Qingyan Ancient Town Half-Day Tour: Ming-Era Streets & Local Culture

Qingyan Ancient Town is Guiyang's most iconic day-trip landmark — a 600-year-old Ming-dynasty military settlement built entirely of stone. This half-day tour skips the rush and focuses on the old town's fortified lanes, historic residences, and living local culture, with time to sample snacks that have been made here for generations.

Sample itinerary

• 08:30 Hotel pickup in Guiyang and drive to Qingyan (approx. 1 hour).
• 09:30 Enter through the South Gate, stroll the main stone-paved lane, and visit the Zhao Yijiong Former Residence.
• 10:40 Walk to the North Gate and city wall for panoramic views, then explore the quiet back alleys and local temples.
• 11:30 Free time for street-food tasting and souvenir browsing.
• 12:30 Return drive to Guiyang, arriving around 13:30.

Good to know

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the old town lanes are paved with uneven stone. The tour involves about 2 hours of gentle walking. Weather can change quickly in Guiyang; bringing a light rain jacket is wise. Most snack stalls accept cash and mobile payment.

Highlights

• Walk the preserved Ming-dynasty stone walls and four city gates, learning how Qingyan guarded the ancient tea-horse road.
• Visit the former residence of Zhao Yijiong, Guizhou's first imperial exam top scorer, and the quiet courtyards of the old scholar quarter.
• Taste local specialties like rose-flavored ice jelly, rice tofu, and Qingyan braised pig trotters along the main lane.
• See the blend of Buddhist, Taoist, and Catholic architecture that reflects centuries of trade-route cultural exchange.

What’s included

• English-speaking guide
• Private air-conditioned vehicle
• Qingyan Ancient Town entrance ticket
• Bottled water
• Travel insurance

What’s not included

• Personal expenses and gratuities (tips)
• Meals arranged on your own outside the itinerary
• Optional activities and attractions not listed in the itinerary
• Compensation for damage or loss caused by personal reasons

Pickup & meeting point

Hotel pickup in Guiyang city area.