Overview
Embark on an exclusive 11-day expedition into the heart of Guizhou, China’s most enchanting and culturally preserved province. This meticulously curated journey transcends traditional sightseeing, inviting you to step into a living museum where ancient traditions thrive amidst breathtaking karst landscapes.
From the emerald waters of Libo to the echoing Drum Towers of the Dong people, and the mystical gun-wielding tribe of Basha to the glittering nightscape of Xijiang Miao Village, every moment is designed to immerse you in authentic ethnic cultures and intangible heritage.
Trip Highlights
- UNESCO Natural Wonders: Witness the surreal beauty of Xiaoqikong, known as the "Emerald on the Earth's Belt," a pristine karst forest and waterfall system.
- Living Intangible Heritage: Experience the soul-stirring, multi-part a cappella Dong Grand Choir and witness the ancient rituals of the Basha Miao "Last Gunmen Tribe."
- Curated Luxury Stays: Stay in hand-picked, authentic boutique accommodations—from high-altitude viewing decks in ancient villages to international luxury resorts—ensuring comfort without compromising on cultural immersion.
- Wellness & Craftsmanship: Rejuvenate your spirit with traditional Dong herbal baths and engage in hands-on workshops with master artisans of Miao silver forging and batik.
Itinerary
Phase 1: Guiyang Arrival & Scenic Departure (Day 1-2)
Arrive in Guiyang for a welcome tea ceremony, then head to Libo. Deeply explore the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area, marveling at the turquoise wonders of the Karst landscape.
(Stay: Anantara Guiyang Resort, Libo Tiantai Hotel)
Phase 2: Dong Village Charm & Terrace Wellness (Day 3-5)
Travel from Libo to Zhaoxing Dong Village to wander the ancient settlement and listen to the Dong Grand Choir. Afterwards, head to the Xiage Terraced Fields to enjoy light hiking and a healing Yao herbal bath amidst the stunning (light and shadows).
(Stay: Yunman Mountain Residence, Biyin Jiabang Terraced Field Resort)
Phase 3: The Last Gunmen & The Heart of Miao Land (Day 6-7)
Visit the Basha Miao Village, known as the "Last Gunmen Tribe," to feel its primitive mystery. Then, arrive at Xijiang Thousand Households Miao Village to overlook the spectacular night view of myriad lights.
(Stay: Basha Gufengzhai Inn, Luanxi Yunshe Cultural Homestay)
Phase 4: Heritage Crafts & Authentic Miao Villages (Day 8-9)
Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences of Miao silver forging and batik. Visit the more (authentic) Langde Miao Village for the "Twelve Barriers Welcome Ceremony," then return to Guiyang in the afternoon.
(Stay: Luanxi Yunshe Cultural Homestay, Anantara Guiyang Resort)
Phase 5: Guiyang Leisure & A Perfect Farewell (Day 10-11)
Enjoy the slow-paced city life in Guiyang, savor local delicacies, and have a farewell dinner before ending this beautiful journey with cherished memories.
(Stay: Anantara Guiyang Resort)
Arrive at Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport and take a private transfer to the hidden luxury resort. Experience the perfect blend of Guizhou's landscape and oriental hospitality during a private welcome tea ceremony to wash away the fatigue of your journey.Accommodation：Anantara Guiyang Resort
Head to Libo after breakfast for a full-day exploration of the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area. Stroll across the centuries-old Ancient Bridge, walk through the crystal-clear Water Forest, and admire the vivid 68-Level Waterfall. Known as the "Emerald on the Earth's Belt," this is nature's purest gift.Accommodation：Libo Tiantai Hotel
Travel to the "First Dong Village," Zhaoxing Dong Village. Stroll on the bluestone paths and look up at the iconic five Drum Towers. In the evening, enjoy the Dong Grand Choir—a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This multi-part a cappella choir is a soul-penetrating sound of nature.Accommodation：Yunman Mountain Residence
Leave the bustling Dong village for the secluded Xiage Village. Here, there is no commercial noise, only layered terraced fields and ancient stilted houses. Check into a boutique homestay facing the panoramic terraces and enjoy a true retreat.Accommodation：Biyin Xiage Terraced Field Resort
In the morning, take a light hike along the ancient trail from Xiage to Tang'an Terraces to breathe the fresh, oxygen-rich air. In the afternoon, experience the traditional Dong Herbal Bath—a millennium-old wellness wisdom using herbal steam and medicinal soups for deep relaxation.Accommodation：Biyin Xiage Terraced Field Resort
