Guiyang Travel Guide

Explore Guiyang, China with this comprehensive tourist guide. Discover tourist attractions, cultural landmarks, outdoor activities, food scene, local customs, transportation options and more.


Introduction to Guiyang

Guiyang is the capital of Guizhou Province in Southwest China. The city is located in the middle of the Guizhou Plateau and is surrounded by mountains and forests. Guiyang is also known as ‘City of Forests’ because of its picturesque natural surroundings. The city is a popular tourist destination filled with natural scenic spots, historical remains, and culturally significant attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Guiyang

Guiyang offers a wide range of tourist attractions, including culturally important landmarks, natural attractions, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top places to visit in Guiyang.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Guiyang is home to a rich cultural heritage that can be explored through its museums and historical places. Here are some must-visit cultural attractions in Guiyang:

  • Guiyang Ecological Civilization Museum: This museum showcases Guiyang’s efforts to balance economic development with ecological conservation.
  • Qianling Hill Park: A historic park that provides a panoramic view of Guiyang. It’s a perfect spot to explore the local history, culture, and natural beauty.
  • Jiaxiu Tower: The tower is situated in the center of Guiyang and is considered a symbol of the city. It dates back to the Ming Dynasty and provides a beautiful view of the Nanming River.
  • Hongfu Temple: Located on the Qianling Mountain, Hongfu temple is one of the largest Buddhist temples in China. The temple offers visitors an unforgettable experience of Chinese Buddhism.

Natural Attractions of Guiyang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Guiyang is a city surrounded by green mountains and clear waters with a diverse range of natural landscapes. Here are some natural attractions in Guiyang:

  • Nanjiang Canyon: The Nanjiang Canyon is located in the eastern suburbs of Guiyang and features a beautiful valley landscape with clear waterfalls, bamboo forests, and rapids.
  • Huaxi Park: Also known as the West Hill Scenic Area, Huaxi Park is a popular recreational area with features such as gardens, waterfalls, and museums.
  • Qingyan Ancient Town: It is a famous ancient town near Guiyang, with a history of over 600 years. It offers visitors an insight into traditional Chinese architecture and culture.
  • Qinglong Lake Scenic Area: This is a beautiful scenic area located in the southeast of Guiyang. It offers a picturesque natural environment with clean water, fish, and stunning mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guiyang

For adventure lovers, Guiyang offers miles of hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes in Guiyang:

  • Qinglong Lake Hiking Trail: The trail offers a beautiful view of Qinglong Lake and the surrounding mountainous scenery. It’s an excellent option for hiking or cycling.
  • Wudang Scenic Hiking Trail: Situated in the east of Guiyang, the Wudang Scenic Hiking Trail is a beautiful combination of unique stones and natural landscapes.
  • Qingyan Ancient Town Walking Route: Visitors can take a tour of the ancient town and explore the culture and history of the region on this walking route.

Best Things to Do in Guiyang: Activities and Tours

Guiyang offers a variety of fun activities and exciting tours. Here are some must-do activities in Guiyang:

  • Taste the local cuisine: Guiyang’s cuisine includes spicy and sour flavors, such as sour soup fish and spicy hot pot. We recommend trying these dishes for an authentic Guiyang dining experience.
  • Visit Guiyang Night Market: One of the biggest night markets in China. Guiyang Night Market offers a unique Huaxi-style street food experience.
  • Take a Kung Fu lesson: Guiyang is the birthplace of Kung Fu. Visitors can learn the art of Kung Fu from local experts.
  • Enjoy the local culture: Visitors can enjoy traditional performances, including folk songs, dance, and ethnic culture shows.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guiyang

Here’s a suggested seven-day itinerary for visitors who want to explore Guiyang in-depth:

Day Activity
1 Visit Jiaxiu Tower, Hongfu Temple, and Guiyang Ecological Civilization Museum
2 Hiking on Qinglong Lake Hiking Trail
3 Explore Huaxi Park, Ten- Thousand-Garden, and Flower Show Park
4 Visit Qingyan Ancient Town and its surrounding attractions
5 Enjoy the local cuisine and Guiyang Night Market
6 Explore Wudang Scenic Hiking Trail
7 Take a Kung Fu lesson and or relax at Qinglong Mountain Hot Springs

Food and Drink Scene of Guiyang

Guiyang cuisine consists of a wide range of flavors and is famous for its sour and spicy dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and the best places to find them in Guiyang:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sour soup fish: This is a signature dish of Guiyang. Sour soup fish is a spicy, delicious soup made with fresh fish, pickled vegetables, and chili peppers.
  • Spicy hotpot: Known as “malatang” in China, spicy hotpot is a dish made with various meat and vegetables cooked in a spicy broth.
  • Zhong dumplings: Zhong dumplings are Guiyang’s traditional food, stuffed with meat or sweet fillings.
  • Rice noodles: Guiyang rice noodles are similar to pho in Vietnam and are available in beef, pork, and chicken flavors.

