The Most Refreshing Street Food Drinks in Guiyang

Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province, is a hidden gem for food lovers. While its spicy and sour flavors often steal the spotlight, the city’s street food drinks are equally unforgettable. From icy-cold herbal brews to sweet, milky concoctions, Guiyang’s beverage scene is a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Here’s a deep dive into the most thirst-quenching street drinks you must try.

The Iconic Sour and Sweet Delights

Sour Plum Drink (Suan Mei Tang)

A staple in Guiyang’s street food culture, Suan Mei Tang is a tangy, slightly sweet beverage made from smoked plums, hawthorn, and rock sugar. Vendors often serve it over crushed ice, making it the perfect antidote to Guiyang’s humid weather. The drink’s deep reddish-brown hue and complex flavor—balancing sour, sweet, and smoky notes—make it irresistible.

Where to find it: Look for street carts near Zhonghua Road or Qingyan Ancient Town, where vendors prepare it fresh daily.

Rose Ice Jelly (Bing Fen)

This jelly-like dessert drink is a local favorite. Made from a plant-based starch, Bing Fen has a slippery texture and is often drizzled with rose syrup, honey, or brown sugar. Some versions include toppings like peanuts, raisins, or even fermented glutinous rice for extra flavor.

Pro tip: Ask for extra rose syrup if you prefer a stronger floral aroma.

The Creamy and Milky Must-Tries

Mango Pomelo Sago (Yang Zhi Gan Lu)

Though originally from Guangdong, this dessert drink has found a loyal following in Guiyang. Yang Zhi Gan Lu combines fresh mango puree, pomelo pulp, sago pearls, and coconut milk into a creamy, tropical delight. Street vendors often serve it in tall cups with a generous scoop of shaved ice on top.

Best spot: Night markets like Jiaxiu Lou Night Market have stalls specializing in this Hong Kong-inspired treat.

Sweet Fermented Rice Drink (Jiu Niang)

A warm-weather staple, Jiu Niang is a lightly alcoholic drink made from fermented glutinous rice. It’s sweet, slightly fizzy, and often served chilled with small rice balls or a splash of osmanthus syrup. Locals believe it aids digestion, making it a popular post-meal drink.

Fun fact: Some street vendors add a splash of carbonated water for extra fizz.

The Herbal and Refreshing Brews

Hemp Seed Tea (Ma Ren Cha)

Unique to Guizhou, Ma Ren Cha is a nutty, slightly bitter drink made from roasted hemp seeds. The seeds are ground into a paste, mixed with hot water, and sweetened with sugar. It has a creamy texture similar to sesame paste but with a distinct earthy flavor.

Where to try it: Smaller alleys near Qianling Park often have elderly vendors selling this traditional drink.

Loquat Leaf Tea (Pi Pa Ye Cha)

A natural remedy for sore throats, Pi Pa Ye Cha is brewed from loquat leaves and often sweetened with honey. It has a mild, herbal taste and is served either hot or cold. Many street vendors keep large thermoses of this tea ready for passersby.

Health bonus: Locals swear by its soothing effects on coughs and summer colds.

The Fruity and Exotic Blends

Dragon Fruit and Lime Shake (Huo Long Guo Yin)

Guiyang’s tropical climate allows for an abundance of fresh fruit. One standout drink is the Huo Long Guo Yin, a vibrant pink shake blending dragon fruit, lime juice, and a touch of honey. It’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.

Best time to drink: Mid-afternoon, when the sun is at its peak.

Passionfruit Green Tea (Bai Xiang Guo Lu Cha)

For tea lovers, this is a must-try. Bai Xiang Guo Lu Cha mixes freshly brewed green tea with passionfruit pulp, creating a tart and refreshing drink. Some vendors add basil seeds for extra texture.

Where to find it: Trendy tea stalls around Huaxi University Town often have creative versions.

The Uniquely Guiyang Specials

Mung Bean Soup (Lv Dou Tang)

A simple yet satisfying drink, Lv Dou Tang is made from boiled mung beans, sugar, and sometimes a hint of orange peel. It’s served chilled and acts as a natural coolant.

Local secret: Some vendors add a splash of coconut milk for a richer taste.

Cane Sugar Ice (Bing Tang)

A childhood favorite, Bing Tang is shaved ice drenched in melted cane sugar syrup. It’s often topped with red beans, taro balls, or fresh fruit. The crunch of the ice paired with the caramel-like sweetness is pure nostalgia.

Best enjoyed: At the Guiyang People’s Square night market, where vendors compete for the fluffiest shaved ice.

Final Sips

Guiyang’s street drink scene is as diverse as its culinary landscape. Whether you’re craving something herbal, creamy, or fruity, the city’s vendors have a thirst-quenching solution. Next time you’re wandering Guiyang’s bustling streets, skip the soda and dive into these authentic, refreshing sips instead.