Nestled in a hidden corner of Southwest China, the mountainous trail of Eastern Guizhou is a marvel of natural wonders and diverse ethnic minorities' culture.
This trip takes you into the sacred Fanjing Mountain through Zhenyuan's ancient water town. Break at the hot spring city of Jianhe, get acquainted with Miao minorities and admire the emerald-coloured Libo before ending at the capital in Guiyang.
Itinerary Highlights
- Visit Fanjing Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Stay at a riverside hotel overlooking a 2,000-year-old Zhenyuan water town
- Retreat to Jianhe hot spring city known for its radon-rich natural springs
- Full immersion of local minority culture with overnight among 1,000 Miao village houses
Itinerary Outline
-
Day 1
Arrival in Tongren
-
Day 2
Tongren / Fanjing Mountain
-
Day 3
Fanjing Mountain / Zhenyuan
-
Day 4
Zhenyuan / Shibing / Jianhe
-
Day 5
Jianhe/ Xijiang
-
Day 6
Xijiang / Libo
-
Day 7
Libo / Qingyan
-
Day 8
Qingyan / Departure from Guiyang
Itinerary
Arrival in Tongren
Upon arrival in Tongren, the gateway to Guizhou’s Eastern Area, we transfer 30min to your hotel. If time permits, we drive 41km/1h to Wanshan National Mine Park, a former mercury mine from the Qin and Han Dynasties 2,000 years ago. Tread the glass walkway hanging 100m high off the cliff, or through the colourfully lit tunnel.
Tongren / Fanjing Mountain
Set off 82km/3.5h to Fanjingshan Biosphere Reserve, one of China’s 14 participating reserves as part of UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) progamme. Ride a shuttle bus and cable car to view the Red Cloud Golden Peak , with its rocky thumb soaring nearly 100m above surrounding mountains, capped by two temples linked by a short bridge at its summit.
Fanjing Mountain / Zhenyuan
Drive 160km/3h to Zhenyuan. Wander through this 2000-year-old town, cut through by Wuyang River with over 160 scenic spots featuring palaces, pavilions, temples, intricate residences and ancient bridges.
Zhenyuan / Shibing / Jianhe
Drive 50km/1.5h to Shibing’s Shanmu River. Its crystal clear water comes from 1.3m underground riverbed, safe for white water rafting (Jul-Sep).
Alternatively, drive 1h to Yuntai Mountain and marvel at its iconic karst formations. Continue 64km/1.15h to Jianhe, blessed with 6 natural hot springs (38-50°C) and check in to your hotel.
Jianhe/ Xijiang
Leave 63km/1h to Xijiang, China’s largest Miao community with over 1,000 ethnic families. Visit the local museum and the mountainside wooden stilt houses. As the village lights up in the evening, witness a cultural dance and song performance in the central square.
Xijiang / Libo
After breakfast, drive 3h to Libo, where you'll explore the Seven Big Arches Scenic Area and Seven Small Arches Scenic Area of Libo, set amidst stunning karst peaks. These scenic spots are renowned for their natura beauty and rich cultural traditions of the Tujia and Yao minority communities.
Later in the afternoon, check into your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Libo / Qingyan
This morning, take a 4h drive to Qingyan Old Town, one of Guizhou’s four ancient towns. After lunch, explore this Ming-era fortress perched atop a mountain, where timeworn streets, traditional architecture, and historic charm offer a glimpse into the region's rich past.
Qingyan / Departure from Guiyang
Spend the morning at your own leisure before transferring to Guiyang airport, based on your flight schedule.
Hotels & Tour Price
Includes
- Accommodation on twin sharing basis in hotel as stated on bed & breakfast basis
- All transportation & transfer in private vehicle in each city
- Local English/Mandarin speaking expert guide in each city
- Meals as stated
- All entrance fees in sights stated
Excludes
- International & domestic Airfare
- Lunches & dinners not included in tour program
- Beverages in restaurants where meals are included
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses e.g. telephone bill & laundry
- Visa (if required)