Village Whispers: Among Mountains & Living Traditions

Guiyang · Zhenyuan · Mount Fanjing · Zhaoxing · Kaili · Anshun

About This Trip

Deep into the heart of Guizhou, this immersive journey takes you through a land of breathtaking landscapes and living traditions. From misty mountains and lush rice terraces to dramatic karst formations, hidden caves, and cascading waterfalls, discover the extraordinary natural beauty of southwest China while exploring remote villages home to the Dong and Miao people, each offering a unique window into China’s rich cultural heritage.

Along the way, experience centuries-old traditions, admire intricate embroidery and wooden architecture, and discover the rhythms of everyday village life. Wander through bustling local markets, get hands-on with traditional crafts such as batik and tie-dyeing, and savour regional dishes that reflect the flavours of each community. Beyond the villages, explore spectacular limestone caves, wander behind thundering waterfalls, and cruise through deep river gorges beneath towering bridges.

More than a sightseeing trip, this is a journey into the heart of Guizhou, where remarkable landscapes meet living cultures, hospitality is heartfelt, and every encounter reveals another side of this fascinating region.

What’s the Highlight – Travel like a local!
★ Venture deep into Guizhou's mountains to discover remote Dong and Miao villages, far from the crowds of mainstream tourism. Here, generations of villagers continue to live close to the land, following age-old farming rhythms and preserving traditions that remain woven into everyday life.

★ Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Dong and Miao people through hands-on experiences and meaningful local encounters. Listen to the UNESCO-listed Dong Grand Choir, try traditional batik and tie-dyeing, explore colourful local markets, and savour regional specialities, from a traditional Dong long-table banquet to Miao-style sour soup hotpot.

★ Discover two of Guizhou's most spectacular natural landmarks. Explore Mt. Fanjing, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sacred Buddhist mountain, where ancient temples perch atop dramatic peaks, and marvel at the thundering Huangguoshu Waterfall, with the opportunity to walk behind its cascading waters.

★ Journey through Guizhou's extraordinary landscapes, where emerald-green rice terraces stretch across misty mountains and dramatic karst formations give way to hidden limestone caves and underground rivers. Cruise through the breathtaking Huajiang Grand Canyon and admire the world's highest bridge towering above the gorge.

