Xingyi

Xingyi in the southwest of Guizhou Province, is a city characterized by natural scenery and national culture. The mountains and rivers are beautiful, the climate is pleasant, and it has rich tourism resources.

Understand

Xingyi is a prefecture-level city of Bui and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in southwest Guizhou Province, adjacent to the border between Yunnan and Guangxi. Xingyi City has gradually become a secret destination for some tourism enthusiasts because of its natural scenery and strong national culture.

History

Located in the Qiannan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture of Guizhou Province, is the political, economic, and cultural center of the region. Historically, Xingyi has been a key area for the Miao and Buyi ethnic groups, with rich cultural heritage. As an ancient transportation hub, it became an important commercial and military center during the Ming and Qing dynasties. In modern times, with the development of railways and highways, Xingyi evolved into a regional transportation and economic center. Today, Xingyi is not only one of the important cities in Guizhou but also attracts many tourists with its unique ethnic culture and natural landscapes, making it a city that blends tradition and modernity.

Climate

Xingyi, located in the western part of Guizhou Province and on the edge of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, has a subtropical humid monsoon climate. The climate is mild and humid with distinct seasons. The annual average temperature is around 15°C, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 28°C, occasionally reaching higher values. Winter is mild, with temperatures generally between 5°C and 10°C, and extreme low temperatures are rare. Spring and autumn have pleasant temperatures, with a humid climate suitable for various activities.

Precipitation is abundant, with an annual rainfall of approximately 1200-1600 mm, which is fairly evenly distributed but concentrated between May and September, especially during the rainy season from June to August, when rainfall is the heaviest. Frequent rainfall and thunderstorms during this period can affect the local weather, leading to higher humidity. Rainfall decreases significantly in the autumn and winter, with the climate becoming drier.

Xingyi
Climate chart (explanation)
J F M A M J J A S O N D       30     10 5       35     12 7       40     15 10       60     20 15       100     25 20       150     28 24       200     30 26       180     29 25       100     26 22       50     22 18       30     18 12       20     12 6 Average max. and min. temperatures in °C Precipitation+Snow totals in mm
Imperial conversion J F M A M J J A S O N D       1.2     50 41       1.4     54 45       1.6     59 50       2.4     68 59       3.9     77 68       5.9     82 75       7.9     86 79       7.1     84 77       3.9     79 72       2     72 64       1.2     64 54       0.8     54 43 Average max. and min. temperatures in °F Precipitation+Snow totals in inches

Get in

By plane

• 1 Xingyi Airport (Xingyi Wanfeng Airport). The main air gateway to Xingyi and its surrounding areas. The airport is about 10 kilometers northeast of the city, with flights from Guiyang, Kunming, Chongqing, Guangzhou and other places, but the number of flights is relatively small, so it is recommended to confirm the flight schedule before departure. From the airport to the city: it takes about 20-30 minutes by car from Xingyi Airport to the city, and you can choose a taxi or airport bus. (updated Dec 2024)

By train

Xingyi City does not have direct access to the high-speed rail station, but can be transferred to the high-speed rail through Guiyang or Kunming:

From Guiyang North Station or Kunming South Station, take the high-speed rail to Anshun or Guiyang North Station, and then transfer to Xingyi by long-distance bus or train. Guiyang and Kunming are surrounding big cities, high-speed rail network is developed, transportation is very convenient.

By bus

There are many long-distance bus stations in the city, which provide bus services from nearby cities. From Guiyang, Kunming, Chongqing, Guangzhou and other big cities, you can choose a long-distance bus to Xingyi:

• Guiyang to Xingyi: from Guiyang to Xingyi there are multiple long-distance buses, the journey is about 4-5 hours.
• Kunming to Xingyi: Kunming to Xingyi long-distance car ride is about 5 hours.
• Chongqing to Xingyi: It takes about 6-7 hours by car from Chongqing to Xingyi.

By car

The highway connects the surrounding major cities. It takes about 3-4 hours from Guiyang to Xingyi by car, and the scenery along the way is beautiful and suitable for self-driving travel.

Get around

Transportation in and around Xingyi is relatively convenient, although this is a small city, but the choice of transportation is relatively rich. Here are some common ways to get around:

By taxi

Taxis are common in Xingyi and are one of the most convenient ways to get around the city. Taxi reservations can be made via roadside recruitment or through taxi-hailing software such as Didi Travel. The starting price in urban areas is generally lower, but fares will increase for those travelling to more distant attractions such as Man Fung Lam.

