17-Day Guilin Guizhou Yunnan Colorful Minority Tour

Summary

Day1 Arrive in Kunming
Day2 Kunming-Lijiang by Bullet Train: Train to Lijiang, Baisha Village, Baisha Murals, Naxi Family Visiting
Day3 Lijiang: Free Day
Day4 Lijiang-Kunming by Bullet Train: Train to Kunming, Car to Lunan, Stone Forest
Day5 Lunan-Shizong-Xingyi by Car: Local Tobacco Farm, Country Market, Maling River Canyon Scenic Area
Day6 Xingyi: Forest of Ten-Thousand Peaks, Wanfeng Laken
Day7 Xingyi-Anshun by Car: Beipanjiang Grand Canyon, Baling River Bridge, Buyi People Village
Day8 Anshun-Guiyang by Car: Huangguoshu Waterfall, Qingyan Ancient Town
Day9 Guiyang-Kaili by Car: Shiqiao Miao Village, Dustpan Miao Village, Qingman Miao Village
Day10 Kaili-Rongjiang by Car: Langde Long-skirt Miao Village, Datang Short-skirt Miao Village, Huanggang Dong Village
Day11 Rongjiang-Congjiang-Zhaoxing by Car: Zhanli Dong Village, Basha Miao Village, Dong village
Day12 Zhaoxing-Sanjiang-Longsheng by Car: Tang'an Dong Village, Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge
Day13 Longsheng-Guilin by Car: Longji Terraced Fields, Pingan Zhuang Village
Day14 Guilin-Yangshuo-Guilin by Cruise: Li River Cruise, West Street
Day15 Guilin Departure

Day1 Arrive in Kunming

Welcome to Kunming, the "Spring City," known for its mild climate and year-round blooming flowers! Upon your arrival, you’ll be greeted by our professional guide and driver at the baggage claim area. Look for the sign with "Your Way Holiday" to easily find your guide. From there, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind after your journey. The rest of the day is yours to explore Kunming at your own pace. You might choose to stroll around the city, visit the bustling Green Lake Park, or enjoy a local meal at one of the many charming eateries. Let the charm of this vibrant city immerse you as you begin your adventure in Yunnan.

Day2 Kunming-Lijiang by Bullet Train

This morning, after breakfast, you will embark on a scenic bullet train journey from Kunming to Lijiang, which will take around 3 hours. The high-speed train offers a smooth, comfortable ride with panoramic views of Yunnan’s stunning landscapes—lush green valleys, winding rivers, and rolling hills that make this region famous. As you travel, you'll be able to admire the changing scenery, from the verdant countryside to the towering mountains in the distance. Upon arrival in Lijiang, your local guide will be waiting for you at the railway station, holding a sign that reads “Your Way Holiday.” Once you meet your guide, you will be transferred to your hotel for a brief rest. The comfortable journey allows you to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before beginning your exciting exploration of the area. After your transfer to the hotel, you’ll have time to refresh and recharge for the next part of your adventure in this ancient and vibrant city.

After a short break at your hotel, your guide will lead you on a tour to Baisha Village, a tranquil and historic area located just outside Lijiang. Baisha was the first settlement of the Naxi people and served as the economic and political heart of the region during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The village is home to beautifully preserved ancient architecture, offering a glimpse into traditional Naxi life. As you wander through the charming streets, you’ll visit ancient palaces and pavilions, each brimming with fascinating history. One of the village’s highlights is the Baisha Murals, which span over 300 years. These vibrant artworks, adorning the walls of old temples, showcase a blend of Han, Tibetan, and Naxi artistic influences, depicting religious figures, galloping horses, and blooming lotus flowers. The murals reflect the harmonious coexistence of Buddhism, Taoism, and Tibetan Buddhism, making them a unique and significant cultural treasure.

After exploring Baisha Village, it’s time for lunch at a local restaurant where you’ll enjoy one of the most iconic dishes of Yunnan cuisine—Over-the-Bridge Rice Noodles. This famous dish has a fascinating story tied to the region’s rich history and local legends. The dish consists of a fragrant broth served with a variety of fresh ingredients such as vegetables, meats, and rice noodles, which are placed in the hot broth just before eating. Your guide will help explain the story behind the dish and its significance in Yunnan’s culinary traditions. As you savor the delicious flavors, take in the ambiance of the local restaurant, where you can enjoy a relaxing and authentic Yunnan dining experience. It’s a great opportunity to experience the depth of Yunnan’s food culture while enjoying the company of your guide.

