Day 9-10: Guiyang city life

If a destination that seamlessly combines the energy of a modern city with the tranquillity of nature is more your style, Guanshanhu district in Guiyang is an unbeatable choice. Known as an "urban oasis", this new district is the perfect conclusion to your Guizhou journey.

At the heart of the district lies Guanshanhu Park, a sprawling urban wetland covering approximately 327.72 hectares. As one of Southwest China's largest parks, it serves as the city's "green lung", providing a serene escape from bustling urban life.

Stroll along the wooden boardwalks that trace the shimmering lake, rent a bike, or set up a picnic to savor the healing powers of nature.

In the afternoon, delve into the wonders of geology and paleontology at the Geological Museum of Guizhou. This is the ideal place to discover why Guizhou is hailed the "Kingdom of Karst". The museum showcases an extraordinary array of geological treasures, from massive crinoid and ichthyosaur fossils that offer a glimpse into life millions of years ago, to minerals and rocks that highlight the region's rich natural resources.

Plan to spend about one to two hours exploring the exhibits. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm, but closed on Mondays, so it's best to confirm the schedule in advance.

If you're into archaeology, plan to spend about three hours at the Guizhou Provincial Museum, where you can dive into the province's rich history. Highlights include the mysterious bronze yue axes with intricate patterns and the stunning ethnic costumes.

As night falls, head to Aydc creative community, a dynamic space where Guizhou's ethnic culture meets modern design. This new hub, beloved by local youth, is the perfect spot to experience the region's innovative cultural pulse.

Stroll from the outdoor market to the third floor to encounter lively attractions like an energetic skatepark, Moto Garage for motorcycle enthusiasts and ASPIR, where you can buy unique handcrafted goods and local specialties.

When hunger strikes, grab a bowl of beef noodles enhanced with spicy roasted chili sauce, followed by a sweet, refreshing serving of fruit tofu pudding.

If you're lucky, you might stumble upon a roadside concert in Guiyang. Don't worry, these performances are open to all, with no tickets, no boundaries and no walls.

It's all about spontaneity — passionate singing on stage to a lively crowd below. During the holidays, especially the New Year, Guiyang transforms into a sea of music at night. Each district boasts unique music venues, which may lead to a sleepless night.

To top it off, enjoy a pint of craft beer while listening to live music, letting the rhythm of the evening draw your day to a close.

Luo Siyang and Liu Boqian contributed to this story.

Contact the writer at yangjun@chinadaily.com.cn