By bus

Xingyi's public transportation system is relatively simple, and there are many bus lines in the city, mainly connecting important areas of the city. Bus fares are cheap, but because the city is not big, bus coverage is limited, especially when traveling to some attractions, may not be as convenient as taxi or self-driving.

long-distance buses (see Get in) are often the main means of transportation to nearby attractions such as Yellow Fruit Tree Falls.

Many scenic spots (such as Wanfeng Forest, Natural Bridge, etc.) have scenic buses inside, which provide transportation connections between attractions, especially for tourists who do not want to walk. These buses are usually reserved for scenic spots, with reasonable fares and convenient routes to take visitors directly to the main attractions.

By car

If you plan to explore Xingyi and its surrounding natural attractions (such as Wanfeng Forest, Born Bridge, etc.), renting a car is a very convenient option. Xingyi has some car rental companies that can rent cars or SUVs.

By bicycle

In Xingyi city and some surrounding scenic spots, bicycles or electric vehicles are convenient short-distance travel tools. Many hotels and rental locations offer bicycle and electric bicycle rental services, suitable for those who want to relax in the city or near scenic spots.

See

There are 3 national-level scenic spots, 5 provincial-level scenic spots, and more than 120 various cultural landscapes in Xingyi, and the scenic spots are concentrated, each with its own characteristics.

Wanfenglin Scenic Area

• 1 Wanfenglin Scenic Area (万峰林风景区). Commonly known as the Forest of Ten Thousand Peaks, it is one the five most beautiful parks in China and one of the three largest karst topographies in southwest China. It is a popular place for exploring the lush green peaks, clear rivers and picturesque villages.  
• Guizhou Dragon Fossil Group.
• 2 Maling River Canyon. It is a national key scenic spot; the valley is deep and the flow is rapid, the murals are transcendent, and the silver waterfall is flying down, which is worthy of being the gap between the sky and the ground. It is a famous rafting resort in China, and the first China International Kayak Rafting Competition was held here in 1998. The whole course of rafting on the Maling River is more than 50 km, passing through more than 80 dangerous beaches, more than 70 deep pools, and more than 60 bays.  
• Nidang Stone Forest. The provincial-level scenic spot is in various poses and with different forms, like a maze. 
• Lubuge deep valley lake. Vine trees are hidden, and winding paths lead to secluded places. 
• Liu's Manor. The Xiawutun Sub-district Office located in the south of the city is the largest "Tunbao" style landlord and warlord building complex in China. It is composed of 13 courtyard houses with a combination of Chinese and Western styles. It is 360 m long from north to south and 130 m wide from east to west. It is the former residence of Liu Xianqian. 
• 3 Xingyi Museum (兴义博物馆). If you are interested in history and culture, visit the museums of Xingyi City to learn about the historical evolution, national culture and natural resources of the region.Highlights: The museum displays rich historical and cultural heritage of the Bui and Miao ethnic groups, as well as many geological exhibits related to karst landforms. (updated Dec 2024)

Do

• 1 Wanfeng Forest (万峰林). Wanfeng Forest is one of the most famous scenic spots in Xingyi, famous for its unique karst mountain topography. Here you can hike, ride or sightseeing, admiring majestic peaks, green fields and flowing rivers.Highlights: There is a "little Guilin of the East" called, the peak shape is different, suitable for photography enthusiasts and natural explorers. (updated Dec 2024)
• 2 Born Bridge (天生桥). Born Bridge is a typical karst cave landscape with clear streams underneath it. You can hike into the area and enjoy the specter of nature.Highlights: The natural bridge is called the "natural stone bridge", and the flowing water under the bridge, the scenery is very charming, making it a good place for photography and exploration. (updated Dec 2024)
• Bui and Miao culture: Xingyi is a settlement of the Bui and Miao ethnic groups, where visitors can visit local ethnic villages, participate in traditional festivals, learn handicraft making, and experience Miao and Bui dances, singing and ethnic costumes.Highlights: The annual Miao Nian Festival and traditional festivals such as the Lusheng dance of the Buyi people show a strong national flavor.
• Although Huangguoshu Falls is located in Anshun, near Xingyi, it is one of the most famous attractions in Guizhou and is worth a visit. You can hike around the waterfall, enjoy the magnificent view of the waterfall, and feel the coolness of the water droplets flying.Highlights: Huangguoshu Falls is one of the largest waterfall groups in China, with fast currents and wide waterfalls, which are especially suitable for photography and nature lovers.

