guizhou tourism

Highlights of Guizhou, China’s secret southwest province

May 13, 2019 • 6 min read

The traditional Miao village of Zhaoxing © Megan Eaves / Lonely Planet

In a hidden corner of southwest China, a mountainous province remains secreted away from the travel trail. Little-known Guizhou is sandwiched in between more popular neighbours Yunnan, Sichuan and Guangxi, and rarely gets any attention. But Guizhou is rich in all of the things that draw travellers to China: mythic scroll-painting mountains, diverse cultures and truly remarkable food.

Over the past few years, Guizhou – traditionally one of China’s poorest provinces – has begun to see an uptick in numbers. This began when the province was picked as technological destination-of-choice – companies like Apple, Huawei and Tencent began moving in to take advantage of the Guizhou’s cool year-round climate for big data storage.

Then, in 2016, the world’s largest filled-aperture radio telescope, FAST, began receiving transmissions here with the hope of finding life on other planets. And slowly, through all of this, Chinese travellers-in-the-know began making their way to Guizhou in search of that now-rare-in-China draw: nature and fresh air.

A visit to this beautiful province offers things sometimes difficult to find in other parts of China : genuinely old villages, unspoilt mountains and a chance to understand a number of China’s recognised minority cultures, including the Miao and the Dong people. Here is our guide to the best things to see and do in Guizhou, China’s most unsung province.

Guiyang – a new capital of cool

On the surface, Guiyang might look a lot like most Chinese provincial capitals: surprisingly large for a city most people have never heard of (it’s more populous than Rome, Berlin and Los Angeles), a choke of traffic in between forests of tall buildings, construction cranes and endless shops.

But lurking behind these are small, winding laneways that reveal Guiyang’s age: it was a Sui and Tang army outpost in the 7th century and inhabited as early as the Spring and Autumn Period (771-479 BC). These tiny laneways snake off more modern streets, hiding away low-rise buildings that are being converted into boutique cafes, art galleries and bars. A wander down any Guiyang lane may lead you to a secret microbrewery (we love  Trip Smith) or equally to a traditional street food stall with plastic stools on which to consume heaping bowls of rice noodles or sour fish soup .

Miao and Dong villages

Most visitors come to Guizhou to learn about the minority cultures of the area. China has 56 officially-recognised minority groups (and arguably many more than that), a large number of whom are from the areas around Guizhou and further west into Yunnan.

Qiandongnan is an autonomous prefecture in eastern Guizhou home to the largest concentration of Miao and Dong people. Kaili is its main city and a good start for visiting the area, while newly developed Danzhai Wanda Village makes a good traveller’s base for exploring the many local villages in the area. As with any indigenous destination, some villages here have developed quickly and have seen too big an uptick in numbers for their own good (Xijiang, while beautiful, is a good example). But many small villages remain semi- or totally undeveloped. Riverside Zhaoxing is an excellent spot to stay overnight, as the presence of small boutique inns, cafes and a museum about local arts and crafts make the Dong culture accessible with a more comfortable stay.

But venture out to Shiqiao (a traditional paper-making village) almost-untouched Paimo (known for its beautiful blue batik), picturesque Miao village Langde, and beyond, to understand these groups' crafts and traditional ways of life.

Being one of China’s poorest provinces, Guizhou has always been an off-the-beaten-track travel destination where the comforts of larger cities were foregone. However, recent developments have paved the way for the province to welcome conscientious visitors with sustainable travel offerings. Built in 2017, Danzhai Wanda Village is a social responsibility and poverty alleviation initiative created by Chinese corporation Wanda. The aims here are admirable: to create a space for the Miao and other minority groups to engage visitors via their own businesses, or by promoting and selling traditional arts and crafts and showcasing their cultural heritage.

Make no mistake, this is not a historic village, but it has been built in the traditional architectural style of the Miao and provides the kind of atmosphere you hope to experience in China, but with modern conveniences, including the beautifully designed Wanda Jin Hotel . Because of this, Danzhai makes an excellent base for exploring the nearby rural villages of Qiandongnan by day. 

Likewise, venture out of the tourist resort village and into Danzhai town and you'll find a completely untouristed small Chinese town with wide, clean streets and some nice (but meat-heavy) street food options.

Natural wonders of Guizhou

The world’s largest unsupported cavern ( Zhijin Cave ), one of China's biggest waterfalls ( Huangguoshu Falls ), the longest cave in Asia (Shuanghe Cave): Guizhou is full of natural superlatives.  The stringing cascades of giant Huangguoshu Falls are many visitors’ first stop and a sight you’d be remiss not to see, especially in spring when the waterfalls are at their grandest. There are many cave systems connecting underneath the province’s signature mountains, and the mountains themselves are something out of a Chinese dream, with their mystical karst peaks, often shrouded in fog. 

The villages around Qiandongnan make good bases for getting out into the wild – from many there are interesting day hikes or walks in the mountains or amongst rice paddies that feel a world away from modern China. But even in the capital city, nature is right at hand. Qianlingshan Park encompasses more than 1000 acres of forest, mountains, walking paths, caves, ponds and a Buddhist temple, but all less than two kilometres from the city’s main centre. You are not just likely but absolutely assured to encounter wild macaques in the woods here, many of whom gather near Hongfu Temple – be aware they can be aggressive in their attempts to extract treats from visitors.

Tea-Horse Road

The ancient Tea-Horse Road was a series of trading routes that cut through southwest China up over the Tibetan plateau, starting from the 6th century. Not unlike the Silk Road through Central Asia, as its name suggests, the Tea-Horse Road was plied by traders who swapped tea for horses. Han Chinese would venture up towards Tibet, taking tea to the Tibetans and bringing horses back.

The city of Zhenyuan was a stop along this route and, as early as 202 BC, it served as a county seat, over time attracting officials who built courtyard homes up the mountainsides along the Wuyang River which slices Zhenyuan in half. Zhenyuan is a popular travel destination, though little known to international visitors. It has a selection of boutique hotels, many situated inside the old courtyard homes set up steep alleyways. With a couple of days here, you can take a city boat trip or cruise further afield into Tiexi Gorge , which rivals the Three Gorges . Evenings, the southern riverbank is filled with small bars and heaving restaurants, many featuring open-air karaoke and a Chinese party vibe.

Megan travelled with support from Danzhai Wanda Village . Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

https://shop.lonelyplanet.com/products/china-travel-guide-15

Explore related stories

Jul 11, 2017 • 6 min read

Dreaming of an Asian escape? Lonely Planet’s experts have combed the continent, exploring ancient lands, evolving cities and sublime isles to bring you…

Oct 28, 2014 • 6 min read

Apr 2, 2024 • 10 min read

Feb 23, 2024 • 6 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

Dec 26, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 7, 2023 • 5 min read

Aug 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Jul 3, 2023 • 8 min read

Apr 5, 2023 • 5 min read

• 4 Days Guiyang & Kaili
• 5 Days Guizhou Package
• 8 Days Guizhou In-depth
• 10 Days Yunnan - Guizhou
• 15 Days Yunnan - Guizhou - Guangxi

Huangguoshu Waterfall

Xijiang qianhu miao village, langde miao ethnic minority village, zhaoxing dong village.

• Fanjing Mountain

Zhenyuan Ancient Town

• Libo Zhangjiang Scenic Area
• Forest of Ten Thousand Peaks
• Tun Bu Village
• Zhangjiajie

Top 8 Things to Do in Guizhou

In the southwest heartland of China, there is a magical land - Guizhou, where the mountains, waters, forests, karst caves are all the uncanny workmanship of nature. In addition to the picturesque natural scenery, over 48 ethnic minorities live here for generations and this has endowed Guizhou with mysterious ethnic villages and unique minority culture. What to do or what to see? Here is a list of the top things to do in Guizhou and the must-see places that you can pick.

