Things To Do
in Bijie
Bijie is a mountainous prefecture-level city in western Guizhou known for its cool climate and lush green landscapes. It serves as a regional hub with growing markets, farms, and a mix of modern and traditional urban life. The area is home to several ethnic communities, including Miao and Yi, whose customs and festivals color the region.
Surrounded by valleys and karst scenery, Bijie acts as a gateway to Guizhou’s frontier landscapes and smaller hill towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Bijie Old Town, where you can admire traditional architecture and the vibrant atmosphere. Stroll through the narrow streets, stopping by local shops to sample authentic snacks like fried rice cakes. Capture some photographs of the ancient buildings and bustling markets as the town comes to life with the morning sun.
After lunch, explore the Bijie Museum to delve into the rich history of the region, featuring artifacts and exhibits that showcase local culture. Take a leisurely walk in the nearby park, enjoying the beautiful landscape and perhaps engaging in a game of Tai Chi with locals. As the afternoon sun begins to set, relax at a café with a view of the mountains.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, sampling specialties like spicy fish hotpot or grilled meats. After your meal, take a stroll through the night market, where you can browse handcrafted goods and enjoy live performances. End your day by enjoying the lively ambiance, perhaps joining in a traditional dance with the locals.
Embark on a morning hike in the Bijie Mountains, breathing in the fresh air and marveling at the stunning natural scenery. Follow well-marked trails that lead you through lush forests and past breathtaking waterfalls, spotting local wildlife along the way. Take breaks to appreciate the serene environment and snap photos of the picturesque landscapes.
After your hike, have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, enjoying local delicacies while listening to the sounds of the forest. Continue your adventure by visiting the Huoshaoyun Scenic Area, where you can explore the unique rock formations and enjoy panoramic views. Don't forget to take plenty of pictures to capture the beauty of this natural wonder.
As the sun begins to set, return to Bijie and unwind with a relaxing dinner at a local eatery. Reflect on your day's adventures over a bowl of hand-pulled noodles or a steaming pot of local stew. After dinner, take a scenic walk along the riverbank, where the city lights begin to twinkle against the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨1-night hotel in city center | $20-40 |
| 🚕1 km taxi ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain landscapes and cooler climate
- Rich ethnic culture and accessible countryside trips
- Limited international-level nightlife and fewer English-speaking services
- Some rural areas have steep terrain and winding roads
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "请慢用" - Enjoy your meal
- "厕所在哪里？" - Where is the restroom?
- "你会说英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
- "可以便宜一点吗？" - Can you make it cheaper?
- "我需要帮助" - I need help
Places to Visit in Bijie
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide-angle views of the skyline framed by surrounding hills, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Historic lanes, traditional architecture, and daily life provide authentic street photography opportunities.
A calm riverside scene with reflections of mountains and local life along the bank.
Dramatic landscapes with layered ridges and verdant forests ideal for landscape photography.
Food in Bijie
Bijie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature Guizhou dish featuring tangy broth made with sour tomatoes or fermented ingredients and tender white fish.
Must-Try!
A hearty, chili-forward dish cooked with peppers and aromatics for a robust, warming flavor.
A fragrant rice dish cooked inside bamboo, often with mushrooms or vegetables for a fragrant, rustic bite.
A vegetarian option highlighting local mushrooms and soft tofu in savory seasonings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, herbs, and regional snacks—great for sampling day-to-day flavors.
A vibrant stretch after sundown with skewers, noodles, and small bites lingering into the night.
Roadside vendors offering smoked meats, pickles, and seasonal greens near rural routes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple hello (你好 Nǐhǎo). Show respect to elders and avoid public shows of anger; use two hands when presenting or receiving items.
Ask for consent before photographing people, especially in villages or private spaces.
Share dishes when possible and use chopsticks properly; avoid tapping bowls with chopsticks to ask for attention.
Safety
Tipping in Bijie
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most ante-lunch dining settings, though small tips may be welcomed in tourist-oriented spots or higher-end services.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are ubiquitous. Cards are increasingly accepted in hotels and larger shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; bring a light jacket and an umbrella for occasional showers.
Warm to hot days with frequent rain and occasional thunderstorms; carry rain gear and sun protection.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; ideal for outdoor exploring and photography.
Cool and dry to cold; layering is key; some trails may be slippery after rain or frost.
Bijie at Night
Hiking in Bijie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike offering panoramic views of valleys and distant towns; suitable for a half-day excursion.
A scenic loop through lush forests and streams with opportunities to see local fauna.
A canyon hike with limestone formations and carved scenery; best with a guided group.
Airports
How to reach Bijie by plane.
Regional airport serving Bijie with domestic flights; convenient for arriving from other Chinese cities and nearby regions.
Major hub in Guizhou; offers more flight options and connections, typically a few hours away by train or road.
Nearby airport with regional connections; useful for quick hops within Guizhou.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority group with wide regional representation across the city and surrounding towns.
One of the key ethnic groups in the region, contributing distinctive crafts, music, and festival traditions.
Another important minority with unique cultural practices and traditional attire.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A common pastime in schools and parks; local courts are visible in urban neighborhoods.
Played informally in community games and school yards; good field spots exist in city outskirts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bijie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes labeled as vegetarian, ask for no meat stock, and opt for tofu, mushrooms, and seasonal vegetables. Most restaurants can accommodate with advance notice.