Bijie

Bijie is relatively cool in summer, but temperatures vary noticeably between day and night in the Wumeng Mountains, so it is advisable to bring a windproof jacket.

Bijie in Guizhou is home to natural attractions including karst caves, alpine grasslands, flower fields and terraced landscapes, as well as a strong Yi cultural heritage. With an average summer temperature of 21°C, it is well suited to a summer getaway.

• Zhijin Cave: This vast cave is known for its diverse stalactite formations. Highlights include the Silver Rain Tree and Guanghan Palace. The cave remains at a constant 16°C, making it pleasantly cool in summer.

• Asilixi Jiucaiping: This is Guizhou’s highest peak and is home to the world’s largest area of wild leek flowers. Every August and September, the summit is covered in a continuous sea of purple flowers, with wind turbines, alpine meadows and flower fields creating a picturesque scene.

• Baili Rhododendron: The scenic area is home to the world’s largest expanse of native rhododendron forest. The blooming season usually runs from March to April, when the hills are covered in rhododendrons, creating a spectacular sea of flowers. Enter through the west gate at Pudi, then climb Shuhua Peak for a panoramic view.

• Shexiang Ancient Town: The town features China’s only flower-filled terraced fields located within an urban area. Its 47 tiers are known as the “fingerprints of the earth” because of their distinctive shape. The scenic area is free to enter all day. After the lights come on at 19:00, you can enjoy the night view and learn about Yi culture.

• Jiudongtian: Waterfalls, gorges and skylights are concentrated in one area, combining the features of karst caves and an underground river. Take a boat through nine caves to experience the natural formations of the underground river up close.

Classic 5-day, 4-night itinerary

• Day 1: After arriving in Bijie, first visit Xiangshuitan Park in the city to see its urban waterfall. In the evening, head to the Gongyuan Road food street to try Bijie luoguo and hotpot with dried tofu.
• Day 2: Travel to Zhijin County. Visit Zhijin Cave in the morning; the full tour takes about 3 hours. In the afternoon, visit Zhijin Grand Canyon, then spend the night in Zhijin County town.
• Day 3: Travel to Dafang County. Visit the Shexiang Museum in the morning, then explore the terraced flower fields at Shexiang Ancient Town in the afternoon. Watch the terraced-field light show at dusk and stay at a guesthouse in the ancient town.
• Day 4: Travel to Hezhang County. Climb Asilixi Jiucaiping in the morning to see the sea of clouds and purple flowers. In the afternoon, visit Ertaipo in the Asilixi Grand Grassland to experience the high-altitude road, then spend the night in Hezhang County town.
• Day 5: Take a boat through the caves at Jiudongtian; allow around 3–4 hours. Return to Bijie city in the afternoon, buy some local specialties and depart.

Bijie specialties to try

Bijie cuisine is generally sour, spicy and full of fresh, savory flavors, while also incorporating the culinary traditions of several ethnic groups. Many restaurants serving local specialties can be found along the city’s streets and lanes.

• Zhijin buckwheat cold noodles: Made with tartary buckwheat, these noodles have a smooth, refreshing texture. They are usually served with preserved eggs, fermented tofu dipping sauce, chili peppers and houttuynia, creating a sour and spicy flavor that is especially suitable for summer.

• Dafang dried-tofu hotpot: The broth is rich and flavorful, while fried pork, dried tofu and radishes absorb the soup as they simmer, creating a savory taste. A meal costs from around RMB 40 per person.

• Bijie lamb rice noodles: The broth is made by simmering local black goat. Slices of lamb are placed in the bowl, then topped with mint, coriander and chili oil for a fragrant, spicy and savory flavor. It is commonly eaten as a local breakfast.

• Bijie luoguo: Pork belly, tofu, potatoes and other ingredients are grilled in a clay pot and eaten with five-spice chili powder. It is a common late-night meal in the area.

• Bijie tangyuan: With a history of more than 100 years, these glutinous rice dumplings are handmade with a soft, chewy wrapper and a filling of walnuts, peanuts and lard. They have a rich but not overly sweet flavor.

• Weining xiaobaba: These small pastries have thin wrappers and generous fillings. The flavors of ham and tofu blend together, making them a signature street snack in Weining.

Transportation and accommodation tips

• Transportation: Bijie’s attractions are spread out and many routes pass through mountainous areas, so driving yourself or hiring a private car makes it easier to arrange your itinerary. High-speed trains can take you to Bijie Station, Dafang Station or Zhijin Station, after which you can transfer to local transportation.
• Accommodation: Consider staying in the central area of Qixingguan District or Dafang County, where dining, shopping and transportation are convenient. If Zhijin Cave or Jiucaiping is the main focus of your trip, you can also spend a night near the attraction.

Practical tips

• Temperature changes and clothing: Temperatures vary considerably between day and night in the Wumeng Mountains, and the grasslands can be quite windy. Even in summer, bring a windproof jacket. The ancient towns and caves often have stone paths and stairs, so comfortable, slip-resistant flat shoes are recommended.
• Flowering seasons: The best viewing period for Baili Rhododendron is March to April, while the purple flower fields at Jiucaiping mainly appear from August to September. Check the flowering conditions before setting out.
• Road conditions: Some sections leading to Asilixi and Jiudongtian have many bends and steep slopes. If you lack mountain-driving experience, consider hiring a driver with relevant experience or booking a private car.
• Attraction reservations: During peak periods such as the flowering seasons and summer vacation, it is advisable to reserve tickets online in advance. Boat rides and sightseeing buses at some attractions may also offer packages that can be purchased ahead of time.
• Buying local products: It is best to buy Weining ham, buckwheat pastries and other specialties at reputable supermarkets or online. The source of loose “wild medicinal herbs” sold by the roadside can be difficult to verify, so buy with caution.