Libo County in Qiannan 

Qingyan Ancient Town, Guiyang

Kweichow Moutai Liquor

10 must-see attractions in Guizhou

Guizhou is a southwestern province of China with rich and diverse tourism resources. Known for its stunning natural beauty, unique ethnic cultures, and rich history, Guizhou offers a wide range of attractions and experiences. The province is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Xijiang Miao Village, the Huangguoshu Waterfall, and the Fanjing Mountain Nature Reserve. You can explore traditional Miao and Dong ethnic villages, sample local delicacies like spicy hotpot and rice wine, and participate in traditional festivals and celebrations. Guizhou is also renowned for its intricate batik textiles, made using a traditional wax-resist dyeing technique. With its vibrant cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, Guizhou is a destination that offers something for every type of traveler.

Guizhou Attractions 1: Xiaoqikong Scenic Area

Xiaoqikong Scenic Area is known as the “Green Jewel of the Earth.” It is famous for its crystal-clear water, majestic waterfalls, towering karst formations, and lush greenery. Lonely Planet named it one of the most soul-touching landscapes. China’s National Geographic magazine hailed it as “the most beautiful place in China.” This refreshing turquoise color is genuinely breathtaking. We particularly recommend rafting on Lake Mandarin.

Guizhou Attractions 2: Huangguoshu Waterfall

Huangguoshu Waterfall is one of the largest waterfalls in Asia and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Guizhou.   The waterfall is about 77.8 meters high and 101 meters wide and divided into 18 separate waterfalls, creating a breathtaking panorama from different angles. The main waterfall is the “Huangguoshu Waterfall,” the most impressive and surrounded by lush vegetation and mist.

In addition to the waterfall, the scenic area is home to many other natural wonders, such as karst caves, underground rivers, and limestone forests. Visitors to the Huangguoshu waterfall can take a boat ride to get a closer view of the waterfall or hike to the top for a panoramic view of the area. Some trails and paths lead to other parts of the scenic area, where visitors can explore Guizhou’s natural wonders and cultural attractions.

Guizhou Attractions 3: Xingyi Wanfeng Lin

Xingyi Wanfeng Lin is a national 5A-level scenic spot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering an area of approximately 200 square kilometers. The name “Wanfeng” means “ten thousand mountain peaks” in Chinese, and it accurately describes the area’s scenery. The Mountains is characterized by its towering limestone peaks, often shrouded in mist, creating an ethereal and mystical atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Wanfeng LIn is the Maling River Canyon, which is a 75-kilometer-long canyon that features numerous waterfalls, rapids, and pools. Visitors can take a raft ride down the river to explore the canyon and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Another popular attraction in Wanfeng Lin is the Zhonghe Valley, a deep valley home to various rare plants and animals. Visitors can hike through the valley to explore its natural beauty and discover the unique flora and fauna of the area.

In spring, the forest fields are covered with bright yellow rape flowers, creating a stunning contrast against the surrounding green landscape. You can stroll through the fields to enjoy the beauty of the flowers or take pictures to capture the moment.

In addition to its natural beauty, Wanfeng Lin is home to several ethnic minority groups, including the Miao, Buyi, and Yao, who have distinct cultures and customs.

Guizhou Attractions 4: Mountain Fanjing

Fanjing Mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s most famous natural attractions. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique biodiversity. The mountain’s peak, called the Golden Summit, rises 2,570 meters above sea level and is surrounded by a sea of clouds, creating a spectacular view for visitors.

Fanjing Mountain was one of the first places in southern China to rise from the sea to land some 1.4 billion years ago. It is the only habitat for the Qianjin snub-nosed monkey and is home to more than 7,100 species of wild animals and plants. You can explore Fanjing Mountain’s many hiking trails and scenic spots, including the stunning Red Clouds Golden Summit.

Fanjing Mountain is also a cultural mountain with a history of over 2,000 years. It is home to buildings on the cliffs recommended by National Geographic magazine. The two temples at the top of the mountain are a real-life version of the City in the Sky, treacherous and spectacular.

One of the unique features of Fanjing Mountain is the Mushroom Stone, a tall, narrow rock formation that resembles a giant mushroom. This natural wonder has become a popular spot for visitors to take photos and admire the mountain’s beauty.

Guizhou Attractions 5: Xijiang Thousand Families Miao Village

Xijiang Thousand Families Miao Village is a picturesque village. It is home to the Miao ethnic minority group, one of China’s 55 officially recognized minority groups. The best thing to visit is its well-preserved traditional Miao architecture, with many houses featuring intricate wooden carvings, colorful decorations, and sloping roofs. The village is set amidst lush green mountains and is surrounded by rice terraces, creating a stunning natural backdrop.

More than 1,000 families have been built in the Xijang Thousand Families Miao Village, with their unique wooden hanging towers in the middle of the mountain. The main attractions here include the Xijiang Miao Museum, the brewing workshop, the embroidery workshop, the batik workshop, the silver ornament workshop, the viewing platform, the ancient road of Kagaku, and the idyllic sightseeing area. The Xijiang Thousand House Families Miao Village is an open-air museum that exhibits an epic poem about the development of the Miao people.

Guizhou Attractions 6: Lipin Zhaoxing Dong Village

Zhaoxing Dong Village is home to more than1000 households and has a population of approximately 6,000 people, mostly belonging to the Dong ethnic minority group. The Dong people are known for their rich culture, unique architecture, and colorful festivals. The most distinctive feature of the village is its well-preserved Dong architecture, characterized by its dark wooden houses built on stilts, intricate wooden carvings, and elegant roofs. The village has five drum towers, the tallest and most prominent buildings. These towers were used in the past for timekeeping, communicating with other villages, and as a place for villagers to gather.

In addition to its beautiful architecture, the village is also famous for its traditional festivals, such as the Dong New Year, celebrated on the lunar calendar’s first day. During the festival, villagers wear traditional costumes, perform traditional dances and songs, and enjoy delicious food and drink.

Guizhou Attractions 7: Qingyan Ancient Town

Qingyan Ancient Town is a well-preserved historical and cultural site. It is famous for its beautiful Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, ancient city walls, and cultural heritage. Qingyan Ancient Town was a major town on the ancient Tea Horse Route during the Ming and Qing dynasties. This best-preserved city of ancient Chinese fortification has endured the wars and the ages for 600 years and has a unique look, unlike any other ancient city.

The town has many cultural and historical sites, including ancient temples, pavilions, and ancestral halls. One of the most famous attractions is the Qingyan Confucius Temple, built during the Ming Dynasty and dedicated to Confucius, the ancient Chinese philosopher and educator. The temple has a beautiful courtyard, intricate woodcarvings, and many cultural relics.

The ancient town has various festivals yearly, such as dragon dances, lantern dances, Miao jumping fields, and dragon lantern events during the first month, and the “Tour of the Hundred Diseases” on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar. The whole town is very lively during the festivals.

Guizhou Attractions 8: Zhenyuan Ancient Town

The Zhenyuan ancient town has a history of over 2,200 years. The Wuyang River passes through the old town in an S-shape. On the river’s north bank is the old capital city, and on the south bank is the old guard city. Both cities were built during the Ming Dynasty, and some of their walls and gates still exist. There are many ancient buildings, traditional dwellings and historical docks inside and outside the city.

Zhenyuan Ancient City Wall was built during the Ming Dynasty and is one of China’s best-preserved ancient city walls. The town also has the famous Nanhua Temple, built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and known for its beautiful architecture, intricate woodcarvings, and ancient Buddhist relics.

The town is also famous for its unique customs and traditions, including the Miao ethnic minority’s Lusheng Festival, celebrated in the third lunar month of each year. During the festival, Miao people wear traditional costumes, play the Lusheng (a musical instrument), and perform traditional dances and songs.

