Overview
Jiaxiu Tower, a landmark building in Guiyang, was first built during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty and boasts a history of over 400 years. It is considered a cultural symbol of Guiyang by locals. Located on the banks of the Nanming River, this ancient tower's unique architectural style and the beautiful nighttime illuminations are well worth seeing. The scenic area is open to the public free of charge. The best time to visit is around 5:00 PM to enjoy both the sunset and the enchanting nighttime view after the lights come on (around 6:00-7:00 PM). It is recommended to allocate 1-2 hours for a visit to fully appreciate its ancient charm and tranquility.
How to Get There
Getting to Jiaxiu Tower is very convenient. You can take Metro Line 1 to "Zhongshan West Road" station, and walk for about 10 minutes from there. Alternatively, you can take bus routes 15, 34, 46, etc., and get off at "Jiaxiu Tower" station. Taking a taxi or ride-hailing service and locating "Jiaxiu Tower" is also a familiar option for local drivers.
A recommended itinerary is as follows: Enter through the "Chengnan Shengji" archway, stroll across the Fuyu Bridge spanning the Nanming River (this is the best spot for panoramic views of Jiaxiu Tower). Afterwards, you can visit the interior of Jiaxiu Tower, and finally explore the adjacent Cuiwei Garden to experience the elegance of a Ming Dynasty courtyard and Jiangnan garden.
What to Expect
The Jiaxiu Tower Scenic Area is primarily accessible by foot, with paths mainly consisting of stone steps and ancient bridges. Some areas (such as the Fuyu Bridge) have narrow surfaces and may become slippery when wet; comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Basic restroom facilities are available within the scenic area. There are tea houses near Cuiwei Garden for relaxation, but gift shops and convenience stores are limited within the scenic area; it is advisable to bring your own drinking water if needed.
Practical Tips
- Visit around 17:30-19:30 for the best combination of daylight views and night lighting over the Nanming River.
- Use Gaode Maps or Baidu Maps to search “甲秀楼” or “Jiaxiu Tower” — English map labels in Guiyang can be inconsistent.
- Bring a light rain jacket from March to June; Guiyang weather changes quickly and the bridge area can feel damp and breezy.
- Nearby attractions: A 10-minute walk to the Guizhou Provincial Museum of Nationalities.
