Southwest Guizhou

What are the most recommended things to do in Southwest Guizhou?

Explore the Karst landscapes and limestone formations in areas like Zhenyuan, Xingyi, and Maolan.
Visit ethnic minority villages of Miao and Buyi to experience traditional culture, architecture, and crafts.
Take a boat cruise along the Wuyang River or other scenic rivers for picturesque views.
Hike through scenic trails in forests, mountains, and nature reserves.
Photograph waterfalls, caves, and unique geological features such as Huangguoshu Waterfall and Libo’s Seven Small Arches.
Attend local festivals and cultural performances, including traditional music and dance of ethnic groups.
Try local cuisine, including sour and spicy Guizhou dishes, and taste local handicraft beverages.

Introducing Southwest Guizhou

Qianxinan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture is located in southwestern Guizhou Province, on the upper reaches of the Pearl River. It is home to 35 ethnic groups, including Buyi, Miao, Han, Yao, Gelao, and Hui. Qianxinan also boasts a concentration of nearly every type of karst landform, making it one of the most beautiful karst landscapes in the world.

The beauty of Qianling Mountain, the strangeness of Getuo River, the steepness of Maling River Grand Canyon, the magnificent mountains and waters of Wanfenglin and Huangguoshu, the deep canyons and winding rivers, the fragrance of flowers in spring and the colorful scenery in autumn, all attract tourists with their unique scenery all year round.

Climate and best time to travel

Qianxinan is suitable for tourism in all seasons. The spring is warm and full of fragrance of flowers, the summer is comfortable without feeling hot, and the autumn is cool and dry, which is the best season for tourism. The winter is not very cold and there is no biting cold, making Qianxinan Prefecture one of the different choices for winter travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Maling River Canyon

The Maling River Canyon is located 4 kilometers northeast of Xingyi City. The canyon is about 15 kilometers long, with steep cliffs on both sides and a deep river valley. It is unique for its grandeur, strangeness, danger and beauty, and is known as "the most beautiful scar on earth."

Wanfenglin

Wanfenglin is divided into two major sections: East Peak Forest and West Peak Forest. Currently, the West Peak Forest, located in Xiawutun Town, is the main section open to visitors. Stunningly beautiful mountains blend seamlessly with lush green fields, winding rivers, and quaint villages, creating a unique and picturesque peak forest landscape.

Shuangru Peak Scenic Area in Southwest Guizhou

Located in Zhenfeng County, Qianxinan Prefecture, Shuangru Peak is a landmark of Zhenfeng. As its name suggests, its twin peaks resemble female breasts. Beneath the peaks lie fertile fields, irrigated by the jade-belt-like Sancha River, which nourishes the people and breeds future generations, lending the Buyi culture beneath the peaks a mystical quality.

Recommended number of days for a visit: 1-3 days

Most Popular FAQs for Southwest Guizhou

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Southwest Guizhou is known for its rich ethnic diversity and dramatic Karst landscapes. Historically, it has been home to Miao, Buyi, and other ethnic groups, preserving unique customs, architecture, and festivals. The region is ecologically significant with numerous rivers, forests, caves, and waterfalls, attracting researchers and tourists alike.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Location: Southwestern Guizhou Province, China.
By plane: Nearest airports include Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport, then transfer by bus or taxi.
By train: High-speed trains connect Guiyang, Xingyi, and other towns in Southwest Guizhou.
By bus: Local buses connect main towns and scenic spots.
By taxi or private car: Convenient for visiting remote villages and scenic areas.
Walking: Recommended for exploring villages, caves, and trails.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours: Most scenic spots operate from 8:00–17:30.
Best times: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) for comfortable weather and clear visibility.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Ticket prices vary by attraction, typically ¥50–¥200.
Tickets can be purchased online through official websites or at entrance counters.
Some natural reserves or hiking trails may have minimal fees or be free.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is recommended for popular sites during peak season or festivals, usually 1–3 days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 days to explore key scenic areas, villages, waterfalls, and rivers in Southwest Guizhou.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Huangguoshu Waterfall – one of China’s largest waterfalls.
Libo Karst National Geopark – limestone caves, rivers, and Seven Small Arches.
Zhenyuan Ancient Town – historic architecture and riverside scenery.
Ethnic minority villages – Miao and Buyi traditional culture.
Xingyi’s Danxia landforms and scenic mountain areas.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, mostly in Chinese; English-language guides may be arranged for specific attractions or via travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Panoramic views from Karst peaks and observation decks.
Waterfalls, rivers, and caves in Libo and Huangguoshu areas.
Traditional village streets and ethnic festival scenes.
Sunrise and sunset over rivers and terraces.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Guiyang, visit Huangguoshu Waterfall, proceed to Zhenyuan Ancient Town, then explore Libo National Geopark and nearby ethnic villages, finishing at Xingyi for Danxia landscapes.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are limited; some towns offer evening cultural performances, illuminated bridges, or night markets.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak: National holidays and festival periods.
Least crowded: Weekdays outside holiday seasons, especially spring and autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets and benches in main scenic areas.
Restaurants, snack stalls, and tea houses near tourist hubs.
Shops selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and snacks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main park areas are mostly accessible; hiking trails and remote villages may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and cards are widely accepted; carrying some cash is recommended in remote villages.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local Guizhou cuisine restaurants near Huangguoshu, Libo, and Zhenyuan.
Street-side snack vendors offering sour and spicy dishes.
Tea houses and small cafes in ethnic villages.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some restaurants and temples; halal options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels and guesthouses in Guiyang, Zhenyuan, Libo, and Xingyi.
Eco-lodges and boutique accommodations near scenic parks.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Zhenyuan Ancient Town and riverside markets.
Libo Seven Small Arches and Karst forest.
Xingyi Qianlingshan scenic areas and Danxia formations.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Handicrafts, embroidery, silver jewelry, and woven textiles from Miao and Buyi ethnic groups.
Local food products such as chili sauces, pickled vegetables, and rice wine.
Small Karst-themed gifts and postcards.