9: Yelang Valley in Huaxi

The Yelang Valley Karst Ecological Park is a unique and mysterious valley. The entire ecological park is nurtured in the middle of the gorge and covers an area of 200,000 square metres. The cloistered mountain opposite it is said to have been the residence of Jinzhuji, the successor of the Yelang King. The ancient Yelang Tun Fort ruins remain on the top of the mountain, giving Yelang Valley its name. According to historical records, Cloak Mountain was the precinct of Yelang Eup, the ancient province of Yelang. The ruins of the ancient Yelang fortress remain at the top of the mountain. The mountain is not only rich in the history and culture of the ancient Yelang Kingdom, but also has beautiful and ancient tourism resources.

10: Jiaxiu Pavilion

Jiaxiu Pavilion is a famous landmark and historical site in Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou province in southwestern China.

Built in 1598 during the Ming Dynasty, the Jiaxiu Pavilion is a three-story wooden structure on a large stone pedestal in the middle of the Nanming River. The pavilion has a distinctive architectural style that combines traditional Chinese and Western design elements.

The pavilion has a unique design with three layers, each smaller than the one below it, and a single door on each of the four sides. The pavilion’s roof is adorned with ornate decorations, including a phoenix on top and colourful glazed tiles. The pavilion’s interior is decorated with intricate carvings and paintings, and visitors can climb to the top to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

In addition to its historical significance, the Jiaxiu Pavilion is also known for its cultural importance. It has been a gathering place for poets and scholars throughout the centuries and is often called the “First Scholar’s Pavilion in Southwestern China”. Today, it remains a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Guiyang’s rich cultural heritage.

Related Posts

Enshi, the most beautiful wonderland in china.

Trending now

• [email protected]
• 86-773-286-5632 (Intl rates apply)

Guizhou Travel Guide

Guizhou Province is an increasingly popular tourist destination, not least because of its agreeable climate, its unique karst landscape, its rich cultural heritage as home to a string of Chinese ethnic minorities - chief among these the Miao - and its stormy history during the Ming (CE 1368-1644) and Qing (CE 1644-1911) Dynasties, when the area, which hitherto had been dominated by the Miao, was suddenly flooded with other ethnic groups following the area's elevation to the status of a province. However, much of the original architectural simplicity of the villages of the site, not to speak of the mystery that enshrouded the unique customs of the many diverse ethnic minorities that inhabited the area, remains intact to this day and continues to provide added value to a visit to Guizhou Province.

Guizhou Province is situated on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau in southwestern China. It borders Sichuan Province to the north, Guangxi Province to the south, Hunan Province to the east, and Yunnan Province to the west. Spanning some 509 kilometers from north to south and some 595 kilometers from east to west, Guizhou Province covers an area of roughly 176,000 square kilometers and accounts for about 2% of China's total area.

The average height above sea level - albeit, perhaps a meaningless concept in a mountainous region - of Guizhou Province is 1100 meters, circa. Roughly speaking, the terrain of Guizhou Province descends from west to east, suddenly sloping precipitously from the mid-point of the province in a northward, eastward, and southward direction. The province's highest elevation point is 2900 meters above sea level, and its lowest point a mere 148 meters.

The terrain of Guizhou Province is made up of three basic land types: highlands, hills, and basins, of which highlands and hills account for 92.5%. There are accordingly many mountains in Guizhou Province: Dalou Mountain Range to the north; Wumeng Mountain Range to the west; Miaoling Mountain Range to the south - whose highest peak, Leigong, reaches 2178 meters; and Wuling Mountain Range to the northeast, whose highest peak, Fanjing, reaches 2572 meters.

Much of the landmass of Guizhou Province is characterized by a karst landscape, which results in caves, sinkholes, and bizarrely shaped - if not grotesquely shaped - stone formations, due to the sandstone bedrock which erodes erratically and unpredictably. Guizhou Province's karst landscape covers an area of roughly 109,000 square kilometers, making up slightly more than 62% of the province's total area.

Guizhou Province, though mountainous, is blessed with fertile land. The province is also endowed with vast natural resources, offering the potential for extensive economic development. Before the 1950s, Guizhou Province was a somewhat backward, agricultural backwater without any modern industry to speak of, and with very little transportation infrastructure that could attract modern industry. After the Chinese government began to focus on the province during the 1950s, including developing an extensive transportation infrastructure for the region, a number of key industries began to emerge in Guizhou Province, including coal- and water-based power generation industries, a nonferrous metallurgy industry, a machine-fabrication industry, and a cigarette-making industry. In addition, the agriculture of the province was intensified and would include such important crops as rape (used primarily to produce vegetable oil), tea, and tobacco, all of which grow well on mountain slopes.

Guizhou Province has a population exceeding 39 million individuals, distributed across 49 ethnic groups. Of these ethnic groups, the Bai, Buyi, Dong, Han, Hui, Miao, Molao, Shui, Tujia, and Yi each number over 100,000 individuals. The various ethnic minorities, seen in the nationwide perspective, of Guizhou Province, make up roughly 38% of the province's total population.

Natural Resources

Guizhou Province abounds in energy resources, including coal- and water-based power-generation resources. The province's water-based power-generation resources produce some 19 million kilowatts of electricity yearly, making Guizhou Province the sixth-largest provider of electric power in the country. The province's coal deposits are estimated to be in the neighborhood of 242 billion tons, the fifth-largest estimated coal deposit in China, and China's premier source of coal south of the Yangtze River.

The revenue generated by the province's coal- and water-based power-generation resources alone have laid the foundation for the establishment of Guizhou Province as a regional economic powerhouse that benefits not only Guizhou Province but also neighboring provinces - and indeed, it contributes to the wealth generation of all of southern China.

Mineral resources are widely distributed throughout Guizhou Province. 110 different types of minerals have been discovered here, and 76 types are currently being exploited commercially. The province's most important minerals, from an economic standpoint, are coal, phosphorus, aluminum, manganese, mercury, and gold. The province's phosphorus reserves, which make up 44% of the nation's total, rank first in China. The province's mercury reserves - and their output - also rank first in the country. The province's total reserves of gold are currently estimated to be at 150 tons, though this figure may increase as the gold mines are exploited.

Guizhou Province boasts a plethora of flora and fauna. There are more than 3800 varieties of wild plants in the province, of which the thorny pear and the Chinese gooseberry are high in vitamin C, the agarics and other comestible mushrooms are high in protein, and the Chinese sumac (Rhus Chinensis) is host to numerous plant galls (i.e., a lump - sometimes called a nut, eg. a gallnut - or outgrowth on the bark of a plant, caused either by fungi, insects, or parasites) that are rich in resins and tannic acid, which are used in the manufacture of ink, dyes, and ointments, much of which is exported. More galls are found in the plants of Guizhou Province, per square meter of area, than in any other province in China.

Medicinal plants in Guizhou Province total some 3700 varieties, accounting for 80% of the nation's total. The most famous such plants are duzhong (eucommia bark), tianma (elevated gastrodia tuber), zhuyu (evodia fruit), shihu (dendrobium), and huanglian (goldthread rhizome). There are 70 varieties of rare and precious plants in Guizhou Province, of which the silver China fir, the dove tree, the bare China fir, and the spindle tree fir all are under the strictest of state protection.

In addition, there are over 1000 different species of wild animals roaming freely in Guizhou Province, 83 of which belong to an endangered-species class that enjoys state protection, including the golden monkey, the black-leaf monkey, the south-China tiger, and the black-neck crane.

