Kaili Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and natural attractions of Kaili, Guizhou, China with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Kaili

Kaili is a prefecture-level city in the southeastern part of Guizhou Province, in China. Known for its unparalleled natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Kaili is a destination that travellers are increasingly drawn to. Kaili is also the capital of the Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, which is home to the Miao and Dong ethnic minorities. This makes Kaili an excellent choice for travellers who are keen on immersing themselves in a different culture.

List of Places to Visit in Kaili

Kaili is an inviting destination with diverse attractions for tourists. Here’s a list of the must-visit places in Kaili:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kaili has several culturally significant museums and historical places, which give visitors an insight into the city’s history and heritage. Some of these include:

  • Kaili Ethnic Museum: The Kaili Ethnic Museum is the largest museum in Guizhou Province, dedicated to the Miao and Dong ethnic minorities. The museum is a modern and interactive space that showcases the cultures, customs, and traditions of the Miao and Dong people.
  • Jidao Miao Village: Jidao Miao Village is a restored ancient village that’s home to the Miao ethnic minority. It features traditional Miao architecture, with wooden houses, bridges, and towers, making it a great place to learn about Miao history, culture, and lifestyle.

Natural Attractions of Kaili: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kaili has several natural attractions where travellers can enjoy scenic views and outdoor adventures, such as:

  • Xijiang Miao Village: The Xijiang Miao Village is often touted as the biggest Miao village in the world. The village sits atop a mountain and offers stunning views of the nearby landscapes. Travellers can also indulge in trekking and hiking to explore the stunning surroundings.
  • Leigongshan National Nature Reserve: Leigongshan National Nature Reserve is a protected area that spans over 200 square kilometers. This reserve is home to several species of animals and plants, some of which are rare and endangered. Travellers can opt for a guided tour to learn more about the flora and fauna in this area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kaili

Kaili has numerous hiking and biking routes that offer a glimpse into rural life in Guizhou. Some popular routes include:

  • Huangguoshu Waterfall Hiking Trail: Huangguoshu Waterfall Hiking Trail is a 3-hour hike that takes travellers to Huangguoshu, the largest waterfall in Asia. The route entails passing through scenic views and natural beauty while learning about local culture and traditions.

Best Things to Do in Kaili: Activities and Tours

Kaili offers a diverse range of activities and tours that travellers can enjoy, such as:

  • Attend a Local Festival: Kaili has various festivals throughout the year that showcase the city’s culture and traditions. Visitors can attend festivals like the Miao New Year and the Dong Song Festival to experience local culture first-hand.
  • Take a Local Cooking Class: Kaili is famous for its unique cuisine. Travellers can learn how to cook local Miao or Dong dishes in a cooking class and taste them afterward.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kaili

Kaili is a city rich in history and culture, and a week is enough to explore its beauty in-depth. Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Kaili:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Kaili Ethnic Museum
Day 2 Jidao Miao Village Excursion
Day 3 Xijiang Miao Village Exploration
Day 4 Leigongshan Nature Reserve Trekking
Day 5 Attend a Local Festival
Day 6 Local Cooking Class
Day 7 Huangguoshu Waterfall Hiking Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Kaili

In Kaili, you’ll find a varied menu full of unique flavours and ingredients specific to Guizhou Province. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Kaili:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sour Soup Fish: Sour Soup Fish is a popular Miao cuisine that is cooked in a clay pot with fresh chili peppers and sour vegetables. It’s the ideal meal to warm you up on a chilly day.
  • Dong Sour Rice: Dong Sour Rice is a fermented rice dish that is well-liked by the Dong people. It is served at their festivals and celebrations and is considered a delicacy.

Local Beverages

  • Rice Wine: Rice wine is a popular local beverage in Kaili that is made from fermented glutinous rice. The wine is light-bodied with a sweet flavour and can be enjoyed either hot or cold.
  • Liangcha: Liangcha is a refreshing herbal tea that is served cold. It helps cool the body down on a hot summer’s day and promotes good digestion.

