Xi'an Immersive History & Culture: Warriors, Walls & Muslim Quarter
Rediscovering Ancient Traditions in Kaili's Ethnic Villages
Day 1: Arrival and Ancient Stone Town Exploration
Guiyang Arrival and Qingyan Ancient Town Discovery
Begin your cultural journey with arrival in Guiyang, followed by immediate immersion into history at Qingyan Ancient Town. This 600-year-old military fortress showcases remarkable limestone architecture, featuring 2-kilometer defensive walls reminiscent of a miniature Great Wall. Wander through Secluded Street's stone-paved alleys, admire Ming and Qing dynasty wooden structures with intricate carvings, and taste local specialties including Zhuangyuan Stewed Pig's Feet. The town's preservation of ancient residences, temples, and traditional snacks offers perfect introduction to Guizhou's cultural heritage.
Day 2: Deep Dive into Miao Village Life
Qingman Short-Skirt Miao Village Cultural Encounter
Experience authentic Miao hospitality in Qingman Village, named for the distinctive short skirts worn by local women. This 600-year-old community maintains traditional wooden stilt houses and primitive flagstone paths. Engage with villagers skilled in embroidery and weaving during a specially arranged home visit and homemade lunch.
Shiqiao Traditional Paper-Making Heritage
Witness the preservation of 1,000-year-old paper-making techniques using natural materials like tree barks and spring water. Observe all 13 traditional steps that have been passed down through generations without modern intervention.
Boji Long-Skirt Miao Village Countryside Charm
Complete the day in the basket-shaped Boji Village, surrounded by rice fields and featuring traditional stilted architecture. Experience the village's transformation during local festivals into a celebration of music and dance.
Day 3: Living Arts and Traditional Ceremonies
Morning Market Cultural Immersion
Explore vibrant local markets showcasing Miao handicrafts, woodwork, and fresh produce. The Sunday Market offers additional cultural experiences including potential cockfighting demonstrations and abundant local snacks.
Matang Gejia Village Batik Art Workshop
Discover the unique Gejia culture, believed to descend from the mythological archer Hou Yi. Participate in a hands-on batik workshop, learning to create intricate patterns using beeswax and plant-based dyes that tell the community's cultural stories.
Langde Miao Village Traditional Welcome
Experience the legendary twelve-course "block-the-way" rice wine ceremony, representing the highest form of Miao hospitality. Progress through ceremonial stops featuring clay bowls and horn-shaped cups while listening to traditional folk songs, followed by authentic song and dance performances.
Day 4: Departure with Cultural Memories
Return Journey and Future Exploration
Conclude your ethnic culture journey with transfer to Guiyang airport, carrying profound memories of Miao traditions, handicrafts, and warm hospitality experienced throughout the remote villages of Guizhou.