Live Your Best Lives
Zhuangbazhai, also known as Zhangbazhai or Zhuangbaozhai, is a U-shaped mountain range several kilometers long, approximately 260 meters above sea level, located southwest of Xiadian Town, Dawu County, just one kilometer from the town center. To the west, it stretches to the majestic summit of Dawu Mountain, where the Songying Provincial Highway connects directly to Wuhan, 100 kilometers away. Zhuangbazhai is renowned for its rocks, and the scenic area is dotted with unusual stones, combining a unique, bizarre, dangerous, and beautiful aesthetic.
After years of erosion, the once sturdy city gates and fortress walls have mostly collapsed, leaving only broken walls. The half-foot-deep gouges in the gateposts, the dense mesh of firing holes and observation posts, still seem to tell of the fierce battles of the past.
There are many strange rocks in Zhuangba Village, with more than 200 rocks to be observed and explored. Among them, 48 are famous, known as the 48 scenes of Zhuangba Village. The various strange rocks have strange shapes, vivid images, magnificent beauty, and are dazzling and amazing. The rich scenery of strange rocks also constitutes the main landscape of Zhuangba Village.
General Stone
The General Stone is located on the hillside west of the Dengjia City Gate. It is made up of two huge rocks supporting each other. Vines are entwined on the rocks, and the shadows of trees sway beside the rocks. Looking at the General Stone in the forest from a distance, sometimes it looks like a melancholy old man, full of homesickness; sometimes it looks like a lonely child, waiting for a spaceship from outer space to take him home.
Flying Stone
The Flying Stone is located on the cliff south of the General Stone. The entire stone is round like a drum and is placed on the edge of the cliff in an inclined state, as if it will fall down the west slope at any time.
Eight Villages is a cluster of traditional rural settlements in Dawu County, Xiaogan. The area is known for its cultural heritage, traditional architecture, and preservation of local customs, representing historical village life in Hubei.
Located in Dawu County, Xiaogan. Visitors can reach the villages by taxi or private car from Xiaogan city. Local buses may reach nearby towns, but walking is required to explore the villages fully.
Accessible year-round, usually from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for mild weather and scenic beauty.
Generally free to visit. Some special cultural or festival events may charge a small fee at the entrance.
For normal visits, no advance booking is needed. For special events or festivals, booking 1–2 weeks ahead is recommended.
2–3 hours to walk through the villages and visit key scenic spots.
Guided tours are occasionally available in Chinese; English or other language tours may need prior arrangement.
Start at the main entrance, walk through the main alleyways, visit key cultural sites, and loop around the nearby nature paths before returning.
Night visits are generally not recommended. Special cultural events may be held during holidays or festivals.
Weekends and public holidays attract more visitors. Weekdays are much quieter for a relaxed experience.
Basic facilities include small local eateries, rest areas, and public toilets near village entrances. Shops for local products may be available.
Some alleys and trails may be uneven, so elderly or disabled visitors should exercise caution. Children can enjoy short walks and exploration under supervision.
Cash is recommended for small vendors; mobile payments may be accepted in some shops.
Small local eateries in the village and nearby towns serve traditional Hubei cuisine.
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries; halal options are limited and should be planned in advance.
Guesthouses and small hotels are available in Dawu County town, 10–20 minutes by car from the villages.
Souvenirs include local handicrafts, traditional snacks, and handmade textiles.
Return to Dawu County town by taxi or bus, then proceed to Xiaogan city or nearby train stations for onward travel.
