Zunyi to Bijie Drive: China's Scenic S71 Route

The S71 Expressway between Zunyi and Bijie, completed in 2015, cuts through the Wumeng Mountains, where the weather can shift from sunny to misty within 20 minutes.

This guide covers the essential driving details, food, and hidden corners of the route.

How long to drive Zunyi to Bijie is typically 2.5 hours without stops. The S71 expressway is tolled; expect around 70 RMB for a standard car.

• Fuel: Service areas at approximately 40 km and 90 km; diesel and 92-octane gas widely available.
• Road quality: Well-maintained asphalt, but watch for fog in the high-altitude sections near Shawan.
• Charging stations: Fast chargers at both main service areas.

The region belongs to the Yun-Gui Plateau, sculpted by the Wumeng Mountain range. Near the road, Zhijin Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a 30-minute detour from the highway.

Locals farm pepper and tobacco on the valley slopes, visible as you drive.

Is it worth driving Zunyi to Bijie for nature? Absolutely, but the views are best in clear autumn.

Best stops Zunyi to Bijie include the Shawan service area for its panoramic viewpoint and the Chishui River bridge pull-out.

Several roadside stalls sell local snacks like curdled tofu and spicy chicken. For planning a more leisurely trip, learn how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities with how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Road safety is generally good, but the expressway has steep grades and sharp curves; adhere to speed limits (80–100 km/h).

For families, the Shawan service area has a clean playground and nursing room. For pets, most service areas allow dogs on leashes, and Bijie's hotel parks are pet-friendly.

Fatigue management: There are rest areas every 25 km with shaded picnic tables. A safe off-route spot is the Mati Hot Springs, 5 km from the Dafang exit, popular among residents.

Local commerce along the route includes tea plantations near Nayong and silver workshops in Bijie's old town.