Support

Kaili

About

Kaili is a captivating city nestled in the lush landscapes of Guizhou province, serving as the vibrant capital of the Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture. As a significant cultural hub in China, it offers travelers a unique window into the rich traditions and daily lives of ethnic minorities. The city is often referred to as the "Hometown of Festivals," reflecting the hundreds of colorful celebrations that take place here throughout the year, filling the streets with music, dance, and elaborate silver jewelry.

Geographically, the city is situated in a mountainous region with a humid subtropical climate, ensuring plenty of greenery and generally mild weather. With a population of approximately 600,000, it balances the amenities of a modern urban center with the relaxed pace of a regional capital. The history of Kaili is deeply woven with the ancient customs of the Miao and Dong peoples, whose distinctive architecture, folk songs, and intricate embroidery define the city's unique atmosphere.

Kaili. Source: Kupi.Binoculars

Visitors are often drawn to the Kaili Ethnic Minorities Museum, which houses an impressive collection of costumes, festivals artifacts, and traditional silver ornaments. The city is also renowned for its delicious local cuisine, particularly the famous Sour Fish Soup, a staple dish that perfectly represents the bold local flavors. Furthermore, Kaili serves as the ideal base for exploring nearby traditional villages, where wooden stilt houses and terraced fields create picture-perfect scenery.

Whether you are a culture enthusiast or a lover of nature, Kaili promises an unforgettable journey. Its blend of authentic ethnic heritage, welcoming locals, and scenic surroundings makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the region's diversity.

Weather Overview

Kaili experiences a mild subtropical climate characterized by distinct seasons and moderate humidity. The weather is generally comfortable for travel, though visitors should be prepared for frequent dampness throughout the year. For a detailed breakdown of what to expect during your specific travel dates, you can consult the guide to the weather in Kaili.

Winters, spanning from December to February, are cool with average temperatures ranging between 4.8°C and 6.5°C. While it rarely gets freezing, with minimums hovering around 2°C to 3°C, these months still see a significant number of wet days, ranging from 11 to 17 days per month. Spring brings a pleasant warming trend; by April and May, average temperatures climb from 16.1°C to 19.9°C, making it a lovely time to explore the outdoors.

The summer months of June through August are warm but typically not scorching, with average temperatures sitting around 23°C to 25°C and maximums reaching nearly 29°C. This season is also the wettest in terms of frequency, with May and June seeing up to 23 wet days each. As autumn sets in, the weather cools down gradually, dropping from a comfortable 22.4°C in September to a crisp 11.8°C by November.

Interesting Facts

Beyond the main attractions, Kaili holds many fascinating secrets that offer a deeper look into its rich cultural tapestry. Here are some intriguing details that make this city truly special:

  • The local affinity for sour flavors is legendary, enshrined in the popular saying, "Three days without eating sour, and one will walk with staggering legs." This proverb highlights the cultural importance of the region's fermented sour soup, which is believed to help locals stay healthy and energized in the humid climate.

  • Just a short distance from the city center lies Matang Village, home to the Gejia people, a unique subgroup often distinguished by their attire. The women wear distinctive headdresses that resemble bows and arrows, a tribute to their legendary ancestor, General Hou Yi, and they are masters of traditional wax-resist batik art.

  • Bullfighting in this region is a distinct cultural event that differs significantly from the Spanish tradition. Here, the contest is strictly between two water buffaloes locking horns to test their strength, a beloved spectator sport that frequently takes place during major festivals.

  • The Kaili Sunday Market is one of the largest and most authentic ethnic gatherings in Guizhou. It serves as a massive trading hub where villagers from remote mountains descend to sell everything from handmade silver ornaments and herbal medicines to livestock, offering a rare glimpse into traditional rural commerce.

How to Get There

Reaching this captivating city in Guizhou province involves a journey through some of China's most scenic landscapes. Whether you prefer flying or taking the train to nearby hubs, planning your route is the first step toward exploring the region's rich ethnic heritage. You can find detailed information and all ways to reach the city on our dedicated transport page.

For air travelers, the most direct point of entry is the local Kaili Huangping Airport (IATA: KJH), situated approximately 45 km from the city center. While it is a smaller regional airport, it offers convenient access, with a taxi or bus ride to downtown taking around 90 minutes. Alternatively, many visitors choose to fly into the larger Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport (IATA: KWE) in the provincial capital, Guiyang. Located about 118 km from Kaili, this major international hub handles significantly more traffic and offers a wider range of flight connections. The transfer from Guiyang to Kaili by road typically takes between 3 to 3.5 hours.

