Hey fellow wanderers! If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in China that’s bursting with natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences, then you absolutely need to consider Guizhou.
Seriously, forget the Bund in Shanghai for a minute – Guizhou is calling! As someone who’s spent years exploring China, I can confidently say that Guizhou is a hidden gem, and I’m here to help you plan the best itinerary of Guizhou to make the most of your trip.
So, why Guizhou? Think dramatic karst landscapes, cascading waterfalls that rival anything you’ve seen, and a vibrant tapestry of ethnic minority cultures, including the Miao and Dong people, that will leave you spellbound. It’s no wonder Lonely Planet ranked Guizhou as a top region to visit!
Why Choose Guizhou for Your China Trip?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s address the elephant in the room. With so many incredible destinations in China, why should you dedicate your precious vacation time to Guizhou? Here’s why:
- Unspoiled Natural Beauty: Guizhou is the only province in China without plains, which means it’s a land of breathtaking mountains, stunning rivers, and unique karst formations. Think a more rugged, less crowded version of Guilin.
- Cultural Immersion: Home to 17 ethnic groups, including the Miao, Dong, Buyei, and Shui, Guizhou offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic Chinese minority cultures. Get ready for colorful festivals, intricate handicrafts, and warm hospitality.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: Unlike some of China’s more touristy destinations, Guizhou remains relatively undiscovered by international travelers. This means you’ll have a more authentic and intimate travel experience.
- Affordable Travel: Compared to other major cities in China, Guizhou is incredibly budget-friendly. Your money will go a lot further here, allowing you to experience more for less.
When to Visit Guizhou: Timing Your Trip for the Best Experience
Guizhou enjoys a humid subtropical monsoon climate, which translates to mild temperatures year-round. The average temperature hovers around 15°C (59°F), making it a comfortable destination to visit. That said, the best time to visit Guizhou is from March to November.
| Season | Period | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | March-May | This is a fantastic time to visit, with pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers. It’s also a great time to see the rapeseed flowers in Xingyi in full bloom. |
| Summer | June-August | Summers in Guizhou can be hot and humid, with the highest rainfall. However, this is also the best time to see Huangguoshu Waterfall at its most powerful. |
| Autumn | September-November | The weather is cool and comfortable, making it perfect for hiking and exploring the countryside. This is my personal favorite time to visit. |
| Winter | December-February | Winters are mild but can be damp and chilly. While it’s not the ideal time to visit, you’ll encounter fewer crowds and lower prices. |
Getting to Guizhou: Your Transportation Options
Getting to Guizhou is easier than you might think. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
- By Air: Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport (KWE) is the largest airport in Guizhou, with connections to over 60 domestic cities and several international destinations. Tongren Fenghuang Airport (TEN) is another option, especially if you’re planning to visit Mount Fanjing.
- By High-Speed Train: China’s extensive high-speed rail network connects Guiyang to major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Kunming, and Guilin. High-speed trains also connect various cities within Guizhou, making it easy to get around.
Navigating Guizhou: Getting Around the Province
Once you’re in Guizhou, the best way to get around depends on your itinerary and budget.
- Private Car: For maximum flexibility and convenience, especially if you plan to visit multiple destinations, hiring a private car with a driver is the way to go. This allows you to explore at your own pace and access remote areas that are difficult to reach by public transport.
- High-Speed Train: The high-speed train is a great option for traveling between major cities like Guiyang, Kaili, Anshun and Tongren.
- Bus: Buses are a budget-friendly option, but they can be slow and crowded.
- Combination: For a balanced experience, consider combining high-speed train travel with private car transfers for exploring specific regions.
Must-See Destinations in Guizhou: Crafting Your Perfect Itinerary
Now for the exciting part! Here’s a rundown of the best places to visit in Guizhou, along with itinerary suggestions:
- Guiyang: The Gateway to Guizhou
Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province, is the most common starting point for most travelers. While the city itself is worth exploring (Qingyan Ancient Town and Jiaxiu Tower are great spots), it primarily serves as a hub for accessing other destinations. - Anshun: Home to Asia’s Largest Waterfall
Anshun is famous for Huangguoshu Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Asia. The area also boasts stunning karst landscapes, including the Longgong Cave (Dragon Palace) and Tianlong Tunpu Ancient Town. - Kaili: The Heart of Miao Culture
Kaili, the capital of the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, is a must-visit for experiencing Miao culture. Explore Xijiang Miao Village (the largest Miao village in the world), Langde Upper Miao Village, and other smaller villages to witness their unique traditions. - Tongren: Gateway to Fanjingshan
Tongren is the gateway to Mount Fanjing (Fanjingshan), a UNESCO World Heritage site and a sacred Buddhist mountain. This destination is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking spiritual experiences. - Congjiang: Authentic Miao and Dong Villages
Located on the border of Guizhou and Guangxi, Congjiang is home to some of the most authentic Miao and Dong villages in the region. Visit Biasha Miao Village (the “Last Gunslinger Village in China”) and Xiaohuang Dong Village (known for its Grand Song of the Dong People). - Libo: “An Emerald on Earth’s Waistband”
Libo is a stunning county known for its karst landscapes and lush greenery. The Xiaoqikong (Seven Small Arches) Scenic Area is the main attraction, featuring caves, forests, lakes, and waterfalls. - Xingyi: An Undiscovered Paradise
Located in southwest Guizhou, bordering Yunnan Province, Xingyi is home to the Wanfenglin Scenic Area (Ten Thousand Peaks), a breathtaking landscape of karst hills.
