Escape the Crowds This May Day Holiday and Discover the Hidden Gem of Xia Si Ancient Town, Guizhou!

Are you also struggling with where to go for the May Day holiday? Want to avoid the crowds but still find a place with history and charm? Then skip the hustle and bustle of Xijiang Miao Village! My best friend highly recommended Xia Si Ancient Town in Guizhou, and it truly amazed me! With fewer crowds and beautiful scenery, the tranquil atmosphere of the ancient town is instantly relaxing, making it the perfect choice for a May Day getaway! Today, I'll share a detailed travel guide to Xia Si Ancient Town, so save it now! 📍 Location: Xia Si Ancient Town is located 28 kilometers south-southwest of Kaili City, Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province. It's about 180 kilometers from Guiyang. While not as famous as Xijiang, this hidden gem has retained its original ancient town charm, making it a treasure for those who love off-the-beaten-path travel! 🚗 Transportation: - **Self-driving**: It takes about 2.5 hours to drive from Guiyang via the expressway. The road conditions are excellent, making it ideal for a road trip. - **Public Transportation**: There are direct buses from downtown Kaili to Xia Si Ancient Town, taking about 40 minutes. The fare is also very affordable. - **Chartered Car**: If you're traveling with a group, chartering a car is a convenient and flexible option. 👍️ Must-See Attractions: 1. **Lusheng Square**: The heart of the ancient town, this square often hosts Miao song and dance performances, creating a fantastic atmosphere! It's a must-visit spot for photos. 2. **Drum Tower**: The iconic landmark of the ancient town. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the entire town. 3. **Ancient Wharf**: Located on the Qingshui River, this wharf was once a bustling trading hub. While quieter now, it still echoes the prosperity of the past. 4. **Stilt Houses**: These traditional Miao-style houses are scattered throughout the ancient town, adding to its quaint and unique charm. 5. **Yangming Academy**: A must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the scholarly atmosphere of an ancient academy. 6. **Yu Wang Palace**: An ancient temple in the town, known for its vibrant religious atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection and prayer. 🎟️ Tickets: - **Ancient Town Entrance**: Free! Free! Free! (We can't stress this enough!) - **Yangming Academy & Yu Wang Palace Experience Tickets**: 20 yuan each. Excellent value for money; we highly recommend purchasing tickets to explore these sites. 💗 Other Tips: 1. **Accommodation**: While Xia Si Ancient Town doesn't usually attract large crowds, it's still advisable to book your accommodation in advance for the May Day holiday. The town offers a variety of charming guesthouses at reasonable prices, allowing you to experience the local culture. 2. **Food Recommendations**: The food in Xia Si Ancient Town is another highlight! Don't miss the local handmade noodles and the Miao-style sour soup fish – they're absolutely delicious! 3. **Intangible Cultural Heritage Experiences**: The ancient town offers opportunities to experience traditional crafts like paper cutting and batik dyeing. If you're interested, try your hand at these crafts and take home a unique souvenir. 4. **Xia Si Dogs**: Keep an eye out for the Xia Si dog, a special breed native to the town. They may look adorable, but they are actually world-class hunting dogs! However, they can be cautious, so it's best not to approach them too closely. 5. **Important Notes**: - The ancient town is home to many cultural relics and historical sites. Please be mindful and avoid touching or damaging them. - Respect local customs and traditions, especially when experiencing ethnic cultures. Be a courteous visitor. - The weather can be hot during the May Day holiday, so remember to take sun protection and mosquito repellent measures. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. This May Day holiday, instead of battling the crowds at popular tourist spots, come and experience the true tranquility and ancient charm of Xia Si Ancient Town. Here, you'll find no over-commercialized hustle and bustle, only authentic local customs and a rich history. Whether you're looking for photo opportunities, cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing getaway, Xia Si Ancient Town has something for everyone! Plan your trip now – this hidden gem won't disappoint!