Things To Do
in Xingyi

Xingyi is a picturesque city located in the Guizhou province of China, surrounded by stunning karst landscapes and rich ethnic diversity. It serves as the capital of the Qianxinan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, showcasing a blend of indigenous cultures and traditions. The city's lush natural scenery, including the famous Xingyi National Geopark, attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

With its vibrant local markets and authentic cuisine, Xingyi offers a unique glimpse into the heart of China's ethnic heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Xingyi National Geopark, famous for its dramatic karst formations and hiking trails.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Maling River Canyon for a scenic boat ride and explore the breathtaking landscapes.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the vibrant night market to experience local street food.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Buyi Village to learn about local crafts and traditions, and participate in a traditional weaving workshop.

afternoon
:

Explore the Xingyi Museum to gain insights into the region's history and ethnic diversity.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance showcasing local music and dance, followed by dinner at a traditional Buyei restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Cup of Coffee$2
🚕Taxi Fare (within city)$3
🛒Grocery Shopping (weekly)$20
🏨Budget Hotel Night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnic communities.
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine.
  • Limited English-speaking locals may pose communication challenges.
  • Public transportation options can be limited in rural areas.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially during the rainy season.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand
  • "好吃!" - Delicious!

Places to Visit in Xingyi

Visit one of these nice places.

Xingyi National Geopark

A breathtaking location with towering limestone formations and lush greenery, perfect for landscape photography.

Maling River Canyon

Known for its stunning cliffs and clear waters, this canyon offers dramatic views and excellent photo opportunities.

Buyi Village

Capture the essence of local culture with traditional wooden houses and vibrant community life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Xingyi

Xingyi offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique blend of local flavors and ethnic influences. Must-try dishes include spicy hot pot, rice noodles, and various grilled meats seasoned with local herbs.

Xingyi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Spicy Hot Pot

A popular communal dish featuring a simmering pot of broth where diners cook various meats and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Guizhou Rice Noodles

Delicious rice noodles served in a spicy broth, often topped with fresh herbs and diced meats.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Xingyi Night Market

A bustling market where you can sample a variety of street foods, from grilled skewers to fried pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Xingyi experiences a subtropical highland climate, characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cool and dry. The rainy season typically occurs from May to September, with the most precipitation in July and August. Spring and autumn are pleasant, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect for older individuals is important; greetings and polite gestures are appreciated.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles funeral customs.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting temples or rural villages, to show respect for local customs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Xingyi is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Be cautious when hiking in remote areas and be aware of the weather conditions to avoid accidents.

Tipping in Xingyi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, along with cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather; perfect for enjoying water activities but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage make this season ideal for hiking and enjoying the scenery.

Winter

Cold and dry, winter is less populated with tourists, providing a peaceful atmosphere and stunning frost-covered landscapes.

Nightlife Guide

Xingyi at Night

Xingyi's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with various bars and clubs offering live music and traditional performances. Most nightlife spots focus on socializing over drinks, and local beer and specialty liquors are popular choices. Night markets come alive with food stalls and entertainment, providing a taste of local culture after dusk.

Hiking in Xingyi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Maling River Canyon Trail

This scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the canyon and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Xingyi Geopark Loop

A well-marked loop trail that takes you through the park's stunning rock formations and diverse flora.

Airports

How to reach Xingyi by plane.

Xingyi Wanfenglin Airport

Located about 30 kilometers from the city center, this airport provides domestic flights to major cities in China.

Getting Around

Walkability

Xingyi is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, restaurants, and markets are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, though some rural areas may lack pedestrian infrastructure. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city and nearby attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Buyei Ethnic Group

The Buyei people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Guizhou, known for their unique cultural practices and vibrant festivals.

Miao Ethnic Group

The Miao people are famous for their colorful traditional clothing and elaborate festivals, contributing to the region's cultural richness.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport among the youth in Xingyi, with many local courts available for play.

Traditional Sports

Local ethnic groups often engage in traditional sports such as dragon boat racing and various forms of wrestling during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Xingyi is generally light, but congestion can occur during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient. Biking is also a popular option for short distances, and rental services are available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Xingyi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Vegetarian options are available, but it is advisable to specify your dietary needs to avoid confusion.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Xingyi has several hospitals and clinics that provide basic healthcare services. However, for specialized medical care, larger cities like Guiyang may be necessary. It's recommended for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to carry any necessary medications with them.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide