Real-Life Spirited Away

🍃Transportation Guide 1. Self-driving: From Guiyang, take the Guixin Expressway to Kaili City, then switch to Provincial Road S208. The journey takes about 3 hours (220km). Parking lots are available in the scenic area, but arrive early during peak season. 2. Public Transportation: - High-speed Rail: Guiyang North Station to Kaili South Station (about 41 mins, CNY 58.5), then take the direct shuttle to the scenic area (about 1 hour). - Bus: Guiyang Bus Station to Kaili Bus Station, then transfer to a bus to Xijiang. 🍃Recommended Itinerary Morning - 7:00-10:00: Depart from Guiyang, experience the Welcome Wine ceremony (10:30-12:00, at the entrance), a traditional Miao greeting custom. - 10:30-12:00: Visit the Observation Deck for a panoramic view of the Miao village (recommended to return at dusk for night views). - 12:00-13:30: Lunch recommendations at Miao Family Restaurant: Sour Fish Soup, Miao-style cured meat, and rice wine. Afternoon - 14:00-15:30: Visit the Miao Ethnic Museum (open 9:00-17:30) to learn about history and culture; stroll across the Wind and Rain Bridges (No. 3 and 4 bridges are most distinctive). - 15:30-17:00: Free activities: - Traditional song and dance performance (starts at 14:00, Round Square) - "Xijiang Wedding Parade" (18:00-18:50, interactive event on main street) - Handicraft experience (spinning, silver crafting at Drum Square or Muxiu Silver Workshop) Evening - 17:30-19:00: Return to the Observation Deck to capture the sunset and twinkling village lights. - 19:00-21:00: After dinner, join the bonfire party or watch the Miao folk song duets (at No. 3 Wind and Rain Bridge, starts at 20:00). Must-Visit Attractions and Experiences 1. Observation Deck: Stunning views both day and night, recommended to visit twice. 2. Miao Ethnic Museum: Displays costumes, silverware, and history, free admission. 3. Gage Ancient Alley: Experience murals and Miao embroidery heritage, immerse in alley culture. 4. Drum Storage Hall (hilltop): Former Miao chief's residence, requires uphill walking, recommended for those physically fit. 5. Free activities: Welcome Wine ceremony, parade, song and dance performances, bench dance (at Necklace Square). Note the schedules! Food Recommendations - Must-try dishes: Sour Fish Soup, Miao-style cured meat, spicy fried sticky rice, sour rice noodles. - Recommended restaurants: Miao Family Restaurant, Qianhu Miao Family (authentic sour fish soup), street food stalls (rice cakes, rice wine). Accommodation Tips - Guesthouses in Miao Village: Recommended near hillside or observation deck (like Xijiang Mingyue Hotel), convenient for sightseeing, CNY 100-500 per night. - Advance booking: Limited rooms during peak season (March-November), booking through platforms recommended. Tickets and Fees - Admission + Shuttle: CNY 100/person peak season, CNY 80/person off-season, shuttle CNY 20 (mandatory, large scenic area). - Discounts: Half-price for students and military personnel with valid ID, free admission for Guangdong residents during certain periods (subject to official announcements). Important Notes 1. Attire: Comfortable walking shoes (many stone paths require walking). 2. Sun protection/warmth: Strong UV rays in Guizhou, sun protection in summer; thick coats needed in winter. 3. Cultural respect: Don't photograph residents or enter homes without permission. 4. Environmental protection: No littering, be careful with fire near wooden Miao buildings.