Guizhou, A Hidden Gem
Guizhou, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of southwestern China, is a province often overlooked by travelers in favor of more famous destinations👀Guizhou is located in southwestern China, covering an area of approximately 176,100 square kilometers (about 68,000 square miles). To put that into perspective, it’s roughly the size of England. However, unlike the relatively flat landscapes of England, Guizhou is known for its rugged terrain, with mountains and karst landscapes dominating much of its scenery.
In terms of population, Guizhou is home to about 38 million people. This population is comparable to that of Poland in Europe. Despite its size and population, Guizhou remains one of China’s lesser-explored regions, offering vast natural beauty and cultural diversity with far fewer tourists than more popular Chinese destinations.
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Guiyang
Guiyang, the provincial capital of Guizhou, is often the starting point for travelers exploring the region. Known as the “Forest City,” Guiyang boasts a pleasant climate, lush greenery, and a vibrant urban atmosphere. The city is also famous for its spicy local cuisine, especially sour fish soup.
Main Attractions
- Jiaxiu Tower: A historic pavilion on the Nanming River, symbolizing Guiyang. It’s especially picturesque at night when illuminated.
- Qingyan Ancient Town: A well-preserved Ming Dynasty town with stone-paved streets, ancient buildings, and temples, offering a journey back in time.
- Qianling Mountain Park: A lush urban park home to wild monkeys, beautiful temples, and a serene lake, ideal for nature lovers.
Zunyi
Zunyi is a city with deep historical significance, particularly in the context of the Communist Party of China. The Zunyi Conference Site, where a critical meeting during the Long March was held, is a must-visit for history buffs. Beyond its revolutionary history, Zunyi is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, such as Chishui Danxia, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its striking red sandstone formations.
Main Attractions
- Chishui Danxia Tourism Area: A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its striking red sandstone formations, bamboo forests, and waterfalls.
- Maotai Town: The birthplace of the renowned Maotai liquor, offering tours of distilleries and insights into the liquor-making process.
- Wujiang Village: A scenic village by the Wujiang River, offering beautiful landscapes and traditional architecture.
Liupanshui
Known as the “Cool City,” Liupanshui is a popular summer retreat due to its cool climate. It is surrounded by majestic mountains and karst landscapes. Wanfenglin Scenic Area offers incredible karst formations and is ideal for hiking and photography. The city is also close to Yushe National Forest Park, which is perfect for nature lovers.
Main Attractions
- Wumeng Prairie: A vast grassland offering panoramic views, perfect for experiencing traditional nomadic culture.
- Shuicheng Ancient Town: A historical town with ancient architecture and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Meihua Mountain Scenic Area: Known for its beautiful plum blossoms, mountain views, and serene hiking trails.
Anshun
Anshun is home to some of Guizhou’s most iconic attractions. Huangguoshu Waterfall, one of the largest waterfalls in China, is the main draw, offering breathtaking views and a thrilling walkway behind the cascading water. The nearby Dragon Palace Cave is another highlight, featuring impressive karst formations and an underground river. Anshun also offers a glimpse into the traditional culture of the Buyi ethnic group.
Main Attractions
- Huangguoshu Waterfall: The largest waterfall in China, offering breathtaking views and a unique walkway behind the falls.
- Tianlong Tunpu: A village with well-preserved Ming Dynasty architecture and the unique “Dixi” opera, a local cultural performance.
- Getu River: Known for its stunning karst landscapes, including the dramatic Getu Arch and an underground river.
Bijie
Bijie is the gateway to Zhijin Cave, one of the most spectacular karst caves in China, with enormous chambers filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The city is also close to the Caohai Lake, a national nature reserve famous for bird watching, particularly the black-necked cranes. Bijie’s diverse landscapes make it a great destination for eco-tourism.
