Guiyang
ChinaCfa
© OpenStreetMap, CARTO
欢迎来到贵阳 | Welcome to Guiyang (Mandarin)
Why visit
Guiyang is the gateway to one of China's most ethnically diverse and naturally spectacular regions, use as a base for the spectacular Huangguoshu Waterfall (Asia's largest), the underground Zhijin Cave, the Miao and Dong minority villages of southeast Guizhou, and the rice terraces of Jiabang. In the city, visit Qianling Park for monkey-watching and Buddhist temples, the Jiaxiu Tower on the Nanming river, and try the legendary Guizhou cuisine (numbing-spicy, fermented sour fish hotpot). Late spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are best.
When to avoid
Summer brings persistent rain, Guiyang is one of China's rainiest provincial capitals. Air quality, while better than eastern China, can still be poor on still days. The dialect is challenging. Even Mandarin speakers struggle with menus and directions. The metro is small and only newly expanding, plan transport carefully. Visa rules for China are tightening. Check current requirements.