Guizhou Discovery: Natural Wonders and Minority Villages

Itinerary

• Day 1: Guiyang Arrival

  Welcome to Guizhou, a southwestern province of China known for its ethnic diversity and stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you on a private transfer to your hotel. Get rested up for the exciting discoveries ahead.

  • Guiyang

• Day 2: Guiyang, Day Excursion to Huangguoshu Waterfall

  Depart from Guiyang on a 1.5-hour drive to Tianlong Tunbao, an ancient Chinese military settlement established during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The villagers,  descendants of Ming soldiers, still uphold many traditional customs, including wearing Ming-style clothing and performing the local Dixi Opera.

  Next, visit Huangguoshu Waterfall, the largest in Asia, standing 101 meters wide and 78 meters tall. Take in the majestic views from various vantage points and immerse yourself in the roar of the cascading waters. If you're a fan of Journey to the West, one of the Chinese Four Great Classical Novels, don't miss the filming spot of its famous TV series.

  In the late afternoon, transfer back to your hotel in Guiyang.

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  • Guiyang

• Day 3: Guiyang - Kaili, Ethnic Legacies Discovery

  Today, discover the ethnic heritage as you journey toward Kaili. Stop off at Gaoyao Terrace Fields to discover the agricultural legacy of the local Miao people. There follows an in-depth exploration of Shiqiao Village, the birthplace of traditional Chinese papermaking. You'll visit the natural cave warehouses used for paper storage and even have the chance to craft your own paper-based handicraft.

  Continue to Qingman Miao Village, known for its intricate embroidery. Catch a glimpse into the cotton fields and family-operated weaving workshop. You may also encounter local women dressed in their distinctive traditional black skirts, a unique style that sets them apart from other Miao groups.

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  • Kaili

• Day 4: Kaili, Ethnic Cultural Immersion

  After breakfast, browse the displays of fossils, instruments, and traditional clothing in the Kaili Minority Museum to get a deeper insight into the ethnic cultures and customs in China's southwestern region.

  Afterward, drive 40 minutes to Matang Gejia Village, home to a small, unrecognized ethnic group with a rich culture and tradition of batik craftsmanship. Distinctive attire - red tassel hats for maidens and armor-style, elaborate smocks for married women - resembles ancient war garments.

  The last stop is a short-skirt Miao village, where women wear skirts above the knees all year round. Your guide will explain their unique customs and beliefs.

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  • Kaili

• Day 5: Kaili - Zhenyuan Ancient Town

  A 2-hour morning drive will take you to Zhenyuan Ancient Town, dating back over 2,000 years. As you cruise along the serene Wuyang River, take in the old charm of the Han-style settlement, distinct from other multi-ethnic towns in Guizhou. Your guide will lead you to explore historical residences, ancient bridges, opera stages, and the UNESCO-listed Qinglongdong temple complex.

  In the evening, you may like to wander along the winding alleys to relax into the local rhythm or climb Shiping Hill for panoramic views of the town with lighting.

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  • Zhenyuan

• Day 6: Zhenyuan - Tongren, Mount Fanjing

  An exciting day unfolds as you drive about 2 hours into Tongren for the UNESCO-inscribed Mount Fanjing, renowned for its odd shape and as a sacred Buddhist site. Rising 2,572 meters, the mountain offers a thrilling cable car ride into the mist-shrouded landscape, with ancient temples perched atop dramatic rock formations. Following this, hiking its winding tracks may reveal sightings of rare animals.

  After the tour, settle into a local hotel for a well-earned rest.

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  • Tongren

• Day 7: Tongren - Guiyang, Departure

  After breakfast and hotel check-out, drive about 3 hours back to Guiyang for your flight or train to your next destination.

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