Request a custom itinerary today and get one step closer to your personalized trip

Create Your Trip

• 86-19138970032 (GMT+8 18:00~09:00)

• Beijing Xian Tours
• Shanghai Beijing Tours
• Hong Kong Guilin Tours
• Hangzhou Suzhou Tours
• Kunming Lijiang Tours
• Shanghai Yangtze Cruise Tours
• Chengdu Tibet Tours
• More Short Stay Tours
• China Tours in January
• China Tours in February
• China Tours in March
• China Tours in April
• China Tours in May
• China Tours in June
• China Tours in July
• China Tours in August
• China Tours in September
• China Tours in October
• China Tours in November
• China Tours in December

• High Speed Trains
• China Yangtze Cruise Tour
• Photography
• Desert Adventure
• Ethnic Villages
• Biking Tours
• Kung Fu Tours
• Heritage Sites Exploration
• China Spring Tours
• China Summer Tours
• China Autumn Tours
• China Winter Tours

• Best-value Yangtze Cruises
• Top Family-friendly Cruise Ships
• Top 3 Luxury Yangtze River Cruises
• Yangtze River Highlights
• Yangtze River Cruise Routes
• Upstream or Downstream?
• Dining & Drinking
• Accommodations
• On-board Activities
• Yangtze Cruise Booking Steps

• Inner Mongolia

• Fanjingshan
• How to Plan Your First China Tour
• How to Plan Beijing Tour
• How to Plan Xian Tour
• How to Plan Shanghai Tour
• How to Plan Guilin Tour
• How to Plan Sichuan Tour
• How to Plan Family Tour
• 2024 China Travel Ideas
• Best Time to Visit China
• What to Pack for Your China Journey
• Updated China Travel News
• Ultimate Chinese Visa Guide
• Chinese Visa Types
• Chinese Visa Requirements
• Do I Need a Visa for China
• Chinese Visa Application
• Chinese Visa Exemptions
• 144-hour Visa Free
• Shenzhen Visa on Arrival
• Hainan 30-day Visa Free
• Embassies & Consulates
• Invitation Letter
• Useful Visa FAQs & Tips
• Entry Regulations
• Baggage Allowance
• Customs Declaration
• Exit Regulation
• How to Book Train Tickets
• How to Collect Train Tickets
• How to Cancel & Alter Train Tickets
• How to Read Train Tickets
• China High Speed Train Types
• Seats Class & How to Choose
• Friendly Facilities on the Train
• The Train Station Departure Process
• Available Food and Drinks on the Train
• Western Toilets on the Train
• Luggage Racks & Baggage Allowance
• Beijing Train Stations
• Shanghai Train Stations
• Guilin Train Stations
• Xian Train Stations
• Chengdu Train Stations
• Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station
• Beijing - Xian
• Beijing - Shanghai
• Guangzhou - Shanghai
• Shenzhen - Shanghai
• Chengdu - Xian
• Shanghai - Hangzhou
• Shanghai - Xian
• Chengdu - Chongqing
• Kunming - Lijiang
• Beijing Capital International
• Beijing Daxing International
• Shanghai Pudong International
• Shanghai Hongqiao International
• Guangzhou Baiyun International
• Hangzhou Xiaoshan International
• Chengdu Tianfu International
• Chengdu Shuangliu International
• Xian Xianyang International
• Shanghai - Beijing
• Hong Kong - Shanghai
• Guangzhou - Beijing
• Chengdu - Lhasa
• Shanghai - Guilin
• Shanghai - Sanya
• Travel in Spring Season
• Travel in Summer Season
• Travel in Autumn Season
• Travel in Winter Season
• Weather in January
• Weather in February
• Weather in March
• Weather in April
• Weather in May
• Weather in June
• Weather in July
• Weather in August
• Weather in September
• Weather in October
• Weather in November
• Weather in December
• Top 10 China Destinations
• Top 15 Things to Do
• China World Heritage Sites
• Top 10 Best Natural Beauties
• Top 10 Museums in China
• Top 10 Old Towns & Villages
• Five Great Mountains in China
• Top 10 Monasteries & Temples
• Top 10 Ski Resorts
• Top 10 Beautiful Lakes in China
• 7 Best Beaches in Sanya
• Top 6 Beautiful Waterfalls
• Panda Volunteering
• Having fun on Ice and Snow Festival
• About Us Who We Are Our Team Why Travel with Us Feedback & Reviews Travel Stories Travelers' Gallery Payment Guide Customer Support Contact Us
• Tour Experiences

Destinations

• Travel Guide

Guizhou Travel Guide

Guizhou , Short for Gui or Qian, is located in the hinterland of Southwest China. It boarders Sichuan Province and Chongqing Municipal to the north, Hunan Province to the east, Guangxi Province to the south and Yunnan Province to the West. Guizhou Province is one of the most famous mountain travel destination, which has been listed as No.6 in “ Top 10 Region to Visit in 2020” by Lonely Planet and has been highly recommended by CNN as a new big travel destination . As the only province without plains in China, Guizhou proudly boasts its special shape of Karst landform in idyllic, peculiar and amazing charm. Moreover, as the harmonious wonderland hometown for 17 ethnic minorities living there for centuries, Guizhou is your top best destination to admire the beautiful costumes, outstanding artistic songs and dances, joyous festivals and peaceful villages of Miao, Dong, Buyi, Yao, Shui and other ethnic groups! What ethnic is what worldwide! And the ethnic Guizhou through the effort of local people has been excellently developed to boast the national first big data base, world record-breaking bridge projects, unbelievable valuable FAST (Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope), and more advanced science and technologies fruits to walk closer to the world! Just for your expecting exploration of the diverse Guizhou of cool, warmness, peace, prosperity, and more possible points you are thinking of!

Why Visit Guizhou Province, China:

• UNESCO Natural & Cultural Heritages of China: Guizhou boasts abundant World Natural Heritage Sites including peculiar Mount Fanjing in Tongren, glowing and refreshing Chishui Danxia as a part of China Danxia, Xiaoqikong fabulous water landscape in Libo and Yuntai Mountain in Southwest Guizhou. Besides, Guizhou boassts Hailongtun Tusi Site in Zunyi City as the UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site for your understanding of Tusi system with military fortress background.
• Authentic Harmonious Life of 56 Ethnic Minorities: As a multiracial province with 56 ethnic compositions, Guizhou has plentiful ethnic cultural treasures for the closest appreciation, especially the 17 ethnic groups living there for hundreds and thousands of years. Visiting the authentic villages of tilted houses on mountains or along the rivers, appreciating their distinct fancy dresses with beautiful designs and decorations, enjoy the world famous Grand Songs, closely see their daily life style, etc. to feel the harmony of various groups living in Guizhou!
• Exquisite Ethnic Arts and Crafts: ethnic minority people in Guizhou are really skillful craftspeople, who always succeed to attract your eyes on their gorgeous costumes of various colors, silver accessories from head to toe, etc. Also, the famous Miao embroidery, papermaking, wax printing etc. make Guizhou a great place to admire the national proud intangible cultural heritages.
• Jubilant Festivals Celebration Every Day: nearly one thousand national and ethnic festivals make the nearly 365 days in Guizhou a special gala! New year of Miao people, Lusheng Festival with melodious tunes, amazing Han Tian Festival for rain praying, jubilant Sisters’ Festivals, Romantic Swinging Festival as a local romantic Valentine’s Day, etc. will treat visitors with the grand scene of their festival feast and the fantastic festive jollification!
• Proud Special Karst Landscape & Natural Treasures: diverse shapes of millions of Karst mountains gives Guizhou the world special shape. World well-known second largest Huangguoshu Waterfall, photographers favored Wanfenglin with layers of hump hills, especially unique pillar mountains at Fanjingshan, dazzling underground mist of stalactites and stalagmites and other rich continuous praisable Karst landscapes are the best gift to Guizhou from nature! Besides, mind purifying Jiabang Rice Terraces, mysterious Getu River and the cave, vast Wumeng Prairie, romantic purple sea of flowers at Jiucaiping Plateau, peceful Caohai Lake at Weining, hundred mile of azalea blossoms, lovely full islands of cherry flowers, well preserved Maolan Nature Reserve, etc. also have changed Guizhou a quite popular destination to discover the hidden gems of nature!
• Cool Weather and pleasant landscape: with 92.5% coverage being mountains and hills covered by plentiful of plantations and an annual average temperature between 15℃, Guizhou is the top pleasant and cool destination to enjoy vacations.

