Surrounded by striking karst formations and lush low-lying mountains, Guiyang captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural landmarks, including the Nanjiang Grand Canyon, Zijiang Rift and the serene Bailong Cave, all the better to explore in the city’s cool, subtropical climate. Ranking #50 for Air Quality and #18 for Heat Stress, Guiyang offers a refreshing escape from sweltering summers, while the city’s forest coverage, exceeding 55% (and ranking #43 in our Tree Cover subcategory), ensures abundant green spaces. Guiyang’s over 1,000 parks—including the sprawling Qianling Park—make it a haven for those seeking tranquility. These qualities have made Guiyang increasingly popular with retirees, who are drawn to its balanced urban ecosystem and serene environment.
The climate (and geological stability) is also drawing industry, elevating the city’s overall Prosperity index ranking to an impressive #33. Giants like Huawei have established 21 data centers here, bolstering Guiyang’s reputation as a leader in cloud computing and big data. The city’s ambitious plans include creating three industrial clusters valued at almost US$14 billion each, positioning Guiyang as a key player in China’s second-city growth. The city is also a talent magnet due to its cultural mosaic, home to 48 ethnic minority groups whose vibrant traditions infuse the city with color and vitality year-round.