By: Heather Keys
China’s Guizhou Province, complete with wooden houses and terraced rice fields, is a wonderful destination for travelers looking to go off of the beaten path. Home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Guizhou Province is home to exceptional places of cultural and historical significance.
Let’s learn a little more about this region!
A Quick Introduction to the Guizhou Province
Photo by Chopsticks on the Loose on Unsplash
A living museum of Chinese history and culture, the Guizhou Province has earned its place as home to the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country, pivotal in shaping the nation’s history and evolution.
At the heart of Guizhou Province lies a diversity of indigenous minority groups, including the Miao, Dong, and Yao peoples. Each group has preserved its unique culture and customs, which you can learn about as you traverse the traditional villages that dot the region.
The villages of Guizhou Province are ensconced within a landscape of terraced rice fields, mountain ranges, and rivers. The area is home to rare species like the snub-nosed monkey and the giant salamander, which can’t be found anywhere else—but that you may see on a hike through the region.
A few highlights you must see:
- Xijiang: A popular destination for travelers, Xijiang has exquisitely preserved wooden houses as well as markets that encapsulate a traditional way of life.
- Longji: The Longji rice terraces have been painstakingly cultivated over centuries, and are an absolute must-see in the region.
- Zhaoxing: Wander through the town of Zhaoxing, known for its vibrant buildings surrounded by picturesque hills.
- Basha Maio Village: If you’re looking for a panoramic view of the region, head to Basha Maio Village.
- Festivals and Celebrations: Beyond the recognizable architecture and terraced fields, Guizhou Province is host to numerous festivals and events, like Miao New Year and the Dragon Boat Festival.
- Food and Drink: Guizhou Province’s cuisine is characterized by its sour and spicy flavors. To start, savor the taste of sour soup, a popular dish made with pickled vegetables and meat.
- Embroidery: The region is particularly famous for its embroidery—shop for unique souvenirs and gifts that you can’t find anywhere else but here.
Want to read more about places to visit in China? Check out these posts:
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About the Author
Heather is a freelance writer who loves exploring the intersection of travel and history. Read her other articles on Frayed Passport here.