Qiandongnan Travel Guide
Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture is located in the southeastern part of Guizhou Province, on the southeastern edge of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. It is home to the world’s largest Miao villages and the largest Dong villages, characterized by unique stilted buildings, wind-and-rain bridges, and drum towers. Visitors are treated to the melodious tunes of Dong folk songs and dazzled by intricate embroidery, silverware, and batik.
Qiandongnan has cultivated its distinct cultural system, where people live harmoniously, embracing a tranquil lifestyle. Due to its diverse ethnic population, the region hosts numerous ethnic festivals, earning it the saying “major festivals occur on the third, sixth, and ninth day, while minor ones happen every day.” Notable festivals include the Miao Lusheng Festival, Miao New Year, Sisters’ Festival, Dong Third Month Third Singing Festival, and many more, each offering a vibrant tapestry of traditions and customs.
With its rich cultural tapestry and breathtaking landscapes, Qiandongnan invites visitors to immerse themselves in its unique blend of ethnic cultures and natural beauty. It’s a place where every corner tells a story, where traditions are cherished, and where the spirit of diversity thrives.
Most Popular Qiandongnan Attractions
Other Attractions in Qiandongnan
Zhaoxing Dong Village has such a lovely atmosphere! The village isn’t too big and isn’t overly commercialized. The sour soup beef hot pot is delicious . It’s quite cold these days, so there aren’t many tourists around. Many villagers gather by the street at night to warm up by the fire and dance, creating a wonderful ambiance. I’m really looking forward to the bonfire party in the evening!
Kaili is recommended as a transit point, especially for its sour fish soup and the Qiandongnan Nationalities Museum. First, you should visit “Langde Shangzhai”, where you will find a nationally protected ancient architectural complex. In the center of the village, there is a stone square where Miao ethnic group song and dance performances frequently take place, with the performers often being the very villagers you encounter. Next, head to “Leigong Mountain”, which is considered a sacred mountain for the Miao… Read more »
I spent a week in Guizhou, and surprisingly, the coolest place was Qiandongnan. Once I entered Kaili, I felt so much more at ease! The climate there is similar to Kunming, with a significant temperature difference between day and night and dry air.
I took a bus from Xiaoqikong (小七孔) which took about four hours, and it was quite tiring. The Miao Village has a strong commercial vibe; if you’re not taking photos, you could skip it. The long bus ride is definitely exhausting. However, the staff were really nice and provided patient guidance.
After the Flood, I visited Zhenyuan Ancient Town.
The Wuyang River has turned green again, and the lanterns have lit up as expected.
The columns of Zhenyuan Tower still bear the marks of the flood.
1. Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village is an open-air museum that exhibits the epic history of the Miao ethnic group, becoming a great platform for appreciating and researching traditional Miao culture. Recommended attractions include: Xijiang Miao Museum, Drum Tower Family, Huolvtou Family, Liquor Making Workshop, Embroidery Workshop, Wax Printing Workshop, Silver Jewelry Workshop, Observation Deck, Gage Ancient Road, and the Rural Sightseeing Area. 2. Libo Xiaoqikong Scenic Area is a primitive landscape integrating mountains, water, forests, caves, lakes, and waterfalls. Recommended… Read more »
Attraction Recommendations: 1. Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village (Leishan County): Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village is an open-air museum with beautiful natural surroundings and picturesque mountains and rivers. It is like the “Spirited Away” world in Guizhou. 2. Zhenyuan Ancient Town (Zhenyuan County): With a history of nearly 2300 years, Zhenyuan Ancient Town is rich in ancient buildings, traditional houses, and historical and cultural sites. It is also known as the “Venice of the East.” Recommended attractions to visit: Green Dragon Cave,… Read more »
If you are an outdoor enthusiast: 1. **Lei Gong Ping Hiking Trail (雷公坪徒步)** – High difficulty ⚠️, poor signal on the mountain ❗️, be aware of snakes during this season ‼️ 2. **Xiangshuiyan Waterfall (响水岩瀑布)** – Easy hike, located between Baiyan Village and Wudong Miao Village, a short walk away from each other. If you are a lover of ancient villages: 1. **Baiyan Miao Village (白岩苗寨)** – Experience the charm of Guizhou’s Dongnan region in one go! Mountains, clouds, terraced… Read more »
Starting our self-driving journey from Kaili City, the itinerary goes as follows to avoid taking the wrong roads. 1. Langde Miao Village (朗德苗寨): The villagers put on performances and run small shops themselves, striking a good balance between commercialization and authenticity. There is an entrance fee, with performances starting around 11 o’clock, and even in light rain, the show goes on. 2. Baiyan Village (白岩村): Famous for its terraced fields, it is definitely worth a visit. Even in misty weather,… Read more »
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the modern city and reclaim the tranquility of the forest countryside, then go to Southeastern Guizhou. Discover the handicrafts (Silverware, Wax Printing, Paper Making), traditional costumes, and the echoing Miao drums and songs hidden in the mountains. Experience the intangible cultural heritage crafts tucked away in a corner, and witness the stunning impact brought by the festivals and folklore of the ethnic minorities. Surrounded and separated by mountains, only by… Read more »