Unveiling Guiyang（贵阳）: A Vibrant Fusion of Scenery, Tradition, and Taste
Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province（贵州省） in southwest China, is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and ethnic diversity. Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Southwest,” Guiyang offers visitors a mix of modern urban life and traditional cultural experiences.
The city is surrounded by lush mountains, serene rivers, and picturesque waterfalls, making it a haven for nature lovers. The nearby Huangguoshu Waterfall, one of the largest in China, is a must-see attraction, along with the scenic Nanming River and Qingyan Ancient Town, which showcases the region’s historical architecture.
Guiyang is also home to diverse ethnic minorities, including the Miao and Dong, which adds unique cultural flavors to the city. Travelers can explore local markets, try traditional Guizhou cuisine like sour soup and rice noodles, and experience colorful festivals.
The Places You Absolutely Must Visit
Huangguoshu Waterfall Scenic Area （黄果树瀑布）
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Huangguoshu Waterfall Scenic Area has 3 parts: Huangguoshu Waterfall Area, Tianxing Bridge Area,Doupotang Area.It located in Anshun City, Guizhou Province, is a must-see destination renowned for its majestic waterfall, which is the largest in China. The main attraction, Huangguoshu Waterfall, stands at 77.8 meters tall and 101 meters wide, offering a dramatic display of nature’s power. Visitors can view the waterfall from various platforms, including the iconic Water-Curtain Cave, where they can walk behind the cascading water for a unique perspective.
Beyond the main waterfall, the scenic area also features Shuicheng Waterfall, a smaller but equally picturesque cascade, and Xiaozhai Valley, a peaceful area perfect for nature walks. The Dragon’s Head Rock offers panoramic views of the falls from a closer vantage point. The Huangguoshu Waterfall Cultural Park allows visitors to learn about the local ethnic traditions, particularly those of the Miao people. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Huangguoshu Waterfall is a remarkable natural wonder that offers something for every traveler.
Tianxing Bridge Area（天星桥）
Tianxing Bridge Area is famous for its striking natural beauty and unique geological features. The main attraction is the Tianxing Bridge, a natural stone bridge formed over millions of years by erosion. The bridge spans a gorge, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including lush forests and crystal-clear streams.
Visitors can hike along scenic trails that lead to various viewpoints, providing excellent photo opportunities of the stone bridge and its stunning surroundings. The Tianxing Bridge is not just a marvel of nature, but also an important part of the local culture and history. The area is rich in biodiversity, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
The Tianxing Bridge Area is also known for its tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from the busier areas of the region. Visitors can enjoy the serene environment, relax by the streams, and appreciate the harmony between nature and the ancient stone formations. Whether you’re exploring the gorge, hiking the trails, or simply enjoying the views, the Tianxing Bridge Area is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Guizhou region.
Doupotang Area（陡坡塘）
The Doupotang Area is known for its stunning landscape, which combines waterfalls, rapids, and lush greenery. One of the key features of the area is the Doupotang Waterfall, a beautiful cascade that drops dramatically into a tranquil pool below. The waterfall’s scenic surroundings create a serene atmosphere, perfect for photography, relaxation, and nature walks.
In addition to the waterfall, the Doupotang Area is famous for its unique geographical features, including Karst formations, caves, and rock formations, which add to the area’s natural allure. The Doupotang River winds through the area, offering visitors the opportunity for boat rides along its calm waters, surrounded by striking landscapes.
The area is also home to rich biodiversity, with diverse plant species and wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The Doupotang Area offers visitors the chance to explore less crowded areas, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience a quieter side of Guizhou’s natural beauty. Overall, the Doupotang Area is a hidden gem that provides a unique and peaceful escape into nature’s wonders.
Qianling Mountain Park（黔灵山公园）
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Qianling Mountain Park is a beautiful and historic park located in Guiyang, Guizhou Province. The park, covering over 2,300 acres, is known for its lush greenery, scenic trails, and tranquil environment, making it a perfect place for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature. At the heart of the park lies Qianling Mountain, offering stunning panoramic views of Guiyang city. The park is also home to the Qianling Temple, a significant cultural site with a rich history dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
One of the park’s main attractions is the Qianling Lake, where visitors can relax by the water and enjoy boating. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy seeing monkeys that inhabit the area, adding a playful touch to the natural beauty. The Wang’s Pavilion, located atop the mountain, provides an excellent vantage point for panoramic views. Overall, Qianling Mountain Park is a peaceful escape that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities.
