Guizhou Qiandongnan Prefecture

1.Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village

Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village nestled in the lush mountains of Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture in Guizhou Province,it is the largest Miao ethnic settlement in China-home to over 1,200 households!This breathtaking "thousand-household village" is a living museum of Miao culture,where traditional wooden stilt houses cascade down the hillsides,creating a mesmerizing panorama.

As you wander through the narrow stone-paved streets,you'll encounter Miao women in exquisite handmade silver headdresses and embroidered costumes.Don't miss the Miao Museum to delve into their rich history,or the lively folk performances featuring Lusheng (reed pipes) dances and ancient songs passed down for generations.

When night falls,the village transforms into a sea of golden lights as thousands of lanterns illuminate the terraced houses-a view best enjoyed from the observation decks on the opposite hill.Savor local flavors like sour fish soup,glutinous rice cakes,and Miao-style hotpot for an authentic taste of hospitality.

2.Zhenyuan Ancient Town

Zhenyuan Ancient Town nestled along the winding Wuyang River in Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture,it is a 2,000-year-old gem where history,culture,and stunning landscapes blend seamlessly.Known as the "Oriental Venice of the Mountains," this ancient town charms visitors with its Ming and Qing dynasty architecture,cobbled streets,and a serene riverfront that glows at night.

Stroll through Shiping Lane,where time seems to stand still among well-preserved courtyards and red lanterns.Marvel at the Qinglong Cave (Black Dragon Cave),a breathtaking temple complex clinging to cliffs above the river-home to Taoist,Buddhist,and Confucian influences.For the best view,hike up to Shizhongshan (Mid-Mountain Temple) and gaze down at the river's natural "S" curve,dividing the town like a yin-yang symbol.

Don't miss a boat ride at dusk when lanterns reflect on the water,or a taste of Zhenyuan's famous spicy fish hotpot and Douhua (tofu pudding).If you're lucky to visit during the Dragon Boat Festival,you'll witness thrilling races and vibrant traditions!

Zhenyuan isn't just a stop-it's a poetic escape into China's past.

3.Langde Shangzhai

Langde Shangzhai-The Charming Gateway to Miao Culture!

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture,Langde Shangzhai (Upper Langde Village) is one of Guizhou's most authentic and picturesque Miao ethnic villages.Unlike its larger neighbor Xijiang,Langde offers a more intimate,untouched experience where tradition thrives in everyday life.

As you step into the village,you'll be greeted by traditional wooden stilt houses with sweeping rooftops,built along the mountainside without a single nail!The heart of Langde is its flagstone square,where locals in stunning hand-embroidered attire perform the "Twelve-Part" Miao songs and Lusheng (reed pipe) dances-often accompanied by a spirited "block-the-way" toast ceremony with homemade rice wine!

For culture lovers,the Folk Customs Museum showcases exquisite Miao silverwork and batik textiles.Hike up to the village lookout for panoramic views of terraced fields,or join a family for a homestyle meal featuring sour fish soup and glutinous rice steamed in bamboo.

4.Zhaoxing Dong Village

Zhaoxing Dong Village-The Enchanting Capital of Dong Culture!

Nestled in the lush valleys of Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture,Zhaoxing Dong Village is the largest and most vibrant Dong ethnic settlement in China.With its iconic wind-and-rain bridges,towering drum towers,and timeless way of life,this UNESCO-listed gem feels like stepping into a living postcard!

As you wander through the village's five beautifully preserved "Dong Clans" (Ren,Yi,Li,Zhi,Xin),each with its own majestic drum tower,you'll hear the mesmerizing sound of Dong Grand Choirs-a UNESCO-recognized tradition where singers harmonize without instruments.Don't miss the performance at the village square,where locals showcase their lusheng dances and reed-pipe melodies in dazzling handmade indigo-dyed costumes.

For the best views,climb to the nearby terraced fields at sunrise or stroll across the Tang'an Wind-and-Rain Bridge,where elders gather to share stories.At night,the village glows under the soft light of lanterns-perfect for savoring Dong specialties like sour fish,bamboo rice,and oil tea in a traditional wooden stilt house.

