Located in the southwestern part of China, Guizhou is one of the birthplaces of ancient Chinese civilization. There are rich cultural heritage, diverse ethnic groups, and stunning landscapes, and you will fall in love with this place after visiting it. Since it is a place with many attractions, you may wonder where to start. Here are the top things to do in Guizhou.
1. Visit the Huangguoshu Waterfall
Exploring the Waterfall
As one of the most iconic attractions in Guizhou, Huangguoshu Waterfall is the largest waterfall in China and one of the largest in Asia. This spectacular waterfall is 77.8 meters high and 101 meters wide, creating a grand view as the water crashes down into the Rhinoceros Pool below. By the way, the best time to visit there is during the rainy season when the waterfall is at its most impressive.
Nearby Attractions
Near the waterfall, there are a variety of attractions in the Huangguoshu Scenic Area, including the Tianxingqiao Scenic Area, the Stone Village, and more. You will find beautiful landscapes and karst caves in the nearby attractions.
Recommended Guizhou Tours including Huangguoshu Waterfall
2. Marvel at the Dragon Palace Cave
The Formation of the Cave
Visiting the Dragon Palace Cave should be included on the list of things to do in Guizhou. Also known as Longgong Cave, it is an amazing underground karst cave in Anshun City. It extends for more than 60 kilometers and consists of many chambers, underground rivers, and limestone formations.
Highlights of the Dragon Palace
The Dragon Palace mainly features clusters of karst peaks and limestone caves with clear water. Besides, it also greets visitors with spectacular waterfalls. You can take a boat ride through the caves and experience the charm of the Dragon Palace and nature.
Recommended Guizhou Tours including Dragon Palace Cave
3. Explore the Miao and Dong Villages
Traditional Culture and Lifestyle
Visiting the Miao and Dong villages is also one of the best things to do in Guizhou. There are many Miao and Dong ethnic minority villages in Guizhou. In the villages, you will encounter well-preserved ancient architecture and experience the local customs. By the way, don’t forget to taste the local cuisine and get some intricate handicrafts.
Visiting and Participating
Xijiang Miao Village and Zhaoxing Dong Village are two famous villages in Guizhou, and people there often hold activities to celebrate the festivals and events. If you get the opportunity to attend local festivals and events on your tour of Guizhou, don’t hesitate to join. Besides, you can watch folk performances and learn about their handicrafts, like batik and embroidery.
Recommended Guizhou Tours including Miao and Dong Villages
- 6 Days Guizhou Tour with Qianhu Miao Village
- 7 Days Guizhou Cave Camping, Terrace Hiking & Culture Tour
4. Experience the Fanjing Mountain
Hike the Mountain
Add this to your list of top things to do in Guizhou. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fanjing Mountain is a holy Buddhist mountain that offers a challenging yet rewarding hike to its two peaks, the Old Golden Summit and the New Golden Summit. Along the way, you’ll see ancient temples and beautiful landscapes.
Unique Flora and Fauna
When you hike Fanjing Mountain, you will be amazed by its rich biodiversity. There are a variety of unique plant and animal species found nowhere else in the world. Take a look at the rare Guizhou golden monkey and the Fanjingshan fir, which are two species native to the area.
Recommended Guizhou Tours including Fanjing Mountain
5. Discover the Libo Zhangjiang Scenic Area
Natural Beauty
The Libo Zhangjiang Scenic Area is part of the larger South China Karst UNESCO World Heritage Site. As a must-visit attrition on your Guizhou tours, it features karst landscapes, stunning rivers, spectacular waterfalls, and virgin forests. Besides, you can also find rare birds and wild animals there.
Activities and Attractions
Exploring the Libo Zhangjiang Scenic Area is also one of the best things to do in Guizhou. It is a place with many activities and attractions. You can enjoy hiking and boating in the area. Besides, don’t miss the wonderful Daqikong and Xiaoqikong Scenic Spots, which show stunning views of the karst landscape and green waters.
6. Wander around Qingyan Ancient Town
A Glimpse into the Past
Located in Guiyang City, Qingyan Ancient Town is a well-preserved ancient town with a long history. Taking a walk in the ancient town, you will find narrow cobblestone streets and traditional architecture, through which you can catch a glimpse of the city’s past.
Things to Do and See
When it comes to what to see in Guizhou, Qingyan Ancient Town gives a great answer. It is a place with many attractions, including the ancient city walls, the Ciyun Temple, and the Longevity Palace. Besides, there are also restaurants in the town where you can try the local cuisines, such as rose candy and roasted tofu.
Recommended Guizhou Tours including Qingyan Ancient Town
7. Observe the Jiaxiu Tower
The Symbol of Guiyang
Visiting Jiaxiu Tower is among the top things to do in Guizhou. Built in the Ming Dynasty, Jiaxiu Tower is now a landmark of Guiyang City. This three-story tower is a great work of architecture with intricate designs and amazing views.
History and Significance
Beyond its architectural design, Jiaxiu Tower is of great historical and cultural significance. Initially constructed to inspire scholars to study hard and achieve academic success, this tower has now become an exhibition house for calligraphy works, valuable paintings, and other historical relics.
Recommended Guizhou Tours including Jiaxiu Tower
8. Visit the Guizhou Provincial Museum
Exhibits and Collections
Since Guizhou is a place with rich history and culture, visiting the Guizhou Provincial Museum is among the top things to do in Guizhou. It is divided into many exhibition halls and exhibits an extensive collection of cultural relics, natural specimens, and historical artifacts.
Learning about Guizhou
Guizhou Provincial Museum is a must-visit place on your travel to Guizhou. It allows you to understand the history and culture of Guizhou better. In addition, there are many displays and exhibitions, and don’t miss the display of Miao and Dong ethnic minority costumes, which is interesting and impressive.
9. Stroll around the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area
Natural Wonders
Also known as the Seven Small Arches Scenic Area, it is a stunning natural wonder located in the Libo Zhangjiang Scenic Area. There, you will find cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, lush forests, and many small stone arch bridges.
Exploring the Area
Many attractions in the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area await you to explore. You can take a walk through the area, hike along the tranquil trails, or take a boat ride to enjoy the charming scenery.
10. Enjoy Guizhou Cuisine
Traditional Dishes
Tasting local cuisine is also on the list of top things to do in Guizhou. The local cuisines are delicious with spicy and sour flavors. Guizhou treats you with a variety of different food, among which Sour Fish Soup, Siwawa (Silk Dolls), and Lushui Tofu are some must-try dishes.
Where to Eat
It’s easy for you to find a place for local cuisine in different parts of Guizhou. In Anshun, Hongpao Restaurant is a good place for formal dining. If you want to try local snacks, you can go to the Huangguoshu Waterfall Night Market. In Guiyang, Shangshansi Restaurant is for you, and it offers traditional Guizhou dishes with an elegant dining atmosphere.
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