Jiaxiu Tower（甲秀楼）
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Jiaxiu Tower is an iconic landmark located in Guiyang, Guizhou Province. Situated by the Nanming River, the tower has a history dating back to the Ming Dynasty and is renowned for its stunning architecture. The structure is made of wood and stands on a bridge that crosses the river, creating a beautiful reflection in the water below.
The tower’s name, “Jiaxiu,” means “scholar’s excellence,” symbolizing the region’s cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Guiyang city from the top of the tower, and it is a popular spot for photography, especially at sunset. The surrounding park is peaceful, with gardens and a lake, making it a perfect place to relax. Jiaxiu Tower is an excellent representation of the region’s traditional architecture and cultural significance, attracting both tourists and locals who admire its beauty and historical importance.
Guizhou Provincial Museum（贵州省博物馆）
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Guizhou Provincial Museum is a must-visit destination in Guiyang, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Guizhou. One of the museum’s highlights is its impressive collection of ethnic minority artifacts, representing the diverse cultures of the province’s indigenous groups, including the Miao, Dong, and Yi people.
The museum houses intricate costumes, jewelry, musical instruments, and handicrafts that showcase the artistic talents and traditional craftsmanship of these communities. It offers visitors an immersive experience into the daily life, customs, and ceremonies of Guizhou’s ethnic minorities. The museum also displays ancient pottery, bronze artifacts, and other relics that highlight the region’s historical significance. With its educational exhibits and vibrant displays, the Guizhou Provincial Museum offers valuable insights into the province’s ethnic diversity, history, and culture, making it a key cultural attraction in the area.
Foods in Guiyang
Guiyang Cuisine is known for its bold flavors and spicy dishes, influenced by the local culture and climate. The cuisine often features sour, spicy, and savory ingredients. Chili peppers, fermented foods, and pickled vegetables are staples, giving the food a tangy and spicy kick. Rice and noodles are common, and the use of fresh herbs and spices adds a vibrant touch to every dish. Guizhou cuisine also incorporates various ethnic minority traditions, offering unique dishes like sour fish soup and miao-style rice cakes, making it a true reflection of the region’s diverse culture.
Siwawa (丝娃娃)
Siwawa (丝娃娃) is a popular street food in Guiyang, known for its unique combination of ingredients and refreshing taste. It consists of thin rice noodles topped with a mix of fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrots, and bean sprouts. The noodles are then drizzled with a spicy, tangy sauce made from chili oil, vinegar, and fermented soybeans. It’s often served cold, making it a perfect dish for hot summer days. Siwawa is loved for its balance of textures and flavors, offering a refreshing, flavorful experience that’s both satisfying and light.
Laoguo (烙锅)
Laoguo (烙锅) is a traditional Guizhou dish, featuring a sizzling hot pot with various meats and vegetables cooked in a flavorful broth. The pot is heated to a high temperature, and the ingredients are placed in the pot to cook, creating a satisfying mix of savory and spicy flavors. The ingredients often include beef, lamb, and a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, cabbage, and potatoes. The broth is rich and spicy, and diners can customize the dish by adding condiments like chili oil, garlic, and soy sauce, making it a highly interactive and customizable meal.
Guìyáng Làzǐ Jī (贵阳辣子鸡)
Guìyáng Làzǐ Jī (贵阳辣子鸡) is a famous dish from Guizhou, China, known for its bold, spicy, and numbing flavors. Originating from Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou, this dish features bite-sized chicken pieces stir-fried with an abundance of dried chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, and ginger. The chicken is first deep-fried to achieve a crispy texture, then quickly stir-fried to absorb the fragrant spices. Unlike Sichuan-style spicy chicken, Guiyang Lazi Ji has a more complex taste, blending the heat of chili peppers with the distinctive numbing sensation of local peppercorns. It is often served with scallions and sesame seeds, enhancing its aroma. This dish is a staple in Guizhou cuisine and pairs perfectly with a cold beer or steamed rice. It reflects the region’s love for spicy food and is a must-try for those who enjoy fiery, flavorful dishes.
Duoduo Fen (夺夺粉)
Duoduo Fen (夺夺粉) is a distinctive dish from Guizhou, characterized by its thin rice noodles served in a spicy, aromatic broth. The dish is typically served with a variety of toppings such as pickled vegetables, chili oil, garlic, and sometimes pickled pork. The broth is intensely flavorful, with a mix of sour, spicy, and savory notes that reflect the bold flavors of Guizhou cuisine. Duoduo Fen is often enjoyed as a snack or light meal and is a favorite among locals for its satisfying taste and complex blend of spices that pack a punch in every bite.