For clarity, here is a summary of the main airports serving the region:

Airport Name City Passenger Traffic Km from City
Guiyang Longdongbao International AirportGuiyangLarge117.6
Zunyi Xinzhou AirportZunyiMedium149.5
Tongren AirportTongrenMedium196.4
Zhijiang AirportHuaihuaSmall196.0
Kaili HuangpingKailiSmall45.0

If you are traveling by rail, you may arrive at one of the major stations in neighboring cities before completing your journey to Kaili. The Guiyang Railway Station in Guiyang is a key transit hub located approximately 128 km away. From there, you can arrange a taxi or bus transfer, which generally takes about 3.5 hours. Another relatively close option is the Duyun Railway Station in the city of Duyun. Situated roughly 60 km from Kaili, it offers a shorter onward journey by road, taking approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Below is a list of railway stations in the vicinity that travelers might use:

Station City Passenger Traffic Km to Center
Liuzhou Railway StationLiuzhouLarge287.2
Huaihua Railway StationHuaihuaLarge225.2
Guiyang Railway StationGuiyangLarge127.7
Guilin Railway StationGuilinLarge271.7
Duyun Railway StationDuyunMedium59.6

Main Attractions

Kaili serves as the perfect gateway to the rich cultural heritage of the Qiandongnan region, offering visitors a mix of urban exhibits and accessible rural gems. While the city itself is modernizing, its true charm lies in the surrounding villages and the institutions dedicated to preserving the local history. Here are some of the most captivating places to visit during your stay.

Xijiang Thousand Households Miao Village is arguably the most famous attraction in the region and a must-see for first-time visitors. Located about an hour's drive from the city, it is the largest Miao village in the world, consisting of more than a thousand traditional wooden stilt houses built into the hillside. The village is spectacular both day and night; as the sun sets, thousands of lights illuminate the valley, creating a mesmerizing scene. Tourists flock here to experience the "Long Table Banquet," watch traditional singing and dancing performances, and wander through the winding stone paths that connect the ancient wooden structures.

For those seeking a more tranquil and authentic experience, Langde Upper Village offers a peaceful alternative to the bustling Xijiang. Nestled at the foot of a mountain and bordered by a clear river, this village is renowned for its hospitality and traditional "blocking the way" wine ceremonies, where visitors are greeted with toasts of rice wine at the village entrance. The architecture here is beautifully preserved, featuring cobblestone streets and a wind-and-rain bridge. It provides an intimate look into the daily lives of the Miao people, with fewer commercial crowds and a slower, more rhythmic pace of life.

Within the city limits, the Kaili Ethnic Minorities Museum stands as a comprehensive treasury of the region's diverse cultures. It is an essential stop for travelers wishing to understand the symbolism behind the intricate costumes and festivals they will encounter in the villages. The museum boasts an extensive collection of ethnic clothing, embroidery, and, most notably, silver ornaments, which play a crucial role in Miao tradition. Detailed exhibits explain the history, architecture, and customs of the Miao and Dong people, providing valuable context that enriches the entire travel experience in Guizhou.

Another fascinating destination is Shiqing Village, often referred to as the "Birdcage Village." This unique spot is famous for its centuries-old tradition of crafting bamboo birdcages, a skill passed down through generations. As you walk through the village, you will see artisans weaving intricate designs, ranging from simple cages to elaborate masterpieces. It is not just a place to buy a souvenir but a chance to witness a specialized form of folk art that remains a vibrant part of the local economy and culture.

Local Cuisine

The culinary landscape of Kaili is a vibrant reflection of the region's ethnic diversity and its humid climate, resulting in a flavor profile that is distinctively sour and spicy. Local wisdom holds that spicy food drives away dampness, while sour flavors aid digestion and keep the body energized. This philosophy is deeply embedded in the daily diet, where fermentation plays a crucial role. Visitors will find that the food here is robust, colorful, and teeming with fresh herbs, offering a gastronomic adventure that is quite different from standard Cantonese or Sichuanese fare.

The undisputed star of the local table is Sour Soup Fish (Suan Tang Yu). This signature dish is famous throughout China but tastes best in its hometown. The soup comes in two main varieties: "White Sour," made from fermented rice water, and the more popular "Red Sour," created with fermented wild tomatoes and chili peppers. The broth is simmered with fresh river fish, garlic, ginger, and a mountain of local herbs like Litsea cubeba, which adds a lemony aroma. It is typically served in a hot pot, allowing diners to cook vegetables and tofu in the rich, tangy liquid after enjoying the fish.

Beyond the famous soup, travelers should try the region's exceptional cured meats. Miao-style Smoked Bacon and Sausage are marinated with spices and slowly smoked over low fires, resulting in a savory, preserved meat that is often stir-fried with dried peppers or garlic shoots. For a lighter snack, Rice Tofu is a popular street food. Made from rice paste, these jade-green or yellow blocks are sliced and dressed with soy sauce, vinegar, chili oil, and crushed peanuts, providing a refreshing and spicy kick that is perfect for lunch.

When it comes to beverages, Rice Wine is central to the social life of the Miao and Dong people. Often homemade, this wine has a relatively low alcohol content and a sweet, mellow taste. It is not just a drink but a vessel for hospitality, featuring prominently in welcome ceremonies and festive toasts. For non-alcoholic options, the local diet includes various herbal teas and "Oil Tea," a soup-like drink made by frying tea leaves with garlic, salt, and other ingredients, often eaten with puffed rice and nuts.

The dining culture in Kaili is best experienced at the bustling night markets. As evening falls, streets come alive with rows of stalls grilling fish, eggplant, and tofu over charcoal. Locals gather here to socialize, sitting on small stools and enjoying skewers accompanied by local beer or plum juice. For a more traditional experience, many tourists venture to nearby villages to partake in a Long Table Banquet, a communal feast where hundreds of guests sit side-by-side at endless tables, sharing dishes and endless rounds of toasts in a spirited display of unity and celebration.

Travel Tips

Exploring Kaili and its surrounding ethnic villages is a captivating adventure, but the region's unique geography and deep-rooted traditions require a bit of preparation. To ensure your journey through this mountainous part of Guizhou is as smooth as it is memorable, here are some essential practical tips to keep in mind.

  1. Clothing and Gear: The weather in Guizhou is notoriously changeable and humid, so packing a lightweight, waterproof jacket and a sturdy umbrella is essential regardless of the season. Since exploring involves walking on uneven cobblestones in traditional villages or hiking up terraces, bring comfortable, non-slip walking shoes. If you visit in winter, pack thermal layers, as indoor heating can be limited in rural accommodations.
  2. Transportation: Within the city, taxis are plentiful and inexpensive, making them the most convenient way to get around. Ride-hailing apps like Didi are also widely available and often easier for non-Chinese speakers to use since you can input destinations in English. To reach the outlying villages, you can take local buses from the Kaili Passenger Transport Station, but hiring a private driver for the day often provides more flexibility for stopping at scenic viewpoints.
  3. Finances: While major hotels accept credit cards, cash is still king in smaller shops and rural markets. However, the most convenient payment method in China is mobile payment via Alipay or WeChat Pay; travelers can now link international bank cards to these apps. It is highly recommended to set this up before arrival, as it covers everything from street food to taxi rides.
  4. Health and Safety: Pharmacies are marked with a green cross, but staff may not speak English, so having a translation app or photos of your required medicine is helpful. The winding mountain roads to villages like Xijiang can cause motion sickness, so carry appropriate medication if you are sensitive. Always drink bottled or boiled water, as tap water is not safe for direct consumption.
  5. Communication: English is rarely spoken outside of high-end hotels and major tourist centers. A reliable translation app that works offline or with image recognition is crucial for reading menus and communicating with locals. Be sure to purchase a local SIM card or a roaming package upon arrival to access maps and translation tools, keeping in mind that many Western apps may be blocked without a roaming solution.
  6. Local Etiquette: Hospitality among the Miao and Dong people often involves alcohol. You may encounter the "High Mountain Flowing Water" toast, where lines of people pour rice wine into your bowl. If you cannot drink much, it is polite to sip a little to show respect rather than refusing outright. Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of locals, especially those in traditional attire.
  7. What to Avoid: When entering traditional homes or wooden buildings in the villages, never step on the threshold. In local culture, the threshold is considered the "shoulders" of the household gods, and stepping on it is seen as disrespectful and bad luck. Step over it instead.
  8. Market Timing: If your schedule permits, try to be in Kaili on a Sunday. The traditional Sunday Market is a bustling event where villagers from the surrounding mountains gather to trade everything from silver ornaments to livestock, offering a cultural experience that is far more authentic than any souvenir shop.

With these preparations in mind, you are ready to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant festivals and stunning landscapes of the region. Embrace the warm local hospitality, enjoy the unique sour and spicy flavors, and have a wonderful time discovering the hidden gems of Kaili!

Entertainment & Nightlife

Nightlife in Kaili offers a vibrant, authentic experience that differs significantly from the polished club scenes of China's mega-cities. Instead of high-end techno clubs, the city's evening energy is concentrated in its bustling night markets, lively public squares, and KTV (karaoke) lounges. The atmosphere is communal and relaxed, with locals gathering to socialize over spicy food and local rice wine well into the early hours.

The heart of the evening action is undoubtedly the Zhongbo Pedestrian Street. Often referred to as the city's "foodie capital," this area transforms at night into a sensory overload of sizzling barbecues and bubbling pots of Sour Soup Fish. It is the perfect place to start your night; the crowd is a mix of families, young people, and tourists, all enjoying the cool evening air. The dress code here is entirely casual, and the shops and stalls typically stay open until at least 2:00 AM, making it a reliable spot for late-night entertainment.

For a more commercial vibe, head to the Dashizi (Grand Cross) area. This is the central landmark of the city, featuring an extensive underground commercial street that remains busy in the evening. Above ground, the surrounding streets are lined with shops and snack vendors. It is a safe and brightly lit district perfect for a night walk, where you can shop for clothes or handicrafts while snacking on local treats like fried potatoes and tofu.

If you are looking for a cultural twist to your evening, the Kaili Miao-Dong Customs Park is a must-visit venue. Located within the city, this park often hosts evening performances showcasing traditional singing and dancing, and the architecture is beautifully illuminated at night. It offers a more structured form of entertainment compared to the spontaneous energy of the street markets, providing a fantastic backdrop for photos and a deeper look into the region's artistic heritage.

For those seeking a drink, the bar scene in Kaili is low-key and often integrated with restaurants or KTV venues. You will find a cluster of local bars and lounges along Beijing West Road and near the major hotels. These venues are typically open until 2:00 AM or 3:00 AM. Prices are generally very affordable compared to Western standards, with a beer often costing just a fraction of what you would pay in Shanghai or Beijing. Taxis are the best way to get around at night; they are plentiful, cheap, and safe. You can easily hail one on the street, but having your destination written in Chinese is highly recommended.

Parks & Museums

Kaili is not only a gateway to rural villages but also a city that prides itself on integrating nature with its profound ethnic heritage. For travelers exploring the urban center, the city offers a selection of scenic parks and cultural institutions that provide a deeper understanding of the region's history before venturing into the surrounding mountains.

Luohan Mountain Forest Park is one of the city's most prominent green spaces, acting as a natural lung for the urban area. Located in the northern part of Kaili, this park is named after the 18 Arhats of Buddhism and features a temple nestled among the trees. It is a favorite spot for locals who come for morning exercises and hiking. Reaching the summit rewards visitors with a panoramic view of the city and the distant karst peaks, making it an excellent location for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Another popular recreational area is Apple Hill Park (Pingguoshan), centrally located and easily accessible. Unlike the wilder forest parks, this is a well-manicured urban space where the daily rhythm of local life is on full display. It serves as a community hub where residents gather to play traditional instruments, practice Tai Chi, or simply stroll along the shaded paths. For tourists, it offers a relaxing break from sightseeing and a chance to observe the laid-back lifestyle that defines this part of Guizhou.

When it comes to museums, the Kaili Ethnic Minorities Museum (also known as the Southeast Guizhou Nationalities Museum) is the undisputed cultural crown jewel of the city. The building itself is an architectural marvel, designed to resemble a fusion of a Dong Drum Tower and a Miao stilt house. Inside, visitors will find extensive collections of ethnic costumes, intricate silver jewelry, and bronze drums. The exhibits provide crucial context for the festivals and traditions travelers will encounter in the villages, explaining the symbolism behind the embroidery patterns and the history of the region's diverse groups.

Complementing the traditional museum experience is the Kaili Miao-Dong Customs Park. While technically a park, it functions effectively as an open-air museum and cultural venue. The complex features grand reproductions of traditional architecture, including a magnificent Wind and Rain Bridge and towering Drum Towers. It is often the site of intangible cultural heritage exhibitions and performances, allowing visitors to see artisans creating batik or silverwork in person. It serves as a vibrant "living gallery" where the architectural and artistic traditions of the Qiandongnan prefecture are celebrated on a grand scale.

For a more specialized cultural experience, visitors should look out for the smaller Intangible Cultural Heritage exhibition centers often located near the major cultural parks. These venues focus specifically on the craftsmanship that Guizhou is famous for, such as paper-making and wax printing. A visit here often offers a more hands-on approach, where you can watch masters at work and understand the technical skill required to produce the region's famous handicrafts.

Insider Tip: If you visit Luohan Mountain Park early in the morning, you are likely to hear the sound of the lusheng (a bamboo reed pipe instrument) echoing through the trees. Local enthusiasts often practice here, providing an impromptu and authentic musical performance that adds a magical soundtrack to the forest scenery.

Getting Around

Navigating Kaili is relatively straightforward, as the city is compact and the public transport system is designed to be practical and accessible. Unlike China's mega-cities, there is no metro system here; instead, the public transportation network relies primarily on an extensive fleet of buses and a high availability of taxis. For tourists, this means getting around is often a mix of using local bus routes for city exploration and hiring vehicles for trips to the surrounding countryside.

The public bus system covers the entire urban area and connects the city center with key transit hubs like the railway stations. Buses are modern, generally air-conditioned, and operate frequently. Most routes run from approximately 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM, though times can vary slightly depending on the line. Bus stops are marked, but route information is almost exclusively in Chinese. It is highly advisable to have the name of your destination written in Chinese characters or to use a navigation app to identify the correct route number before boarding.

The payment system for buses is simple and uniform. The fare is typically a flat rate, usually around 2 CNY per ride, regardless of distance. You pay upon entry at the front door. While there are local transport cards for residents, they are not necessary for short-term visitors. Most tourists pay using cash or mobile apps. If paying by cash, you must have exact change as drivers do not carry money and cannot provide change. The most convenient method, however, is scanning the "Ride Code" (Chengche Ma) via Alipay or WeChat, which are universally accepted on public transit throughout the region.

For more direct and comfortable travel, taxis are extremely popular and very affordable compared to Western standards. You can easily hail them on the street; they are typically painted green or yellow. All legal taxis are equipped with meters, and you should ensure the driver turns it on at the start of the journey. Ride-hailing apps, particularly Didi Chuxing (the local equivalent of Uber), are also widely used and can be more convenient for non-Chinese speakers, as the app allows you to input your destination in English and pays the driver automatically.

A crucial part of the local transport network for tourists is the connection to the Kaili South Railway Station (the high-speed train station), which is located quite far from the city center in the Jinkai Economic Development Zone. Dedicated bus routes, often labeled with a "K" (e.g., K1, K2) or specific numbers like Route 20 or 21, bridge this gap. The journey can take 40 to 60 minutes, so planning ahead is essential if you are catching a train. Taxis are faster but will cost significantly more than the bus.

Finally, to reach the famous ethnic villages such as Xijiang or Langde, you will likely use the city's system of minibuses and coaches. These depart from the main bus stations, such as the Kaili Kaiyun Si Passenger Station. These buses operate on a schedule, but for some closer destinations, smaller vans may wait until they are full before departing. Tickets for these inter-town trips are bought at the station counters, where showing your passport is usually required.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Kaili offers a practical mix of options suitable for its role as a regional transit hub and cultural gateway. Travelers can generally find a range of establishments, from budget-friendly hostels and comfortable mid-range business hotels to a few higher-end establishments. While the city does not typically feature ultra-luxury international chains, the standard of local 4-star and boutique hotels has improved significantly, offering modern amenities and comfortable stays for international visitors.

For the most convenient experience, staying in the city center, particularly near the Dashizi (Grand Cross) area or along Beijing East Road, is highly recommended. These locations place you within walking distance of the vibrant night markets, shopping districts, and local restaurants. Being central also makes it easier to catch taxis or buses to the outlying ethnic villages during the day. Alternatively, some visitors prefer the areas near the Kaili Ethnic Minorities Museum, which tend to be slightly quieter while still remaining accessible.

Prices in Kaili are generally very reasonable compared to China's major metropolises. Budget travelers can find clean rooms for modest rates, while comfortable mid-range hotels offer excellent value. It is advisable to book accommodation through major international travel apps or reputable Chinese platforms to ensure the hotel is licensed to accept foreign guests, as not all smaller inns have this authorization. Online booking is the most reliable method, allowing you to check reviews and confirm amenities beforehand.

