Green City Escape
Amit Sharma
| 17-04-2025
· Travel Team
Have you ever imagined a city where forests grow right next to skyscrapers, and ancient temples hide in the hills behind a modern skyline? That’s Guiyang — the “Forest City” of southwest China!
If we’re looking for a fresh travel destination that blends cool weather, natural beauty, and rich culture, Guiyang is calling us. Let's dive into everything we need to know before we pack our bags!

Where Is Guiyang and Why It’s Worth the Trip

Guiyang is the capital of Guizhōu Province in southwest China. It’s well connected by high-speed trains and has its own international airport — Guiyang Longdongbao Airport (KWE). From big cities like Chengdu, Chongqing, or Kunming, it only takes 1–2 hours by train. Inside the city, we can use buses, the metro (Line 1 and Line 2), or ride-share apps like DiDi.
- Tip: The metro fare starts at around $0.30. Clean, safe, and easy to use!

Best Time to Visit

Guiyang has a mild, spring-like climate year-round, with average temperatures around 59°F (15°C). The best time to visit is May to October — it’s warm but never hot, and the city is green and alive.
- What to pack: A light jacket, umbrella, sneakers for exploring, and a daypack for adventures.

Top Places to Visit in Guiyang

Here are some must-see spots that show us why this city is a hidden gem:

1. Qianling Mountain Park

- Why go: Lush forest, wild monkeys, cable cars, and a lakeside temple — all inside the city.
- Entry Fee: Around $0.70
- Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Getting There: Metro Line 1 to Beijing Road, then walk 10 minutes.
- Tip: Monkeys are playful! Bring peanuts, but zip up your bag!

2. Jiaxiu Pavilion

- Why go: A wooden pavilion standing gracefully over the river — beautiful both day and night.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Getting There: Bus Line 6, 15, or call a DiDi. Located in the city center.

3. Qingyan Ancient Town

- Why go: A preserved stone town with narrow alleys, ancient walls, and delicious snacks.
- Entry Fee: Around $1.40 (outer area is free)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Getting There: About 1 hour by public bus or ride-share.
- Tip: Try the local tofu snacks and rose-flavored cakes!

4. Tianhetan Scenic Area

- Why go: A peaceful area with limestone caves, boat rides, and waterfalls — perfect for nature lovers.
- Entry Fee: Around $8.30
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Getting There: About 30 minutes by bus or taxi from downtown.
- Tip: The cave paths can be slippery — wear good walking shoes.

5. Guanshanhu Park & Eco Conference Center

- Why go: Modern skyline meets nature. Great for sunset walks and cityscape photos.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Late afternoon or sunset
- Getting There: Metro Line 1 to Eco-Conference Center Station.

Where to Stay and What to Eat

Guiyang has a range of places to stay, depending on our budget:
- Budget hostels: $11–$20 per night
- Mid-range hotels: $28–$55 per night
- Recommended areas: Huaguoyuan (local vibes), Guanshanhu (modern & green), and Beijing Road (central).
Must-Try Food:
- Siwawa : Paper-thin rice wraps with veggies and chili sauce.
- Meat Rice Noodles : A savory breakfast dish locals love.
- Night skewers: Spicy grilled snacks on sticks, sold at street markets.

Useful Travel Tips for Lykkers

1. Language: Mandarin is spoken, but many signs have English. Use a translation app for easier communication.
2. Internet: Free Wi-Fi in most hotels. A local SIM card costs around $5–$10.
3. Safety: Very safe overall — just be careful with traffic.
4. Payments: Alipay and WeChat Pay are everywhere. Bring some cash ($20–$30) for small places.

Let’s Explore Guiyang Together!

So Lykkers, now that we’ve seen how vibrant and green Guiyang truly is, doesn’t it feel like a place made for both relaxation and discovery? With peaceful parks, ancient streets, and flavors that surprise us at every corner, this city offers a refreshing escape from the usual tourist trails.
What would be the first thing you’d try in Guiyang — a temple visit, a bowl of local noodles, or a walk through the mountain mist? Drop us a comment and let’s start planning that unforgettable journey together!

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Video by Taylor & Jordan Travel