Transportation about Guiyang & Huangguoshu Waterfall
Guiyang Transportation is well-developed, offering a variety of options for getting around the city and beyond. The city has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and a subway network, which makes traveling within Guiyang convenient and affordable. The metro system, with several lines in operation, connects major areas like the city center, the railway station, and the airport. For a more comfortable and direct journey, taxis and ride-hailing services like Didi are also widely available. Guiyang’s road network is well-maintained, and traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours, so it’s best to plan accordingly. The city is also well-connected by train and long-distance buses to other regions of China.
To reach Huangguoshu Waterfall from Guiyang, there are several transport options. The most common method is by bus, with daily services running from Guiyang’s long-distance bus station to the Huangguoshu area. The journey takes about 2-3 hours. Alternatively, tourists can take a high-speed train to Anshun, the nearest city to Huangguoshu, and then transfer to a local bus or taxi for a short ride to the waterfall. If you prefer more convenience, private tours or taxis can be arranged directly from Guiyang, providing a more direct and comfortable experience.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Guiyang is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flowers, while autumn offers beautiful golden foliage. The summer months (June to August) can be hot and humid, with occasional rainfall, while winter (December to February) is generally cold but not harsh, making it less popular for tourists.
When visiting Guiyang, it’s important to note that the city sits at a high altitude, so be prepared for cooler evenings, even in summer. Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring its hilly streets and scenic areas. It’s also a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat, as the region experiences frequent rainfall, especially in the summer months. Finally, try the local food, but be cautious with spicy dishes if you’re not accustomed to hot food!
A 3-day travel itinerary
Day 1: Huangguoshu Waterfall Scenic Area
Morning: Visit the Huangguoshu Waterfall (黄果树瀑布)
•Start your day early to visit the iconic Huangguoshu Waterfall, the largest waterfall in China.
•Duration: 2-3 hours.
•Explore the waterfall’s main viewing area, where you can see the magnificent 77.8-meter-high falls, surrounded by lush greenery.
•For a close-up view, visit the Waterfall Viewing Platform or take the Shuilian Cave walk, which allows you to stand behind the waterfall.
Late Morning: Tianxing Bridge Scenic Area (天星桥景区)
•Afterward, head to the Tianxing Bridge, a picturesque area known for its stone arch bridge, cave formations, and serene lakes.
•Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
•Walk along the peaceful paths, visit the caves, and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area. The landscape here is especially unique with its combination of karst mountains and water features.
Lunch: Local Restaurant
•Enjoy a local lunch in a restaurant nearby, perhaps trying dishes like sour fish soup or fermented rice.
Afternoon: Doupotang Waterfall (陡坡塘景区)
•In the afternoon, visit the Doupotang Waterfall, a quieter but equally beautiful waterfall located a short drive from the main falls.
•Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
•The Doupotang Waterfall is smaller but offers picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere.
•After exploring, take a short walk around the scenic area or relax by the surrounding streams.
Evening: Return to Guiyang
•After a full day of exploring, return to Guiyang. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps sampling Guiyang’s famous spicy hotpot.
Day 2: Explore Guiyang’s Culture and Nature
Morning: Visit the Qianling Park（黔灵山公园）
•Start with a visit to Qianling Park, a scenic park famous for its mountain views, temples, and monkeys.
•Duration: 2-3 hours.
Afternoon: Visit Jiaxiu Tower（甲秀楼） and Guizhou Provincial Museum（贵州省博物馆）
•In the afternoon, explore Jiaxiu Tower and the Guizhou Provincial Museum for a taste of local history and culture.
Day 3: Guizhou’s Ethnic Minorities and Traditional Experiences
Morning: Experience Ethnic Minority Culture
•Spend your morning exploring ethnic minority villages around Guiyang, where you can experience traditional crafts and clothing.
Afternoon: Explore Local Markets and Try Local Dishes
•In the afternoon, visit Guiyang’s bustling local markets and try more local specialties such as Sour Fish Soup and Dongpo Tofu.
The city’s mild climate makes it a year-round destination, while its bustling street markets, lively parks, and rich history provide a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery for any traveler. Whether exploring nature, culture, or food, Guiyang offers something for everyone.