After lunch, your next stop will be the Baisha Murals, a continuation of your earlier exploration of Baisha Village. These murals are a testament to the incredible artistic and cultural fusion found in the region. The murals date back over 300 years and are famous for their depictions of various religious figures, animals, and nature, all painted in a style that merges Han Chinese, Tibetan, and Naxi elements. Your guide will provide you with insights into the history and meaning behind each mural, enriching your understanding of the local culture and traditions. As you admire the intricate artistry, take time to appreciate how the murals reflect the deep spirituality and diverse influences that have shaped the region. This stop is an excellent opportunity to dive deeper into Yunnan’s heritage and discover more about its unique blend of religions and cultures. You’ll have plenty of time to linger, take photos, and reflect on the significance of these historical masterpieces.

The next part of your day takes you to a local Naxi family’s home for a unique and authentic cultural experience. The Naxi people are known for their warm hospitality, and during your visit, you’ll have the chance to learn about their daily life, customs, and traditions. Your guide will help translate and facilitate communication, ensuring you get a genuine experience of Naxi culture. You might be invited to taste some traditional Tibetan snacks or butter tea, which are a staple in their diet. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to learn some basic Dongba language, the ancient script of the Naxi people. You can even try your hand at drawing some Dongba hieroglyphic characters! This visit will give you a deeper connection with the local culture and an unforgettable, personal glimpse into the Naxi way of life. It’s a rare chance to engage with a community that has preserved its traditions for centuries.

After a full day of cultural exploration, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the fascinating experiences of the day. Whether you’ve been captivated by the beauty of the Baisha Murals or the kindness of the Naxi family, this day will undoubtedly leave you with lasting memories. Your guide will ensure you are comfortable and well-informed, answering any last questions you may have about your Yunnan tour. As the day concludes, you can rest in your hotel, knowing that tomorrow will bring even more exciting discoveries as your journey through Yunnan continues.

Day3 Lijiang

Today is yours to explore the charming Lijiang at your leisure. Lijiang offers a wide range of attractions, but the crown jewel is undoubtedly its UNESCO-listed Old Town. Unlike many other ancient Chinese towns, Lijiang doesn't have defensive walls or gates, creating a more open, inviting atmosphere. The streets, winding and picturesque, intertwine with serene canals, creating a maze-like charm. These canals, with their gentle curves, reflect the traditional belief in the harmony of living near water. Early morning is the perfect time to stroll through the town’s peaceful stone-paved lanes, capturing photos of its ancient buildings set against the majestic backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. As the day unfolds, Lijiang comes alive with vibrant energy, bustling markets, and street vendors selling everything from local crafts to unique souvenirs. When evening falls, unwind with a drink in one of the many cozy bars or cafés, where you can enjoy the laid-back nightlife and soak in the town's colorful ambiance.

Day4 Lijiang-Kunming by Bullet Train

Today, after breakfast, you will be transferred to Longsheng(2.5 hours). After arriving the Longsheng, you will visit the Longji Terrace Fields. Probably built 650 years ago, Longji Terraced Fields are now famous for its large scale of rice paddies on the mountain, stacked up to form a rather spectacular view.

After lunch, climbing the Longji Terrace Field. While climbing up to the mountain top, you can experience the rural lifestyle of local villages, which are mainly dwelled by Yao and Zhuang minorities. Minority culture is another big highlight besides the spectacular terraces and unique traditional houses in Longji Terraced Fields. The area is inhabited by Yao and Zhuang Minority nationalities. Yao women are famous because of their unique clothing and hair style. They are famous for having longest hair in the world as they never cut their hair.

Drive you back to your hotel.

