Top 5 Must-visit Cities in Guizhou

anywherechina020
Sep 1
5 min read

Updated: Sep 8

Nestled in the heart of southwestern China lies a province of unparalleled natural beauty and cultural depth – Guizhou. Often flying under the radar of international tourists, this hidden gem offers a chance to experience a more authentic and less-trodden side of the country. From the dramatic karst landscapes that have earned it the nickname "the Switzerland of the East" to the vibrant and diverse ethnic minority cultures, Guizhou is a destination that promises adventure, discovery, and a profound connection with both nature and tradition.

Guizhou's topography is a breathtaking masterpiece, dominated by limestone peaks, deep gorges, and an intricate network of underground caves and rivers. This unique karst terrain has sculpted some of China's most iconic natural wonders. The province is also a cultural mosaic, home to a significant population of ethnic minorities, including the Miao, Dong, Bouyei, and Shui people. Their rich traditions, colorful festivals, intricate handicrafts, and distinctive wooden architecture offer a fascinating glimpse into a way of life that has been preserved for centuries.

The climate in Guizhou is generally mild, with a subtropical humid monsoon climate. The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is generally cool and damp.

For the intrepid traveler eager to explore this captivating province, here is a guide to five of its most popular and alluring cities:

1. Guiyang: The Verdant Capital

As the provincial capital, Guiyang serves as the gateway to Guizhou and offers a blend of urban energy and natural tranquility. Known as the "Forest City," Guiyang is surprisingly green, with numerous parks and a pleasant climate.

Jiaxiu Tower: An elegant, three-story tower built on a giant rock in the Nanming River, Jiaxiu Tower is the symbol of Guiyang. Beautifully illuminated at night, it offers picturesque views and a glimpse into the city's history.
Qianling Mountain: A sprawling urban park that combines lush forests, a serene lake, and a renowned Buddhist temple, Hongfu Temple. The park is also famous for its large population of wild macaques, which are a delight to observe (from a safe distance!).
Yelang Valley (Yelang Gu): A mysterious and artistic gorge filled with eccentric stone sculptures, castles, and totems created by artist Song Peilun over 20 years. This fascinating valley blends nature with the whimsical artistry of the ancient Yelang culture, making for an unforgettable visit.

2. Anshun: The Land of Waterfalls and Caves

Anshun is a city blessed with some of Guizhou's most spectacular natural scenery, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.

Huangguoshu Waterfall: Asia's largest and one of the world's most famous waterfalls, Huangguoshu is a thundering spectacle of nature's power. Visitors can walk behind the main curtain of water in the "Water Curtain Cave" for a truly immersive experience.
Tonggudang (Bronze Drum Basin): For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Tonggudang offers a raw, otherworldly landscape. This vast, grassy basin is dotted with unique, dark grey karst formations, creating a scene often compared to an alien planet. It's a fantastic spot for hiking and photography, where you can feel a profound sense of peace amid the strange beauty of the "stone forests" and wandering herds of cattle.
Tianlong Tunpu Ancient Town: Step back 600 years into the Ming Dynasty in this living fortress-village. The "Tunpu" people are descendants of soldiers sent by the first Ming emperor to garrison the frontier. Isolated for centuries, they have preserved the culture, dress, and dialect of their ancestral homeland. Wander the stone-paved alleys, admire the fortress-like homes, and catch a performance of the ancient and dramatic Dixi Opera, a "living fossil" of Chinese theater.

Tonggudang

3. Kaili: A Gateway to Ethnic Minority Culture

Located in the heart of the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, Kaili is the perfect base for exploring the rich and vibrant cultures of the region's ethnic minorities.

Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village: The largest Miao village in China, Xijiang is a breathtaking sight with hundreds of wooden stilt houses cascading down the lush green hillsides. Experience the warm hospitality of the Miao people, witness their traditional song and dance performances, and admire their intricate silverwork and embroidery.
Langde Miao Village: For a more intimate and less commercialized experience, visit Langde. This charming village offers a more authentic glimpse into the daily lives and customs of the Miao people.
Kaili Ethnic Minority Museum: Before venturing into the villages, a visit to this museum provides an excellent overview of the diverse cultures, costumes, and traditions of the various ethnic groups in the region.

Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village

4. Tongren: The Sacred Mountain and Serene Rivers

Tongren, situated in the northeast of Guizhou, is home to a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a blend of spiritual sanctity and natural beauty.

Mount Fanjing (Fanjingshan): A sacred Buddhist mountain renowned for its otherworldly beauty, with unique rock formations, ancient temples perched precariously on its peaks, and a rich biodiversity. The hike to the summit is challenging but rewards with breathtaking panoramic views.
Nine-Dragon Cave (Jiulong Dong): A massive limestone cave system with a stunning collection of stalactites and stalagmites, creating a surreal underground landscape.
Zhenyuan Ancient Town: Though a bit of a journey from Tongren city, this historic town, bisected by the Wuyang River, is well worth the trip. With its ancient bridges, temples, and riverside houses, Zhenyuan exudes a timeless charm, especially when lit up at night.

Mount Fanjing

5. Libo: A World of Karst Wonders

Located in the south of Guizhou, Libo is a county that boasts a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, showcasing some of the world's most stunning and well-preserved karst landscapes.

Xiaoqikong (Small Seven-Arched Bridge) Scenic Area: Often described as a "fairyland on Earth," this area is a stunning tapestry of turquoise rivers, cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and serene lakes. The ancient, moss-covered seven-arched bridge is a picture-perfect spot.
Daqikong (Large Seven-Arched Bridge) Scenic Area: Characterized by its dramatic gorges, towering cliffs, and a large natural bridge, Daqikong offers a more rugged and adventurous experience compared to its more delicate counterpart.
Maolan National Nature Reserve: A pristine and vast karst forest, this reserve is a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering a chance to explore a unique ecosystem with a high level of biodiversity.

Xiaoqikong

Guizhou is a province that will capture your heart and ignite your sense of adventure. It's a journey into a land where nature's artistry is on full display and ancient traditions continue to thrive. So, pack your bags, and get ready to discover the enchanting cities and breathtaking landscapes of this truly remarkable corner of China.