Gaopo Miao Ethnic Township (高坡苗乡) is nestled in the southeastern part of Huaxi District, Guiyang, covering a total area of 120 square kilometers with 87 natural villages. This region boasts stunning natural landscapes, featuring canyons, stone forests, grasslands, waterfalls, picturesque valleys, and extensive farmlands. Particularly notable is the Yun Ding Grassland in the Yun Ding Village, a rare expanse of flat grassland atop the plateau.
The township is home to various ethnic groups, primarily the Miao and Buyi communities. The residents embody a simple and hospitable lifestyle, showcasing a rich cultural diversity. The best time to experience their vibrant traditions is during local festivals. Traditional events such as the “Jumping Fields,” “Jumping Caves,” “April 8th,” “Bullfight Festival,” and “New Harvest Festival” are celebrated with horse racing, bullfighting, singing competitions, and lusheng (a traditional Miao musical instrument) performances. Among these, the Miao festival “April 8th” is particularly grand and marked by elaborate ceremonies and lively festivities.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Gaopo Miao Ethnic Township
- Vlog about Gaopo Miao Ethnic Township
- Other Attractions in Guiyang Suburbs
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 days |
| Ticket Price | 10 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day |
Location and Transportation
Gaopo Miao Ethnic Township is situated at the southeastern tip of Guiyang City, approximately 51 kilometers away from the city center. Positioned at the convergence point of Huaqui, Longli, and Huishui counties (districts), this township lies at the border of these administrative regions.
To reach Gaopo Miao Ethnic Township from Guiyang, you can take a bus from the Guiyang Sanchang Bus Terminal (汽车三场) bound for Yangchang (羊场). Once on the bus, alight at Gaopo, and from there, you can further travel to your destination using a minivan (usually costing around 20 yuan per vehicle), which will take you directly to Yun Ding Grassland.
Additionally, transportation is available from the township government’s location to various villages and natural attractions within the township. The road network allows convenient access to the different villages and scenic spots, providing travelers with the flexibility to explore the diverse cultural and natural highlights of Gaopo Miao Ethnic Township.
Highlights of Gaopo Miao Ethnic Township
Stone Gate Village
Named after the imposing Stone Gate Mountain, Stone Gate Village derives its name from the two facing stones resembling a gate at the foot of the mountain. The mountain itself is characterized by its steep and rugged terrain, making it difficult to ascend. Over centuries, the local residents took advantage of this natural fortress, isolating themselves within the Gaopo plateau and minimizing contact with the outside world.
In the Ming Dynasty, during the year 1459 (Ming Chenghua era), the imperial court mobilized forces from the provinces of Sichuan, Hunan, Yunnan, and Guizhou for a major offensive against Gaopo, marking the “Stone Gate Mountain Battle.” In the 13th year of the Ming Hongzhi era (1500 AD), a military campaign was again launched by the Guizhou governor to attack Stone Gate Mountain.
Cloud Summit Village
Situated at the eastern end of Gaopo, 8 kilometers from the township, Cloud Summit Village is nestled against the towering Cloud Summit Hill, which rises over a thousand meters high. This hill abruptly emerges from deep valleys and cliffs, providing a distant view across the border into Longli. Originally covered by extensive forests that were later cleared, it has transformed into a high-altitude grassland. To the east of the village, there is an ancient Ming Dynasty post road. According to historical records (Ming Shilu), the Liu Mei Mountain in this area was once a major base for Miao people.
Shanping Village
Located 7 kilometers southwest of Gaopo, Shanping Village is renowned for its Miao ethnic lusheng dance. The lively tunes and graceful dance moves are a refreshing spectacle for visitors.
Keli and Jiading Villages
Positioned 18 kilometers southeast of Gaopo, Keli Village is predominantly Chen’s clan. Legend has it that their ancestor, named “Luo Ya Gong,” got his name because he grew new teeth after turning 70. He was the first to practice cave burials in the area, and the burial site, a small cave, still exists on the hilltop behind Dachangzhai. Keli also has another cave burial site, a larger cave with a now sealed entrance.
Jiading Village, located 15 kilometers southeast of Gaopo, features numerous karst caves, offering opportunities for cave exploration. The village also boasts a cave burial site with dozens of well-preserved coffins, making it a fascinating attraction.