Itinerary

Day 01:Guiyang
➤AM: Arrive in Guiyang. Airport pickup and hotel check-in.
➤Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Siwawa lunch, a popular Guiyang speciality featuring thin rice-flour wraps filled with fresh vegetables and served with a flavourful dipping sauce.
➤PM: Explore Qingyan Ancient Town, a 600-year-old fortified town known for its ancient stone walls, winding cobblestone streets, and well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Return to the city centre to visit Jiaxiu Tower, one of Guiyang's most iconic landmarks.
➤EVE: Welcome Dinner featuring local cuisine
Day 02:Guiyang – Zhenyuan
➤AM: Travel to Zhenyuan Ancient Town (2.5h), a charming riverside town with over 2,000 years of history. Wander through its narrow lanes, admire traditional architecture, and discover the old town nestled between mountains along the Wuyang River.
➤EVE: Enjoy a local speciality dinner in Zhenyuan, followed by a scenic night cruise along the Wuyang River, when the illuminated ancient buildings and bridges create beautiful reflections on the water.
Day 03:Zhenyuan – Mount Fanjing
➤AM: Travel to Mount Fanjing (2h), a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its extraordinary mountain landscapes and rich biodiversity.
➤AM/PM: Take the cable car up the mountain and explore its dramatic peaks, Buddhist temples, and remarkable rock formations, including the iconic Red Clouds Golden Summit. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
➤Late PM: Visit the Great Golden Buddha Temple, home to an impressive golden Buddha statue.
Day 04:Mount Fanjing – Zhaoxing
➤AM: Travel to the Dong ethnic region (4h) and explore Tang'an Dong Village, a traditional mountain settlement surrounded by terraced rice fields. Wander through its stone-paved lanes and admire traditional wooden houses and drum towers, while experiencing the slower rhythm of village life.
➤EVE: Enjoy a performance of the Grand Choir of the Dong people, a UNESCO-listed polyphonic singing tradition passed down through generations. Subject to local performance schedules.
Day 05:Zhaoxing
➤AM: Explore Zhaoxing Dong Village, one of China's largest Dong ethnic settlements. Visit the village museum to learn about Dong history, traditions, and craftsmanship, with an opportunity to try traditional tie-dyeing, a local intangible cultural heritage craft.
➤PM: Wander through the village's five iconic Drum Towers, named after the Confucian virtues of Benevolence, Righteousness, Courtesy, Wisdom, and Trust. Explore the wooden houses and picturesque Wind & Rain Bridges, and soak up the lively atmosphere of local village markets.
➤EVE: Enjoy a traditional Dong Long-Table Banquet, featuring a variety of local dishes and an opportunity to experience the communal dining traditions of the Dong people.
Day 06:Zhaoxing – Huanggang – Zhanli – Jiabang
➤AM: Visit Huanggang Dong Village, a traditional settlement where wooden stilt houses, drum towers, and local customs remain an integral part of everyday life.
➤PM: Continue to Zhanli Dong Village, known for its distinctive Dong traditions and peaceful rural atmosphere. Discover the traditional wooden drying racks used to hang harvested rice, a characteristic feature of the region's agricultural heritage.
➤Late PM: Travel to Jiabang Rice Terraces and check in to the local accommodation.
Day 07:Jiabang – Getou Miao Village
➤AM: Explore the spectacular Jiabang Rice Terraces, where generations of Miao farmers have carved intricate layers of rice paddies into the mountainsides. Wander through the scenic landscape, dotted with traditional wooden houses and small farming villages, and enjoy sweeping views of the terraced hills.
➤PM: Travel to Getou Miao Village (4h), a 400-year-old traditional Miao settlement tucked away in the forested mountains of Leigongshan. Known for its ancient Chinese fir trees, some believed to be over 1,000 years old, the village is home to traditional wooden stilt houses nestled along a mountain stream. Explore the peaceful village and discover how generations of Miao villagers have lived alongside and protected these remarkable trees.
➤EVE: Enjoy a traditional Miao-style Sour Soup Beef Hotpot, a local speciality featuring tender beef cooked in a tangy, aromatic broth.
Day 08:Getou – Langde – Kaili
➤AM: Travel to Langde Miao Village (1.5h), known for its well-preserved wooden architecture and rich Miao cultural traditions. Wander through the village and learn about local customs and community life.
➤PM: Continue to Kaili and explore the Kaili Miao Embroidery Heritage Market, a lively marketplace showcasing beautiful handmade embroidery, traditional textiles, silver jewellery, and other intangible cultural heritage crafts. Discover the intricate patterns and craftsmanship passed down through generations of Miao artisans.
Day 09:Kaili – Anshun
➤AM: Travel to Anshun (3.5h) and explore the Longgong (Dragon Palace) Scenic Area, famous for its spectacular karst caves, underground rivers, and limestone formations.
➤PM: Enjoy a boat ride through the impressive water-filled caves, then visit the fascinating Xuantang Whirlpool and Guanyin Cave, discovering the region's unique geological wonders and Buddhist heritage.
Day 10:Anshun
➤AM: Visit the magnificent Huangguoshu Waterfall, one of China's largest and most spectacular waterfalls. Admire the thundering cascades and, when accessible, walk through the famous Water Curtain Cave behind the waterfall for a unique perspective.
➤PM: Explore the Tianxingqiao Scenic Area, a remarkable karst landscape filled with natural stone bridges, winding streams, waterfalls, and lush vegetation.
Day 11:Anshun – Huajiang Canyon – Guiyang
➤AM: Travel to Huajiang Grand Canyon (1.5h) and enjoy a scenic boat cruise through its dramatic limestone gorge. Admire the spectacular Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge from the river below — the world's highest bridge, standing approximately 625 metres above the canyon floor.
➤PM: Return to Guiyang (2.5h) and enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace.
➤EVE: Farewell Dinner.
Day 12:Guiyang – Home
➤AM/PM: Airport transfer according to your flight schedule. Farewell to Guizhou and have a safe journey home!

Details

Inclusion

Exclusion

Trip Cost

Price: NZD 4,550 per person (approx. USD 2,550 per person)
• Based on twin-share accommodation
• Single Supplement: NZD 820 per person
• Small group: Maximum 10 travellers

Early Bird Discount
• Plan ahead and book at least 120 days before departure – save NZD 100 per person

Bring-a-Friend Discount
• Bring a friend and share the adventure – save NZD 100 together (NZD 50 per person).

*Both discounts can be combined.

Upcoming Tour Dates for 2027

6–17 April 2027 (12 Days)

This trip also connects with our Roots of Yunnan journey (18–25 April 2027), offering the opportunity to explore both Guizhou and Yunnan over 20 days. From the remote mountain villages of Guizhou to the slower rhythms of rural Yunnan, the two journeys offer different but complementary perspectives on Southwest China.


Coming in October 2027: Guizhou Foodways

We are also developing a food and culture journey through many of the same areas of Guizhou, but through the lens of food and everyday life. Discover how local communities grow, prepare, and preserve their food, and the traditions and stories behind it.

If this perspective interests you, stay tuned for more details.

Accommodation

We will stay in local 4-star hotels or local guest houses, carefully selected for their comfort, authenticity, and great locations. Here are some examples of the hotels you can expect on this tour.

Novotel Guiyang Downtown

Located in Guiyang city center, this property is a 2-minute walk from the commercial center of Grand Cross Square. It offers a gym, 2 dining options and rooms with free Wi-Fi access. Guests can use the business center or make travel arrangements at the tour desk. The 24-hour front desk provides currency exchange, laundry and car rental services.

