Things To Do
in Guding
Guding is a small mountain town in Guizhou, China, renowned for its lush valleys and tranquil pace. The town sits among karst scenery where misty mornings gradually give way to bright afternoons filled with markets and tea farms. Traditional Guizhou cuisine and ethnic crafts add color to daily life, especially in the old town area.
Visitors can explore nearby hills on foot, sample local dishes, and enjoy genuine rural hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the narrow streets of Guding's ancient town, where traditional architecture meets vibrant local culture. Enjoy a breakfast of freshly made dumplings from a street vendor while soaking in the early morning ambiance. Don't forget to visit the local market to experience the sights and sounds of local life.
After a hearty lunch at a local eatery, take a guided walking tour to learn about the history and legends of Guding. Visit key historical sites, including temples and ancestral halls, to appreciate the rich cultural heritage. Stop by a quaint teahouse to enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in the afternoon heat.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot by the river to watch the stunning reflections of the town’s lights on the water. Indulge in a dinner featuring regional specialties at a restaurant known for its authentic flavors. Round off your evening by joining locals at a nearby square for folk dances and music performances.
Begin your day with a rejuvenating hike to the nearby hills, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Arrive at a hillside temple where monks begin their early morning prayers, immersing yourself in the calming atmosphere. Capture the sunrise with stunning photographs that will last a lifetime.
After returning from your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, with local delicacies prepared for you. Spend your afternoon participating in a traditional calligraphy workshop, where you can learn the art from local artisans. This hands-on experience deepens your insight into Chinese culture.
As evening approaches, visit a local arts gallery to appreciate contemporary and traditional works by local artists. Attend a performance of traditional music or opera, which showcases the unique talents of Guding's performers. Finish your day with a tranquil walk under the stars, reflecting on your experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| 🚌Local transit (1-day pass) | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $2-5 |
| 🧭Souvenir or market goods | $3-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Guizhou culture and cuisine
- Scenic mountain scenery and relaxed pace
- Limited English commonly spoken
- Smaller tourist infrastructure outside Guiyang
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问，最近的厕所在哪里？" - Excuse me, where is the nearest bathroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much does this cost?
- "好吃" - Delicious
- "你会说英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Guding
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient stone gate framed by weathered walls, especially atmospheric at dawn or dusk with lantern light.
A wide overlook where rolling hills vanish into low-hanging clouds during morning hours.
Golden hour reflections on the river beside traditional boats and riverside homes.
Food in Guding
Guding Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sour fish soup made with tangy rice-sour broth, fresh river fish, tomatoes, and peppers; best enjoyed with warm rice.
Must-Try!
Rice and savory ingredients steamed in bamboo, offering a fragrant, portable rice dish popular at eateries and markets.
Crispy chicken tossed with dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns, delivering a smoky and numbing heat.
Soft bean curd in a bold chili oil sauce with fragrant herbs, a comforting Guizhou staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with skewers, noodles, rice paper rolls, and seasonal produce; great for a fast, flavorful bite.
Stalls along the river offering snacks, dried chilies, pickles, and handmade sweets; ideal for tasting many bites in one stroll.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a polite nod or brief smile; address elders with respect and use simple titles when possible.
Dress modestly, remove hats, and follow local rules; avoid loud conversations in sacred spaces.
Ask permission to photograph people, particularly elders or artisans; give a polite explanation when declined.
Safety
Tipping in Guding
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most local venues; in tourist-focused establishments, small tips for exceptional service are appreciated but not obligatory.
WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with late rains; landscapes come alive with blossoms and fresh greenery.
Warm and humid with frequent showers; carry water, light rain gear, and sun protection.
Pleasant and cooler days with clear skies; ideal for hiking and outdoor photography.
Cool to chilly; frost possible on higher elevations; markets indoors are cozy and inviting.
Guding at Night
Hiking in Guding
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Panoramic route with tea plantations, limestone features, and sweeping valley views.
Easy to moderate route along streams and small villages, suitable for a relaxed half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Guding by plane.
Major gateway to Guizhou with both domestic and international connections; typically reachable by taxi or airport shuttle from Guding with a few hours’ travel.
Larger hub in the region for longer connections; useful for multi-city itineraries but not a nearby option for day-to-day travel from Guding.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority with diverse dialects and regional cuisines.
One of Guizhou’s key minority groups present in the region, contributing traditional crafts and music.
Another local minority with distinctive customs and textiles.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games are frequently organized.
Widely played indoors in homes and clubs, especially during hotter or rainy days.
A favored activity due to the surrounding mountains and scenic viewpoints.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guding.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose tofu-based dishes, veggie noodles, and rice meals; request no meat stock or seafood stock when possible.