Culinary delights in Guiyang's Qingyan Ancient Town

Qingyan Ancient Town is a signature tourist destination in Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province. It is a popular weekend getaway where visitors flock to enjoy the town's authentic flavors and immerse themselves in its rich historical charm.

Zhuangyuan pig trotters

Zhuangyuan pig trotters are named after the historical figure Zhao Yijiong. It is said that Zhao achieved the title of Zhuangyuan (who ranks first in the imperial examination) after eating pig trotters from his hometown. Zhuangyuan pig trotters are renowned for their tender, fall-off-the-bone texture. They are braised in a rich sauce, with the fragrant, sticky meat perfectly balanced by the seasoning.

Zhuangyuan pig trotters. [Photo/colorful Guizhou network]

Rose ice jelly

As a town famous for rose sugar, Qingyan's ice jelly is a refreshing treat. Alongside traditional ingredients like sunflower seeds, sesame, and preserved fruits, a special rose jam adds a sweet twist, making each bite smooth and aromatic.

Rose ice jelly. [Photo/colorful Guizhou network]

Rice cake porridge

This porridge's base is lotus root powder, and the toppings are a mix of steamed rice and glutinous rice cakes, creating a soft, chewy texture. The porridge is then topped with sunflower seeds, sesame, peanuts, and preserved fruits, and a special rose jam gives it a unique, fragrant flavor.

Rice cake porridge. [Photo/colorful Guizhou network]

Qingyan rice tofu

Unlike the yellow rice tofu common in Guiyang, Qingyan's variety is green, with spicy and savory flavor.

Qingyan rice tofu. [Photo/colorful Guizhou network]