The Most Popular Guiyang Dishes Among Tourists

Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province, is a hidden gem for food lovers. Known for its bold flavors, unique ingredients, and fiery spices, the city’s cuisine is a thrilling adventure for any traveler. Whether you're a spice enthusiast or someone who enjoys hearty, comforting dishes, Guiyang has something to offer. Below, we dive into the most popular dishes that tourists can’t get enough of.

Must-Try Guiyang Street Food

1. Siwawa (丝娃娃) – The DIY Wrapped Delight

Siwawa is one of Guiyang’s most iconic snacks. Often called "Guizhou-style spring rolls," this dish consists of thin rice pancakes served with a variety of fillings—shredded vegetables, pickled radish, tofu, and sometimes meat. The fun part? You wrap everything yourself and dip it in a tangy, spicy sauce.

Why Tourists Love It:
- Interactive dining experience
- Light yet flavorful
- Perfect for sharing

2. Changwang Noodles (肠旺面) – The Ultimate Comfort Bowl

This noodle dish is a Guiyang staple. "Chang" refers to pork intestines, and "wang" means blood curd, giving the dish its rich, savory depth. The noodles are springy, and the broth is infused with chili oil, creating a hearty, warming meal.

Why Tourists Love It:
- Unique texture from intestines and blood curd
- Spicy and aromatic broth
- A true taste of local flavors

Spicy & Sour Delights

3. Sour Soup Fish (酸汤鱼) – A Tangy Masterpiece

Guiyang’s sour soup fish is legendary. The broth is made from fermented tomatoes and rice, giving it a bright, tangy kick. Fresh fish is poached in this vibrant soup, absorbing all the bold flavors. It’s often served with dipping sauces and fresh herbs.

Why Tourists Love It:
- Refreshing yet spicy
- Healthy and light
- A signature dish of Miao cuisine

4. Spicy Chicken (辣子鸡) – Fiery & Addictive

Unlike Sichuan’s version, Guiyang’s spicy chicken is cooked with local chili peppers, creating a deep, smoky heat. The chicken is tender, and the sauce clings perfectly to each piece, making it impossible to stop eating.

Why Tourists Love It:
- Intense, lingering spice
- Great with rice or beer
- A must for chili lovers

Unique Snacks & Sweets

5. Fried Rice Cakes (糍粑) – Crispy & Chewy

These golden-fried rice cakes are a popular street snack. Crispy on the outside and chewy inside, they’re often drizzled with brown sugar syrup or stuffed with red bean paste.

Why Tourists Love It:
- Sweet and savory options
- Great for on-the-go eating
- A nostalgic local treat

6. Ice Jelly (冰粉) – The Perfect Refresher

After all the spice, ice jelly is the ideal palate cleanser. Made from plant seeds, it has a jelly-like texture and is served with sweet syrup, fruits, and sometimes fermented glutinous rice.

Why Tourists Love It:
- Cooling and refreshing
- Light and not overly sweet
- A summer favorite

Where to Find These Dishes

For the best experience, head to these spots:
- Qingyan Ancient Town – Great for traditional snacks
- Huaxi Night Market – Bustling with street food vendors
- Zhenning Road Food Street – A hub for local flavors

Guiyang’s food scene is as vibrant as its culture. Whether you're digging into a bowl of fiery noodles or wrapping your own Siwawa, every bite tells a story of this dynamic city.