Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the hidden treasures of Guizhou with our comprehensive five-day itinerary. From the bustling streets of Guiyang to the tranquil villages of Xijiang Qianhu Miao and the breathtaking landscapes of Xiaoqikong Scenic Area, each day promises unforgettable experiences and unparalleled adventures. Join us as we delve into the cultural tapestry, natural wonders, and gastronomic delights that define this enchanting province in southwest China.
Day 1 Guiyang: Qianling Mountain Park – Jiaxiu Pavilion – Erqi Road Snack Street – Colorful Guizhou Performance
Stop 1: Qianling Mountain Park (3 hours)
Our first destination is Qianling Mountain Park, a sanctuary of tranquility nestled amidst the city’s bustle. Renowned for its majestic peaks, serene waters, and ancient temples, Qianling Mountain Park offers a glimpse into Guiyang’s spiritual soul. We recommend entering through the southern gate for easy access and a chance to ride the cable car to the summit. As we ascend, the vista unfolds, revealing the grandeur of Hongfu Temple, a sacred haven where wishes are whispered and blessings abound. Descending, we encounter playful macaques, guardians of the mountain, reminding us of the harmony between man and nature. Along the way, we can paddle across Qianling Lake, explore the quaint zoo, and delve into history at the Kirin Cave, where echoes of the past resonate within the chambers once inhabited by historical figures.
Stop 2: Jiaxiu Tower (2 hours)
Next, we journey to Jiaxiu Tower, an architectural gem perched upon the ancient rocks of Wan’ao. A testament to Guiyang’s storied past, the tower stands as a beacon overlooking the Nanming River, offering panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Crossing the Floating Jade Bridge, we venture into Cuiwei Garden, a verdant oasis adorned with age-old structures, inviting us to wander through its shaded paths and tranquil ponds.
Stop 3: Erqi Road Snack Street (2 hours)
Our appetite whetted by adventure, we make our way to Erqi Road Snack Street, a culinary haven immortalized in the acclaimed documentary “A Bite of China.” Despite its humble surroundings, this bustling thoroughfare boasts a cornucopia of local delicacies, each dish a testament to Guiyang’s gastronomic heritage. From silky tofu balls to savory pig trotters and fragrant beef noodles, every bite tells a story of tradition and innovation. As dusk descends, the street comes alive with the sizzle of grills and the chatter of diners, offering a feast for the senses that lasts well into the night.
Stop 4: “Colorful Guizhou” Cultural Show (2 hours)
As evening falls, we conclude our day with a mesmerizing performance at the Guizhou Grand Theater. “Colorful Guizhou” is a spectacle that celebrates the province’s diverse ethnic tapestry, weaving together ancient customs, modern rhythms, and breathtaking choreography. Through the eyes of a Miao maiden returning to her village, we are transported on a journey of discovery, where tradition meets innovation, and heritage is celebrated with boundless energy and grace.
Cuisine:
For lunch, we indulge in local delights at Qianling Mountain Park, savoring specialties like gao ba rice cakes and refreshing ice jelly. Dinner beckons us to Erqi Road Snack Street, where we feast on succulent pig trotters, fragrant beef noodles, and other culinary delights that have made Guiyang a gastronomic paradise.
Accommodation:
For a comfortable night’s rest, we recommend staying near the Guiyang Railway Station, where convenience meets affordability. With its prime location and excellent amenities, it serves as the perfect base for our Guizhou adventure.
Day 2 Guiyang: Tianhe Pool Scenic Area – Qingyan Ancient Town – Huaxi Park
Stop 1: Tianhe Pool Scenic Area (5 hours)
Our first destination is Tianhe Pool, a hidden gem nestled amidst the rugged terrain of Guizhou. This scenic wonderland, adorned with limestone formations and cascading waterfalls, is a microcosm of Guizhou’s natural splendor. Divided into four main attractions – Calcified Beach Waterfall, Fragrant Pastry Gully, Water Cave Cruise, and Dry Cave Exploration – Tianhe Pool offers a myriad of experiences for the adventurous soul. Visitors can marvel at the beauty of calcified waterfalls, cruise through mystical caves, and even soar above the landscape on a thrilling 400-meter zipline. Nearby ethnic villages beckon with their rustic charm, inviting us to stroll across ancient bridges, witness the rhythm of water mills, and immerse ourselves in the intricate art of Miao embroidery, crafted by skilled hands.
Stop 2: Qingyan Ancient Town (2 hours)
Next, we journey back in time to Qingyan Ancient Town, a living testament to Guizhou’s rich heritage. Founded during the Ming Dynasty as a military stronghold, Qingyan’s labyrinthine streets are adorned with exquisite architecture dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Nine temples, eight shrines, and an array of pavilions and archways stand as silent witnesses to centuries of history. While the main thoroughfare bustles with commerce, it’s the quaint alleyways and hidden courtyards that reveal the town’s true charm. Wander off the beaten path to discover ancient stone bridges, weathered by time, and marvel at the harmonious coexistence of diverse religions, as evidenced by the presence of Christian and Catholic churches alongside traditional temples.
