Guizhou Province

Set in a spectacular karst limestone landscape of dramatic gorges and canyons with terraced hillsides and enchanting vistas, the landlocked Guizhou province has remained relatively isolated from the rest of China due to its mountainous terrain. A sub-tropical climate and an average elevation of 1,000 metres make this a pleasant destination to visit all year round.

To get an idea of what this province offers as a travel destination, keep in mind that Guizhou boasts eight national nature reserves, 21 national forest parks, six national Geoparks and 40 national intangible cultural heritages, and is one of the country’s only provinces in which the South China karst UNESCO World Heritage site can be found.

Huangguoshu waterfalls Standing 77.8 metres tall and 101 metres wide, Huangguoshu Waterfall is a rare example of a large waterfall in a karst region. Huangguoshu is surrounded by 18 other smaller waterfalls in what has been appraised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the biggest waterfall group in the world.

Small Seven Apertures Karst Forest (Xiao Qi Kong Scenic Area) Located on the water, in the Libo Zhangjiang River National Tourist Attraction, the natural scenery of Small Seven Apertures Karst Forest is radiant with splendour. The Small Seven Apertures Scenic Area is located in the southeast part of Libo county among and consists of over 30 kilometres of mountain peaks, spanning a total of seven kilometres. The area has become famous for a bridge built in 1863, the 15th year of the reign of Emperor Daoguang and located in the Scenic Area’s north.

Dragon Palace Located close to Anshun city, Dragon Palace is a 60-square-kilometre underground cave system of lakes, waterfalls and stalactites. Its name refers to a crystal palace in which a mythical Dragon King once lived. The main body of the Dragon Palace includes karst landscapes, an underground lake, water-eroded caves, waterfalls and gardens. Visitors can enjoy these natural sceneries by boat.

The handicrafts of the Miao people
The Miao people are an ethnic minority of China and form a significant portion of the population of Guizhou. The Miao are noted in the country for their high-quality handicrafts, especially embroidery and silver ornaments.

The art of embroidery has quite a long history among the Miao people and is a striking reflection of their cultural style and skill. With abstract lines and exaggerated form changes, the technique of Miao embroidery represents the history of Miao society.

Pure silver ornamentation is one of the three most important parts of Miao traditional dress. Their silver adornments have over 100 different varieties and are typically classified into six types: head, neck, chest, clothing, hand and skirt adornments. In marriage, silver ornamentation serves as a bride’s dowry, as silver represents wealth according to Miao tradition.