Head to Congjiang to visit the mysterious Basha Miao Village, known as "China's Last Gunmen Tribe." The men here still preserve ancient customs of wearing hair buns, carrying waist knives, and holding firelocks. Witness the shocking gun salute ceremony and the unique sickle-shaving coming-of-age ritual. Accommodation：Basha Gufengzhai Inn
Travel to Xijiang Thousand Households Miao Village, the largest Miao settlement in the world. After checking in, ascend to the viewing platform. As night falls, thousands of lights illuminate the valley, resembling a dreamlike scene from "Spirited Away." Accommodation： (Luanxi Yunshe Cultural Homestay)
A full-day immersive experience in intangible cultural heritage. In the morning, visit a master silversmith's workshop to witness the exquisite Miao silver forging techniques. In the afternoon, join a private Miao Batik workshop. Under the guidance of an inheritor, use a wax knife to draw exclusive totems on cotton cloth and create a unique souvenir. Accommodation： Luanxi Yunshe Cultural Homestay
Head to Langde Miao Village in the morning. Compared to Xijiang, it is more tranquil and retains a more primitive Miao lifestyle and the grand ceremony of the "Twelve Rounds of Blocking-the-Way Wine." Return to Guiyang in the afternoon. Accommodation：(Anantara Guiyang Resort)
Free day in Guiyang. You can interact with wild macaques at Qianlingshan Park or visit the Jiaxiu Pavilion. In the evening, enjoy an exquisite Farewell Dinner featuring light Guizhou cuisine suitable for wellness (such as clear sour soup fish and nourishing mushroom soup), reminiscing about this journey amidst delicious flavors. Accommodation： (Anantara Guiyang Resort)
Private transfer to Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport according to your flight schedule. The journey concludes with beautiful memories of Guizhou's landscape and culture.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Accommodation: 10 nights of accommodation in the selected luxury hotels and boutique homestays as listed in the itinerary.
- Transportation: Private vehicle transfers and transportation throughout the trip (airport pick-up/drop-off and inter-city travel).
- Meals: Daily breakfast at the hotel, plus the special farewell dinner on Day 10.
- Activities & Tickets: Entrance fees to all scenic spots mentioned (e.g., Xiaoqikong, Zhaoxing Dong Village, Basha Miao Village) and the designated Intangible Cultural Heritage workshops (silver forging and batik).
- Wellness Experience: The traditional Dong herbal bath experience on Day 5.
- Guide Service: Professional English-speaking guide and driver services throughout the journey.
Cost Excludes
- International Flights: Round-trip airfare to and from Guiyang.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance (highly recommended).
- Personal Expenses: Incidentals such as hotel room service, laundry, phone calls, minibar, and shopping.
- Additional Meals: Lunches and dinners not explicitly specified in the itinerary.
- Tips and Gratuities: Tips for the driver and tour guide (customary but optional).
- Optional Activities: Any additional activities or upgrades not mentioned in the core itinerary.
FAQs
The Basha Gufengzhai Inn offers a truly authentic, immersive experience deep within the “Last Gunmen Tribe.” Because it is located in a traditional village and embraces nature, it differs from standard city hotels. You may experience thinner walls, occasional sounds from the village (such as roosters crowing at dawn), and a more rustic atmosphere. It is perfect for travelers seeking cultural depth and a close connection to nature, rather than modern luxury isolation.
Guizhou cuisine is famous for its sour and spicy flavors. However, we can absolutely arrange milder, non-spicy options for you (such as mushroom soups, steamed dishes, or clear sour soup fish) to suit your dietary needs. Just let us know in advance!
This itinerary is designed for a relaxed pace. The hiking on Day 5 is a light, optional walk on ancient trails. If you prefer, we can arrange a car to take you closer to the viewpoints to minimize walking.
Yes, we provide a professional English-speaking guide throughout the entire journey to help you communicate with locals and understand the deep cultural stories behind the sights.
It is recommended to drink bottled or filtered water. We will ensure there is always plenty of safe drinking water available in the vehicle and at the hotels.
