Visitors enjoy a boat ride on the Wujiang River. CHINA DAILY

Many of our fondest memories of this trip — Guizhou's unique natural wonders and the vibrant traditions of its ethnic groups — are the direct result of decadeslong environmental preservation, careful planning and a respect for heritage. Together, they reflect a province that is not only safeguarding its past but also planning for its future.

With cameras and phones full of epic experiences, our group of international storytellers returned home with a profound sense of connection and hundreds of reasons to say, "See you soon, Guizhou", rather than "Goodbye".