Guizhou Travel Guide

Guizhou Travel Guide, How to Plan a Guizhou Trip

Nora Zheng
750 Words/3 Minutes, By Nora Zheng, Updated June 16, 2023

Guizhou is a province in Southwest China that is known for its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and unique cuisine. It is bordered by Yunnan to the west, Sichuan to the northwest, Hunan(Zhangjiajie) to the northeast, and Guangxi(Guilin) to the southeast.

The region is famous for its karst landscapes, which are characterized by towering peaks, deep valleys, and cave systems. It is also home to many ethnic minority groups, each with its own distinct customs, traditions, and languages.

Guizhou Brief History

Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC): Guizhou became part of the Qin Empire during the Warring States period. The Qin Emperor ordered the construction of the Great Wall and a network of roads and canals in Guizhou.

Tang Dynasty (618-907): Guizhou became an important military stronghold during the Tang Dynasty. The region was ruled by various ethnic minority groups, such as the Tujia and Miao people.

Ming Dynasty (1368-1644): Guizhou became a province during the Ming Dynasty. The Ming government established several military garrisons and administrative centers in Guizhou to strengthen its control over the region.

Qing Dynasty (1644-1912): Guizhou was a key battleground during the Qing Dynasty, as various ethnic minority groups rebelled against the imperial government. The Qing government suppressed the rebellions and established a system of "civilizing the border areas" to assimilate the local people into Chinese culture.

Weather, the best time to visit

Research the best time to visit Guizhou based on the weather and any festivals or events taking place during your desired travel dates.

The best time to visit the Guizhou area would be during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. During the summer, the area can get quite hot and humid, while the winter can be cold and dry.

The best time and seasons to visit »

Attractions, what must visit

Guizhou, is famous for its stunning natural scenery, diverse ethnic culture, and well-preserved ancient architecture. Some of the top attractions to visit include the Huangguoshu Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Asia, the Miao Village of Xijiang, known as the "Miao Ethnic Village," which features unique stilted houses, vibrant festivals, and colorful costumes, and the Fanjing Mountain National Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts rare and endemic species of plants and animals, breathtaking views, and ancient Buddhist temples.

In addition, exploring the ethnic villages of Guizhou, such as the Dong Village of Zhaoxing, the Buyi Village of Qingman, and the Yi Village of Matang, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local customs, traditions, and way of life of various ethnic groups in China.

Top attractions and ethnic minorities in Guizhou »

Food, what and where to eat

Guizhou cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, incorporating unique ingredients such as sour pickled vegetables, fermented black beans, and hot chili peppers to create dishes such as sour fish soup, spicy diced chicken with peanuts, and rice noodles with spicy minced pork.

Food and restaurants in Guizhou »

Hotels, where to stay

Guizhou, is home to a variety of hotels that cater to a wide range of travelers, from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury-seeking tourists, with options that include international chains, boutique hotels, guesthouses, and homestays, all of which provide comfortable accommodations, convenient amenities, and friendly service amidst the province's stunning natural scenery and unique cultural attractions.

Best hotels in Guizhou »

Top things and activities to do

In Guizhou, travelers can explore the stunning natural landscapes, including the Huangguoshu Waterfall, the Dragon Palace Cave, and the colorful ethnic minority villages, as well as savor the unique local cuisine and participate in cultural activities such as hiking, photography, and traditional crafts classes.

Top best things to do »

How to plan an itinerary

A great Guizhou travel itinerary would include visiting the Huangguoshu Waterfall, exploring the Miao Village of Xijiang, hiking in the Fanjing Mountain National Nature Reserve, and immersing oneself in the local culture by visiting ethnic villages such as the Dong Village of Zhaoxing, the Buyi Village of Qingman, and the Yi Village of Matang.

Plan a Guizhou itinerary »

Nora Zheng

Hi, I’m Nora Zheng, if you like my article, please share it with your friends. Any sugguestions on this article, please contact me. Thanks!

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