Exploring Guiyang: A Travel Guide for Foreign Visitors

Exploring Guiyang: A Travel Guide for Foreign Visitors

 

Welcome to Guiyang

Nestled in the heart of Guiyang Province, Guiyang is a vibrant city known for its pleasant climate, stunning natural landscapes, and rich ethnic culture. As the capital of China's "Green Province," it offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it an exciting destination for travelers.

 

Top Attractions

 

1. Jiaxiu Pavilion

   - An iconic Ming Dynasty tower built on a rock in the Nanming River. Visit at night when it's beautifully illuminated.

   Tip: The nearby Fucheng Road offers traditional snacks and souvenirs.

 

2. Qianling Mountain Park

   - A serene park perfect for hiking. Don’t miss the Hongfu Temple and the chance to see wild macaque monkeys.

   Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and carry water. Avoid feeding the monkeys.

 

3. Qingyan Ancient Town

   - A well-preserved town from the Ming Dynasty, featuring stone streets, ancient buildings, and local crafts.

   Tip: Try the local specialty, "Qingyan Tofu," and explore the lesser-known back alleys.

 

4. Huaxi National Urban Wetland Park

   - Ideal for nature lovers, with scenic waterways, karst formations, and minority village displays.

   Tip: Rent a bike to explore the park’s vast area comfortably.

 

5. Provincial Ethnic Museum

   - Learn about Guizhou’s diverse ethnic groups, including the Miao, Dong, and Buyi cultures.

   Tip: Check ahead for English tour availability or guided tours.

 

Food & Dining

Guiyang is famous for its bold, spicy cuisine. Must-try dishes include:

Sour Soup Fish: A tangy and spicy fish hotpot.

Changwang Noodles: A breakfast favorite with a rich broth.

Silk Baby: A dessert made from candied potato threads.

Street Food: Visit Erqi Road Night Market for an authentic local experience.

Note: English menus are limited outside tourist areas. Use translation apps or point to pictures.

 

Cultural Etiquette & Tips

Language: Mandarin is widely spoken, but English is not common. Learn basic phrases or use a translation app.

Bargaining: Acceptable in markets but not in malls or restaurants.

Temples & Sacred Sites: Dress modestly, speak quietly, and ask before taking photos of people or religious objects.

Dining Etiquette: It’s common to share dishes. To be polite, try a bit of everything offered.

 

Practical Information

 

Transportation

Air: Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport has flights to major Chinese cities and some international destinations.

Public Transit: Metro lines 1 and 2 cover key areas. Buses are cheap but may be crowded.

Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Use Didi (China’s Uber) or taxis. Have your destination written in Chinese.

High-Speed Rail: Connects Guiyang to Chengdu, Chongqing, Kunming, and Guangzhou.

 

Money & Payments

Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY). Cash is less common; mobile payments (WeChat Pay/Alipay) dominate.

ATMs: Available at airports, banks, and shopping centers. International cards may have limited acceptance.

Credit Cards: Major hotels and upscale restaurants accept them, but always carry alternative payment methods.

 

Connectivity

SIM Cards: Purchase at the airport or major mobile providers (China Mobile/Unicom). Bring your passport for registration.

Wi-Fi: Available in hotels, cafes, and some public areas. Use a VPN to access restricted sites like Google and Facebook.

 

Health & Safety

Tap Water: Not drinkable. Use bottled or boiled water.

Altitude: Guiyang is about 1,100m above sea level. Take it easy if you’re sensitive to altitude.

Emergency Numbers:

  - Police: 110

  - Medical: 120

  - Fire: 119

Hygiene: Public restrooms may vary in cleanliness; carry tissues and hand sanitizer.

 

Special Considerations for Foreign Travelers

Registration: Hotels will register you with local police. Keep your passport handy for check-in.

Travel Permits: Not needed for Guiyang city, but required for some remote ethnic villages. Check with local travel agencies.

Cultural Sensitivity: Guizhou is ethnically diverse. Be respectful when visiting minority villages; consider joining a guided tour for deeper insight.

Pollution: Air quality is generally good, but check indexes during dry seasons.

 

Day Trip Suggestions

Huangguoshu Waterfall: China’s largest waterfall, about 2 hours by car/bus.

Kaili: Experience Miao and Dong ethnic culture (1.5 hours by high-speed rail).

Zhenyuan Ancient Town: A historic riverside town (3 hours by train).

 

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November): Pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer: Cool and less humid than other Chinese cities, but also the rainy season.

Avoid: National holidays (e.g., October 1-7) when attractions are overcrowded.

 

Enjoy your trip to Guiyang! This city’s natural beauty, unique cuisine, and warm hospitality are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. Safe travels!