Local Beverages

  • Maotai Liquor: Maotai is made locally in the province of Guizhou and is a traditional Chinese alcoholic beverage. It’s said to be the best liquor in China.
  • Wuyanghe Beer: Wuyanghe Beer is a famous beer in Guiyang with a unique taste and smoothness.
  • Qianhu Moutai Wine: A type of Chinese wine that originates from the province of Guizhou. It has a unique fragrance and rich taste.

Where to Stay in Guiyang: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Guiyang offers plenty of accommodation options for visitors, from luxurious hotels to budget guesthouses. Below are some recommended options:

  • Hyatt Regency Guiyang: Located in the city center, this five-star hotel offers luxury amenities, including a heated indoor pool, fitness center, and spa.
  • Guiyang Echarm Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel located in the bustling downtown area of Guiyang. It has clean and comfortable rooms, as well as a restaurant and tour desk.
  • Leohomestay: A guesthouse located on the banks of the Nanming River. It offers a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views of the river.

What to Buy in Guiyang: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Guiyang offers a variety of unique and authentic souvenirs for visitors. Here are some local products tourists can purchase as souvenirs:

  • Maotai Liquor: One of Guiyang’s most famous products, available in various brands and sizes.
  • Batik: A traditional fabric-dyeing process originating from the Miao ethnic group in Guizhou. Visitors can purchase some batik fabrics as souvenirs.
  • Chrysanthemum tea: Guiyang’s chrysanthemum tea is of high quality and has a fragrant aroma. Visitors can buy it as a gift or souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Guiyang

Guiyang is a city with diverse and rich cultural heritage. Here are some local customs and traditions visitors should be aware of:

  • Miao Ethnic Minority Culture: The Miao ethnic minority is prevalent in Guizhou. They have their unique festivals and traditions, featuring colorful costumes, songs, and dances.
  • Guiyang Kung Fu: Guiyang is the birthplace of Kung Fu, and the city has a long history of martial arts.
  • Respect for ancestors: Guiyang locals place high importance on family values and their ancestors. Visitors should respect this cultural practice when visiting.

Best Time to Visit Guiyang

The best time to visit Guiyang is from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant. During this period, Guiyang is at its peak season for tourist activities, including outdoor adventures and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guiyang

Here are some do’s and don’ts while visiting Guiyang:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine: Guiyang cuisine is delicious, and visitors should try the local dishes.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: Guiyang locals are proud of their customs and traditions. Visitors should respect their cultural practices and traditions.
  • Bring your own bottle of water: Visitors should carry a bottle of water while exploring outdoor attractions.

Don’t:

  • Touch or disturb local ethnic minorities: Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions, especially when visiting the ethnic minorities in Guiyang.
  • Speak loudly or use inappropriate language: Visitors should refrain from using inappropriate language or speaking loudly in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Guiyang

Guiyang is a safe city for visitors. However, visitors should take necessary precautions, such as following traffic rules and avoiding suspicious areas. Also, take care of your belongings while visiting crowded areas.

Health in Guiyang

Guiyang has clean and safe water and clean air. However, visitors should take care of their health by drinking clean water, wearing sunscreen, and following hygiene practices.

Getting to Guiyang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Guiyang is well connected to other cities in China. Visitors can reach Guiyang through various transportation options.

Airports Near Guiyang

  • Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport
  • Zunyi Xinzhou Airport

Bus Stations Near Guiyang

  • Guiyang Bus Station: Located in the city center, it provides various bus services to nearby cities and towns.
  • Guiyang North Bus Station: Located in Guanshanhu District, it provides long-distance bus services to destinations across China.

Other Options

  • High-Speed Train: Guiyang has a high-speed train network that connects it to other cities in China.
  • Taxi: Visitors can find taxis easily in Guiyang. However, travellers should make sure to take licensed taxis.

How to Get Around in Guiyang

Guiyang has a public transportation system that includes buses, subway, and taxis. However, the subway system has few lines, and visitors are advised to use buses or taxis. Visitors can also rent cars or bicycles to explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Guiyang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Guiyang is a gateway to some of China’s most beautiful places. Here are some recommended destinations for visitors who want to explore beyond Guiyang:

  • Huangguoshu Waterfall: Located in Anshun City, Huangguoshu Waterfall is one of the biggest waterfalls in China.
  • Zunyi Conference Memorial Hall: A historic site commemorating the Zunyi Conference, a critical meeting of the Communist Party of China.
  • Kaili: A tribal city located in the southeast of Guizhou Province, Kaili is home to Miao and Dong ethnic tribes and offers visitors an insight into their unique culture.

Conclusion

Guiyang is a city that offers a broad range of tourist attractions, from natural scenic spots to culturally significant landmarks. Visitors can explore the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Additionally, Guiyang’s unique cuisine, local customs, and traditions provide visitors with an unforgettable experience.