Guizhou In-depth Exploration 8 Days

After a delicious western buffet breakfast, our day begins with a visit to Qingyan Ancient Town. Originally established in 1378 as a strategic military stronghold, this town is a time capsule of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. You can stroll along the 7-km-long ancient city wall that snakes along the rugged cliffs, offering a panoramic view of the bustling stone-paved streets below. Beyond its military history, Qingyan is a foodie's paradise—don't miss the chance to savor local delicacies like the famous Braised Pig's Foot, Rice Cake Porridge, and the fragrant Rose Sugar.

Next, relax during a 2.5-hour private transfer to Kaili, the gateway to Guizhou's ethnic soul. Our destination is Matang Gejia Village, home to the "Gejia"—a fascinating, unidentified minority group. Though officially classified as a branch of the Miao, the Gejia people maintain a distinct identity, culture, and costume. As you walk through the cascading wooden houses surrounded by emerald rice paddies, you'll see women in armor-like attire. Their striking white flared headgear and silver hairpins aren't just fashion; they represent the bow and arrow of their legendary ancestor who shot down the sun.

Follow the Local Master: DIY Batik-dyeing Artwork The Gejia people are world-renowned masters of Batik art. Today, we've arranged a special hands-on workshop for you to learn this ancient craft. Under the guidance of a local master, you will:

• Sketch: Draw your chosen patterns onto white cloth using a pencil.

• Waxing: Trace the designs with a traditional copper knife dipped in molten wax.

• Dyeing: Submerge your work in deep indigo vats before boiling it to reveal the stunning white-on-blue contrast. Take home your very own handmade artwork as a unique souvenir of your journey!

After this magical experience, enjoy some quiet time exploring the secluded village life before we escort you to your hotel in the heart of Kaili.

Meals: Western buffet breakfast
Accommodation: Banshan Hotel (Wanda Plaza in Kaili City Center) (4 stars)

Our private exploration today begins at a vibrant local morning market, offering a rare glimpse into the authentic pulse of Kaili. This bustling hub is a sensory feast, where you'll find everything from fresh mountain produce and delicate bamboo handicrafts to lively stalls of poultry and traditional snacks—a true slice of daily life in Guizhou.

Next, we drive to Langde Miao Village, home to the "Long Skirt Miao." The villagers' warmth and their kaleidoscopic national culture are legendary.

The Grand 12-Course "Block-the-way" Wine Ceremony Prepare for a welcome like no other. At the village entrance, elders and youth in full traditional regalia await you with the 12-course "block-the-way" rice wine. In Miao culture, the more wine offered, the deeper the respect. The 12-course set is their highest ceremonial honor. The homemade brew is sweet and refreshing; if you're not a heavy drinker, a gentle sip is perfectly acceptable to show your appreciation.

Inside the village, enjoy an authentic Folk Performance. These aren't professional actors, but local farmers sharing their heritage through soulful singing, Lusheng (reed pipe) melodies, and rhythmic dancing. You're even invited to join the circle and dance hand-in-hand! For those seeking a bird's-eye view, a short hike up the hill reveals a stunning panoramic vista of the entire pristine village.

Our journey continues to the Datang Short-Skirt Miao Village, famous for a fashion tradition that has lasted for generations. Beyond the unique attire, the village is home to a remarkable 600-year-old architectural feat: 47 wooden granaries built on stilts directly over the water. This ancient design naturally protects the grain from rodents and fire—a living testament to the ingenuity of the Miao people.

Finally, we transition to the land of the Dong minority, arriving at the secluded Huanggang Dong Village. Tucked into a narrow valley and shrouded by dense forests, this 800-year-old sanctuary is guarded by two majestic Wind and Rain Bridges. You will see five towering Drum Towers—spectacular wooden structures resembling giant cedar trees—each serving as the spiritual heart for different family clans. Far from the tourist crowds, Huanggang remains a "primitive paradise" where life moves at a peaceful, ancient pace. Tonight, we immerse ourselves completely in this tranquil Dong world.