Top Travel Destinations in Guizhou, China

Traveling to Guizhou is very different from other destinations in China. In this pleasant and refreshing wonderland, you will encounter with a series of beautiful places, such as Guiyang as the best gateway city with cool weather and famous old town and forest parks, Anshun with most famous Huangguoshu Waterfall and other highlights of Karst cave and Tunpu villages, Southeast Guizhou (Kaili, Congjiang, Rongjiang...) with best ethnic villages of Miao and Dong people, Fanjingshan with world treasured peculiar mountain pillars and Buddhist culture, Libo with UNESCO heritage landscape of water, Chishui with first-class sightseeing of Danxia landform, etc. All will let you know a large and diverse Guizhou! Best Places to Visit in Guizhou >>

Top Attractions in Guizhou, China

To enjoy best highlights in Guizhou, you shall not miss the No.1 Huanguoshu Waterfall, a series of distinct beautiful ethnic villages of local Miao and Dong groups, UNESCO bestowed Mount Fanjing and top recommended ancient town. However, Guizhou also has more excellent Karst caverns, national top rice terraces scenery, appealing forest parks, charming rivers, world largest radio telescope, and more natural and cultural wonders for your discover! Go and explore! Top Attractions in Guizhou >> | Top Things to Do in Guizhou >>

This waterfall wonder on Karst landform is Guizhou No.1 attraction listed as Asia’s largest waterfall and world most magnificent one can be admired from different angles.

UNESCO World Natural Heritage super famous globally to admire incredible mushroom mountain, peaks with temples on the narrow summits, and peaceful Buddhist temple!

World largest Miao ethnic village to admire the typical Miao dwelling with fabulous view in day and night and enjoy the typical ethnic culture and performance of Miao people!

One of the 4 best ancient towns in Guizhou over 600 years old with military fortress architectures and legendary story of outstanding scholars in past imperial examination!

Small Seven Holes Scenic Area, part of the South China Karst listed as World Natural Heritage, to appreciate the forest and water fairyland favored for photography!

The former key way to Southeast Asia is now over 2,200 years old and ranks into the 4 best Guizhou old towns to enjoy historic houses along the emerald river in peace!

China largest Dong ethnic village with over 6,000 Dong people. Most popular village to admire Dong culture and the rare 5 drum towers dotted among beautiful tilted houses!

Or Basha Miao Village, which is a top famous Miao village to have a close look at the men of “last gun-toting tribe in China” with special bun hair style and their unique lifestyle!

Longgong Palace is a Guizhou top popular Karst cave to get close to amazing colorful underground limestone palace with interesting exploration by taking a little boat.

Top idyllic beautiful Dong village with 5 drum towers, to see women with green head cloth like a fish mouth and enjoy Han Tian Festival, Tai Guan Ren Festival...

One of the 5 best forests of peaks in China to see layers of adorable hump hills with peaceful countryside scenery of Buyi village houses, bright blossoms, field patches, etc.

No.1 of “Most Beautiful Tourist Caves” to marvel at the 5 million cubic meters Karst wonders of stalagmites and stalactites in rich styles originated 500,000 years ago!

One of the 6 best rice terraces in China to admire the grand agricultural sightseeing in golden yellow, emerald green and fabulous mirror reflections beside the wooden houses!

Top favored forest mountain park for visual and mental refreshing with lakes, streams, temples, etc., adorable wild macaques encountering and Guiyang new skyline catching!

Short for Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope is the world largest filled-aperture radio telescope to explore mysteries of the universe with scientific interactions!

Listed as UNESCO World Natural Heritage, it is the largest and most beautiful China Danxia site for special fiery red rocks and cliffs, large waterfall, inspiring forests, etc.

Reputed as “hometown of Chinese Folk Song and Dance Art”, it is the must-see to admire songs and dances of “Long Skirt Miao” and Lusheng instrument performance.

The “First Village with Short Skirt Miao” to see Miao girls wearing pleated skirt about 6 inches long and the 47 wooden water granaries of hundreds of years.

The primitive village has idyllic peaceful life and nice scenery of golden harvest crops in October and is mysterious with the therapy for keeping the tender of every family there!

The “Hometown of Grand Songs” and “Village of Chinese Fold Art” is world famous for its large scaled Kam Grand Songs of Dong ethnic people from children to elders.

Weather & Best Season to Visit Guizhou, China

Guizhou belongs to the subtropical humid monsoon climate zone. With an average temperature around 15℃ in most areas, Guizhou has cool summer and warm winter and pleasant to visit throughout the year. The hottest month is usually July, however, the average temperature is usually between 22℃-25℃. Average temperature in the coldest month of January is even around 3℃-6℃ for a not cold winter. There are usually rich rainfalls in Guizhou, with more cloudy days and less sunny days, you are recommended to take rain gears during your trip.

For most places, March to November is the best time to travel in Guizhou . And it rains most in June when is not so suggested with more frequent natural disasters.

What to Expect in March to May, July to November: Guiyang (Qingyan Old Town, Qianling Park...), Fanjingshan, Anshun (Huangguoshu Waterfall...), Kaili (Xijiang Miao Village...), Congjiang (Biasha Miao Village, Xiaohuang Dong Village, Jiabang Rice Terraces...), Rongjiang (Zengchong Drum Tower, Kongshen Miao Village, Dali Dong Village...), Zhaoxing (Zhaoxing Dong Village...), Libo (Xiaoqikong Scenic Area, Maolan Nature Reserve...), Chishui (Chishui Waterfall...), Liupanshui (Tuole Village ginkgo trees, Wumeng Prairie...), Zhijin Cave, Zhenyuan Old Town, etc.

What to Expect in January, February: ethnic villages for festivals, etc.

What to Expect in December: Weining Caohai Lake, etc.

Check more about Guizhou Weather & Best Time to Visit >>

Transportation to & Around Guizhou, China

Get to Guizhou

By Flight: Guizhou has 11 airports scattered in Guiyang, Tongren, Anshun, Kaili, Libo, Xingyi, Zunyi, etc. Among all, Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport and Tongren Fenghuang Airport are more frequently used for travelers. Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport (IATA: KWE) is the largest provincial airport and also the best gateway for flying to Guizhou with daily flights to more than 70 domestic destinations including Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Wuhan, Zhengzhou, Xiamen, Lijiang, Tianjin, Lhasa, Sanya, etc. and some international countries (regions) Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, etc. Besides, Tongren Fenghuang Airport (IATA: TEN) is the closer one to directly visit Fanjingshan and has a few flights with Beijing, Guangzhou, Xian, Guilin, Kunming, Xiamen, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Zhengzhou, Jinan, etc. Each week.

By Train: Taking a train is another very convenient way for visitors. Apart from Guiyang, the provincial capital city, Kaili, Congjiang, Rongjiang, Tongren, Anshun, Duyun, Bijie, etc. are also well connected by railway (most high speed railways) with other destinations in China. People from Guangzhou, Guilin, Chongqing, Chengdu, Kunming, Lijiang, Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Wuhan, etc. can now take the bullet train to reach Guizhou.

Travel Around Guizhou

At present, most destinations including Guiyang , Anshun , Kaili , Tongren, Congjiang , Rongjiang , Zhaoxing , Zunyi, Duyun, Liupanshui, etc. are well conveniently linked by the high speed railway system. Besides, highways and bridges link most major destinations with lesser driving duration. For travelers, Guiyang is the most chosen start to extend to the rest places, such as Huangguoshu Waterfall, ethnic villages in Qiandongnan, Mount Fanjing, and so forth.

To help you enjoy a worry free trip in Guizhou with not so convenient transportation in more prosperous Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, etc., we highly recommend you travel around Guizhou by our local private car service . Our local English speaking guide and professional driver will accompany you to each scenic spots by the licensed private vehicle of China Discovery with speed and safety! Please contact us if you need any help!

