The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary for Guiyang

Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province, is a hidden gem in Southwest China. Known for its lush landscapes, vibrant minority cultures, and mouthwatering cuisine, this city offers an unforgettable weekend escape. Whether you're a foodie, nature lover, or culture enthusiast, this itinerary will help you make the most of your 48 hours in Guiyang.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Guiyang

Morning: Start with a Traditional Breakfast

Kick off your day with a hearty Guiyang breakfast. Head to Yang’er’s Rice Noodles (肠旺面), a local favorite. This dish features chewy rice noodles swimming in a rich, spicy broth topped with pig’s blood curd and crispy pork intestines. Pair it with a cup of local Maotai-flavored yogurt for an authentic taste of Guiyang.

Mid-Morning: Discover Qianling Park

After breakfast, take a short taxi ride to Qianling Park, a serene oasis in the city. The park is home to hundreds of wild macaques, so keep your snacks hidden! Hike up to Hongfu Temple, a Buddhist monastery nestled in the hills, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss the Kanzhu Pavilion, where locals practice tai chi in the early hours.

Lunch: Savor Guizhou’s Famous Sour Soup

For lunch, try Siwawa (丝娃娃), a DIY-style dish where you wrap thin rice pancakes around an assortment of fresh veggies and dip them in a tangy sour broth. Lao Kai Zi Siwawa is a legendary spot for this dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, order a bowl of Fish in Sour Soup (酸汤鱼), a regional specialty made with fermented tomatoes and fresh river fish.

Afternoon: Stroll Through Qingyan Ancient Town

A 40-minute drive from downtown will take you to Qingyan Ancient Town, a well-preserved Ming Dynasty village. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with stone houses, and stop by the Zhao Family’s 300-Year-Old Tofu Shop for a taste of their famous smoked tofu. Climb the Ancient City Wall for a bird’s-eye view of the town’s tiled rooftops.

Evening: Nightlife at Jiaxiu Tower

As the sun sets, head back to the city and visit Jiaxiu Tower, Guiyang’s iconic landmark. Lit up at night, this 400-year-old pavilion sits elegantly on the Nanming River. Nearby, Zhonghua Road Night Market comes alive with food stalls serving grilled skewers, stinky tofu, and sweet rice wine. End your night with a cocktail at Bar Loop, a trendy rooftop bar with skyline views.

Day 2: Nature and Culture Immersion

Morning: Day Trip to Huangguoshu Waterfall

Rise early for a day trip to Huangguoshu Waterfall, one of Asia’s largest waterfalls. The two-hour drive is scenic, passing through karst mountains and rural villages. Walk behind the cascading water at Water-Curtain Cave for a surreal experience. If you’re lucky, you might spot a rainbow arching over the misty plunge pool.

Lunch: Farm-to-Table Dining in the Countryside

On your way back, stop at a countryside restaurant for local organic dishes. Try bamboo rice, where sticky rice is cooked inside fresh bamboo tubes, or cured ham with wild mushrooms. The flavors are simple but deeply satisfying.

Afternoon: Minority Culture at the Guizhou Ethnic Village

Back in Guiyang, visit the Guizhou Ethnic Village to learn about the province’s diverse minority groups, like the Miao and Dong people. Watch traditional lusheng (a reed-pipe instrument) performances and admire intricate silver jewelry handmade by local artisans. If time allows, join a batik (wax-resist dyeing) workshop to create your own textile souvenir.

Evening: Relax at Nanming River Tea Houses

Wind down your weekend at one of Guiyang’s charming tea houses along Nanming River. Sip on Duyun Maojian tea, a local green tea, while watching boats drift by. For dinner, indulge in Guizhou hot pot, packed with wild herbs and spicy broth. Lao Gan Ma Hot Pot is a must-visit for its fiery flavors.

Bonus Tips for Your Guiyang Adventure

• Weather: Guiyang is called the "City of Eternal Spring" for its mild climate, but pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.
• Transport: Didi (China’s Uber) is convenient, but the metro is efficient for short distances.
• Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few phrases in the local dialect (like "好吃" for "delicious") can earn you smiles.

With this itinerary, you’ll experience the best of Guiyang’s natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable flavors—all in just one weekend!