Meals: Western buffet breakfast
Accommodation: Huanggang Hecang Suji Hotel

After a traditional Chinese breakfast, we bid farewell to Liping and journey deep into the dense forests of Congjiang to visit Zhanli Dong Village. This primitive settlement of only 800 people holds a mystery that has baffled outsiders for generations: its perfectly balanced population. For centuries, the village's size has remained virtually unchanged. Nearly every family has exactly two children—typically one boy and one girl. Local lore attributes this extraordinary equilibrium to an ancient ancestral doctrine and a mysterious herbal medicine known only to the village elders.

Next, we transition from the quiet mystery of Zhanli to the rugged spirit of Biasha (Basha) Miao Village, famously recognized as China's Last Gunner Tribe. While firearms are strictly prohibited elsewhere in China, the men of Biasha have a special government dispensation to carry their traditional muskets—a symbol of their long-standing heritage as warriors and hunters. During your visit, you may witness the thrilling sight of these "last gunners" demonstrating their skills or firing their pieces in unison to celebrate a ceremony.

Beyond the gunpowder, Biasha holds a deeply moving tradition regarding the circle of life. When a child is born, the villagers plant a tree in their honor. This tree grows alongside the child, serving as a lifelong companion. Upon their death, the same tree is cut down to craft their coffin, and a new tree is planted on the grave. This beautiful, eco-conscious philosophy ensures that life continues in an eternal, green cycle.

After an awe-inspiring day of discovery, we continue our drive to Zhaoxing, the largest Dong village in China, for a restful evening.

Meals: Chinese Breakfast
Accommodation: Indigo Lodge (Qing Ding Ge)

Our morning begins at Tang'an Dong Village, a unique sanctuary recognized as the first Ecological Museum of the Dong people—a collaborative project between the Chinese and Norwegian governments. Cradled by emerald peaks, this remote valley settlement feels like a living ink painting, where ancient stilted wooden houses, mysterious graves, and ornate theater stages coexist in timeless harmony. At the village heart stands the magnificent Drum Tower, a majestic cedar-like structure where elders still gather to recount legends, and where the echoes of ancient village councils still linger. Don't miss the ladle-shaped wells and the stunning stone-built terraced fields, which transform through a palette of silver, green, and gold with the changing seasons.

Next, we embark on an easy and leisurely 2.5-hour hike back to Zhaoxing. This off-the-beaten-path route covers approximately 12 km (7.5 mi) along brick-paved paths and gentle stairs. It is a sensory feast: the first half of the journey showcases the idyllic charm of terraced farmlands, while the latter section dives into lush forests and hidden valleys. Along the way, you'll witness the quiet, primitive rhythm of daily life as local farmers tend to their ancestral lands.

This evening, prepare for a spiritual encounter with the Dong Grand Songs performance in Zhaoxing. This unique, polyphonic chorus relies on multiple voices without a conductor or instrumental accompaniment. Often imitating the sounds of nature—from the trill of birds to the babble of mountain streams—these songs are the Dong people's way of preserving their history and emotions. As the local saying goes: "Food nourishes the body, and songs nourish the soul."

Meals: Chinese Breakfast
Accommodation: Indigo Lodge (Qing Ding Ge)

Today, we journey back toward Kaili, stopping in Danzhai County to uncover more hidden layers of Miao culture. Our first destination is Shiqiao Miao Village, a living treasury of a 1,000-year-old papermaking tradition. Nestled along the tranquil Naogao River, the villagers have utilized the region's rich flora and pristine water to craft handmade paper from tree bark for generations. Walking down the iconic "Paper Street," you will witness the intricate, dozen-step process as raw bark is transformed into delicate white paper—a craft that has remained virtually unchanged since ancient times.

Our exploration continues at the Qingman Short-skirt Miao Village. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the hospitable locals, known for their distinctive and historic attire.