Whether you are short on time or eager to fully immerse yourself in Southwest China’s rich landscapes and cultures, Guizhou offers flexible options to suit your travel goals. Below are two sample itineraries to inspire your planning one compact, one immersive both built around some of the province’s most iconic experiences. You can always customize them to match your pace, preferences, and interests.
3-Day Guizhou Highlights Tour
Perfect for travelers on a short stay or as part of a longer China itinerary.
Day 1 – Guiyang Arrival and City Discovery
Arrive in Guiyang, the provincial capital. Visit Jiaxiu Pavilion and wander through the local markets to try regional street food. If time allows, enjoy a cup of chinese tea in chinese at a quiet teahouse in the old quarter.
Day 2 – Natural Wonders Around Anshun
Take a full-day trip to Huangguoshu Waterfall, one of Asia’s largest. You will also explore Longgong Cave, known for its karst formations and underground river, and stop by Tianlong Tunpu, a historic Ming-dynasty village.
Day 3 – Return or Extend
Depending on your schedule, spend your morning exploring local temples or fly out to your next destination. If you are continuing with a broader china travel itinerary, this is an excellent moment to head toward Zhangjiajie or Chengdu, especially if you’re booked on a chengdu tour small group itinerary.
This quick getaway offers a great introduction to the region and can be adjusted if you are combining Guizhou with other provinces like Yunnan, Hunan, or Guangxi in your broader china trip itinerary.
7-Day Guizhou Cultural and Scenic Exploration
Ideal for deeper immersion into minority cultures, natural beauty, and slow travel.
Day 1 – Guiyang Arrival
Begin in Guiyang with time to visit Hebin Park or the Hongfu Temple. Sample Guizhou’s signature sour-and-spicy cuisine and try a local tea blend often rivaling the best china green tea from eastern provinces.
Day 2 – Anshun Excursion
Take a guided day trip to Huangguoshu Waterfall, followed by Tianlong Tunpu, where you will learn about centuries-old Han customs still alive today. Return to Guiyang for the evening.
Day 3 – Cultural Villages in Kaili
Transfer to Kaili, the heart of gui zhou miao jia culture. Visit Shiqiao Miao Village, where villagers still make handmade paper, and Matang Gejia Village, known for their vibrant batik traditions.
Day 4 – Langde and Rongjiang
Explore Langde Upper Miao Village, then travel deeper into rural Guizhou. Overnight in Rongjiang, a town nestled between mountains and terraced hills.
Day 5 – Biasha and Dong Traditions
Visit Biasha Miao Village, one of the few places in China where traditional gun culture is still part of daily life. Continue on to Zhaoxing Dong Village, famous for its drum towers and folk performances.
Day 6 – Zhaoxing and Return Toward Kaili
Spend your morning walking through Zhanli Dong Village, observing traditional Dong wooden architecture. In the afternoon, return to Kaili or head directly to Guiyang.
Day 7 – Departure
Wrap up your trip with a relaxing morning in Guiyang. If you’re continuing on a china itinerary 2 weeks or longer, this is a good launching point for places like Lijiang, Zhangjiajie, or even Chengdu to Mount Qingcheng.
These itineraries are just a starting point. Whether you are designing a one-week adventure or integrating Guizhou into a broader china travel plan, the journey can always be adapted. You can also connect with a local travel agency in chengdu china to help tailor each day based on your pace, interests, and comfort level.
And if you’re wondering how long can stay in china with tourist visa, the typical short-stay visa allows for up to 30 days. That gives you plenty of time to explore at your leisure, or pair Guizhou with classic routes like the china beijing shanghai circuit or the zhangjiajie map region.
Whether you have just a few days or a full week, Guizhou offers unforgettable landscapes, rich traditions, and the kind of authenticity that makes every itinerary feel personal.
Answering Your Burning Questions About Guizhou
Okay, let’s tackle some of the common questions people have about traveling to Guizhou:
- How many days in Guizhou is enough? It really depends on what you want to see and do. You can get a taste of Guizhou in 3 days with a focus on one or two key attractions. However, I recommend at least 5-7 days to explore the region’s diversity.
- Is Guizhou worth visiting for tourists? Absolutely! If you’re looking for stunning scenery, rich culture, and an off-the-beaten-path experience, Guizhou is definitely worth a visit.
- What is the best time to visit Guizhou? As mentioned earlier, March to November offers the most pleasant weather.
- What is Guizhou famous for? Guizhou is famous for its karst landscapes, Huangguoshu Waterfall, ethnic minority cultures, and Mount Fanjing.
China Travel Tips 2025 and Beyond
Before you pack your bags, here are a few essential China travel tips for 2025:
- Visa Requirements: As of December 2024, many countries are eligible for visa-free transit in China. Check the latest visa policies before you travel.
- VPN: To access blocked websites and social media platforms, consider using a VPN.
- Mobile Payment: Mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in China. While it’s becoming easier to use these services as a tourist, having some cash on hand is still a good idea, especially in rural areas.
- Learn Basic Mandarin: While many people in tourist areas speak some English, knowing basic Mandarin phrases will greatly enhance your experience.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting ethnic minority villages.
So, there you have it your ultimate guide to planning the best itinerary of Guizhou! I hope this has inspired you to explore this incredible province and experience its magic for yourself. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, immersing yourself in culture, or conquering mountains, Guizhou has something to offer every traveler. Happy travels!
If you’re looking for more Asian travel guides, check out our Ultimate 14-Day China Travel Guide or our guide on Unraveling the Exotic Charm of Yunnan in a Seven Day Journey.