Check more about:

Ultimate Guizhou Transportation Guide: Get to & Around Guizhou >>

How to Get to Guiyang & Travel Around Guiyang >>

How to Get to Kaili & Travel Around Kaili >>

How to Get to Tongren (Fanjingshan) & Travel Around Tongren (Fanjingshan) >>

How to Get from Guiyang to Huangguoshu Waterfall >>

How to Get from Guiyang to Kaili >>

How to Get from Guiyang to Fanjingshan >>

How to Get from Kaili to Fanjingshan >>

Guizhou Travel Maps

For your better understanding of the location and transportation of Guizhou Province and help you plan your Guizhou trip, here we collect some useful Guizhou travel maps including Guizhou China Map, Guizhou Province Map, Guizhou Attractions Map and maps of Guiyang, Kaili, Anshun, Fanjingshan, Congjiang, etc. All Guizhou Maps 2024 >>!

Guizhou Province Map

Guizhou Attractions Map

Guiyang to Kaili Map

Kaili Tourist Map

2024 Speical Theme Tours for Guizhou Travel

Guizhou tourism board for further planning.

• How to Plan a Guizhou Tour
• Where to Stay in Guizhou & Top Accommodations
• Best Guizhou Ethnic Minority Villages
• Guizhou Ethnic Minorities
• Guizhou Ethnic Minority Festivals
• Top Attractions in Guiyang
• Top Things to Do in Kaili

Other Scenic Destinations in China

Besides Guizhou, China offers you with many other scenic destinations with ethnic minority highlights, such as Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Yunnan and Sichuan. Check the following for detailed information.

Other Popular Destinations in China

China is vast and diverse. You can choose your favorite destinations among more than 70 tourist destination and regions, like Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Yangtze River, etc. Following are 4 popular destinations you may get interested in. Check all destinations in China

Chinese Name: 贵州

Chinese Pinyin: guì zhōu

English IPA: /'ɡweɪ'dʒəʊ/

Capital: Guiyang

Population: 3.62 million

Language: Mandarin, Guizhou Dialect, Miao, Dong, etc.

Climate: Subtropical Monsoon Climate

Area: 17616700 Hectare

Rivers: Yangtze River, Pearl River

Mountains: Mount Fanjing, Leigong Mountain, Wumeng Mountain, Dalou Mountain, Miaoling Mountains...

Highest Point: Jiucaiping Plateau (2900.6m)

Time Zone: (UTC+8)

Plan your Guizhou Tour

Guizhou is a vast and diverse natural and cultural destinations worth your visiting for many days. For most travelers there, they usually plan 5-7 days to catch the best highlights there. If you have 4-5 days, you can enter from Guiyang and spend a fun time discovering Huangguoshu Waterfall, Dragon Palace, etc. in Anshun and the top best Miao and Dong ethnic villages in Qiandongnan destinations like Kaili, Congjiang, Rongjiang. And if you have 6-7 days, you can add Mount Fanjing in Tongren, Qingyan Old Town in Guiyang or Zhenyuan Old Town near Kaili, and discover 2-3 more villages in Southeast Guizhou for a diverse Guizhou admiration! Or you can omit the old towns and 1-2 less villages to extend to Libo for Xiaoqikong Scenic Area discovery!

For lots of visitors planning to Guizhou, they also prefer to travel with other hot destinations including Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Yunnan, Sichuan, etc. for more essences of nature and ethnic culture! Besides, you can also travel further with top China destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, etc. Together for wonderful China discovery! All our tours can be tailor-made according to your group size, time, physical condition, plan, interests, budget and any other special need! Please contact us  to help you plan your Guizhou tour or customize a Guizhou tour if you are interested!

Top Guizhou Tours

Guiyang / Anshun / Guiyang

Guiyang / Kaili / Rongjiang / Congjiang / Zhaoxing / Congjiang

Guiyang / Anshun / Kaili / Rongjiang / Zhaoxing / Congjiang

Guiyang / Anshun / Kaili / Fanjingshan

Guiyang / Anshun / Tongren / Fanjingshan / Tongren

Congjiang / Zhaoxing / Jiabang / Rongjiang / Kaili / Zhenyuan / Kaili / Guiyang

Guiyang / Anshun / Libo / Kaili / Congjiang / Zhaoxing

Zhangjiajie / Fenghuang / Fanjingshan

Guangzhou / Guilin / Yangshuo / Longji / Zhaoxing / Rongjiang / Kaili

Shanghai / Zhangjiajie / Kaili / Kunming / Lijiang / Shangri-la / Kunming

Guilin / Longsheng / Yangshuo / Zhaoxing / Kaili / Fanjingshan

Kunming / Lijiang / Shangri-La / Kunming / Fanjingshan / Kaili / Zhaoxing / Congjiang

Kunming / Dali / Lijiang / Guiyang / Kaili / Congjiang / Zhaoxing / Longji / Guilin / Yangshuo / Guilin

Beijing / Xian / Fanjingshan / Kaili / Congjiang / Guilin / Yangshuo / Guilin / Shanghai

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

• Affordable and valuable price
• 100% tailor-made packages
• Highly rated customers reviews
• Efficient customer support

China Tours

• Top 10 China Tours
• Classic China Tours
• China Tours from Beijing
• China Tours from Shanghai
• China Tours from Hong Kong
• China Tours from Chengdu
• Short China Trips
• Customize China Tour
• China Panda Tours
• Family Tour with Kids
• High-Speed Train Tour
• Silk Road Travel
• Yangtze River Cruise
• Hiking & Trekking Tours
• Photography Tours
• China Minority Travel
• Beijing Shanghai Tours
• Shanghai Yangtze Tours
• Chengdu Jiuzhaigou Tours
• Chengdu Lhasa Tours
• Suzhou Hangzhou Tours
• Guilin & Yangshuo
• Zhangjiajie

“Very good experience”

“WONDERFUL 25 DAYS IN CHINA - PRIVATE TOUR”

“Awesome China tour from northeast to southwest”

Any questions, please email us at: [email protected] or call us at: 86-19138970032 (Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. GMT+8)

• Terms & Condition
• Privacy Policy
• Customer Support

Copyright © 2011-2024. All rights reserved.

Cookie policy

We use cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Continue using our website means you agree with our cookie policy. For more info, please read here .

How to Plan a Guizhou Tour

Guizhou Province is home to a perfect combination of natural landscape and minority customs. If you love nature, would like to know more about ethnic minority groups, or would simply like a cooler place to spend the summer, Guizhou could be just the place for you.

Guizhou is listed as the 6th best region in the world for travel in 2020 by Lonely Planet (the only region in China listed) due to its new slick infrastucture alongside quaint rural life.

This article will give you some inspirational ideas for your upcoming Guizhou tour.

Top Things to Do

Experience minority customs.

Guizhou is home to minority people and customs , with people from more than 50 ethnic minority groups living in the province. Most villages are located around green mountains and near clear rivers or streams.

Visiting minority villages, you can participate in lively welcome ceremonies, admire their people's costumes, observe their unique wooden architecture, experience their folk handicrafts, and relax in natural environments.

However, some large ethnic villages are undergoing commercialization, and their customs, arts and crafts are disappearing. In the Qiandongnan (southeast Guizhou) district, around Kaili city, quite a few ethnic villages still preserve their traditional lifestyle. Below, we mention several special villages where you may be able to experience the essence of minority customs:

• Matang Gejia Village : The women in Matang wear special armor-style costumes, wearing their history and legend on their clothes, using embroidery or batik. Here, you will have a chance to learn Gejia batik and create your own batik designs.
• Kongbai Miao Village: Kongbai is praised as a village of silversmiths. You can admire exquisite silver ornaments, or try your hand at processing silver with a local master.
• Shiqiao Miao Village: Shiqiao still preserves ancient papermaking technology . The paper made in Shiqiao can be stored for over 1,500 years. Come here to experience this ancient technology.

