Kaili, located in the southeastern part of Guizhou Province in China, is known for its rich cultural heritage, ethnic minority villages, and stunning natural landscapes. Here are the top attractions and things to do in Kaili:
Top Attractions:
- Langde Miao Village: Explore Langde Miao Village, a traditional Miao ethnic minority village known for its well-preserved wooden stilted houses, lush rice terraces, and colorful traditional costumes. Immerse yourself in Miao culture, participate in traditional ceremonies, and shop for handicrafts.
- Xijiang Miao Village: Visit Xijiang Miao Village, the largest Miao village in China and known as the "Miao's Thousand-household Village." Wander through the village's cobblestone streets, admire the distinctive wooden architecture, and learn about Miao customs and traditions.
- Kaili Ethnic Minority Museum: Learn about the diverse ethnic minority cultures of Guizhou Province at the Kaili Ethnic Minority Museum. Explore exhibits showcasing traditional costumes, handicrafts, musical instruments, and cultural artifacts from various ethnic groups.
- Zhaoxing Dong Village: Discover 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, stone bridges, and traditional Dong architecture, and experience Dong culture through music, dance, and festivals.
- Miao Nationality Customs Center: Visit the Miao Nationality Customs Center to experience Miao culture and customs firsthand. Watch cultural performances featuring traditional dances, songs, and rituals, and participate in activities such as batik dyeing and silver jewelry making.
- Leigong Mountain Scenic Area: Explore Leigong Mountain Scenic Area, a natural reserve known for its rugged mountain landscapes, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy panoramic views from the mountain summit, visit waterfalls and caves, and encounter diverse plant and animal species.
Top Things to Do:
- Attend Festivals: Experience ethnic minority festivals and cultural events in Kaili, 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 Guizhou cuisine and ethnic minority dishes at local restaurants, markets, and food stalls in Kaili. 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.
- Explore Villages on Foot: Explore nearby ethnic minority villages and scenic countryside on foot or by bicycle. Wander through terraced rice fields, bamboo forests, and rural landscapes, and interact with friendly villagers along the way.
- Visit Lusheng Festival: Attend the Lusheng Festival, a traditional festival celebrated by the Miao and Dong ethnic groups. Watch performances of the lusheng, a traditional musical instrument, and join in the lively dancing, singing, and cultural activities.
- Shop for Handicrafts: Shop for unique handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs at local markets, craft shops, and village cooperatives in Kaili. Purchase handwoven textiles, silver jewelry, batik fabrics, and other traditional Miao and Dong handicrafts.