5.Miao King's City

Miao King's City-A Fortress of History and Mystery!Deep in the heart of Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture,hidden among misty mountains and emerald forests,lies the legendary Miao King's City-a 600-year-old military stronghold and living testament to the bravery and ingenuity of the Miao people.This ancient stone village,once the seat of Miao chieftains,is where history,folklore,and breathtaking landscapes collide!

As you step through its narrow,maze-like alleys-designed to confuse invaders-you'll feel the echoes of the past.Climb the watchtowers where Miao warriors once stood guard,or cross the wooden suspension bridges that sway over deep ravines.Don't miss the "Three Gates" defense system,a clever architectural feat that made the village nearly impregnable!

In the central square,Miao elders might share tales of the Miao King's rebellion,while artisans demonstrate traditional silver forging and indigo batik.If you're lucky,you'll catch a thrilling martial arts performance or a haunting Miao folk opera under the stars.

Hungry?Try fire-grilled sticky rice cakes or sour-spicy river fish,cooked just as the Miao warriors did centuries ago.And for the bold-join a "block-the-way" toast with homemade rice wine!

6.Qinglongdong Ancient Architecture Complex

Qinglongdong Ancient Architecture Complex-Where Heaven Meets Earth!Perched dramatically on the cliffs above the winding Wuyang River in Zhenyuan Ancient Town,the Qinglongdong (Black Dragon Cave) complex is a breathtaking fusion of Taoist,Buddhist,and Confucian traditions-a sacred site where temples,pavilions,and caves cling to the mountainside like a celestial staircase!

As you ascend the stone steps,you'll discover pagodas piercing the clouds,hidden shrines nestled in caves,and sweeping views of Zhenyuan's yin-yang river bend.Each structure tells a story:light incense at the Zushi Temple (honoring Taoist immortals),ponder Confucian wisdom in the Zhongyuan Academy,or find serenity in the Buddhist Wanshou Palace-all connected by hanging corridors that defy gravity!

The real magic?This 600-year-old complex was built without disturbing a single tree-ancient pines and cypresses grow straight through rooftops and courtyards,symbolizing harmony between man and nature.Time your visit for sunset when golden light bathes the vermilion pillars and the river mirrors the sky.

Below the cliffs,don't miss "Flying Rain" spring-legend says its water grants wisdom.Nearby,sample Zhenyuan's famed Douhua (tofu pudding) or sour-spicy fish hotpot at a riverside teahouse.

Qinglongdong isn't just architecture-it's a spiritual journey through China's soul.

7.Qiandongnan Prefecture Museum

Qiandongnan Prefecture Museum-A Treasure Chest of Ethnic Wonders!

Step into the heart of Kaili City,and you'll discover the Qiandongnan Prefecture Museum,your ultimate gateway to understanding the rich tapestry of Miao,Dong,and other ethnic cultures in this enchanting region.This isn't just a museum-it's a vibrant celebration of traditions,history,and artistry that have thrived for centuries!

As you wander through the exhibits,you'll be dazzled by intricate silver crowns worn by Miao brides,handwoven Dong textiles that tell ancient stories,and ceremonial Lusheng pipes that once echoed through mountain villages.Don't miss the life-sized replica of a Miao stilt house-complete with a roaring fireplace-where you can almost hear elders sharing folktales!

Upstairs,the batik and embroidery displays will leave you spellbound-see how natural indigo transforms into mesmerizing patterns,each stitch a symbol of identity.The Dong wooden architecture section reveals the secret behind those towering drum towers,built without a single nail!

Time your visit for weekend afternoons,when live folk performances often bring the museum to life with singing,dancing,and the clinking of silver jewelry.Before you leave,pick up a handmade embroidered bookmark or miniature Lusheng at the gift shop-a tiny piece of Qiandongnan to take home!

This museum isn't just about artifacts-it's where legends breathe and cultures shine.

