Guizhou: A Journey Through Ancient Villages & Stunning Landscapes
When I first set foot in Guizhou, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. Tucked away in southwestern China, this province is often overshadowed by bigger tourist destinations like Beijing or Shanghai. But thanks to FS Holiday & Golden Destination, I got to explore a side of China that felt like stepping into a different world—one filled with misty mountains, ancient villages, majestic waterfalls, and, unexpectedly, an unforgettable wine-drinking experience with the Miao people.
From historic towns that feel frozen in time to breathtaking natural wonders, Guizhou turned out to be an adventure unlike any other. Here’s a closer look at the places that made this trip so special.
Exploring the Best of Guizhou
Wujiangzhai Village – A Riverside Gem
Hidden along the banks of the Wujiang River, Wujiangzhai is a charming village where life moves at a slower pace. Traditional wooden stilt houses line the water, their reflections shimmering in the river below. The village offers a glimpse into an old way of life, where fishermen still cast their nets by hand, and the sound of nature replaces the noise of modern cities. It was the perfect place to start our journey, soaking in the serenity before diving into the more adventurous parts of Guizhou.
Yelang Cave – A Surreal Art Wonderland
If I had to describe Yelang Cave in one word, it would be otherworldly. Imagine a labyrinth of caves filled with intricate stone sculptures, whimsical carvings, and hidden pathways. The entire place feels like an artist’s dream brought to life. It’s not just a cave—it’s an immersive art installation where nature and human creativity collide. Walking through its passages, I couldn’t help but wonder about the mind behind these bizarre yet mesmerizing creations.
Tianlong Tunpu – A Window to the Ming Dynasty
Guizhou is home to some of China’s most well-preserved ancient villages, and Tianlong Tunpu is one of the most fascinating. Established during the Ming Dynasty, this village has barely changed in over 600 years. The locals still wear traditional tunpu clothing, speak an ancient dialect, and live in stone houses built to withstand time. As I wandered through its narrow alleys, I felt like I had traveled back in time. Seeing the old traditions still alive here was a rare and humbling experience.
Huangguoshu Waterfall – The Grand Jewel of Guizhou
No visit to Guizhou is complete without witnessing the mighty Huangguoshu Waterfall, China’s largest waterfall. Standing at nearly 78 meters high and 101 meters wide, its roaring cascade is a spectacle of nature’s raw power. The best part? You can walk behind the waterfall through the Water Curtain Cave, where the mist surrounds you as if you’re in a scene from a fantasy movie. Seeing the waterfall up close was an unforgettable experience—one of those moments where nature just leaves you in awe.
Xijiang Thousand Miao Village – A Cultural & Alcoholic Awakening
This was the moment I realized I might not be as good at drinking as I thought.
Xijiang Thousand Miao Village is the largest Miao village in China, home to a community that has preserved its rich traditions for centuries. Upon arrival, we were welcomed with the famous Miao rice wine ceremony, a traditional gesture of hospitality. What I didn’t expect was the several tiers of drinking involved! With every step deeper into the village, another round of rice wine awaited. By the time I finished the last sip, I was convinced the Miao people had unlocked the secret to a never-ending celebration.
Beyond the wine, the village itself was stunning—traditional wooden homes, elaborate silver headdresses worn by Miao women, and mesmerizing cultural performances. It was one of the most vibrant and memorable experiences of the trip.
Xiaoqikong – Nature’s Hidden Paradise
If there’s a place that could make you believe in fairytales, it’s Xiaoqikong Scenic Area. This breathtaking landscape is filled with turquoise rivers, ancient moss-covered bridges, and dense forests. The highlight? The Seven Small Arches Bridge, an old stone bridge covered in lush greenery that looks straight out of a Chinese painting. Walking through this place, I felt like I had stumbled upon a hidden paradise untouched by time.
Qiannan Duyun Movie Set – A Step Into the Silver Screen
A surprise stop on our itinerary, this movie set in Qiannan Duyun felt like walking through the scenes of a classic Chinese period drama. The architecture, the props, and even the atmosphere were designed to transport visitors into another era. Whether you’re a film buff or just love historical settings, this place was a unique way to see how traditional Chinese culture is brought to life in cinema.
Qiandongnan – Danzhai: A Cultural Treasure
Danzhai is a lesser-known but deeply cultural gem in Guizhou. Here, we saw exquisite Miao embroidery, handwoven crafts, and performances that showcased the region’s deep-rooted traditions. The town is also home to Danzhai Wanda Village, a cultural tourism village where visitors can learn about Miao customs, try local delicacies, and watch traditional crafts being made.
China Chahai Tea Plantation – Sipping Serenity
After days of adventure, a peaceful visit to the China Chahai Tea Plantation was the perfect way to unwind. This plantation stretches over rolling hills, where rows of tea plants form a sea of lush green. We learned about the delicate process of tea cultivation and, of course, tasted some of the freshest tea I’ve ever had. Sitting there with a warm cup in hand, gazing at the misty hills, was one of the most calming moments of the trip.
Tianhetan – An Underground Wonder
Tianhetan is a place that truly showcases Guizhou’s diverse landscapes. This scenic area is famous for its karst caves, underground rivers, and stunning waterfalls. One of the highlights was exploring the massive cave system, where we took a boat ride through a subterranean river illuminated by soft golden lights. The scale and beauty of the underground world here were simply breathtaking.
Qinyan Ancient Town – A Step Back in Time
Ending our trip in Qinyan Ancient Town was like closing a history book filled with legends. This ancient town dates back to the Ming Dynasty and is known for its well-preserved stone pathways, grand temples, and traditional courtyards. Walking through its historic streets, I couldn’t help but imagine the stories these old walls could tell. It was the perfect place to reflect on the incredible journey we had in Guizhou.
Final Thoughts
Guizhou is a province of endless discoveries. From the raw power of Huangguoshu Waterfall to the cultural richness of Xijiang Miao Village, every stop on this journey left me in awe. And let’s not forget the unforgettable Miao rice wine experience—because if there’s one thing I learned, it’s that Guizhou knows how to welcome its guests in style.
For those inspired to explore this hidden gem of China, please check out Golden Destinations and FS Holiday Facebook page to book. Their well-planned itineraries and expert guidance made this trip seamless, allowing me to fully enjoy everything Guizhou has to offer. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a history lover, or someone looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, they can help craft the perfect journey for you.
Ready to experience Guizhou for yourself? Get in touch with Golden Destinations and FS Holiday—your next adventure awaits!
Photo & words by Jollence Lee
