Guiyang

Guiyang, China

Tucked away among craggy rocks, frothy waterfalls and rolling hills, Guiyang is a gem on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau of southwest China. Large swathes of pristine forests, summer temperatures averaging only 22.5°C, plentiful rainfall all year round and clean air – everything makes the provincial capital of southwest China's Guizhou province a retreat from the sultry summer heat.

Guiyang, which over 20 ethnic minority groups call home, is a dream destination for those who are into exotic traditions, cultures and customs. Watch artisans make handicrafts; join a dance; gorge yourself on tasteful local foods of gruff charms – Guiyang promises a lot to do and see.

Getting around

• Huangguoshu Waterfall

  Water tumbles and roars down sheer cliffs, making a 17-meter trip from the top of the mountain to the frothy pool below. The largest waterfall in China and in Asia is also the world's only one that can be contemplated from every direction imaginable - visitors can even get into a cave behind the water curtain for an amazing palpable sense of the place.

• Lingshan Park

  Nature enthusiasts flock there, especially on weekends and during traditional festivals, for its rolling hills, lush vegetation, secluded caves and glassy ponds.

• Jiaxiu Pavilion

  The Ming dynasty pavilion stands on a huge rock on Nanming River which flows through the city. Its Chinese name which means"Ace"and "Elegant"does justice to its position as one of the eight most visited attractions of the city.

  
  
  
• Huaxi Wetland

  The 50-hectare-plus park bring together in a ingenious way natural mountains, creeks and rivers as well as manmade gardens and ethnic traditions. Take a tonic boat ride through the charming vistas.