Discover Xiashi Ancient Town: Ming Qing Architecture, Riverport Heritage & Ethnic Culture

1. Introduction: The “Little Shanghai” on the Qingshui River

Nestled on the banks of the Qingshui River in Kaili, Qiandongnan Prefecture, Guizhou, Xiashi Ancient Town (下司古镇) was once the most important water-and-land port in the region during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Merchants, boats and bustling trade earned it the nickname “Little Shanghai.” Over 600 years of history have left a well-preserved Ming-Qing architectural landscape: winding bluestone streets, riverside stilted houses, and distinctive horse-head walls that make the town seem frozen in time.
Walking through Xiashi you can still feel history underfoot: incense still burns at the Yu King Palace, the old pier’s stone steps record the traces of past commerce, and the scent of sour soup fish along with the drumbeats of the Dragon Boat Festival bring Miao and Dong customs to life. In 2013 Xiashi was rated a national 4A tourist attraction, an excellent destination to explore Qiandongnan’s minority cultures and Ming-Qing commercial history.

2. Core Features: Six Hundred Years of Trade and Miao-Dong Culture

(1) Ming-Qing Architecture: Trade Imprinted in Stone and Timber
Xiashi’s built environment is dominated by Ming and Qing styles: gray bricks and dark tiles, upturned eaves, and riverside stilted houses that historically housed shops, inns and guild halls. These structures testify to the town’s role as Qiandongnan’s commercial center.
– Yu King Palace: One of the town’s focal temples, dedicated to the legendary flood-control hero Yu. Merchants historically prayed here for safe river travel. Exquisite woodcarvings and murals remain.
– Guanyin Pavilion : A Qing-era riverside pavilion where sailors and traders once offered prayers. Climb the pavilion for panoramic views of the Qingshui River.
– The Old Pier: A key Ming-Qing cargo hub. Stone steps still show marks from mooring ropes and heavy loading.
(2) Miao and Dong Living Traditions: A Living Cultural Heritage
Xiashi is not only a relic of trade history but also a living showcase of Miao and Dong culture.
– Xiashi Dog : A local hunting dog breed famed in China; you may see demonstrations or local owners showing them in the town.
– Xiashi Sour Soup Fish : A regional specialty—tangy, spicy and aromatic—this dish is a must-try for visitors.
– Dragon Boat Festival (lunar May): Xiashi’s largest folk celebration. Dozens of boats race on the Qingshui River amid drums and gongs as Miao and Dong people dress in traditional festive attire and perform dances and songs.

3. Visitor Guide: How to Experience Xiashi Deeply

(1) Best Time to Visit
– Spring and Autumn (March–May, September–November): Pleasant weather for wandering the stone lanes and photographing architecture.
– Summer (June–August): Experience the Dragon Boat Festival peak season—bring sun protection.
– Winter (December–February): Fewer tourists and a quieter atmosphere for contemplative visits.
(2) Suggested Routes
– Half-Day Highlights: Yu King Palace → Guanyin Pavilion → Old Pier → Stilted House Cluster → Taste sour soup fish.
– Full-Day Immersion: Add hands-on Miao craft workshops and a Qingshui River boat ride for deeper cultural context.
(3) Getting There
– From Kaili city center: About a 30-minute drive (18 km) by car or taxi; scheduled minibuses between Kaili and Xiashi take roughly 40 minutes.
– From Guiyang: High-speed train to Kaili South Station (about 40 minutes), then a taxi or bus for about 20 minutes.
(4) Tickets and Opening Hours
– Admission: Approximately 60 RMB (covers some attractions); special folk events may require extra tickets.
– Opening hours: 8:30–18:00 year-round.

4. Visitor Experience: Tranquility and Festivity Side by Side

– Peak Season (holidays, Dragon Boat Festival): The town buzzes with visitors and lively folk events, offering rich cultural experiences.
– Off Season (weekdays): Quiet streets make Xiashi ideal for photography, sketching and slow exploration.
– Tours & Guides: Onsite Chinese-language guides are available and some signs have English translations; reading up on the town’s history beforehand enhances the visit.

5. Conclusion: Why Xiashi Ancient Town Is Worth Visiting

Xiashi’s charm lies in its dual identity as a well-preserved Ming-Qing commercial town and a living museum of Miao and Dong culture. Whether you stroll the bluestone lanes, explore Yu King Palace and the old pier, savor sour soup fish, or watch dragon boats race on the Qingshui River, Xiashi delivers an authentic glimpse into Qiandongnan’s history and ethnic traditions. If you’re planning to explore Guizhou’s minority cultures or seek an ancient town that resists over-commercialization, include Xiashi Ancient Town on your itinerary.