8.Mozhai Miao Cultural Village

Mozhai Miao Cultural Village-Where Tradition Comes Alive!Nestled in the lush mountains of Qiandongnan Prefecture,Mozhai Miao Cultural Village is a hidden gem that offers an authentic and immersive experience into the vibrant world of the Miao people.Unlike the more touristy spots,Mozhai retains its原始 charm,allowing you to witness the daily life,customs,and artistry of the Miao community up close.

As you enter the village,you'll be greeted by the sight of traditional wooden stilt houses,their balconies adorned with hanging corn and chili peppers.The villagers,dressed in hand-embroidered costumes and dazzling silver jewelry,often gather to perform folk songs and dances that have been passed down through generations.Don't miss the chance to join a workshop on batik (wax-resist dyeing) or silver jewelry-making,where you can try your hand at these ancient crafts under the guidance of local artisans.

For the best views,hike up to the village lookout point,where you can see the entire settlement framed by terraced fields and misty peaks.As evening falls,the village comes alive with the sound of Lusheng (reed pipes) and the aroma of Miao specialties like sour fish soup,glutinous rice cakes,and home-brewed rice wine.

Plan your visit during the Miao New Year or Harvest Festival to witness bullfights,horse races,and the famous "block-the-way" toast ceremony,where villagers welcome guests with songs and drinks.

Mozhai isn't just a village-it's a living museum of Miao culture and hospitality.

9.Zhenyuan Wuyang River Scenic Area

Zhenyuan Wuyang River Scenic Area-Nature's Masterpiece in Qiandongnan!Wuyang River Scenic Area in historic Zhenyuan.This 35-kilometer watercolor painting of emerald waters,towering karst cliffs,and hidden ethnic villages will leave you spellbound!

As we board our boat,watch how the river transforms into a shimmering ribbon,carving through "Three Gorges of Guizhou"-each bend revealing new wonders.To your left,see those ancient plank roads carved into cliffs?They're part of the old Tea Horse Road!Ahead,the "Peacock Opening Screen" rock formation spreads its stone feathers across the water while fishermen in bamboo rafts cast nets just as their ancestors did.

Don't miss the Shiwan (Ten Thousand Rocks) Village,where the river dances through a forest of mushroom-shaped stones.In spring,cherry blossoms frame waterwheel-powered mills;in autumn,golden rice terraces climb the hills.Keep your camera ready for the "Hanging Coffins"-mysterious Miao burial sites tucked high in limestone caves!

Take the sunset cruise when the river turns to liquid gold and the Zhenyuan Ancient Town lights begin twinkling like stars along the banks.Hungry?Our boatman might share his lunch of Wuyang smoked fish wrapped in lotus leaves!

This isn't just a boat ride-it's a poetic voyage through time and nature.

10.Tang'an Terraced Fields

Tang'an Terraced Fields-Where the Sky Meets the Earth in Qiandongnan!Perched high in the misty mountains above Zhaoxing Dong Village,the Tang'an Terraced Fields are like giant stairways to heaven-a breathtaking masterpiece carved by the Dong people over 1,200 years!This living landscape isn't just farmland;it's an open-air museum of water,clouds,and golden rice that changes its colors with the seasons.

As we hike up the stone-paved paths (don't worry,we'll take it slow!),you'll see why this is called "the most beautiful terraces in China." In spring,the fields become mirrors of the sky,reflecting clouds between young rice shoots.Come autumn,they transform into waves of gold that ripple down the mountains.Look closely-those dots of blue are Dong women in traditional indigo dresses,planting or harvesting just as their ancestors did!

The star of our walk?The "Seven-Star with Moon" terrace,where seven circular ponds surround a crescent-shaped one-a magical sight at sunrise when mist dances between them.Catch your breath at the village drum tower,where elders might offer you a cup of their special "firewood tea" while sharing tales of how their grandparents built these fields stone by stone.

Visit at dawn when the first light paints the terraces pink,or during the Dong New Year when the fields echo with Lusheng music and celebrations!

Tang'an isn't just scenery-it's where human patience and nature's beauty hold hands.