Xiasi Ancient Town

Introducing Xiasi Ancient Town

Xiasi Ancient Town is a national 4A-level tourist attraction and a provincial-level scenic spot in Guizhou Province. Located in the upper reaches of the Qingshui River, southwest of Kaili City, it is home to ethnic minorities such as the Miao and Mulao peoples. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it served as the seat of a branch of the Pingding Chieftainship. Its location downstream of Pingding gave it the name Xiasi, earning it the reputation of "Xiasi, a place of rich culture and natural beauty."

At the same time, Xiasi Ancient Town is known as "Little Shanghai" and "Pearl on the Qingshui River". It is a national canoeing demonstration base, the hometown of Chinese red garlic, the hometown of zinc-selenium rice, and the hometown of the world-famous Xiasi dog.

Every year in mid-July of the lunar calendar, locals hold traditional dragon boat races and bullfighting competitions, creating a bustling atmosphere with throngs of people and cars. Xiasi's renowned culinary specialties, such as its "sour soup fish" and "grass-roasted dog," are particularly popular and beloved by tourists.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a subtropical monsoon climate with mild weather and distinct four seasons, making it suitable for travel all year round. The dragon boat races held from May to July every year are very lively.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Taoyuan Island

It is a peninsula with beautiful scenery and lush trees. It has various entertainment facilities, catering, accommodation, and you can also enjoy fishing, photography, encounters and other activities.

Moon Island

Named Moon Island because it resembles a crescent moon, the island boasts a variety of architectural styles, with dramatic eaves and ridges. There's also a resort on the island, perfect for a short stay. If you're looking to capture the beautiful moments, bring a few cameras.

Cobblestone Flower Street

Named for its cobblestone paving, the streets still retain ancient shops and buildings. At a time when land transportation was limited and water transportation was popular, Xiasi, situated on the banks of the Qingshui River, became a crucial passage from eastern Guizhou to Guiyang and other cities. Given its importance, the local wealthy and merchants who flocked to the area built the cobblestone Flower Street. After its construction, Flower Street earned the reputation of "Little Shanghai," with ships moored there for kilometers, and at night, a dazzling display of lights created a spectacular scene.

2-3 hours

Tickets

The ancient town scenic area adopts a one-ticket system with a listed price of 110 yuan. Tourists from Qiandongnan are free of charge.

Attraction opening hours

08:30-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Xiasi Ancient Town

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

Xiasi Ancient Town is a historic settlement of the Miao ethnic group, dating back centuries. It is significant for its preserved stilted architecture, traditional culture, and role as a river trading hub in Southeast Guizhou.

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

Located in Southeast Guizhou province, Xiasi is accessible by car or bus from Kaili City. Within the town, walking is the best way to explore the narrow streets and riverside areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town is open all day for exploration. The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is mild and festivals are held.

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

Entrance to Xiasi Ancient Town itself is usually free. Some cultural sites or museums may charge small fees, purchased onsite.

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

Advance booking is generally not necessary, except for guided tours or festival events, which can be reserved 1–2 weeks ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 full days are sufficient to explore the town, markets, riverside, and nearby villages.

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

• The ancient stilted houses and wooden bridges
• Wu River waterfront and boat rides
• Local markets and craft shops
• Traditional Miao cultural performance areas
• Nearby villages showcasing ethnic lifestyles

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

Guided tours in Chinese are available; English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance. Audio guides are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Riverside for reflections of stilted houses
• Wooden bridges for scenic compositions
• Festival areas with colorful costumes
• Hills surrounding the town for panoramic views

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from the riverfront, explore stilted houses and streets, visit markets, attend a cultural performance, and finish with a short boat ride on the Wu River.

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

Evening walks along the riverside are popular. Some festivals have night performances with local music and dance, but light shows are limited.

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

The town is moderately crowded during festivals and weekends. Weekdays and non-festival periods are less busy.

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

Basic facilities such as public toilets, local eateries, rest areas, and souvenir shops are available, mainly near the riverfront and market areas.

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

Some areas with stairs and narrow streets may be challenging for the elderly or disabled. Children can navigate easily with supervision.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely used, though major shops and restaurants may accept mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat) in urban areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local restaurants serve Miao cuisine, rice dishes, and river fish. Some cafés near the waterfront offer tea and light snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are limited; some local dishes can be adapted. Halal food is rare, more available in nearby larger towns.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses and small inns within the town
• Hotels in nearby Kaili City for more options
• Eco-lodges near surrounding villages

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

• Kaili Ethnic Minorities Museum
• Nearby Miao and Dong villages
• Thousand-Level Waterfalls and karst landscapes

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include traditional Miao embroidery, silver jewelry, handmade textiles, and local crafts.

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

Private car or taxi to Kaili, bus connections to nearby towns, and guided tour vans for ethnic villages and regional attractions.