Liannan Yao Village

Introducing Liannan Yao Village

Liannan Yao Village, located in Sanpai Town, Liannan Yao Autonomous County, Guangdong Province, is a renowned historical and cultural village in China and one of Guangdong's four ancient villages. The village gate sits at an altitude of 808 meters, and within the Song Dynasty walls, it covers 11 hectares. At its peak, the village boasted over 700 Yao dwellings, 1,000 households, and a population of over 7,000. It was hailed as the world's leading Yao village.

The houses in the thousand-year-old Yao village are either built on the hillside or on platforms beside the water, and are scattered in an orderly manner. For photography enthusiasts, it is a wonderful shooting location where they can appreciate the unique charm of Hakka houses from different angles.

The Yao culture has a long history, is passed down from generation to generation, is rich in connotation and has a strong sense of local customs. The Yao people are good at singing and dancing. The Yao "Shuagetang", "Long Drum Dance" and "Yao Wedding Customs" have been listed as national intangible cultural heritages one after another. The unique Yao wedding customs, Pai Yao folk songs and Yao embroidery are all included in the "Guangdong Province Intangible Cultural Heritage" list. This is the hometown of the world-famous music "Yao Dance".

Climate and best time to travel

Liannan belongs to the mid-subtropical monsoon humid climate zone, with distinct four seasons, long summers and short winters, and a quick transition from spring to autumn. The spring is cold and humid, the summer is hot and rainy, the autumn is cool and windy, and the winter is cold and dry.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

98 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

9:00-17:30

---

Most Popular FAQs for Liannan Yao Village

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Liannan Yao Village is home to the Yao ethnic minority in Guangdong. It preserves centuries-old traditions, architecture, and cultural practices, offering insight into Yao heritage and rural life in southern China.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The village is located in Liannan Yao Autonomous County, Qingyuan City, Guangdong. Visitors can reach it via bus or taxi from Qingyuan city center. Private cars are convenient for exploring nearby scenic areas. Walking within the village is easy and recommended to experience the local environment.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The village is open year-round. The best times to visit are spring and autumn (March to May, September to November) when the weather is mild and the landscape is lush.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees may apply for cultural exhibitions or guided experiences, usually purchased onsite. Online booking may be available through local tourism websites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For regular visits, advance booking is not required. For cultural performances or group tours, it is recommended to book 1–3 days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 hours for a standard visit; a full day if combining hiking, cultural activities, and local dining.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Traditional wooden Yao houses and village streets.
• Local cultural exhibition centers or museums.
• Terraced fields and surrounding scenic mountain trails.
• Performance areas for traditional Yao music and dance.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available, primarily in Mandarin. Audio guides are limited and may not be offered in other languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Overlooking the village from nearby hills or terraces.
• In front of traditional wooden houses and decorated streets.
• During cultural performances or festivals for dynamic shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the village entrance, walk through the main streets, visit exhibition areas, hike nearby scenic spots, enjoy cultural performances, and finish with a meal at local restaurants.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are limited. Special tours may be arranged for festivals or cultural events.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays are less crowded. Major festivals or holidays attract more visitors.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets, benches, and small shops are available. Restaurants serve local cuisine.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The village is moderately accessible; elderly and children can walk around, but steep paths may be challenging for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended for small vendors. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries serve Yao cuisine, including rice-based dishes, herbal teas, and local snacks. A few small cafes may also be available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are limited but available; Halal options may require prior inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, homestays, and small local hotels are available in and around the village, offering an immersive cultural experience.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Nearby rivers and waterfalls for scenic hiking.
• Ethnic culture museums in Liannan County.
• Surrounding forested mountains and terraced landscapes.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include handmade crafts, embroidered textiles, Yao traditional clothing, and local herbal products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis, private cars, or local buses can take visitors to nearby towns, scenic areas, or Qingyuan city center.