Participate in Minority Festivals

There are over 1,000 festivals celebrated in Guizhou minority villages. If you are interested in folk activities, or just like to have some fun, you may choose to go on a minority festival trip to Guizhou.

• Sister's Meal Festival : Celebrated between the 15 th to 17th days of the 3rd lunar month (around late April).This is an important festival for young men and women to communicate with each other and talk about love. People prepare the sister's meal, dance and sing, or go to the festival market.
• Lusheng Festival : Lusheng is the favorite instrument of many local people. With our private tour, you may join in the lusheng celebration around late February. There are lots of things to witness, including lusheng dances, antiphonal singing and bullfighting.

Check the calendar of Guizhou minority festivals .

Admire Wonders of Nature

Guizhou Province is mountainous terrain widely covered by karst landscape, and much forest. Together with its pleasant climate, Guizhou's amazing and beautiful natural landscapes make it worth visiting.

• Huangguoshu Waterfall : Huangguoshu is the largest waterfall in Asia, and can be viewed from all angles. Often, however, it is very crowded, and it is not very accessible.
• Fanjing Mountain : At an altitude of 2,572 meters and rich in natural resources, Fanjing Mountain is a world ecological reserve. It is also a Buddhist holy place.

Outdoor Activities: Photography & Hiking

Guizhou is a paradise for photographers and hikers , with its gorgeous scenery. Some villages, tucked away among emerald-like mountains and decorated with terraced fields, are eye-catching subjects for photography. Hiking between minority villages is also a popular activity.

Your guide can suggest to you some of the best places for photography, or for hiking.

• Tang'an Dong Village & Zhaoxing Dong Village : These two villages are wonderful places for relating to the Dong minority people, and it is not so difficult to hike between them. The hike is about 9 km.

How Long to Stay: 5 to 6 Days

Stay 5 to 6 days in Guizhou, and you will have enough opportunity to visit some of the enchanting minority villages and experience their customs and crafts. Here is a sample itinerary for your reference:

• Day 1: Arrive in Guiyang.
• Day 2: Travel to Kaili, visit Kaili Ethnic Museum, visit Matang Gejia Village and experience Gejia batik (if it's Sunday, visit the Kaili flea market).
• Day 3: Visit Datang Miao Village, experience silversmithing in Kongbai Miao Village.
• Day 4: Experience ancient papermaking in Shiqiao Miao Village, visit Huanggang Dong Village and Basha Miao Village.
• Day 5: Hike between Tang'an Dong Village and Zhaoxing Dong Village (about 2.5 hours), return to Guiyang.
• Day 6: Leave Guiyang.

Detailed itinerary: 6-day Diverse Minority Adventure

Remember this is not a fixed itinerary, and you can customize it according to your interests. If you only have 2 or 3 days, it would still be possible to travel to some villages around Kaili. See the first three days of the itinerary above for reference.

If you have 8 to 10 days, it should be possible for you to visit Guizhou and some surrounding destinations, such as Zhangjiajie and Guilin . Please refer to the following itineraries for some ideas, but remember all can be customized:

Guizhou and Zhangjiajie

• Day 2 to 6: Visit Guizhou attractions, then travel to Fenghuang Ancient Town in Zhangjiajie.
• Day 7 to 9: Visit Zhangjiajie.
• Day 10: Leave.

Detailed itinerary: 10-day Guizhou & Zhangjiajie Tour

Guilin and Guizhou

• Day 1: Arrive in Guilin.
• Day 2 to 4: Visit Guilin and Yangshuo, take a train from Yangshuo to Congjiang in Guizhou.
• Day 5 to 7: Visit minority villages in Guizhou.
• Day 8: Leave.

Detailed itinerary: 8-day Guilin & Guizhou Tour

Guizhou has a humid subtropical monsoon climate. It can be visited all year round, for it avoids the excesses of scorching heat in summer and freezing cold in winter.

April to October is the best period in Guizhou, for the weather is generally fine. Late August is the golden period, with pleasant weather and less rainfall. It is also the peak season, however, and you may need to ask your guide for help to avoid the worst of the crowds.

If you want to celebrate festivals with local people, traveling during festival time is worthwhile; for example, during late February for the Lusheng Festival, or late April for the Sister's Meal Festival.

How to Get to Guizhou

Guizhou Province has one international airport in the capital city Guiyang (Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport, KWE) connecting nearly all major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Taipei. It also has international airlines connecting Seoul, Osaka, Nagoya, Bangkok and some other overseas cities.

Railway transport in Guizhou is developing rapidly, affording more options for travelers who are already in China. People can take a direct bullet train or high-speed train from Chongqing, Chengdu, Kunming or Guilin.

Cuisine in Guizhou

Guizhou is not only attractive for scenery and ethnic customs, but also for its mouth-watering cuisine. Its distinctive flavors are sour and spicy. If you like such flavors, don't forget to ask your guide for some recommended restaurants. Here are some dishes popular among local people and travelers alike:

• Sour Soup Fish: This is probably Kaili's most famous dish. It uses sour rice soup as its basic ingredient, and is made with local fresh fish, marinated tomato paste and chili.
• Siwawa: This snack can be described as wrapped vegetable shreds. The chef cuts several kinds of vegetable into shreds and wraps them with skin made from flour.
• Beef Noodles: This is one of Guizhou's specialties. The soup is cooked with multiple ingredients, including Chinese herbs. Enhanced by large pieces of beef, the noodles taste fresh and fragrant.

If you don't like strong-flavored food, your guide can instruct the chef to use less seasoning in your dishes, or you may just let your guide take you to some western-style restaurants instead.

Find more Guizhou food .

Accommodation in Guizhou

In Guizhou, you will have plenty of options for accommodation, and you may be able to stay near the tourist attractions. In the city of Guiyang you can enjoy better accommodation, with 5-star hotels.

Generally, however, Guizhou is not so modern and developed, even in the capital city, so the service and equipment of hotels cannot be compared with those in other large cities (a 5-star hotel in Guiyang may be equivalent to a 4-star hotel in Beijing or Shanghai). You'd better lower your expectations.

In Kaili or other cities of towns, it is next to impossible to find a good star-rated hotel, but some counties and villages have boutique hostels and guesthouses . These are not luxurious, but are decorated and equipped according to ethnic customs. Would you like to have a try?

Below we mention some hotels for your reference, and you are always welcome to tell us your requirements.

• Guiyang: Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel Guiyang (贵阳天怡豪生大酒店)
• Kaili: Heaven-Sent Dragon Hotel (嘉瑞禾腾龙酒店)
• Zhaoxing: Indigo Lodge Zhaoxing (肇兴青定阁精品酒店)

We receive no payment for listing these hotels, but all hotels we recommend have been vetted by our staff. See how we select your hotels .

Enjoy Guizhou Ethnic Customs with Us

China Highlights will help you maximize your Guizhou travel experience by suggesting less-commercialized attractions, authentic handicrafts, traditional performances, local diets and boutique accommodation.

All itineraries can be modified. Just check some Guizhou tours or  contact us  about your interests and preferences.

• 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Private Tour
• 11-Day China Classic Tour
• 14-Day China Natural Wonders Discovery
• 3-Week Must-See Places China Tour Including Holy Tibet
• How to Plan Your First Trip to China 2024/2025 — 7 Easy Steps
• 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)
• How to Plan a 10-Day Itinerary in China (Best 5 Options)
• 2-Week China Itineraries: Where to Go & Routes (2024)
• China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
• China Weather in February 2024: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
• China Weather in March 2024: Destinations, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
• China Weather in May 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in June 2024: How to Benefit from the Rainy Season
• China Weather in July 2024: How to Avoid Heat and Crowds
• China Weather in August 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in September 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
• China Weather in October 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in November 2024: Places to Go & Crowds
• China Weather in December 2024: Places to Go and Crowds

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

More travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why China Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Southeast Asia
• Japan, South Korea
• India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri lanka
• Central Asia
• Middle East
• African Safari

• Travel Agents
• Loyalty & Referral Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

China Discover

Travel with passion!

