Escape the 40°C furnace, dive into a 20°C cloud-cooled city | Liupanshui's secret summer retreat playbook
by NINA CUMMINGS
Jul 16, 2025
Liupanshui, hailed as China's "Cool Capital," is a hidden gem with an average annual temperature of 13-14°C and a summer average of just 19.7°C—a true summer paradise! Beyond its pleasant climate, it boasts breathtaking natural landscapes and unique ethnic cultures. Let’s dive into this dreamy Liupanshui adventure!
Pre-Trip Prep
Clothing: With significant day-night temperature swings, pack long sleeves and pants even in summer. Light, breathable outfits work for daytime.
Shoes: Comfortable sneakers are a must for sightseeing. Add water shoes or sandals if planning water activities.
Sun Protection: Strong UV calls for high-SPF sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and UPF clothing.
Rain Gear: Summer is rainy—carry an umbrella or raincoat.
Extras: Power bank, reusable water bottle (refill stations available), personal meds, and ID (required for tickets/accommodation).
Transport Guide
Flights: Liupanshui Yuezhao Airport connects to Guiyang, Kunming, Chongqing, and Chengdu. Airport shuttles (¥10-20) or taxis (¥50-80) take you downtown.
High-Speed Rail: Trains stop at Liupanshui Station (1.5hrs from Guiyang North) and Panzhou Station (1hr). Taxis/buses/shared rides available to attractions.
Self-Drive: Scenic routes from nearby cities, but note mountainous roads with sharp curves—drive cautiously.
Accommodation Picks
Downtown Hotels: Zhongshan District offers convenience. Try Guizhou Hotel (Liupanshui branch, ¥300-500/night, 4-star) or budget-friendly Times Holiday Hotel (¥200-300).
Scenic Stays: Wumeng Grassland’s Gu’aimeng Tent Camp (¥500-800, stargazing included) or Yeyuhai’s Artist Village Hotel (¥300-600, artsy vibe).
Must-Visit Attractions
Wumeng Grassland: Guizhou’s largest highland pasture (2,000-2,857m altitude, ¥30 entry). Highlights: 100,000-acre grasslands, 4,000-acre dwarf azalea forests (blooming March-April), and crystal-clear Tianchi Lake. Horseback riding (¥80-150/hr), chasing the rare "Buddha’s Light" at Guanfo Terrace, and overnight camping (¥300-500 tent rental). Allocate 1-2 days.
Yeyuhai: Comprises Yejiping Outdoor Base, Yushe National Forest Park ("Cool Capital’s Emerald," ¥20 entry), and Haiping Yi Village. Hike forest trails, ski in winter (¥200-300/person), or join the fiery Torch Festival (June 24 lunar calendar). Ride the Cloud Sightseeing Train (¥50-80) for panoramic views. Plan 1 day.
Meihua Mountain: Take the world’s longest single-route cable car (round-trip ¥150, 9.9km) through forests and sea of clouds. Meihuaping Park’s rotating restaurant offers city views. Spend half to 1 day.
Minghu Wetland Park: Free downtown attraction with interconnected reservoirs, a 1.3km rainbow bridge, and photo-worthy lakescapes. Allow 2-3 hours.
Foodie Highlights
Shuicheng Mutton Noodles: Local specialty (¥15-25/bowl) with tender meat and chewy rice noodles. Try Chang Huitou Noodle Shop in Laocheng Luoguo Street.
Shuicheng Luoguo: Griddle-cooked meats/veggies with crispy chili dip. Best enjoyed in the "Luoguo Street" historic area.
Panxian Ham: Rivals Jinhua ham—buy at local shops for direct snacking or cooking.
Pro Tips
• Best Time: Summer is cool but rainy—check forecasts.
• Attractions: Wumeng/Yeyuhai are vast—plan routes ahead.
• Etiquette: Respect Yi customs (e.g., remove shoes in homes, avoid touching ritual items).
Post by Phoenix~Bell | Jun 15, 2025

















