Southeast Guizhou

What are the most recommended things to do in Southeast Guizhou?

Explore traditional Miao and Dong ethnic villages to experience local culture and architecture.
Visit natural landscapes such as rivers, waterfalls, and karst mountains.
Attend local festivals and folk performances, including traditional music and dance.
Hike scenic trails and enjoy panoramic views of terraced fields and forests.
Sample regional cuisine, especially specialties like sour fish soup and local chili dishes.

Introducing Southeast Guizhou

Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture is located in southeastern Guizhou Province, on the southeastern edge of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. It borders Hunan to the east and Guangxi to the south. Home to over 20 ethnic groups, including the Miao, Dong, Han, Buyi, and Shui, the area boasts a rich tapestry of ethnic customs. It boasts the world's largest Miao and Dong villages, unique stilt houses, wind and rain bridges, and drum towers. The area also boasts the ethereal sounds of Dong folk songs, dazzling embroidery, silver jewelry, and batik. This unique cultural system is home to a peaceful and uncontested life.

Southeast Guizhou has hundreds of ethnic festivals due to its large number of ethnic minorities. There is a saying that "there are major festivals on March 31, 31, 32, and 39, and minor festivals every day." Famous ethnic festivals include the Miao people's Lusheng Festival, Miao New Year, and Sisters Festival, the Dong people's March 3rd Singing Festival, etc., which are rich and colorful, each with its own characteristics.

Climate and best time to travel

Best from June to October

Southeast Guizhou has beautiful scenery in summer and is a good place to escape the heat.

The climate in autumn is good, with clear skies and cool breezes.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village

Xijiang, a place where the Miao people's "original ecological" culture is preserved intact, is a prime location for appreciating and understanding the long history and development of the Miao people in China. The Xijiang Guzang Festival and Miao New Year are renowned worldwide. The Xijiang Thousand Household Miao Village, an open-air museum, exhibits the epic story of the Miao people's development and serves as a grandstand for viewing and studying Miao traditional culture.

Zhenyuan Ancient Town

Zhenyuan is a place of majestic mountains and beautiful waters. Shiping Mountain stands proudly like a lion, its head held high and chest puffed out. The Wuyang River winds through the city in an S-shape, like a jade belt. The seamless integration of mountains, water, and city creates a picturesque scene, forming a unique Tai Chi pattern: "Nine mountains embrace one river, one river divides the city into two." Hailed by tourists from China and abroad as the "Venice of the East," Zhenyuan is known as the "Venice of the East."

Zhaoxing Dong Village

Zhaoxing Ancient Town is nestled among mountains. From afar, you'll see towering peaks, while up close, you'll see lush forests and bamboo groves. Two small rivers, originating from the mountains, meander through the village. Their clear waters dance joyfully beneath the ancient stilt houses, lending the town a vibrant charm.

Langde Shangzhai

Langde Town boasts unique ethnic tourism resources, including the renowned "Hometown of Chinese Folk Song and Dance," "One of the 100 Open-Air Museums in China," and "Hometown of the Lusheng," renowned both domestically and internationally. The Langde Shangzhai Ancient Building Complex is listed as a fifth-batch key cultural relic protection site in my country.

Most Popular FAQs for Southeast Guizhou

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

Southeast Guizhou is known for its rich ethnic diversity, particularly Miao and Dong communities. The region preserves traditional architecture, customs, and handicrafts, making it an important area for cultural tourism in China.

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

Located in the southeastern part of Guizhou Province, China.
Accessible by train to key cities like Kaili or Guiyang, followed by bus or taxi to villages and scenic areas.
Local buses and shared taxis connect villages and popular scenic spots.
Walking and short hikes are required to explore specific villages and trails.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Best times to visit are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather and clear skies.
Avoid the rainy season in summer, as some trails may be slippery.

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

Ticket prices vary by village and scenic spot, generally ranging from CNY 20–100.
Tickets can be purchased at entrances or through official local tourism websites and apps.
Some tours include transportation and admission fees in one package.

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

Booking in advance is recommended for popular villages or during festivals, ideally 1–2 weeks prior.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days are recommended to visit multiple villages, scenic spots, and enjoy cultural experiences.

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

Miao and Dong villages such as Xijiang and Zhaoxing
Scenic rivers and waterfalls like Leigongshan National Park
Terraced fields and karst mountain landscapes
Ethnic markets and craft centers
Traditional wooden drum towers and wind-rain bridges

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese; English-speaking guides are limited and may require private booking. Audio guides are rare.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Terraced fields during sunrise or sunset
Traditional village streets and wooden bridges
Mountain overlooks near rivers and waterfalls
Festival events for colorful ethnic costumes and dances

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from Kaili or Leishan, visit major Miao and Dong villages, explore surrounding natural landscapes, and return via scenic trails. Allocate one village per day for relaxed sightseeing.

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

Night markets in some villages offer cultural performances.
Special festivals and folk events occur seasonally and require checking local schedules.
Light shows are rare; most attractions focus on daytime cultural and natural experiences.