• China Vacations
• Single City Tours
• Yangtze Cruise
• China Hotels
• China Flights
• China Guide

Guizhou Tourism

About guizhou, guizhou attractions, guizhou weather, guizhou maps, guizhou food, guizhou photos, guizhou vacation packages, hotels in guiyang, hotels in kaili, hotels in zhaoxing, festivals in guizhou, our best tour guide in guizhou.

Quick Tour Search

• Province: Guizhou (simplified Chinese: 贵州 Pinyin: Guizhou)
• Population : 39,040,000
• Area : 176,100 sq km (68,000 sq mi)
• Overview: Guizhou is located in the southwestern part of China. It is one of the provinces that contains the most minority groups. The minority groups account for more than 37% of the total population. 55.5% of the province area is designated as autonomous regions for them.

Guizhou is a province situated in southwest part of China, it boasts picturesque landscapes, pleasant climate and varied and rich tourism resources;  hence it enjoys a reputation of being the "tourism treasure house of China". 

Guizhou is one of the most typical areas with the karst landscape in the world, and its karst terrains account for 73 percent of its total area.  Its special geological form and special geographical conditions have given birth to the karst features integrating mountains, rivers, waterfalls, caves, lakes and forests. 

For centuries, different types of culture of native ethnic groups in Guizhou have been well preserved.   Due to the geographic isolation of mountians and rivers, local people have kepted the time-honored coriginal ecological culture, unsophisticated and strong customs and lifestyle, unusual arcitectural structures, costumes, food, wedding customs, festivals, celebrations, songs and dances, and sacrificial rites, showing the folk customs and lifestyle in varied colorful splendor.

Guizhou is the birthplace of mountain culture represented by Yelang culture and Tunbao culture, and one of the birthplaces of the prehistory vivilizations of mankind.

More places to go in Guizhou

Guiyang is located in central Guizhou province, it is the captial of this province.  Guiyang is the biggest city, the economic and commercial hub of Guizhou ...more

Kaili is a city in the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, a significant population of Miao and Gejia live in Kaili. Kaili is host to more than 120 Miao festivals throughout the year. ...more

Zhaoxing is one of the largest Dong villages in the region, many local people continue to wear traditional clothing and speak only their native Dong language. ...more

Must-see Villages in Guizhou and Guangxi       Basha       Zhaoxing       Tang'An       Xijiang       Sanjiang       Longsheng      

Frequently asked questions in Guizhou

• Contact Us |
• Testimonials |
• Terms & Conditons |
• Link Exchange |

Experts in the design of China vacation packages. All programs are organized by a China based Chinese

international travel service, focusing on China hiking, photography, train and family tours.

© 2004-2015 China Discover.net™ All rights reserved.

FlyOverChina | Incredible sea of cherry blossoms in SW China's Guizhou

Source: Xinhua

Editor: huaxia

2024-04-09 11:04:16

GUIAN, April 9 (Xinhua) -- With the arrival of spring, cherry blossoms are in full bloom in Guian New Area, southwest China's Guizhou Province and there is an endless stream of tourists coming to enjoy the blossoms. 

You may like

Tea gardens enter harvest season in Anhui, E China

Spotted seals enter active period as temperature rises in NE China

Citizens visit polar icebreaker Xuelong 2 in Hong Kong

People enjoy springtime in Xi'an, China's Shaanxi

North America witnesses total solar eclipse

Xuelong 2 arrives in Hong Kong for five-day visit

More from globalink.

GLOBALink | President Xi welcomes Micronesian counterpart Simina

GLOBALink丨How an innovation-driven Chinese city wowed foreign vloggers

GLOBALink | Inter-provincial efforts help improve river water quality in east China

Follow us on.

Text: A A A Print Economy

• China's CPI up 0.1% in March

China's consumer prices rose at a slower pace in March, while the decline in factory gate prices widened, official data showed on Thursday.

The country's consumer price index, a main gauge of inflation, rose by 0.1 percent year-on-year in March, cooling from the 0.7 percent annual gain in February, the National Bureau of Statistics said. 

NBS data showed the slower growth of consumer prices is mainly due to the fluctuations in food and travel prices.

Within the CPI, food prices dropped 2.7 percent year-on-year in March after a 0.9 percent annual contraction in February. The prices of pork - a staple for Chinese dinner tables – declined 2.4 percent in March following a 0.2 percent rise in February.

Notably, the growth in travel prices narrowed from 23.1 percent in February to 6 percent in March. Airline ticket prices dropped by 14.7 percent in March versus a 20.8 percent gain in the previous month.

On a month-on-month basis, the CPI dropped by 1 percent versus a 1 percent rise in February.

The growth in core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy prices and is deemed a better gauge of the supply-demand relationship in the economy, rose by 0.6 percent year-on-year in March after a 1.2 percent rise in February.

Dong Lijuan, an NBS statistician, attributed the slower CPI growth to factors including declining post-holiday consumer demand and a well-stocked market, while the PPI declined due to the resumption of industrial production after the Spring Festival holiday as well as the sufficient supply of industrial products.

China's producer price index, which gauges factory-gate prices, dropped by 2.8 percent from a year ago in March, following a 2.7 percent fall in February, the NBS said.

On a month-on-month basis, the PPI dipped by 0.1 percent in March after a 0.2 percent drop in February according to the NBS.

To invest in China is to invest future: FM spokesperson

Preparation for 4th China Int'l Consumer Products Expo in full swing

Water quality of Seine River draws concern before Paris Olympics

Beautiful sunrise scenery of mist-shrouded cole flowers

Xi Jinping meets Ma Ying-jeou in Beijing

China Through The Lens: Spring scenery in NW China's Qinghai

Immigration clearance hall for on-board passengers to start operation

Xuelong returns to Qingdao after 40th Antarctic expedition

Colorful waters 'meet' in Qinghai

Flowers in full bloom at Mutianyu section of Great Wall

Sea of bamboo scenery in Guizhou

China's icebreaker Xuelong 2 opens for public visit in Hong Kong

Solar eclipse spotted in U.S.

Baikal teal ducks create spectacular 'Bird wave' formation in NE China

Night landscape against stunning Milky Way in N China

Ice melts on Songhua River as temperatures rise

Season of flowers: Bullet trains bound for spring in Xizang

How is the 2024 Olympic torch manufactured? Here is the answer

Tourism thrives during China's Qingming Festival

Giant panda Fu Bao starts quarantine after returning from South Korea

Flowers bloom around Potala Palace in Lhasa

Stream rings appear on Italy's volcano

First giant panda born in South Korea leaves for China

China launches Yaogan satellite

Strong earthquake causes building collapse in Taiwan

Exploring China's germplasm resources 'Noah's Ark'

Cultural relics of Xia, Shang, Zhou dynasties on display in Hong Kong

First unit of China's high-altitude connected to grid

Palace Museum 'meets' Palace of Versailles

Translucent Manla reservoir in Xizang

Northwest China's Tianshui spicy hot pot goes viral on social media

2nd Airbus A320 assembly line project under construction in Tianjin

Nyingchi greets peach blossoms

Annual Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival held in New York City

Paris 2024 official stamp unveiled in France

In Numbers: Asian economy forecast to grow 4.5 pct in 2024, report says

Most popular in 24h, more top news.

• Orders surge at China's small commodity hub as Paris Olympics approaches
• EU wind turbine subsidy probe unfair, regressive
• China criticizes Fitch's sovereign rating downgrade
• 50 mln ton increase in food targeted by 2030

Sparkling 'blue tears' illuminate Pingtan island in China's Fujian

Nio opens smart driving technology center in Germany