• 3 Visit Geomyeongsan Park (巨明山公园). Qianling Mountain Park is located in Guiyang City, although it is a little far from Xingyi, but it is characterized by mountain scenery, lakes, ancient buildings and Buddhist culture, and is a good place to climb, stroll and relax.Highlights: You can climb mountains, visit ancient temples, and enjoy the tranquil natural environment and strong religious atmosphere. (updated Dec 2024)
• Visit the ancient villages of the Bui people: In the rural areas around Xingyi, you can visit the traditional villages of the Bui and Miao ethnic groups and experience the ancient national culture and unique architectural styles.Highlights: Most of these villages retain traditional wooden architecture and folklore, and the villagers' hospitality is impressive.

Festivals

Xingyi is a multi-ethnic traditional culture. Here are the main festivals and celebrations:

• Bui people March 3 3rd day of the 3rd lunar month. This is an important traditional festival of the Bui people, commemorating the ancestors of the Bui people. On the same day, the Bui compatriots will hold a grand ancestral rites, along with singing parties, dance performances and bullfighting competitions. Young people also express their love through songs, and traditional foods such as glutinous rice are also highlights of the festival.
• Hmong Flower Jumping Festival: January or February of each year, the specific date is determined by the village. Flower jumping festival is an important traditional festival of the Miao nationality, which celebrates the harvest and prays for blessings. During the festival, people will dance flower dances, sing seedlings songs and perform traditional Miao sports activities, such as cockfighting and climbing flower poles. This is an important moment for young Hmong men and women to communicate and convey their feelings to each other.

• Torch Festival (Yi nationality) June 24th, Lunar New Year. Torch Festival is an important traditional festival of Yi nationality, with the aim of praying for the wind and rain and warding off evil spirits. In the evening, people light torches, dance around the fire, and hold horse racing, bullfighting and other activities. The festive atmosphere is warm, reflecting the courage and unity of the Yi people.
• The Bui June 6th: 6th of the 6th lunar month. This festival is also known as "Dress Day" or "To the Cuckoo Festival", the Bui people will dry clothes, food at home on this day, and celebrate the harvest with sticky rice, Ciba and other special foods. There are also singing and dancing performances and prayer activities in the village.
• Xingyi Food and Culture Festival: Before and after National Day every year. As a local modern festival, the Food Culture Festival showcases Heungui's unique food culture, where visitors can taste local specialties such as grilled whole sheep, brush handle, Heungui chicken soup pot, and enjoy the warm atmosphere of Heungui.
• Guizhou Southwest Ethnic Culture Festival: Mid-August every year. This is a comprehensive festival in Xingyi and southwestern Guizhou, showcasing the cultural essence of Bui, Miao and Yi ethnic groups. The activities include traditional dances, folk songs, ethnic costumes and handicrafts exhibitions, which are a great opportunity to learn about local multiculturalism.
• Spring Festival and Dragon Lantern Festival: During the first month of the lunar calendar. During the Spring Festival, people of all ethnic groups in Xingyi City celebrate the New Year together. In particular, the Dragon Lantern Festival is a traditional feature of the local area, and dragon dance performances are lively. In addition, during the Spring Festival, there are activities such as the Hmong "mountain treading festival" and the Bui "mountain worship ceremony", which show the blessing culture of each nation.

Buy

As the central city of southwest Guizhou, Xingyi City not only has beautiful natural scenery, but also has rich local specialties and ethnic handicrafts. Here are some of the things worth buying.

• Buyei and Miao handicrafts: Xingyi is a settlement of Bui and Miao ethnic groups, and the local handicrafts are unique. You can buy Miao silver ornaments, embroidery products, Bui traditional weaving and embroidery crafts.Recommended products:Miao silver ornaments (such as earrings, necklaces), embroidery fabrics (such as wallets, handbags), traditional hand-knitted goods (such as backpacks, scarves).Where to buy: Xingyi City handicraft market, ethnic culture village, and the surrounding shops of major scenic spots.