Day 5

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Sanjiang(1.5 hours). Then you will visit Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge, also called Yongji Bridge or Panlong Bridge, spans the Linxi River of Sanjiang County. Built in 1916, it is 64.4 meters (73.43 yards) long, 3.4 metes (3.72 yards) wide and 10.6 meters (34.78 feet) high. See unique Dong houses and architectures when you visit the wind and rain bridge.

Have lunch at a local Chinese restaurant.

Then drive you to Zhaoxing(4 hours).Upon arrival, you will visit Zhaoxing Dong village, which is boasts a landmark of five drum towers and beautiful bridges and is known as the most famous Dong Village in China and it is one of the largest Dong villages with over 800 households and more than 4,000 inhabitants in Guizhou.

At last, drive you to your hotel in Zhaoxing.

Day 6

Today you will be escorted to Congjiang from Zhaoxing(1 hour). Then you will experienceDong minority custom at Tang’an Dong village, a village built on a steep mountain slope and surrounded by terraced paddy fields. Visit Basha village, an original Miao village in Congjiang in Southeastern Guizhou Province. Experience local Miao people’s traditions dating back to the Qing Dynasty (around 2200 years ago).

After the tour ends, drive you back to your hotel in Congjiang.

Day 7

This morning, your destination is Chejiang Dong village, one of the largest Dong villages located along a river among mountains.

See its big Banyan tree with a 300-year history in the village and experience local life. 

Have lunch at a local Chinese restaurant.

Head to Rongjiang Ancient Town to see a culture mixture of Dong and Miao minorities. The town has been existed for more than 2000 years. 

Drive you back to your hotel.

Day 8

After breakfast, pick up from your hotel and our guide will take you to kaili. And you will visit Datang Miao village in Kaili, which is a village famous for its women' short skirts and waterproof granaries. The most extraordinary thing about this is that the females of Datang wear their short skirts all year round, even in freezing winter. Well dressed up Miao girls are performing dance for tourists. You'll be captivated by their charming miniskirts.

After lunch at the local Chinese restaruant, continue your tour to stroll in the village and to learn more about minorities' custom and culture of Southeastern Guizhou in Kaili Ethnic Minorities Museum.

Then drop you off your hotel after the tour ends. 

Day 9

In the morning, you will pay a visit to Shiqiao Miao village, which is a romantic retreat imbued with magical healing power. Blessed with idyllic landscape, mysterious Miao culture, inviting customs, colorful festivals as well as the over 1400-year-old paper making practice. Then we have a chance to see China Traditional Paper-making process.

After lunch, continue your tour to Qing Miao village, drink a small cup of wine prepared for honored guests by the local before you step into the village, have a personal touch through a local family visit, and a chance to see traditional way of clothes and dresses made by dyed fabric.

Finally, drive you back to your hotel.

Day 10

In the morning, free on your own to explore some attractions near your hotel until our guide take you to the airport. 

Be greeted by our local guide at the exit of airport with a welcome signage when you arrived in Kunming. Then you will be escorted to your hotel and help your hotel check-in and you can have a rest.

In the afternoon, you will have a visit at the Dragon Gate on Xishan nearby the Dianchi Lake, appreciate its grottoes, sculptures and corridors dating back to 1781 to 1835 carved by a Taoist monk and his co-workers.

Afterwards, send you back to hotel.

Day 11

Today you will visit one of the limestone highlights Jiuxiang Caves, with hundreds of large and small caves, Jiuxiang scenic area owns the largest scale, number and most unique caves. It is a unique international karst geological park. According inspecting demonstration of cave scientists, Jiuxiang karst caves are located in dolomite which formed 600 million years ago.

Have lunch at a local Chinese restaurant.

Then you will step into the Stone Forest, Walk into the Greater Stone Forest, marvel at groups of gray-black stone peaks and climb up a pavilion to have a panoramic view of the intricate stone forest. Visit the Lesser Stone Forest and listen to the legendary story of “Ashima”. It will be a real treat to visit the extraordinary natural stone forest.

Afterwards, drive you back to your hotel and the rest of the day free on your own to explore other attractions.

Day 12

This morning, pick you up from your hotel lobby, drive you to the airport for your flight to Dali. 

Enjoy a comfort and relaxed transfer to Dali. Our local guide will meet you at the exit of the Airport. Then you will discover Bai unique culture in Houses of Bai People in Xizhou, a historical and typical concentration for Bai people. 