Chuanshangyu · Fanjing Mountain Lodge Homestay

Surrounded by lush greenery near the foot of Mount Fanjing, this charming mountain lodge offers a peaceful retreat in Guizhou’s countryside. Converted from traditional Tujia village buildings, it blends local architectural heritage with modern comfort. With cosy rooms and tranquil surroundings, it’s an ideal place to unwind before or after exploring the sacred mountain.

Xingyun Lanshan Smart Vacation Apartment (Jiabang Terraces)

Located in the core area of the Jia Bang Terraces, this guesthouse offers breathtaking views of Viewpoint 1 and Viewpoint 2 right from your window. The ‌on-site restaurant‌ serves authentic local flavors, personally cooked by the owner using ‌Jia Bang terrace rice‌, ‌free-range chicken‌, and ‌fried wasp pupae‌—a true taste of mountain freshness in every bite. Whether you’re seeking the healing power of sunrise over the terraces or the convenience of smart living, Xingyun Lanshan promises an unforgettable retreat in the heart of nature.

Geqingchuang Homestay

Nestled in the mountains of Leigongshan, Geqingchuang Homestay offers a peaceful stay in Getou, a traditional Miao village surrounded by ancient trees and lush forests. Run by young locals who have returned to their hometown, it offers a warm welcome and a glimpse into everyday village life. If the timing is right, guests may even join a local bonfire gathering.

Tunshe·Culture Hotel

Located in Anshun, Tunshe·Culture Hotel blends modern comfort with the region’s distinctive Tunpu cultural heritage. Its thoughtfully designed interiors feature natural wood, stone elements, and traditional Chinese touches, creating a warm and peaceful atmosphere. With comfortable rooms, inviting communal spaces, and easy access to the city, it offers a relaxing base for exploring Anshun’s spectacular karst landscapes and waterfalls.

Holiday Inn Express Kunming West (Local 4-star)

The Holiday Inn Express Kunming West offers a pleasant stay in Kunming for those traveling for business or leisure. The closest major public transportation, Liangjiahe Metro Station, is only 500m away. The nearby area boasts an abundance of attractions including Kunming Indoor Stadium, Aegean Sea and Shangrila-Dynamic Yunnan.

Next Steps

Sign up for the tour!
  • Please email info@wanderchina.co to secure your spot on this tour. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us via email before officially signing up.
  • When you’re ready to book, a $500 NZD per person booking fee is required to reserve your arrangements. This fee will be applied toward your total trip cost and deducted from your final balance.
  • Your balance payment will be due 60 days prior to your departure. 
  • If you’d like to customize a private pre or post trip to explore more of China, please let us know and we’d be happy to work with you on that!
Is this tour guaranteed to run?
  • A minimum of six travellers is required for this journey to operate (maximum group size: 12). The departure will be confirmed no later than 60 days prior to the scheduled departure date.
  • If the minimum number of travellers is not reached, Wander China reserves the right to cancel or postpone the departure. In this event, all deposits paid to Wander China will be refunded in full.
  • Wander China also reserves the right to cancel or postpone any departure, including confirmed departures, due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, such as travel restrictions, natural disasters, political instability, or other unforeseen events. In such cases, travellers will receive a full refund of all payments made to Wander China, less any non-refundable costs already incurred on their behalf, where applicable.
Cancelation Policy

If you decide to cancel for other reasons after this time, the following cancellation policy applies:

  • More than 60 days prior to trip departure:
    Deposit will be forfeited
  • Between 45 – 60 days prior to trip departure:
    20% of total tour price will be forfeited
  • Between 30 – 44 Days:
    50% of total tour price will be forfeited
  • Between 22 – 29 Days:
    90% of total tour price will be forfeited
  • Less than 21 days prior to trip departure:
    No refund

By paying the deposit, you accept Wander China Terms and Conditions.

Why Wander China

Local Expertise with Experience

We live here, and we’ve traveled far. Our team combines local roots in Yunnan, Guizhou, and Guangxi with years of experience leading international travelers. We are proud of our culture and passionate about sharing it with others. With extensive networks and resources on the ground, we bring a deep understanding of the region’s culture, history, and landscapes, and ensure every journey is thoughtfully curated.

Seamless Communication & Onsite Support

We speak your language—literally and culturally. From the first email to the last day of your trip, we’re here to guide, translate, and support. Our well-trained team ensures seamless coordination and personalized attention, making your trip both safe and memorable.

Committed to Heritage and Sustainability

We believe meaningful travel should give back. That’s why we support local artisans, share stories of living traditions, and take active steps to protect the environment—like picking up litter on mountain trails and choosing low-impact transport whenever possible. We also invite our participants to join us in giving back, fostering a shared commitment to meaningful and sustainable travel.

Flexible for All Kinds of Travelers

Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, family, a school group, or your company team—we offer the flexibility to match your interests and budget. Choose from thoughtfully crafted small-group tours, or let us design something just for you.

Got a wild dream? We'll make it real. Open to ideas? We'll dream it up for you.

Prefer a trip tailored just for you? Travel your way, on your terms!