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

Kaili has a choice of comfortable and affordable accommodation options. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Grand Metro Park Kaili Hotel: Grand Metro Park Kaili Hotel is a top-rated hotel that is conveniently located in the city centre. The hotel features modern amenities and excellent service.
  • Café Inn Hostel: Café Inn Hostel is a welcoming and cosy hostel that provides guests with a comfortable stay. The hostel features unique decor and a relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

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

Kaili has several handicrafts and local products that make for excellent souvenirs. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Embroidery: Kaili is famous for its embroidery work that showcases traditional designs and vibrant colours.
  • Musical Instruments: The Miao and Dong people are known for their musical talent. Travellers can buy traditional musical instruments like the lusheng or the suona to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kaili

Kaili’s local culture and customs are a blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, making Kaili a unique place to visit. Here are some of the customs and beliefs that you might come across during your visit:

  • Miao and Dong Festivals: The Miao and Dong people have several festivals throughout the year, and these are the best times to experience their culture firsthand. The festivals feature colourful parades, traditional dances, and music performances.
  • Dragon Boat Racing: Dragon Boat racing is a sport that the Dong people are passionate about. Visitors can witness this exciting event and even participate in some of the races.

Best Time to Visit Kaili

The best time to visit Kaili is from March to June and September to November when the weather is mild, and there is a low chance of rainfall. The peak tourist season coincides with the Miao New Year in February, making it a busy time for Kaili’s hotels and attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kaili

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Kaili:

Do:

  • Respect Local Traditions: Kaili is a city of traditions and customs, and it’s crucial to respect them. Pay attention to the way locals dress and behave and follow local etiquette.
  • Try the Local Cuisine: Guizhou cuisine is unique and delicious, and you shouldn’t leave Kaili without trying some of it.
  • Learn Some Basic Mandarin: Mandarin is the most widely spoken language in China, and it’s helpful to know some basic words and phrases to communicate with locals.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the Local Culture: Kaili has a rich culture and heritage, and it’s essential to respect it. Don’t take pictures of people without their consent or wear traditional clothes without understanding their significance.
  • Litter: Littering is a serious offense in China, and Kaili is no exception. Keep the streets clean and dispose of trash appropriately.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kaili

Kaili is a relatively safe city for travellers. However, it’s always important to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. Pickpocketing and theft can occur in crowded areas, so keep valuables safe and be mindful of your surroundings.

Health in Kaili

Kaili’s tap water is not safe to drink, so make sure to drink bottled water. The city is also susceptible to air pollution, so wear a mask on days with high pollution levels. Visitors need to be aware of sunstroke and take precautions, such as wearing a hat and staying hydrated.

Getting to Kaili: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kaili

Kaili’s nearest international airport is Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport, which is around 3 hours away by road.

Bus Stations Near Kaili

Kaili has several bus stations that service the city, making it an affordable and convenient option for travellers. The most popular bus station is Kaili Bus Station.

Other Options

Travellers can also opt for trains or private cars to reach Kaili. Guizhou’s railway network connects it to major cities in China, making it a popular option for long-distance travel.

How to Get Around in Kaili

The most efficient way to get around Kaili is by taxi, which is relatively inexpensive. Other modes of transport are buses and motorbikes for hire.

Where to Go Next from Kaili: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that travellers can reach from Kaili, such as:

  • Guiyang: Guiyang is the capital city of Guizhou Province, only a few hours away from Kaili. It’s a bustling city, featuring ancient temples, bustling markets, and breathtaking natural scenery.
  • Zhenyuan Ancient Town: The Zhenyuan Ancient Town is a well-preserved town situated on the Wuyang River. It’s a place of historical significance, featuring 2400 years of history and was once an important trade hub for Silk Road traders.

Conclusion

Kaili, with its diverse attractions, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, is a destination well worth a visit. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan and customize your itinerary for an unforgettable experience in this alluring city.

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