Guiyang travel guide, culture, attractions, food, hotel, etc

Guiyang, abbreviated as "Zhu" and also known as Zhu City, is the capital of Guizhou Province and one of the important central cities in southwestern China. It serves as a significant regional innovation center and an important ecological leisure and vacation city in China.

Guiyang is the political, economic, cultural, and transportation hub of Guizhou Province, and it plays a crucial role as a major transportation and communication hub, and commercial tourism service center in the southwest region. Guiyang is the first national forest city in China and is recognized as the country's summer capital, having topped the list of "China's Top Ten Summer Tourism Cities".

Culture of Guiyang

Culture in Guiyang, Guizhou

In ancient times, Guiyang was rich in bamboo and renowned for making the musical instrument "Zhu", hence Guiyang also named Zhu city. Located in a mountainous and hilly area, it also enjoys the reputation of "Mountain Capital".

Guiyang is a multi-ethnic city predominantly inhabited by the Han nationality, but it is also home to more than 30 ethnic minorities, including the Miao, Bouyei, Dong, and Hui. This land has a rich heritage of traditional customs and a brilliant ethnic culture. Here, you can see Miao embroidery and listen to Bouyei folk songs and Pangu songs. You can experience the diverse folk festivals throughout the year, such as the Miao's Tiaochang dance, Drum Festival, and Bayueba Festival, and the Bouyei's Sanyuesan Festival. You can also appreciate the ancient and mysterious Penglai Di Opera, Bouyei Red Lantern Opera, and Huadeng Opera.

Visiting Guiyang allows you to immerse yourself in its vibrant cultural activities, experiencing the city's unique cultural traits of "diversity and harmony".

Guizhou culture »

Must-visit Attractions

Guiyang is a modern city with plateau characteristics, known as a city within the mountains. It enjoys the reputation of summer resort city, boasting numerous attractions, each with its unique charm.

Guiyang Jiaxiu Pavilion

Qianling Mountain - Qianling Mountain combines natural scenery, cultural relics and leisure entertainment, renowned for the "First Mountain in South Guizhou". Known for its magnificent mountain, beautiful water, ancient temples, and lively monkeys, it is often called Guiyang's backyard garden.

Jiaxiu Pavilion - Jiaxiu Pavilion is one of Guiyang's iconic buildings, an ancient pavilion built during the Ming Dynasty. It is one of the best places to enjoy a panoramic view of Guiyang, especially at night when the city's lights create a spectacular scene.

Tianhe Pond - Tianhe Pond is a national scenic spot known for its spectacular waterfalls, emerald lakes, and steep peaks. It offers many outdoor activities such as rafting, hiking, and rock climbing, making it a perfect vacation destination.

Qingyan Ancient Town - Qingyan Ancient Town is a famous historical and cultural town in Guizhou, which has over 600 years of history. The town is famous for its blue stone roads, and the buildings retain the architectural styles and cultural connotations of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

Best Places to Visit

Guiyang boasts abundant natural and tourism resources, with each area offering its unique attractions.

Yunyan District - one of Guiyang's central urban areas, featuring Qianling Mountain Park, a 4A scenic spot that combines natural and cultural landscapes. Key attractions include Qianling Lake, Qianling Mountain, Hongfu Temple, and Kylin Cave.

Huaxi District - known as the "Pearl of the Plateau", a renowned scenic area famous for its diverse attractions such as Ten-mile Beach Wetland Park, Huaxi Park, Tianhe Pond, Qingyan Ancient Town, and Gaopo Miao Village.

Nanming District - as the core area of the provincial capital, rich in ecological tourism and cultural resources. The Nanming River flows through the district, with the magnificent and captivating Jiaxiu Pavilion standing proudly on its banks.

Each of these area offers a distinct blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making Guiyang a city full of diverse and intriguing travel destinations.

Local Food and Snacks

Guiyang, as the capital of Guizhou Province, boasts a rich and diverse culinary culture. This city not only offers picturesque landscapes but also a tantalizing array of local delicacies. While strolling through the streets of Guiyang, make sure not to miss these culinary delights.

Changwang Noodles

Changwang Noodles - one of the most beloved local snacks. Cooked noodles are topped with pork intestines (Chang), pork blood (Wang), and vegetables, then drenched in a savory broth and sprinkled with cilantro and chili powder. This dish is a must-try for its rich and delicious flavors.

Siwawa - also known as vegetable spring rolls, a very popular snack in Guiyang. The chewy dough wrapper is filled with crispy, sweet vegetable strips and dipped in a tangy and spicy sauce, creating an irresistible burst of flavors.

Sour Soup Fish - a traditional delicacy in Guiyang, made with fresh grass carp and various sour soup. This dish is known for its tender and tasty fish, combined with a tangy and appetizing flavor, making it a signature Guizhou cuisine.

Huaxi Beef Noodles - made from high-quality yellow beef and marrow-rich beef bones, simmered with various precious Chinese herbs to create a broth that is both fragrant and nutritious. The dish combines the flavors of fresh, savory, and sour perfectly.

