In the scroll of peak forests, a 22°C summer, this small city in Guizhou hides mountain and water treasures you don't know about
Thought Guilin was already beautiful, until I went to Xingyi! 🌄
When it comes to Guizhou, don’t just know about Huangguoshu! Xingyi, this treasure small city, is simply the epitome of karst landforms, with mountains that rival Guilin and waters comparable to Jiuzhaigou, plus you can experience the rich Buyi ethnic culture.
The key is that the average summer temperature here is only 22°C, making it an absolute summer paradise. Few people, beautiful scenery, and low costs make it the pinnacle of niche travel destinations!
🌟 Must-visit spots, don’t miss a single one
1. Wanfenglin: The world’s number one wonder⛰️ One of China’s five most beautiful peak forests, nearly 20,000 peaks stretch continuously. Xu Xiake marveled, “How many peaks are there in the world? Only here do peaks form a forest.” In September-October, the golden rice fields intertwine with the peak forest, making every shot a masterpiece.
Tickets are 70 RMB, sightseeing bus 50 RMB. It’s recommended to take the sightseeing bus up the mountain for the full view, then rent an electric bike (50 RMB/day) to explore the fields and villages slowly. Bagua Field, General Peak, and Fu Character Field are must-visit viewing platforms.
2. Maling River Canyon: The earth’s most beautiful scar🌊 The canyon is deeply cut with hundreds of waterfalls hanging. Walk the plank road to see the galloping horse waterfall, and you might catch a rainbow. The rainy season (June-August) has abundant water, making it most spectacular.
Tickets are 80 RMB. Remember to wear non-slip shoes and bring a light jacket, as the canyon is humid and the plank road slippery.
3. Wanfeng Lake: Plateau lake and mountain scenery🚣 Nestled among the peak forest, it’s the “Southwest Thousand Island Lake.” You can take a boat tour (tickets 50-80 RMB) to enjoy the lake and mountain views, passing by Jilong Fort—a European-style castle standing in the water, perfect for photos.
4. Buyi Ethnic Villages: Experience ethnic customs🎎 Be sure to visit Nahui Village or Nanlong Ancient Village. Listen to the “Bayin Sitting Song” (a national intangible cultural heritage), try wax dyeing crafts, taste five-color flower rice, and live as a Buyi person for a day.
🍜 Foodie Guide, taste Xingyi to your heart’s content
The soul of Xingyi cuisine is “wild” and “sour”!
· Xingyi Lamb Noodles: Fresh soup and tender meat, served with mint leaves. Zou’s and Yan’s are old brands.
· Sour Bamboo Shoot Beef Hotpot: Sour and spicy, a local favorite.
· Shuabatou: Steamed dumplings shaped like a brush, filled with bamboo shoots and pork, very special when dipped in sauce.
· General Bridge Fried Rice: Wanfenglin’s signature dish, with each grain distinct and very fragrant!
· Five-Color Flower Rice: Buyi specialty, dyed with plants, beautiful and delicious.
📝 Classic itinerary recommendation
Three-day leisure version:
· Day 1: Morning at Wanfenglin (sightseeing bus + cycling), afternoon stroll in Nahui Village, experience wax dyeing, watch the sunset in the evening.
· Day 2: Morning hike at Maling River Canyon, afternoon boat tour on Wanfeng Lake, check in at Jilong Fort.
· Day 3: Visit Nanlong Buyi Ancient Village, listen to Bayin Sitting Song, taste Buyi cuisine, return in the afternoon.
💡 Travel tips
· Transportation: Xingyi has an airport and train station. Attractions are scattered, renting a car or chartering a vehicle is the most convenient choice.
· Accommodation:
· For cultural experience: Stay in guesthouses in Wanfenglin Scenic Area or Nahui Village (such as Manyuan Qingfeng Guesthouse, 200-300 RMB/night), with views right outside your window.
· For convenience and comfort: Stay in Xingyi city center.
· Best seasons: Spring and autumn are best. Spring (February-March) has rapeseed flower seas, autumn (September-October) golden rice waves. Summer is cool and pleasant for escaping the heat.
· Note: Mountain weather changes frequently, bring a jacket; do sun protection; respect local ethnic customs.
The beauty of Xingyi can’t be experienced by rushing through. You need to stop, breathe the rice-scented air, listen to the roar of waterfalls, and chat with village grandmas...
This small city offers you a slow time away from the hustle, blending into nature. When are you planning to set off? 🙌