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In Xingyi, you can:
Xingyi, located in southwestern Guizhou, at the junction of Yunnan, Guizhou, and Guangxi provinces, was formerly known as "Huangcaoba." It has long been a commercial center in the southwest and is now the capital of Qianxinan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, known as the "Key to Guizhou and Guangxi." Xingyi has been recognized as an Excellent Tourism City and a Best Leisure Tourism City in China. It is also the permanent venue for the International Mountain Tourism Conference.
Xingyi's natural scenery is unique and beautiful. Visitors can not only experience Xingyi's natural beauty through thrilling rafting in the Maling River Gorge, but also gaze upon the magnificent scenery of the Wanfeng Forest from a height. This area has long been inhabited by the Buyi ethnic minority, a nation renowned for their singing and dancing skills. Along the Nahui River, beneath the Wanfeng Forest, stilt houses shrouded in mist, towering, verdant yellow horn trees, elderly Buyi people spinning and weaving, and young men and women playing the lang whistle, all combine with the crisp rustle of leaves, the heartfelt Buyi love songs, and the melodious eight-tone singing to create a captivating rural landscape.
Subtropical humid temperate climate;
February to April and July to August are the best months for visiting: from late February to early April, thousands of acres of rapeseed flowers will be in full bloom in Xingyi; if you visit in July or August, the waterfalls will be more majestic, and summer rafting will be more interesting and enjoyable.
Wanfenglin Scenic Area
Located south of Xingyi City, this area is comprised of nearly 20,000 striking peaks and lush green hills, making it one of the three major karst landforms in southwest China. Its dense and unique peaks and forests are considered a Chinese conical karst museum and are listed among China's five most beautiful peak forests. Xu Xiake described it as "only here do peaks become a forest." In addition to its beautiful scenery, the area is home to several Buyi villages, including Nahui, Leli, and Yulong, offering opportunities to experience the rich Buyi customs and culture.
Maling River Canyon
Located 4 kilometers northeast of Xingyi City, the canyon stretches approximately 15 kilometers and boasts magnificent scenery. With steep cliffs jutting out on both sides and a deep river valley, the canyon is uniquely characterized by its grandeur, strangeness, danger, and beauty, earning it the nickname "the most beautiful scar on Earth." The canyon is home to numerous waterfalls, hundreds of diverse forms forming the renowned Maling River Waterfalls. Even in the dry winter season, the scenery remains breathtaking.
Wanfeng Lake
This artificial lake, formed after the completion and impoundment of the Tianshengqiao High Dam Power Station, a key national hydropower project, earned its name from the thousands of peaks surrounding it. Within the lake are thousands of islands and peninsulas, extensive aquaculture networks, and numerous ethnic minority villages dot the shores. Wanfeng Lake is renowned for its fishing, known as a "wild angler's paradise," resulting in numerous fishing resorts along the lakefront, attracting numerous anglers.
Xingyi is the capital of Qianxinan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in Guizhou Province, China. The area is renowned for its karst topography, traditional Miao culture, and historical significance as a center for minority groups. It also serves as a gateway to the vast natural landscapes of Southwest China.
Xingyi is located in the southwest of Guizhou Province, China. The best way to get there is by taking a flight to Xingyi Airport or a long-distance bus from nearby cities. Taxis are available within the city for short distances, while buses and taxis are commonly used for getting to scenic spots outside the city.
Most scenic spots in Xingyi are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. Avoid the summer months if you prefer to avoid the peak tourist crowds.
The entrance fee varies depending on the attraction. For example, the Maling River Gorge and Jiucaiping Scenic Area have ticket prices ranging from 50 to 120 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the attractions, but it's recommended to check local platforms for online ticketing options as well.
It's not strictly necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends. You can book tickets a few days ahead to avoid long lines.
Depending on which attractions you are visiting, it typically takes 1-2 days to explore the key sites like the Maling River Gorge, Jiucaiping Scenic Area, and Bianzi Cave. If you're interested in hiking or outdoor activities, you might want to allocate extra time.
The must-see highlights in Xingyi include:
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some guides may also speak basic English, especially in popular tourist spots. Audio guides may be available in Chinese, but it's a good idea to check ahead if you require one in English.
The best photography spots in Xingyi include:
A recommended itinerary is to start with a visit to Maling River Gorge in the morning for the waterfalls, followed by a trip to Jiucaiping Scenic Area for hiking and panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the Bianzi Cave before heading to the nearby Miao villages for cultural immersion. If time permits, enjoy the local food and relax in the evening.
Night visits are not common in Xingyi, and there are no light shows available. However, some local festivals and cultural events may occur during the evenings, providing a unique experience of Miao culture.
Xingyi can get crowded during weekends and Chinese public holidays, particularly in popular scenic areas. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit during weekdays and in the off-peak seasons, such as early spring or late autumn.
Facilities like public toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available at most major attractions. There are food stalls and small restaurants within the scenic areas, as well as souvenir shops selling local handicrafts and Miao products.
Most major attractions in Xingyi are accessible for elderly and children, though some hiking areas, such as Jiucaiping Scenic Area, may require a moderate level of fitness. Some sites may not be fully wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain, but assistance can be arranged if needed.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in Xingyi, especially in tourist areas. Credit cards may be less commonly accepted, so it's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in more rural areas.
There are several small restaurants serving local cuisine around Xingyi and its tourist attractions. In the city, you can find a variety of eateries offering traditional Guizhou dishes, such as sour fish soup and rice noodles.
Vegetarian options are available in many local restaurants, particularly in vegetarian-friendly establishments. Halal food is available in certain parts of Xingyi, particularly in areas with a Muslim population, though it may be limited in rural areas.
There are several hotels in Xingyi, ranging from budget hostels to mid-range and higher-end options. Some popular choices include Xingyi Jianguo Hotel, 7 Days Inn, and local guesthouses offering comfortable stays near the scenic areas.
Nearby attractions include:
Yes, souvenir shops are common in Xingyi and its tourist areas, offering items such as Miao ethnic handicrafts, traditional clothing, jewelry, and locally made products like tea and rice wine.
After visiting Xingyi, you can take a bus or taxi to nearby towns or attractions. You can also continue your journey to larger cities like Guiyang by bus or train from the Xingyi bus station.
