A recent visit to Guiyang by overseas travel vloggers On Tour With Dridgers (OTWD) has attracted widespread attention on social media.
In their footage, the duo could be heard gasping in awe at the city's multilayered, intricately designed overpasses, marveling at how infrastructure development in this western Chinese city had far exceeded their imaginations. They noted the orderly operation of its multi-level road network and the dense concentration of large commercial districts – a scene that can no longer be defined by the outdated label of "backwardness".
This heartfelt admiration reflects not only recognition of Guiyang's infrastructure achievements but also hints at the growing confidence behind the rise of western Chinese cities.
Nestled among mountains, Guiyang is a city where "urban landscapes blend with rolling mountains", making the construction of a multi-level transportation network far more challenging than in flatland cities. Once known for its rugged terrain, famously described as "no three Chinese feet of flat land", Guiyang has now built a four-line metro network – Lines 1, 2, 3, and S1 – with an operational length of 146.47 kilometers. The city is served by three major transport hubs – Guiyang, Guiyangbei, and Guiyangdong railway stations – while 26 high-speed rail stations are strung like pearls along key corridors.
As the capital of Guizhou province, Guiyang boasts not only a comprehensive transportation infrastructure but also revitalized consumer amenities and people-centered facilities. Lively commercial zones and pedestrian streets – including Qingyun Market, Taiping Road, Caozhuangyuan Street, Xinyin Discovery 1950, Minsheng Road, and AYDC Public Art Center – attract both locals and tourists with their lively, human-scale charm.
Cultural and tourism activities, including roadside concerts, chengchao tournaments, vocal concerts, and music festivals, have emerged as social media sensations.
Across the city, 140 "15-minute living circles" ensure that residents can reach canteens, supermarkets, and community service centers within a short walk, blending convenience with a lively neighborhood atmosphere.
From upgrading sewage and gas pipelines to promoting prefabricated buildings and sponge city initiatives, Guiyang invested 113.5 billion yuan ($14.61 billion) during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25) to enhance urban functionality and ecological resilience.
What appeared as an "unexpected surprise" to the vloggers is, in fact, the inevitable outcome of Guiyang's persistent, long-term development. Their experience helps break down outdated stereotypes about western Chinese cities and showcases the resilient, forward-moving vitality of urban transformation.
As the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30) begins, building on the solid foundation laid in 2021-25, Guiyang is steadfastly seizing development opportunities, deepening investment in public well-being, and gathering momentum for progress – marching with confidence and vigor into a new era of growth.