• Specialties of Guizhou: Guizhou has a wealth of local specialties, some of which are very suitable as souvenirs to bring home.Recommended Guizhou Maotai Wine: As one of the most famous liquor in China, Maotai wine is the representative product of Guizhou. Shopping points and wineries near Xingyi are available for sale.Sour soup: Guizhou Sour soup is a local characteristic, buy some sour soup seasoning back, you can also make the authentic Guizhou Sour soup at home.Guizhou chili peppers: Guizhou has a variety of chili peppers, so you can buy some local chili powder and chili paste as seasoning.Where to buy: local supermarkets, specialty shops, and handicraft shops near scenic spots.
• Tea in Guizhou Province: Guizhou is one of the famous tea producing areas in China, and the tea around Xingyi also has high quality. The taste of locally produced tea is unique, especially suitable for tea culture lovers.Recommended products: Guizhou Maofeng, six plates of water black tea, Meitan green buds and so on.Where to buy: Xingyi tea shop, farmers market and tourist souvenir shop.
• Local specialty foods: Xingyi has many local flavors of food can be purchased, suitable as a companion gift or self-use.Recommended Sour soup fish: Buy some local sour soup seasoning packs and go home to make this Guizhou specialty yourself.Miaojia bacon: Guizhou bacon flavor is unique, often smoked and a variety of spices marinated, the taste is delicious.Where to buy: Xingyi's local specialty stores and markets.
• Local specialties: Some local products of Xingyi are also worth buying, such as natural mineral water of Xingyi, Xingyi herbs, and various mountain and wild local products.Recommended products: local characteristics of dry goods, herbs, etc., suitable for tourists who love nature and herbal remedies.

Eat

There are many restaurants and snack bars that offer authentic Guizhou cuisine. Here are some recommended restaurants

• 1 Hingyi Old Street Sour Soup Fish (兴义老街酸汤鱼), Old Street, Xingyi City. Recommended dishes: Sour Soup Fish, Sour Soup Small Lobster

Specialty: Famous for its sour soup fish, the soup base is tangy and appetizing, with tender fish. The ambiance is elegant, making it perfect for family meals. (updated Nov 2024)

• 2 Miao ethnic restaurants in Guizhou (贵州苗族风味餐馆), Miao Ethnic Street, Xingyi City. Recommended dishes: Miao Sour and Spicy Fish, Miao Stir-Fried DishesSpecialty: This restaurant offers authentic Miao ethnic foods, with bold flavors of sourness and spiciness. The restaurant is full of ethnic atmosphere, and the dishes are both fragrant and flavorful. (updated Dec 2024)
• Hingyi Hot Pot Street (兴义火锅一条街), Hot Pot Street, Downtown Xingyi. Recommended dishes: Guizhou Hot Pot, Grilled Lamb, Charcoal Grilled Fish

Specialty: Known for its authentic hot pot, this place serves a variety of spicy and numbing hot pot broths. The street also offers various small food stalls for local snacks, making it a great spot for evening meals. 

• 3 Old local restaurant in Guizhou (贵州老店), Downtown Xingyi. Recommended dishes: Sour and Spicy Rice Noodles, Hand-Pulled Rice, Guizhou Sausages. Specialty: Serving a variety of traditional Guizhou dishes, the rice noodles and sausages are particularly authentic and ideal for those who love bold flavors. (updated Dec 2024)
• 4 The Grand Prairie Restaurant in Wangmo (旺莫草地餐厅), Near Wangmo Grassland, Xingyi City. Recommended dishes: Beef Hot Pot, Wild Vegetable Stir-Fry with Meat. Specialty: This restaurant makes use of local natural resources, offering dishes made from grassland beef and fresh wild vegetables, perfect for those who enjoy the flavors of the prairie. (updated Dec 2024)
• 5 Lotus Pool Tea House (荷花池茶馆), Lotus Pond Scenic Area, Xingyi City. Recommended fishes: Lotus Pond Meal Set, Miao Ethnic Traditional Snacks

Specialty: Located near the Lotus Pond Scenic Area, this tea house offers traditional Guizhou snacks and small dishes. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy tea and snacks. (updated Dec 2024)

Sleep

• 1 Xingyi Century Hotel (兴义世纪大酒店), No. 6 Fuxing 1st Street. Although the hotel is four-star, it provides many services such as free Wi-Fi, smart room features, and on-site dining options. Some guests have the chance to enjoy views of the vibrant Xingyi cityscape from their rooms. The hotel’s meeting facilities cater to business travelers, while its central location ensures easy access to local attractions. (updated Dec 2024)