Main Attractions
- Zhijin Cave: One of China’s most magnificent karst caves, featuring vast chambers adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
- Shexiang Ancient Town: A town with rich ethnic culture, home to the Yi people, showcasing traditional life and architecture.
- Baili Rhododendron: A scenic area known for its vast rhododendron forests, which bloom vibrantly in spring.
Tongren
Tongren is known for its rich ethnic culture and beautiful natural scenery. Fanjing Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the main attraction here, revered for its striking peaks, dense forests, and biodiversity. The mountain is also a sacred site in Buddhism. Visitors can explore the unique mushroom-shaped peaks and the ancient temples perched on top.
Main Attractions
- Fanjing Mountain: A UNESCO World Heritage site revered for its unique peaks, ancient temples, and biodiversity.
- Zhongnanmen Ancient City: A well-preserved city gate complex reflecting the historical architecture of the region.
- Yunshe Village: A traditional Tujia ethnic village known for its stilted houses and rich cultural heritage.
Qiandongnan (Southeast Guizhou)
Qiandongnan is a prefecture rather than a single city, renowned for its vibrant ethnic minority cultures, particularly the Miao and Dong people. The region is dotted with traditional villages like Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village and Zhaoxing Dong Village, where visitors can experience local festivals, music, dance, and ancient wooden architecture. The stunning terraced fields and lush valleys make Qiandongnan a picturesque destination.
Main Attractions
- Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village: The largest Miao village in China, offering an immersive experience into Miao culture, traditional wooden houses, and vibrant festivals.
- Zhenyuan Ancient Town: A historic town blending Han and Miao cultures, known for its picturesque architecture and serene atmosphere.
- Zhaoxing Dong Village: A large Dong ethnic village, renowned for its drum towers, wind and rain bridges, and traditional music performances.
Qiannan (South Guizhou)
Qiannan is another prefecture known for its ethnic diversity and natural beauty. Libo County within Qiannan is home to the Libo Zhangjiang Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its karst forests, waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers. The Daqikong and Xiaoqikong Scenic Areas are particularly popular for their beautiful bridges, caves, and peaceful landscapes.
Main Attractions
- Libo Xiaoqikong (7 Small Arches) Scenic Area: A UNESCO-listed site known for its karst landscapes, clear rivers, lush forests, and ancient stone bridges.
- Duyun Qinhan Film and Television City: A popular tourist site that recreates the grandeur of Qin and Han Dynasty architecture, often used as a film set.
- China Sky Eye (FAST): The world’s largest radio telescope, located in Pingtang County, offering a unique insight into modern astronomy.
Qianxinan (Southwest Guizhou)
Qianxinan, located in the southwestern part of Guizhou, is known for its rugged mountains and ethnic diversity. The Maling River Canyon is a major attraction, featuring steep cliffs, waterfalls, and adventurous trails. The Wanfenglin (Forest of Ten Thousand Peaks) in Xingyi offers spectacular karst landscapes, ideal for photography and hiking. Qianxinan is also a cultural hub for the Buyi and Miao people, with rich traditions and festivals.
Main Attractions
- Maling River Gorge: Known as the “Earth’s Scar,” this dramatic gorge features towering cliffs, waterfalls, and adventurous hiking trails.
- Wanfenglin: A scenic area with thousands of karst peaks, offering breathtaking views and excellent photography opportunities.
- Buyi Ancient Village: A village that showcases the traditional lifestyle, architecture, and customs of the Buyi ethnic group.
The Guizhou Deals We Found
Look what we have just found: Trip.com is offering a “Unique Summer Adventures” campaign in Guizhou, China, featuring discounted flights, hotels, and tours across nine cities including Guiyang, Zunyi, Anshun, and more. Highlights include visits to famous attractions like Huangguoshu Waterfall, Tianlong Tunpu, and Mount Fanjing, as well as special offers on local experiences such as exploring ancient towns and scenic areas. The promotion includes both round-trip flights from various international cities and hotel deals with discounts and free cancellation options🤩
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