Things To Do
in Guiyang

Guiyang is the capital of Guizhou Province in southwestern China, known for its lush green mountains and vibrant ethnic culture. The city features a unique blend of modern architecture and traditional minority villages, offering visitors a rich cultural experience. With its mild climate and picturesque scenery, Guiyang serves as a gateway to exploring the stunning natural landscapes of the surrounding region.

The city is also renowned for its diverse culinary scene, featuring local specialties that reflect its multi-ethnic heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Guiyang
morning
:

Start your day at Jiaxiu Tower, a historic pavilion that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Afterwards, take a stroll along the beautiful Nanming River.

afternoon
:

Visit the Guiyang People's Square for a taste of local life, then head to the Guizhou Provincial Museum to learn about the region’s rich history and culture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant in the city center, followed by a walk through the vibrant night markets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning trip to the stunning Huangguoshu Waterfall, one of the largest waterfalls in China, located about 2 hours from Guiyang.

afternoon
:

After returning, visit the Qianling Park, where you can hike up to the peak for panoramic views and explore the local wildlife.

evening
:

Head to a local hot pot restaurant for dinner, then enjoy some live music or a cultural performance at a nearby venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$3-7
Coffee at a café$2-4
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$1-5
🎟️Museum entrance fee$1-3
🏨Night at a budget hotel$20-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with diverse ethnic communities.
  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine.
  • Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Humidity can be uncomfortable in summer.
  • Limited western-style amenities compared to larger cities.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "我不明白" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Guiyang

Visit one of these nice places.

Huangguoshu Waterfall

The largest waterfall in China, offering breathtaking views and excellent photography opportunities.

Qianling Park

A scenic park featuring hills, lakes, and temples, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.

Jiaxiu Tower

An iconic symbol of Guiyang, this historic tower is especially stunning at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Guiyang

Guiyang's culinary scene is a vibrant reflection of the region's diverse cultures, offering an array of mouthwatering dishes, especially known for their bold flavors and unique ingredients.

Guiyang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sour Fish Soup

A traditional dish made with fresh fish, vegetables, and a tangy broth, often served with rice.

Must-Try!

Guizhou Spicy Chicken

Tender chicken cooked with a variety of spices for a fiery flavor, typically accompanied by local vegetables.

Rice Noodles

Delicious rice noodles served in a spicy broth, often garnished with herbs and meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Jiaxiu Tower Food Street

A bustling market near Jiaxiu Tower where you can sample a variety of local street foods.

Nanming Night Market

A popular spot for street food, offering everything from skewered meats to sweet desserts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Guiyang has a subtropical highland climate with mild temperatures year-round. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with average highs around 27°C (81°F), while winters (December to February) are cool, with average lows around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is abundant, especially during the summer months, making it essential to carry an umbrella. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Elders are highly respected; use polite language and gestures when interacting with them.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin and avoid using chopsticks to point at people.

Gift Giving

Gifts are often exchanged during visits; avoid giving clocks, as they are associated with funerals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Guiyang is considered a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Always be cautious when crossing streets, as traffic can be chaotic. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 120 for ambulances.

Tipping in Guiyang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; cash is less common, so having a mobile payment setup is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March-May)

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer (June-August)

Hot and humid, with occasional rain; ideal for enjoying the cool mountain air.

Autumn (September-November)

Cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage; perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter (December-February)

Chilly and dry, with occasional snow; a quieter time to explore the city.

Nightlife Guide

Guiyang at Night

Guiyang offers a lively nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular areas include the Nanming River area, where you can find a variety of bars offering local brews and cocktails. The city also hosts cultural performances and traditional music shows that provide a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. Late-night food stalls serve delicious street food, making it easy to experience the vibrant atmosphere.

Hiking in Guiyang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kaili Miao Village Trail

A scenic hiking trail that provides insights into the Miao culture and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Huaxi National Urban Forest Park

A well-maintained park with hiking trails that cater to various skill levels, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

Airports

How to reach Guiyang by plane.

Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport

Located approximately 11 km from downtown Guiyang, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it easy to access the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Guiyang's city center is relatively walkable, with pedestrian-friendly streets and well-marked sidewalks. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other. However, some areas may require public transportation or taxis to reach, especially when exploring parks or attractions outside the downtown area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The largest ethnic group in China, comprising the majority of the population in Guiyang.

Miao Ethnic Group

One of the prominent minority groups in Guizhou, known for their colorful traditional clothing and rich cultural practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport among the youth in Guiyang, with many parks and courts available for public use.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is widely played and enjoyed across all age groups, with many clubs and community centers offering facilities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Guiyang can be congested, particularly during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses and the metro system, which are affordable and cover many parts of the city. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also readily available, providing convenient alternatives for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Guiyang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to confirm that no meat products are used.

Spice Level

Dishes tend to be spicy; ask for a milder version if you have a low tolerance for spice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Guiyang are accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available. Major hospitals cater to both locals and tourists, offering a range of medical services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to carry necessary medications, as some may not be readily available.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide