How to get to Xingyi

Xingyi is a captivating city in southwestern China, situated in the picturesque Guizhou province. This destination is renowned for its breathtaking karst landscapes: here you can behold the famous "Forest of Ten Thousand Peaks," where countless cone-shaped hills rise above emerald valleys and winding rivers.

The city offers travelers not only unique natural beauty, including the majestic Maling River Canyon, but also an opportunity to immerse themselves in an atmosphere of tranquility and harmony. Xingyi is ideal for those seeking inspiration in magnificent panoramas and wishing to experience the region's distinctive culture, far from the hustle and bustle of major metropolises.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is to take a flight to Xingyi Airport (Wanfenglin). This air hub (IATA code: ACX) receives aircraft from many of the country's major cities, giving travelers direct access to the famous karst landscapes without long transfers.

If direct tickets are unavailable, consider flying into major regional hubs, such as the airport in the city of Guiyang (the provincial capital). This is a reliable alternative route, as there are convenient connections to Xingyi from there: you can reach your final destination by high-speed train or bus, enjoying the scenic views along the way.

For lovers of leisurely travel, Xingyi has its own railway station. Regular trains arrive here, connecting the city with various regions, including the popular route from Kunming. This is a budget-friendly and atmospheric way to get there, allowing you to enjoy the views of Guizhou province from the carriage window.

For those who value time and the comfort of high-speed lines, a route with a transfer is worth considering. The nearest major hubs for high-speed trains are Panxian or Guiyang. From these stations, there is regular bus service to Xingyi, or you can use taxi services to cover the remaining distance quickly and comfortably. This option is often chosen by tourists traveling through Anshun or other major cities in the region.

Bus services in this part of the country are excellently developed, allowing you to reach your destination comfortably while enjoying the landscapes of Southern China. A popular route connects Xingyi with the city of Anshun: the trip takes about 3.5–4 hours, and the road passes through picturesque mountain ranges. Convenient trips are also organized from the neighboring prefecture of Wenshan, from where you can arrive in just 3–4 hours, observing the changing landscapes of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau.

Another accessible option is traveling from Luxi, which usually lasts no more than 3 hours. Intercity buses generally arrive at the main passenger terminal, offering tourists a budget-friendly and authentic way to immerse themselves in the local rhythm of life. This is a great alternative to trains for those who want to see the province from a new perspective on the way to the famous karst hills.

Traveling by car gives you complete freedom of movement and the opportunity to reach Xingyi at your own pace, enjoying the scenic views of Guizhou province. One of the most convenient routes runs from the city of Luxi: the drive will be comfortable and take about three hours. The road from Anshun is no less beautiful, requiring only slightly more time, but compensating for this with magnificent panoramas of karst mountains outside the window.

For travelers heading from the direction of Wenshan, the journey will be longer but not tiring thanks to the high quality of the road surface. The region is served by modern expressways, including the G78 highway (Shantou — Kunming), making driving here pleasant and safe. Many tourists also prefer to book an intercity taxi or a private transfer to relax and not worry about navigation at unfamiliar interchanges.

A trip to Xingyi will provide a wealth of vivid impressions if you prepare in advance for the local lifestyle and climate. We have compiled several useful recommendations to help make your journey through this picturesque corner of China as comfortable and safe as possible.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather in Guizhou province is changeable, and rain is not uncommon here, so be sure to bring a light raincoat or a compact umbrella. For excursions around the karst hills and canyons, you will need comfortable, proven footwear with non-slip soles, as there will be plenty of walking, often on uneven terrain.
2. Transport: The most convenient way to get around the city is by taxi, the prices for which are quite reasonable. It is highly recommended to save the names of your hotel and attractions in Chinese (characters) on your phone or print them out in advance to show to drivers.
3. Finances: The main currency is the Chinese Yuan. International bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) are not accepted everywhere, mostly only in major hotels. It is best to have a supply of cash in small denominations or set up Alipay/WeChat Pay apps, which allow you to link a foreign card for QR code payments.
4. Health and Safety: Drinking tap water is strictly not recommended; use only bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. Pack a small first-aid kit with familiar medications, as in local pharmacies all drugs are labeled in Chinese, and finding an equivalent can be difficult.
5. Communication: English is not widely spoken in Xingyi; locals speak predominantly Mandarin or local dialects. Be sure to download an offline translator app to your smartphone with photo translation and voice input functions — this will become your main assistant.
6. Local Etiquette: Courtesy and restraint are valued here. Money or business cards should be handed over with two hands as a sign of respect. Remember that tipping in restaurants and taxis is not customary here; it may even confuse the staff.
7. What to Avoid: Be cautious with very cheap tours or guide services pushed on the street — this often leads to hidden extra charges or forced visits to shops. Also, exercise caution when trying dishes with large amounts of red chili peppers if you are not accustomed to spicy food.
8. Extra Tip: When planning a visit to the famous "Forest of Ten Thousand Peaks," rent a bicycle or electric scooter at the park entrance. The territory is vast, and this mode of transport will allow you to see much more beauty while saving energy and time.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday difficulties and fully focus on contemplating the region's unique nature. Xingyi is a hospitable city, and a little preparation will make your stay here easy and carefree.