Context
The Miao minoirty’s Sister's Meal Festival, nicknamed "Miao People’s Valentine's Day,” is one of the most celebrated events in Guizhou. The annual Spring event is a time when young Miao people gather together and try to win over the hearts of their loved ones. A few days before it begins, girls in the Shidong area flock to the mountains to collect wild flowers and berries to dye the glutinous rice known as “sisters rice” - a favorite snack during the festival. The young women dress up in elaborate costumes, fully adorned with literally pounds of silver jewelry. As people from several villages gather together, with girls beautifully dressed in their embroidered costumes, the mood is festive and the search for a marriage partner begins. In this journey, we venture into the diverse landscapes of Guizhou to watch young Miaos court one another in dance and song while taking in the excitement of drums, firecrackers, and a parade of colors in the festival.

Trip Highlights
• Exploring the ancient Han culture who has been living in Guizhou for hundreds years.
• Village Stay and deep exploring ethnic groups ‘life in Guizhou and Guangxi
• Discovering ethnic group arts and custom
• Moderate hiking and viewing the scenic mountains
• Li river cruise
• Biking tour at backcountry in Yangshuo

Comfort Level
These longer, 11 day journeys will include approximately 6 to 8 hours of walking each day. Moderate trips may include destinations outside of the most developed cities. When in China¡¦s second tier cities or rural areas, you will stay at the best available guesthouse, homestay, or campground. Activities might include 2-3 days of moderate hiking. Those looking to get a glimpse of China off the beaten tourist track will love these trips.

Hiking in Guizhou is considered as a moderate hike. One reason we visit Guizhou is because of the opportunity to hike through stunning landscapes, which feature limestone Karst hills, jagged peaks and terraced rice fields. As we traverse Guizhou, we will visit quaint mountain villages, where we'll have a chance to chat with local families and gain a better understanding of life and customs in their area.

Concise Itinerary:
Day1: Arrival Shanghai
Day2-3: Guiyang
Day4: Village Stay
Day 5: Guiyang
Day 6: Village Stay
Day 7: Kaili
Day 8: Guilin
Day 9-10: Yangshuo
Day11: Departure