Guizhou
Hidden Gem of Southwest China
Welcome to Guizhou! A hidden gem of Southwest China, known for its endless karst mountains, vibrant ethnic minority cultures (Miao & Dong), and stunning waterfalls. This 8-day plan is designed with a slower pace and cultural immersion in mind.
1. Attractions
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of attraction name and paste in map app to see the location.
Day 1: Arrival in Guiyang (The Cool City)
Jiaxiu Pavilion (甲秀楼)
The landmark of Guiyang, built on a rock in the Nanming River. Great for a leisurely evening walk to see the spectacular night view.
Cost:Free (Reservation required for tower)
Hours:Exterior open 24/7
Day 2: Karst Landscapes (Libo)
Libo Xiaoqikong (荔波小七孔)
Known as the "Emerald on the Girdle of the Earth." Focus on the Seven Small Arches Bridge, 68-Tier Waterfall, and Wolong Tan.
Cost:~170 CNY (Entry + Bus + Insurance)
Hours:07:30 - 17:30
Transport: HS Train from Guiyang North to Libo Station (~1h, 100 CNY). Then tourist shuttle to Xiaoqikong West Gate.
Day 3: Into the Miao Heartland
Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village (西江千户苗寨)
The largest Miao village in the world, famous for its wooden stilt houses. Don't miss the "Thousand Lights" night view from the hillside.
Cost:~110 CNY (Entry + Shuttle)
Hours:Open all day
Transport: Direct bus from Libo Bus Station to Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village (~3.5h, 110 CNY).
Day 4: Hiking & Ancient Town
Rice Terrace Hiking
Take a short hike to the rice terraces behind the village to see locals farming, away from the tourist crowds.
Cost:Free
Hours:Morning
Zhenyuan Ancient Town (镇远古镇)
A historic town shaped like a Tai Chi symbol by the Wuyang River. Relax by the river with a beer.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Transport (Afternoon): Bus/Through Train to Zhenyuan Ancient Town (~2.5h, 80-100 CNY).
Day 5: The Oriental Slow Life
Black Dragon Cave (青龙洞)
A unique architectural complex clinging to the cliffside, blending Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.
Cost:~60 CNY
Hours:08:00 - 17:30
Wuyang River Cruise (舞阳河游船)
Take a boat ride at night to see the illuminated town. The reflection of lights on the water is mesmerizing.
Day 6: Moving to the Mountains
Transfer to Fanjingshan
Travel to Tongren (Jiangkou County). Crucial: Stay near the East Gate (Heiwanhe) to beat the morning queues tomorrow. Rest early!
Cost:Free
Hours:Afternoon
Transport: Bus/Train to Tongren (Jiangkou County) (~3-4h, ~100 CNY). Stay near East Gate (Heiwanhe)!
Day 7: The Sky City (Fanjingshan)
Mount Fanjing (梵净山)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Mushroom Stone and climb the Red Clouds Golden Summit for a temple in the sky. Warning: Weather dependent!
Day 8: Departure
Guizhou Provincial Museum
If you have time before your flight/train in Guiyang, visit this museum to learn more about the region's ethnic history.
Cost:Free (Passport required)
Hours:09:00 - 17:00 (Closed Mon)
Transport: HS Train from Tongren to Guiyang North (~1.5h).
2. Food Recommendations
Note: Food items may contain allergens. Please confirm with restaurant staff directly
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of food name and paste in Dianping app to find restaurants.
Sour Soup Fish
酸汤鱼
The provincial dish! Fish cooked in a fermented tomato base. Spicy, sour, and appetizing.
Siwawa (Silk Doll)
丝娃娃
Vegetarian wraps. You get tiny pancakes and 10+ bowls of shredded vegetables to wrap and dip in spicy sauce.
Changwang Noodles
肠旺面
Egg noodles with intestines and blood curd. Don't be scared, it's delicious!
Food Tips
Guizhou food is Spicy and Sour. Say "Bu Yao La" (No spice) or "Wei La" (Mild) if sensitive. Watch out for 'Fish Mint' (Zhe'ergen), a strong root herb.
3. Transportation Guide
Arrival
- Flight: Arrive at Guiyang Longdongbao Airport (KWE). Close to city center.Check flights via
- Train: Guiyang North Station is the main hub for High-Speed Trains.
Inter-City Travel
- High-Speed Train: Best for Guiyang <-> Libo and Guiyang <-> Tongren.Check trains via
- Scenic Connect Bus: Best for direct transfers (e.g., Libo to Xijiang) to avoid hassles with luggage.
4. Where to Stay
Libo
Libo County Center. Lots of food, 20 mins bus to park.
Xijiang Miao Village
Riverbank is easier with luggage. Hillside has better views but lots of stairs.
Zhenyuan
Riverside Inn with a balcony facing the Wuyang River.
Fanjingshan (Jiangkou)
East Gate (Heiwanhe). Stay walking distance to entrance!
5. Essential Tips
💡 Top Tips
- Weather: "No three sunny days in a row." Always carry an umbrella/raincoat.
- Walking: Comfortable walking shoes are MANDATORY. This is a mountain province.
- Booking: Tickets for Fanjingshan and Xiaoqikong sell out. Book 3-7 days in advance.
- Toilets: Be prepared for Squat Toilets in rural areas. Carry tissue and sanitizer.