Tofu Balls - a classic Guiyang snack. These golden brown, deep-fried balls are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are best enjoyed when dipped in chili sauce, offering a delightful taste.

There are many other delicious dishes in Guiyang, such as chicken with chilies, glutinous rice, etc., and each one is waiting for you to explore.

Best Things to do in Guiyang

Guiyang offers unparalleled natural beauty and rich ethnic culture, making it an ideal travel destination. Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility and harmony of nature while experiencing the unique charm of colorful Guiyang.

You can xplore Guiyang's historical and cultural heritage, such as Jiaxiu Pavilion, Qingyan Ancient Town, and Qianling Mountain Park. These sites offer a glimpse into the city's natural scenery and historical ambiance.

You can stroll through Guiyang's streets and indulge in local delicacies such as Changwang Noodles, Siwawa, and Tofu Balls. A culinary journey here promises top-tier gastronomic delights.

You can also engage in various outdoor activities like rafting in Nanjiang Grand Canyon, rock climbing at Qianling Mountain, cycling through Huaxi Wetland Park, or hiking on Huaxi Ghost-erecting Bridge, connecting with nature and appreciate its beauty.

Activities to Experience in Guiyang

Guiyang, celebrates a rich array of ethnic festivals, each with its unique customs and significance.

Sanyuesan Festival (March 3rd) - Also known as the "Earthworm Festival", this traditional festival of the Bouyei people is dedicated to worshiping earthworms, scatter roasted corn on the hillsides and sing mountain songs, praying for a bountiful harvest.

Siyueba Festival (April 8th) - This festival varies in content across different regions but is mainly related to agricultural activities. On this day, people hold various celebratory ceremonies to express their joy for the harvest.

Liuyueliu Festival (June 6th) - An important traditional festival for the Bouyei people in Guiyang, celebrated with song and dance to entertain the gods, preserving and continuing the Bouyei cultural heritage.

Chixin Festival (Eating New Festival) - Celebrated by the Gelao people during lunar July and August when the rice and fruits ripen. They choose an auspicious day to harvest the new crops and fruits to offer to their ancestors, celebrating a bountiful harvest.

Bullfighting Festival - Observed by the Miao people between the rice transplanting and harvesting seasons, usually from June to August of the lunar calendar.

Fish Killing Festival - Celebrated by the Miao and Bouyei people in Kaiyang around the Qingming Festival. The original activity involved using stones and wooden sticks to catch fish in the streams.

Additionally, Guiyang area also has Di opera, Lusheng dance, lanterns and a series of recreational activities.

Best Time and Season to Visit Guiyang

The best time to visit Guiyang is during around the summer months, specifically from May to September. Guiyang has a subtropical humid and mild climate, with summers free from extreme heat, making it a comfortable summer resort. During this period, the pleasant climate and local tourism promotions make it an ideal travel destination.

- Summer (June to August): The climate is cool and suitable for escaping the heat. This is also the period when Guiyang's tourism resources are at their peak, allowing visitors to experience diverse natural landscapes and ethnic cultures.

- Spring and Autumn (March to May and September to November): These seasons are also good for travel. Visitors can enjoy the unique festivals and cultures of the ethnic minorities.

- Winter (December to February): Although the water in Guiyang is clearer and it is suitable for travel, the climate might be colder compared to the summer and spring-autumn seasons.

Guiyang's peak tourist season generally runs from March to August and the first ten days of October, especially during holidays.

Luxury Hotel in Guiyang

As the capital of Guizhou Province, Guiyang boasts numerous high-quality hotels. Choosing a comfortable hotel is essential for a perfect trip to Guiyang.

Sofitel Guiyang Hunter

Sofitel Guiyang Hunter - Located in a landmark building in the city center, it is close to major shopping and business centers. Guests can easily walk to famous attractions such as Jiaxiu Pavilion, Nanming River, and Wenchang Pavilion. The bustling crowds and vibrant cityscape can be a wonderful view over the hotel.

Sheraton Guiyang Hotel - Situated in the bustling district of Guiyang's central business area, it is adjacent to the Nanming River. A few minutes' walk will take you to scenic spots like Jiaxiu Pavilion. The hotel offers complete facilities and attentive service.

Hyatt Regency Guiyang - Located in the heart of the Jinyang District, it is adjacent to the Jinyang Commercial Center and within close proximity to Guanshanhu Park. The hotel provides convenient transportation and various advanced amenities.

There are also many other hotels in Guiyang to facilitate your visit.

How to Plan a Itinerary in Guiyang

Day 1: Arrive in Guiyang and check in at a hotel. Explore the city center and visit the Jiaxiu Pavilion, a historic tower overlooking the Nanming River.

Day 2: Visit the Qingyan Ancient Town, a well-preserved ancient town located near Guiyang. Explore the historic architecture and scenic beauty of the town.

Day 3: Visit the Guiyang Forest Park, a large park in the heart of Guiyang known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity.

Guizhou travel itineraries »