Have lunch at a local Chinese restaurant.

Later, take a leisure cruise on Erhai Lake, and you can visit temples and small islands in the lake. In the simple ceremony, three different kinds of Bai tea are served. Islands in the lake include Guanyin Ge (Guanyin Pavilion), Jinsuo Island, NanzhaoFengqing Island and Xiao Putuo Island. Then wander in the Ancient City of Dali to enjoy a nice evening.

At last, drive you back to your hotel.

Day 13

After a morning relaxation, Leave for Lijiang. You can have a rest after you arrived.

After lunch at a local Chinese restaurant, then explore a well-preserved ancient city - Lijiang Ancient Town. Three old districts in this small city retain a special character of Naxi and Han construction and Naxi customs, arts and culture. It was a former trading town and a stop for traders carrying goods on the “Chama Road” trails. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 following an earthquake and reconstruction in 1996 that returned the city to a more ancient look.

You will be transferred to your hotel after the tour ends.

Day 14

After breakfast, meet your at your hotel lobby.

Today, our guide will take you to visit Jade Dragon Mountain. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a sanctuary for rare animals and wild plants. In fact, one fourth of all plant species in China can be found here and 20 primeval forest communities shelter a big family of 400 types of trees and 30 kinds of animals which are protected by the state. These species live in different temperature levels and create different kinds of views. The 13 peaks, which have the altitudes of at least 4,000 meters, are covered by snow all year round; the mountain is also called the "Natural Glacier Museum" for it has all types of glacier.

After finished, you will be taken back to your hotel.

Day 15

Today, our guide take you to view the first bent of the Yangtze River at Stone Drum Town, whose base of mountain standing for the First Bay on the Yangtze River.

Have lunch at a local Chinese restaurant.

Continue your tour to take a Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking. Tiger Leaping Gorge gets the name because it is too narrow for a tiger to easily jump over the Jinsha River. You will be shocked by its magnificent gorge and have a chance to see Yulong Snow Mountain and overlook the Jinsha River Valley., one of the deepest and most marvelous gorges in China. Experience Naxi people’s culture on the hiking route. The hiking is one of the most exciting hiking routes in China.

Finally, you will be transferred to Shangri-la.

Day 16

Today, you will explore Tibetan culture at Songzanlin Lamasery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist lamasery in Yunnan Province. It was originally built in 1679 A.D., and it was finished in 1681. It was a main temple used by Tibetans who lived in Yunnan, Sichuan and Tibet and other areas in the southwestern part of China.

Later, have a walk in Pudacuo National Park, a well-preserved ecosystem within the virgin forests. And Lake Bita and Lake Shudu are scenery not to miss in the park.

After lunch at local restaurant, the rest of the day is free on your own to explore other attraction.

Day 17

Today is on your own, and later you will be escorted to airport for your flight to Shanghai or back home.

And your 17 Days wonderful trip comes to the ends. Hope you have a pleasant trip!

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes     1. Transportation: Inter city flights including          airport taxes, trains, buses, etc., specified          in the itinerary Private car with          air-conditioning in every tour city      2. Hotels specified in the itinerary, all based on          two persons sharing one standard room;      3. Meals specified in the itinerary: Western          breakfast in hotels Chinese lunch and dinner         in local restaurants      4. Sightseeing: All arrangements mentioned in         the itinerary will be covered All first          admission/entrance fees in the itinerary      5. Tour guide: Tour guide: In every tour city of         China, each tour is conducted by a          professional tour guide      6. Free baggage allowance: Passages holding          adult-fare air tickets are entitled to free          baggage allowance of 40 kg for first class,         30kg for business class,and 20kg for          economy class.No free baggage allowance         is granted to infants free baggage transfer          between airport and hotel

Price Excludes     1. Chinese visa.     2. International or domestic air tickets which          are not listed in the itinerary.     3. Meals not specified in the itinerary.     4. Tips for guides and drivers.     5. Personal expenses: phone bills, laundry,          optional tours, postage, excess baggage          charge, entertainment fees out of the itinerary.     6. Single Room Supplement.      7. Taxi Fee