If you plan to visit during major local celebrations, such as the Sister's Meal Festival or the Miao New Year, booking your room several weeks or even months in advance is essential. During these peak times, the city fills up with visitors from across the province, and room rates can increase significantly due to the high demand.

Nearby Cities

Kaili is strategically positioned in the eastern part of Guizhou province, serving as a convenient gateway to the wider region. The city is surrounded by a variety of destinations, ranging from bustling modern capitals to scenic retreats. Visitors can easily extend their journey to explore these neighboring areas, which offer a mix of natural beauty, ethnic culture, and rich history.

The closest major urban center is Duyun, located just a short drive away and known for its unique bridge architecture and tea culture. To the west lies Guiyang, the provincial capital and a major transportation hub that connects travelers to the rest of the country. For those interested in history, Zunyi to the north is a significant site, while Tongren in the east offers access to the spectacular Mount Fanjing. Qingzhen, situated near the capital, provides another accessible option for exploration.

The following table lists the nearby cities, including their distance from Kaili and population details:

City Name Distance (km) Population
Duyun 57 493,574
Guiyang 135 3,299,724
Qingzhen 150 467,992
Zunyi 165 6,606,675
Tongren 176 3,168,800

Shopping & Souvenirs

Shopping in Kaili is a vibrant cultural experience that focuses less on international luxury brands and more on the exquisite craftsmanship of the region's ethnic minorities. As the capital of the Qiandongnan prefecture, the city serves as a primary trading hub for the Miao and Dong people. Visitors will find that the best purchases here are deeply rooted in tradition, offering a chance to take home a piece of Guizhou's artistic heritage. From intricate silver ornaments to colorful textiles, the items found in Kaili tell stories of ancient skills passed down through generations.

The commercial heart of the city is undoubtedly the Dashizi (Grand Cross) area, where the main thoroughfares intersect. This district is always bustling with activity and serves as the primary destination for general shopping. Hidden beneath the busy intersection is the massive Underground Commercial Street. This subterranean labyrinth is packed with hundreds of small independent stalls selling clothing, shoes, accessories, and electronics at very affordable prices. It is a favorite spot for local youth and offers a fascinating glimpse into the everyday retail culture of the city.

For those looking for a more conventional retail experience, the city center features several modern shopping complexes. The Guotai Shopping Center and the department stores along Beijing East Road provide a mix of Chinese fashion brands, sportswear, and cosmetics. While these malls offer a comfortable, air-conditioned environment, they are similar to what one might find in other mid-sized Chinese cities. The true charm of shopping in Kaili lies in the smaller specialty shops scattered around these main streets that focus on ethnic goods and local specialties.

The absolute highlight of the local shopping scene is the Kaili Sunday Market. Held weekly on the outskirts of the city, this is not just a market but a massive cultural event. Villagers from the surrounding mountains descend upon the grounds to trade everything from livestock and farming tools to herbal medicines and handmade crafts. For tourists, it is the best place to find authentic items directly from the artisans. The atmosphere is chaotic, colorful, and incredibly photogenic, making it a shopping experience that doubles as a sightseeing adventure.

When searching for the perfect souvenir, Miao silver jewelry is the top choice. The Miao people are famous for their silversmithing, creating elaborate necklaces, bracelets, and headdresses entirely by hand. Travelers should also look for batik fabrics and embroidery. The region, particularly the nearby areas inhabited by the Gejia people, is renowned for wax-resist dyeing (batik) using natural indigo. These textiles, featuring geometric patterns and nature motifs, make for beautiful wall hangings or tablecloths. Additionally, Guizhou teas and traditional musical instruments like the lusheng (bamboo pipes) are unique keepsakes worth considering.

Most shops in Kaili open around 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM and remain open until late in the evening, often closing around 9:30 PM or 10:00 PM. The underground markets and street vendors may operate even later. In terms of payment, mobile apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are the standard and are accepted almost everywhere, from large malls to small market stalls. Cash is still accepted, especially in rural markets, but credit cards are rarely used outside of major hotels. Bargaining is expected and encouraged in markets and independent stalls, but prices in department stores and supermarkets are fixed.

Travelers should be aware that tax-free shopping schemes (VAT refunds) are generally not available in Kaili. Unlike major international hubs like Beijing or Shanghai, the stores here are not typically set up to process tax refunds for foreign tourists. Therefore, the price you see is the final price, though the relatively low cost of living in the region often means that prices are already quite attractive compared to other parts of China.

Reached the end of the page?

That means the route is fully explored