Zhenshan Village Mindfulness Retreat

1. Relaxation Options

Nature Therapy: Cruise on Huaxi Reservoir to embrace the serenity of half-mountain-half-water landscapes, or stroll along lakeside boardwalks while listening to the breeze and watching clouds.

Cultural Immersion: Try batik or tie-dye handicrafts, or learn traditional Buyi ethnic weaving to slow down with hands-on experiences.

Ancient Village Walk: Wander through stone-paved alleys, explore Ming Dynasty garrison walls and temple ruins, feeling 600 years of history and local charm.

Farm Activities: Pick seasonal fruits (like citrus or strawberries) in winter, or join spring farming activities to reconnect with nature.

2. Itinerary Suggestions

Day Trip:
Morning: Welcome drink ceremony → Visit Wumiao Temple → Photo ops in stone alleys → Boat tour to admire "Half-Side Mountain".
Afternoon: Batik workshop → Lakeside BBQ → Listen to Buyi folk songs at ancient opera stage.

Two-Day Trip:
Day1: Check into homestay → Hiking along garrison walls → Join "Tiaochang" Festival (10th day of lunar new year).
Day2: Short trip to Tianhetan → Shop for specialties at Qingyan Ancient Town → Farewell with communal banquet.

3. Transportation Guide

Self-drive: ~40 mins from Guiyang (navigate to "Zhenshan Village"), paid parking (~¥20/car) at village entrance.

Bus: From Guiyang North Station/Railway Station, take bus to "Huaxi Park" then transfer to Zhenshan shuttle (~1.5hrs total).

Taxi: ~¥80 from downtown Guiyang (ideal for 4-5 people).

4. Accommodation Picks

Boutique Stays:

Shangzhai·Upper Village: Bookish ethnic-style B&B converted from old houses, perfect for creatives.

Stone Courtyard Homestay: Preserved Buyi architecture with original slate walls, fall asleep to cricket songs.

Retreat Packages: "Canvas Earth" base offers 2-16 day wellness stays including meals and cultural activities.

5. Must-Try Foods

Local Flavors:

Amber Rice Wine: Ming Dynasty brewing method yields balanced sweet-sour notes.

Handmade Konjac Tofu: Silky texture served with smoked bacon.

Sour Fish Soup: Lake fish in secret Buyi-style broth, tangy and refreshing.

Snacks: Glutinous rice cakes, Buyi blood tofu, Huaxi beef noodles (~¥40/person at farmhouses).

Tips: Winter snowscapes are magical (bring anti-slip shoes); summer visits are best early morning to avoid midday heat.