotty, but the location is unbeatable. If you need a little more comfort, Anshun International Youth Hostel offers private rooms from 150 RMB.

Pro tip: Always ask if they accept foreigners — many small inns don't. Booking platforms filter for this, so stick with them.

Budget Eating in Anshun: What to Eat and Where?

Anshun's food is spicy and cheap. You can't miss the night market along Ruijin Road. There, I always get huajuan (flower rolls) and grilled fish for under 30 RMB. Another local specialty is Anshun pidan (preserved duck eggs) — try them at the stall near the Drum Tower.

For meals, look for small shops with a red lantern outside — they're typically authentic and cheap. Avoid restaurants with English menus or photos of dishes in English; they're usually priced for tourists. A bowl of noodles should cost 8-12 RMB. My personal go-to is Old Grandma's Noodle House (招牌面) on Nanhua Road. It's a simple spot with a picture menu, and the beef noodles will cost you just 10 RMB.

Don't forget to bring your own tissue — restaurants rarely provide it. And note that most local eateries only accept mobile payment, not cash or cards.

Top Anshun Attractions Without the Tourist-Trap Prices

Huangguoshu Waterfall

Book your ticket online and arrive early to save time and money. Entrance is roughly 160-180 RMB (plus 50 RMB for the sightseeing bus). But here's the catch: you must book in advance with your passport number. Use Trip.com or the official WeChat mini-program (a Chinese friend or hotel host can help). I've seen too many travelers panic at the gate because they didn't book. Arrive before 8:30 AM to beat the crowds and get the best photos.

Longgong (Dragon Palace)

You can skip the sightseeing boat if you're on a tight budget. This karst cave boat ride is about 130 RMB including the boat. It's a 40-minute ride through illuminated cave chambers. Go there in the afternoon — mornings are packed with tour groups from Guiyang.

Tianlong Tunpu

This Ming-dynasty fortress village is a hidden gem that won't break the bank. A Ming-dynasty fortress village that's often overlooked. Entrance is around 55 RMB if you buy online a day ahead. It's a perfect half-day getaway from the main crowds. Skip the overpriced “ethnic performance” at the entrance — you'll stumble on free local ones deeper in the village.

A Realistic 2-Day Anshun Budget Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Anshun via high-speed rail, drop bags, hit the old town and night market. Take a free stroll to the Drum Tower and enjoy sunset views.

Day 2: Full day at Huangguoshu — take the first shuttle bus from Anshun Bus Station at 7:30 AM, return by late afternoon, then catch an evening train if needed.

If you have extra time, swap day 2 for Longgong and Tianlong Tunpu to save on ticket costs.

Insider Money-Saving Tricks for Anshun Budget Travel

Here are some unique hacks I've learned over the years:

• Book everything on Trip.com — it often undercuts the official ticket price by a few RMB and saves you from language barriers.
• Use student discounts if you're a student — bring a valid student ID for 50% off at many attractions (yes, even international students usually get it).
• Avoid weekends — hotel and ticket prices can jump 20% on Friday and Saturday.
• Stay at least 2 nights — many guesthouses offer a discount if you book directly through their WeChat (not on platforms).

One mistake almost everyone makes: taking a taxi from the train station to their hotel. The public bus costs 2 RMB and takes the same time. Taxis will quote 20-30 RMB for a 10-minute ride. Don't fall for it — look for the bus stop across the square.

FAQ About Anshun Budget Travel

This content has been fact-checked by the editorial team. Prices and schedules may change — always verify on official websites or booking platforms before your trip.