Guiyang’s Best Noodle Dishes: A Foodie’s Bucket List

Guiyang, the vibrant capital of Guizhou Province, is a hidden gem for food lovers. While the city is famous for its spicy and sour flavors, its noodle dishes are a standout—offering a mix of textures, broths, and bold seasonings that will leave any traveler craving more. If you’re planning a trip to this mountainous region, here’s your ultimate guide to the must-try noodle dishes in Guiyang.

The Noodle Culture of Guiyang

Noodles in Guiyang aren’t just food—they’re a way of life. Locals start their day with a steaming bowl of noodles, and street vendors serve them late into the night. The city’s noodle scene reflects its diverse ethnic influences, combining Miao, Dong, and Han culinary traditions. What makes Guiyang’s noodles unique? It’s all about the broth, the handmade noodles, and the fiery, tangy sauces that define the region’s palate.

Why Noodles Are a Must-Try

• Hand-pulled freshness: Many shops still make noodles by hand, ensuring a chewy, satisfying texture.
• Complex broths: From bone-based soups to spicy and sour concoctions, the broths are layered with flavor.
• Local ingredients: Guizhou’s famous chili peppers, fermented vegetables, and wild herbs elevate every dish.

Top 5 Noodle Dishes You Can’t Miss

1. Changwang Noodles (肠旺面)

A Guiyang classic, Changwang Noodles is a rich, spicy bowl of goodness. The name comes from its two key ingredients: chang (pork intestines) and wang (blood curd). The noodles are thin and springy, swimming in a fiery red broth topped with crispy pork belly, chili oil, and green onions.

Where to try it: Lao Wu Changwang Mian (a legendary spot near Zhonghua Road).

2. Suan Tang Yu Mian (酸汤鱼面)

This dish combines two Guizhou staples: sour fish soup and noodles. The broth is made with fermented tomatoes and rice, giving it a tangy kick. Tender fish fillets and chewy rice noodles soak up the vibrant flavors, making it a refreshing yet hearty meal.

Pro tip: Pair it with a side of zhe’ergen (a local herb) for an extra layer of freshness.

3. Siwawa (丝娃娃) – The DIY Noodle Wrap

While not a traditional noodle dish, Siwawa deserves a spot on this list. Think of it as Guiyang’s answer to Vietnamese spring rolls. You’ll get a plate of rice noodles, fresh herbs, and an assortment of fillings (pickled radish, tofu, peanuts) to wrap in thin rice paper. Dip it in a spicy-sour sauce for the full experience.

Best spot: Yang’s Siwawa near Jiaxiu Tower.

4. Beef Rice Noodles (牛肉粉)

A comforting bowl of Beef Rice Noodles is perfect for chilly Guiyang mornings. The broth is slow-cooked with beef bones, star anise, and local spices, then poured over silky rice noodles. Tender beef slices and a sprinkle of cilantro complete the dish.

Local secret: Add a spoonful of huajiao (Sichuan pepper) oil for a numbing, aromatic twist.

5. Liangfen (凉粉) – Cold Noodles for Hot Days

When the Guiyang heat kicks in, Liangfen is the go-to dish. These translucent mung bean noodles are served cold, tossed with chili oil, vinegar, garlic, and crunchy peanuts. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with umami.

Where to find it: Street stalls around Qianling Park.

Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Noodle Spots

Noodle Alley (面巷)

Tucked behind the bustling city center, this narrow alley is lined with family-run noodle shops. Each has its own secret recipe—some have been perfecting their craft for generations. Don’t miss the Dandan Mian (担担面) here, a lesser-known but delicious variant with minced pork and sesame paste.

The Midnight Noodle Cart

Guiyang’s night markets come alive after dark, and one unassuming cart near Nanming River serves the best Ye Lan Mian (夜郎面)—a late-night favorite with thick, hand-cut noodles in a black bean and pork sauce.

Pairing Your Noodles Like a Local

No noodle experience is complete without the right sides and drinks:

• Crispy Pork: A common topping that adds crunch.
• Pickled Vegetables: Balances the richness of the broth.
• Guiyang Rice Wine: A sweet, mild drink that complements spicy dishes.

Final Bite

From fiery broths to cold, tangy bites, Guiyang’s noodle scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. Whether you’re slurping Changwang Mian at dawn or wrapping Siwawa at a night market, each dish tells a story of tradition, flavor, and local pride. So grab your chopsticks and dig in—your taste buds will thank you.