Qiandongnan, located in southeastern Guizhou Province, China, is renowned for its rich ethnic minority culture, traditional villages, and stunning natural landscapes. Here are the top attractions and things to do in Qiandongnan:
Top Attractions:
- Zhaoxing Dong Village: Explore Zhaoxing Dong Village, one of the largest Dong ethnic minority villages in China and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the unique wooden drum towers, traditional wooden houses, and stone bridges, and experience Dong culture through music, dance, and festivals.
- Xijiang Miao Village: Visit Xijiang Miao Village, known as the "Miao's Thousand-household Village" and the largest Miao village in China. Wander through the village's cobblestone streets, admire the traditional wooden stilted houses, and learn about Miao customs and traditions.
- Langde Miao Village: Discover Langde Miao Village, a picturesque Miao ethnic minority village known for its lush rice terraces, traditional wooden houses, and colorful traditional costumes. Immerse yourself in Miao culture, participate in traditional ceremonies, and shop for handicrafts.
- Qingman Miao Village: Explore Qingman Miao Village, a hidden gem nestled in the mountains of Qiandongnan. Marvel at the village's well-preserved wooden architecture, intricate wooden carvings, and scenic surroundings. Experience Miao hospitality and learn about local customs and traditions.
- Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge: Visit the Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge, also known as the Yongji Bridge, in Sanjiang Dong Autonomous County. Admire the ornate wooden bridge spanning the Linxi River, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional Dong villages.
- Datang Short Skirt Miao Village: Experience the vibrant culture of the Short Skirt Miao ethnic minority at Datang Short Skirt Miao Village. Watch traditional performances, try on traditional costumes, and learn about the unique customs and traditions of the Short Skirt Miao people.
Top Things to Do:
- Attend Festivals: Experience ethnic minority festivals and cultural events in Qiandongnan, such as the Sisters' Meal Festival of the Miao ethnic group and the Dong Drum Tower Festival. Enjoy colorful parades, traditional performances, and festive celebrations.
- Taste Local Cuisine: Sample authentic Miao and Dong cuisine at local restaurants, markets, and food stalls in Qiandongnan. Try specialties such as sour soup fish (suan tang yu), rice noodles (mi fen), and Miao-style sticky rice.
- Homestay Experience: Stay in a traditional homestay in a Miao or Dong village to immerse yourself in local culture and lifestyle. Enjoy home-cooked meals, interact with villagers, and participate in cultural activities such as rice planting, embroidery, and folk dancing.
- Hike Through Rice Terraces: Explore the scenic rice terraces and countryside of Qiandongnan on foot or by bicycle. Hike along ancient footpaths, visit terraced fields, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Shop for Handicrafts: Browse for unique handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs at local markets, craft shops, and village cooperatives in Qiandongnan. Purchase handwoven textiles, silver jewelry, batik fabrics, and other traditional Miao and Dong handicrafts.
- Learn Traditional Crafts: Participate in workshops and demonstrations to learn traditional Miao and Dong crafts such as embroidery, batik dyeing, and silver jewelry making. Create your own souvenirs under the guidance of skilled artisans.