Guizhou & Mountain Tribes - 7 days

You will have to fly to Guiyang from one of China's larger cities, such as Beijing or Shanghai. The name Guiyang translates to "precious sunlight", and the city is the capital of Guizhou province, located to the east of the Yunnan-Guiyang Plateau. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure, whether you choose to enjoy a meal or wander through the city, with the vibrant night market being a popular highlight.

After breakfast this morning, join a local guide for a walk to the central square of Guiyang, where you can join the locals for their lively morning disco dancing and practice sessions. This is a great opportunity for you to engage with the local culture and experience a popular daily activity in the city.

Next, you’ll transfer to the Old Han Village, home to descendants of troops from Nanjing. Here, the villagers still dress in traditional Han costumes, preserving their heritage. The community is known for a unique form of local art called “Ground Opera,” which is essentially a theatre performance staged on the ground. You’ll watch a private performance by amateur villagers wearing hand-made masks, and afterwards, you’ll have the chance to learn how these distinctive opera masks are crafted. The rest of today is at leisure.

Guiyang - Kaili. This morning, you’ll set off for Kaili, the capital of the Miao and Dong Minority Autonomous Region. Kaili is the cultural heart of the Miao people, renowned for its vibrant traditions and customs, and it hosts over 120 local festivals each year. The Miao are celebrated for their intricate arts and crafts, including jewellery, embroidery, brocade, batik, and paper cutting, all of which reflect their rich cultural heritage.

En route, you’ll stop at Tonggu Village, where local Miao women create watercolour paintings depicting scenes from their daily lives, such as farming, family, and festivals. You’ll have the unique opportunity to join them and try your hand at this traditional painting style, gaining a deeper appreciation for their artistic expressions.

Upon arrival in Kaili, you’ll visit the Kaili Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits that offer insight into the lives and history of the ethnic groups in the region. Through original photographs, historical artifacts, and traditional costumes, you’ll learn more about the diverse cultures of Guizhou and the Miao people.

Kaili - Zhenyaun. Today, you’ll begin by walking around the lively local market in the backstreets of Kaili. This bustling market offers you a chance to experience the everyday life of the locals, with an array of fresh produce, handmade goods, and traditional crafts, providing you with a real glimpse into Miao culture.

Next, you’ll visit a skilled Miao embroidery expert at Wenxiang Village. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the intricate techniques involved in Miao embroidery, which is known for its vibrant colours and detailed patterns. You’ll even try your hand at creating your own embroidery, guided by the expert’s skilled hands, and gain a deeper understanding of this important cultural tradition.

In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to Zhenyuan, a picturesque old town nestled along the Wuyan River. Zhenyuan is home to the remarkable Qinglong (Black Dragon) Cave, an ancient Taoist Buddhist temple complex dating back to 1530. As you explore this sacred site, you’ll appreciate its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. On the way, you’ll stop at Shuangjing Village to witness the traditional art of paper cutting, where you can see local artisans expertly craft delicate designs from paper, a beautiful and intricate form of folk art.

Zhenyuan - Leishan. Today, you’ll begin by visiting the Black Dragon Cave, a stunning Taoist Buddhist temple complex dating back to the 16th century. After exploring the cave’s intricate architecture and serene atmosphere, you’ll take a leisurely walk around the ancient town of Zhenyuan, where you can admire its well-preserved buildings, narrow alleys, and peaceful riverside views, offering a fascinating glimpse into China’s history.

In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to Leishan, the cultural heart of the Miao people. Your first stop is Datang, a village known for its short skirt Miao people, where you’ll learn about their customs, clothing, and daily life. Next, you’ll visit Langde, a village famous for its long skirt Miao women, where you’ll observe their beautifully embroidered skirts and gain a deeper understanding of their heritage.

Finally, you’ll head to Paika Village to discover the art of Lusheng pipe making, an important part of Miao culture. You’ll meet a local craftsman who has perfected his craft over decades, and you’ll have the chance to make your own Lusheng pipe and learn how to play it, experiencing the cultural significance of this unique tradition.

Leishan - Guiyang. After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Baiyan Village for a 2.5-hour hike through lush, terraced rice paddy fields, where you’ll learn about traditional farming techniques passed down through generations. The stunning landscapes of layered terraces will offer you a unique glimpse into the village’s harmonious relationship with nature.

Next, you’ll visit the peaceful Xiangshuiyan Waterfalls, where the cascading waters create a tranquil atmosphere. You’ll have time to relax, take in the beauty, and capture memorable photos of the surroundings.

You’ll then head to the Gejia people’s village, a subgroup of the Miao, famous for their vibrant, hand-made batik clothing. You’ll witness the intricate process of batik dyeing, where artisans create beautiful patterns using wax and dye, and have the chance to see the stunning garments up close.

Your journey continues with a visit to a traditional mill house along the river, where you’ll observe ancient grain milling techniques and learn about the making of incense, an important regional craft. The smell of the incense and the rhythmic process will immerse you in the tradition.

Finally, you’ll transfer back to Guiyang, reflecting on the day’s cultural experiences and the breathtaking natural beauty you’ve encountered.

Today, after breakfast, you will transfer to the airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your memorable journey.