Local Family Visit & Authentic Lunch This noon, we have arranged a special family visit, offering you a seat at a local table for a delicious homemade lunch. This is a rare opportunity to engage with the residents in a meaningful way, learning firsthand about their daily lives and ancestral traditions. Afterward, stroll through the village to admire the traditional wooden stilted buildings that cling to the mountainside. As the recognized "Hometown of Miao Embroidery," Qingman's 600-year-old heritage is reflected in its exquisite textiles and intricate batik-dyeing techniques, which you can see being practiced in almost every household.

Following our visit, we will escort you back to the city center of Kaili for the evening.

Dining Recommendation: (At your own expense) You cannot visit the birthplace of Sour Soup Fish without trying this legendary Guizhou staple! This mouthwatering hot pot features fresh catfish or grass carp simmered in a secret sour broth made from traditionally fermented rice soup, marinated tomatoes, and chilies.

• Top Picks: We recommend Donggala or Lianghuanzhai for the best local experience. At Lianghuanzhai, you can even enjoy your meal served by staff in full Miao-style regalia. The average cost is approximately CNY 90 (USD 13) per person.

Meals: Chinese Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Banshan Hotel (Wanda Plaza in Kaili City Center) (4 stars)

This morning, we explore the 600-year-old Xiasi Ancient Town. Once a vital trading port in the early 19th century, Xiasi is a fascinating architectural melting pot. As you wander, you'll see an elegant blend of Southern Chinese courtyards, Hui-style white walls, and Fujianese designs, all standing alongside traditional Miao and Dong structures. At Lusheng Square, the spectacular Miao-style gate and the towering Dong Drum Tower offer a perfect backdrop for photos. Keep an eye out for the Xiasi Dog—a rare, white-coated breed native to the town. Known for its hunting prowess and distinctive look (some say it resembles a fluffy white bear or even a little pig!), this local icon has recently become an internet sensation.

In the afternoon, we return to Guiyang to visit the city's most iconic landmark: Jiaxiu Tower. First built in 1598, this magnificent three-story wooden pavilion stands gracefully on a giant rock in the middle of the Nanming River. It serves as a serene symbol of the city's long history and scholarly spirit. While the view from the tower is lovely by day, the area truly comes alive at night, when the pavilion and its connecting bluestone bridges are bathed in golden light, casting a shimmering reflection upon the river.

We'll end our day at the bustling Qingyun Road Night Market. This neon-lit paradise is the ultimate destination for foodies. You can embark on a "culinary safari" to sample local favorites like Siwawa (Vegetable Spring Rolls), Potato Glutinous Cakes, and the famous Huaxi Beef Rice Noodles. Beyond the snacks, the street is lined with trendy boutiques, quirky souvenir shops, and cozy pubs—perfect for experiencing Guiyang's vibrant nightlife at your own pace.

Meals: Western buffet breakfast
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Guiyang City Center (4 stars)

Today, your 8-day immersive Guizhou adventure comes to a close. After a final western buffet breakfast at your hotel, your private guide and driver will escort you to Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport (KWE) or the railway station in time for your departure. As you head to your next destination, you'll carry with you the vibrant colors of ethnic festivals, the echoes of the Dong Grand Songs, and the breathtaking memories of Guizhou's hidden mountain gems. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey!

Looking for your next adventure? If your heart is still set on discovery, why not extend your journey? Guizhou's neighbors offer even more wonders that can be custom-tailored to your interests:

• Guangxi: Drift down the picturesque Li River in Guilin or cycle through the idyllic, limestone-peaked countryside of Yangshuo.

• Yunnan: Explore the sacred Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the ancient cobblestone streets of Lijiang, or the adrenaline-pumping depths of the Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Whether it's exploring more ethnic cultures or witnessing world-class natural wonders, our travel consultants are ready to design your next bespoke China experience.

Meals: Western buffet breakfast