Guizhou foodie itinerary

Exploring Guizhou: A Foodie's Paradise

Introduction

Located in Southwest China, Guizhou is a hidden gem that has yet to be discovered by many travelers. Known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich ethnic diversity, Guizhou is also a paradise for food lovers. From spicy hot pots to unique street snacks, this province offers a culinary experience like no other. In this foodie itinerary, we will guide you through some of the must-try dishes and hidden food gems in Guizhou.

Day 1: Exploring Guiyang's Local Eateries

Start your food journey in Guiyang, the capital city of Guizhou. Head to the bustling Jiaxiu Tower Snack Street, where a plethora of street food stalls await. Wander around and sample various local snacks like qingyan tofu (fermented tofu) and chou doufu (stinky tofu) – both unique to the region. Don't miss the chance to try maotai, a famous Chinese liquor produced in Guizhou, which pairs perfectly with the local cuisine.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of the Qianling Mountain Night Market. Here, you can indulge in a wide variety of street food options, including Guizhou-style barbecue skewers and dan dan noodles. Be adventurous and try the spicy rabbit head – a specialty dish that is not for the faint-hearted but is a favorite among the locals.

Day 2: Discovering Ethnic Cuisine in Kaili

Take a day trip to Kaili, a city known for its diverse ethnic cultures. Start your day with a visit to a Miao or Dong village, where you can experience the vibrant traditions and taste their authentic cuisine. The Miao people are famous for their sour fish hot pot – a spicy and tangy dish that will awaken your taste buds. The Dong people, on the other hand, have a unique way of cooking rice known as baizou. Made from a glutinous variety of rice, this dish is wrapped in lotus leaves and steamed, resulting in a heavenly aroma and texture.

After exploring the villages, visit Kaili's local market where you can find an array of exotic ingredients and spices used in Guizhou's cuisine. Then, head to a local restaurant and delight in Yuguo tofu, a specialty tofu dish only found in Kaili. Made from a secret recipe, this silky tofu dish paired with fragrant, spicy sauce is a true delicacy.

Day 3: Spice It Up in Zhenyuan

Embark on a journey to Zhenyuan, a picturesque town steeped in history. Besides its stunning ancient architecture and serene rivers, Zhenyuan is also known for its delicious fiery cuisine. Visit the Zhenyuan Ancient Town Snack Street, where you can find local snacks such as zapi (deep-fried rice dumplings) and fenpi (starch noodles with spicy sauce).

For lunch, head to a local restaurant and order the famous Zhenyuan fish hot pot. This spicy and fragrant dish features fresh river fish cooked in a rich broth seasoned with a variety of Guizhou spices. Be prepared to sweat a little, as this hot pot is not for those with a weak tolerance for spice.

Day 4: Exploring the Flavors of Xijiang

End your foodie adventure in Xijiang, the largest Miao village in China. Explore the village's charming alleys and take in the breathtaking views of terraced rice fields. After working up an appetite, head to a local Miao restaurant and indulge in sour soup fish, a classic dish that combines the freshness of fish with the tanginess of sour soup.

Don't miss the chance to try rice wine, a traditional Miao alcoholic beverage made from glutinous rice. Served in a bamboo tube, this unique drink has a mild, sweet flavor and is a perfect complement to the local cuisine.

Conclusion

Guizhou truly is a foodie's paradise, offering a wide range of unique and flavorsome dishes that reflect the province's rich cultural heritage. From the vibrant streets of Guiyang to the secluded villages of Kaili and Zhenyuan, this itinerary will take you on a gastronomic journey like no other. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience as you explore the hidden culinary gems of Guizhou.

Tags： Adventure Activities