Stop 3: Huaxi Park (2 hours)
Our journey concludes with a visit to Huaxi Park, a verdant oasis brimming with natural beauty and historical intrigue. This ancient park, steeped in history, boasts a riot of colors in every season, with spring flowers and autumnal foliage painting the landscape in hues of gold and crimson. Meandering pathways lead us across the Hundred-Step Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the tranquil Huaxi River. Visitors can leisurely stroll through the park, take a boat ride on the lake, or ascend the gentle slopes for panoramic vistas. For those seeking adventure, tandem bicycles are available for rent, though navigating the park’s numerous bridges may require a bit of lifting and maneuvering.
Cuisine:
For lunch, we indulge in the savory delights of Qingyan Ancient Town, savoring specialties like the renowned Qingyan braised pig trotters and the century-old Wang Mama’s sticky rice cakes. As the day draws to a close, we feast upon the flavors of Huaxi Park, sampling authentic Huaxi beef noodles at Flower Pavilion Road and indulging in Yang Auntie’s famous silk dolls, a delightful snack made from rice flour and assorted vegetables.
Day 3 Anshun: Huangguoshu Waterfalls
Our third day begins with an awe-inspiring journey to Huangguoshu Waterfall, the crown jewel of Guizhou’s natural wonders. From Guiyang’s Jinyang Bus Station, we embark on a scenic two-hour drive to the waterfall, where the ticket to this marvel of nature costs 55 yuan.
Huangguoshu Waterfall is not just a single cascade but a cluster of magnificent falls, with Huangguoshu itself reigning as the largest among them. Named after the abundance of Chinese sweet gum trees in the area, this majestic waterfall is surrounded by towering peaks, lush vegetation, and a landscape sculpted by millennia of geological processes. Here, the rugged beauty of karst topography unfolds, with canyons, caves, and limestone formations dotting the landscape.
Our exploration of the area typically begins at Tianxing Bridge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From there, we proceed to marvel at the grandeur of Huangguoshu Waterfall itself, feeling the spray on our faces as we stand in awe of nature’s power. We then venture to the nearby Doupotang Waterfall, where the shimmering curtain of water served as a backdrop for the iconic scenes in the 1986 television adaptation of “Journey to the West.” It’s a chance to relive the magic of a beloved classic while basking in the enchantment of the cascading waters.
Day 4 Qiandongnan: Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village
Today, we embark on a journey to Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, a captivating enclave that preserves the rich cultural heritage of the Miao ethnic group. Our adventure begins bright and early at 7:30 AM, where we board a convenient direct bus from Guiyang Station Tong Tourism Area, offering a hassle-free commute that takes approximately 2.5 hours and costs 90 yuan per person for a one-way ticket. Alternatively, travelers can opt for the high-speed train from Guiyang North to Kaili South (a 40-minute journey), followed by a bus ride to the village, totaling approximately 2 hours.
Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village is renowned for its pristine preservation of Miao culture, comprising over 10 interconnected natural villages nestled amidst the mountains. It stands as the largest Miao ethnic settlement in China and indeed, the world. Throughout the year, the village hosts vibrant festivals such as the Miao New Year, New Rice Festival, and the once-every-thirteen-years Guzang Festival, drawing visitors from far and wide.
Upon arrival, we partake in the traditional ceremony of drinking “Lanmen Wine” before entering the village. Our first encounter is with the bustling commercial pedestrian street, adorned with exquisite Miao silverware and handicrafts. We have the opportunity to witness captivating Miao dance performances at the performance stage, followed by visits to the Xijiang Miao Village Museum and the Drum Tower.
As evening descends, we immerse ourselves in the enchanting beauty of the village’s nighttime ambiance, savoring an authentic Miao feast featuring delicacies such as Sour Soup Fish and Sour Soup Beef. We retire for the night in local accommodations, filled with the warmth of Miao hospitality and the memories of a day spent exploring the cultural treasures of Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village.
Day 5 Qiannan: Xiaoqikong Scenic Area
Our final day in Guizhou takes us to the picturesque Xiaoqikong Scenic Area, a tranquil haven nestled amidst the peaks and valleys of southern Libo County. We set out from the Miao Village at 8:30 AM, embarking on a convenient direct bus journey to Xiaoqikong. The scenic drive spans approximately 3 hours and costs around 110 yuan per person.
Xiaoqikong Scenic Area derives its name from the iconic Seven-Hole Arch Bridge that spans the murmuring waters of the Xiangshui River. This idyllic retreat seamlessly blends the elements of mountains, water, forests, caves, lakes, and waterfalls, creating a landscape of serene beauty. The allure of the area is further enhanced by the rich cultural heritage of the Tujia and Yao ethnic minorities, adding layers of intrigue to the scenery.
Upon entering through the east gate of the scenic area, visitors can explore the various attractions with the convenience of an electric tram. The suggested route includes visits to the ancient Seven-Hole Bridge, the cascading 68-Level Waterfall, and the ethereal Water Forest, offering picturesque backdrops for photography enthusiasts. Continuing onward, travelers are treated to the enchanting beauty of the Dragon Pond, reminiscent of a scene from a mythical paradise. The grand finale awaits at the breathtaking Mandarin Duck Lake, where the splendor of nature unfolds in all its glory.
At 5:00 PM, we bid farewell to Xiaoqikong as we depart from the west gate’s Visitor Service Center, boarding a direct bus for the return journey to Guiyang. For those with ample time, an overnight stay in the area is an option, allowing for further exploration of the nearby Daqikong Scenic Area the following morning before returning to Guiyang.