Xiuwen

Introducing Xiuwen

Xiuwen County, located in central Guizhou, is under the jurisdiction of Guiyang City. It borders Wudang District to the east, Baiyun District to the south, and Qingzhen City across the Maotiao River. It faces Qianxi and Jinsha Counties to the west across the Liuguang River, and borders Xifeng County to the north. The county's terrain slopes gradually from east to northwest. Within the county, you'll find the provincial-level Yangming Scenic Area, the richly preserved Yangming Cave, the Liuguang River Grand Canyon, Taoyuan River rafting, and Guizhou's only forest wildlife park. Other attractions include the Karst Plateau Forest Golf Resort, the Scottish Ranch, and the Pearl Island Resort. Other scenic spots include the Huishui Stone Forest and Gaojian Stone Forest, two representative Guizhou-style stone forests. Scottish Ranch and the Liuguang River Grand Canyon are also popular holiday and leisure destinations.

---

Most Popular FAQs for Xiuwen

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

Xiuwen is a historical town in Guizhou, rich in ethnic diversity, particularly the Miao and Dong people. The town is significant for its ancient architecture, cultural festivals, and traditional practices, making it an important destination for those looking to explore China's ethnic cultures and natural beauty.

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

Xiuwen is located in the southeast of Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province. It can be reached by bus, taxi, or car from Guiyang, which is approximately 30 km away. There is no metro service in Xiuwen, so taking a taxi or bus from Guiyang is the most convenient option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Xiuwen is an open destination with no specific hours of operation for general sightseeing. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn (March to May and September to November), when the weather is mild, and the area’s natural beauty is at its peak. Avoid the summer months as they can be quite crowded with tourists.

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

There is no general entrance fee for visiting Xiuwen, but specific attractions, like the scenic spots or temples, may charge an entrance fee ranging from 20 to 50 CNY. Tickets can be bought at the entrance to each site or through local travel agencies. It’s advisable to purchase tickets on-site as most places don’t offer online booking.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most attractions in Xiuwen, though it’s recommended during peak tourist seasons. For festivals or special events, booking 1-2 days in advance may be a good idea to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Xiuwen and its main attractions, you will need about 1-2 days. This will give you enough time to visit the temples, hike scenic trails, and explore the local villages.

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

Must-see highlights include the local Miao villages, ancient temples, and scenic mountain trails. The surrounding natural landscape offers numerous opportunities for hiking and photography. You may also want to visit the local markets to experience the regional handicrafts.

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

Guided tours are available, with Mandarin-speaking guides being the most common. Some tour operators may offer English-speaking guides, though they are limited. Audio guides are rarely available in Xiuwen, so it’s recommended to join a local guided tour for a more enriching experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best photography spots include the views from the mountain trails, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside and villages. The temples and local houses provide excellent photo opportunities, especially with the backdrop of natural landscapes.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary would be to start by visiting one of the local Miao villages to learn about the culture, followed by a hike in the nearby mountains for panoramic views. You can finish the day by visiting a temple or local market. If you have more time, explore the scenic riverside areas.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically available in Xiuwen. However, during special festivals, there are cultural performances in the evening that offer a glimpse into local traditions and Miao dances.

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

Xiuwen is generally not crowded except during national holidays or cultural festivals. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays during the off-peak months of winter and late autumn when fewer tourists visit the area.

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

Facilities such as public toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available at popular tourist spots. Local shops sell souvenirs, including Miao handicrafts and snacks. More extensive dining options and rest facilities can be found in Guiyang, about 30 km away.

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

While Xiuwen has some areas accessible to elderly or disabled visitors, certain mountain trails and villages may require some walking on uneven terrain. It’s advisable to check with local operators for specific accessibility information before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still commonly used in Xiuwen, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in tourist spots, shops, and restaurants. Credit cards are not as commonly accepted in smaller shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small local restaurants serving Guizhou-style dishes, such as sour fish soup, spicy hot pot, and rice noodles. For a wider selection, Guiyang has more international restaurants and cafes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Xiuwen, especially in the form of tofu and vegetable dishes. Halal food options are limited but can be found in larger cities like Guiyang.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

In Xiuwen, there are a few guesthouses and budget hotels. For more comfortable accommodations, you may prefer staying in Guiyang, which has a range of options from budget to luxury hotels.

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

Nearby attractions include the Wanshou Temple and the nearby natural parks and rivers, which offer great hiking and exploration opportunities. Guiyang itself has many cultural and natural attractions, including Qingyan Ancient Town and the Jiaxiu Tower, that are easy to combine in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are local souvenir shops selling traditional Miao handicrafts, such as embroidered textiles, silver jewelry, and wooden carvings. Local tea and snacks also make good souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Xiuwen, you can take a bus or taxi back to Guiyang. Guiyang has a well-connected transportation system, including trains and buses, that can take you to other parts of Guizhou or neighboring provinces.