Rongjiang

Introducing Rongjiang

Rongjiang County, a county under the jurisdiction of Qiandongnan Prefecture, Guizhou Province, is located in southeastern Guizhou, at the confluence of the Duliu, Rong, and Chejiang Rivers. Named Rongjiang for the numerous banyan trees along the river, it was also known as Guzhou in ancient times and was one of the 800 prefectures south of the Yangtze River. It is the only county in Guizhou Province straddling both Yueliang Mountain and Leigong Mountain. It borders Liping and Congjiang County to the east, Leishan and Sandu County to the west, Jianhe County to the north, and Libo County to the south. Home to the Dong, Shui, Miao, and Han ethnic groups, Rongjiang boasts a rich cultural heritage, pristine and authentic customs, and abundant tourism resources. Rongjiang is also considered the ancestral home of Miao and Dong culture. The most famous attraction in the area is Chejiang Sanbao Dong Village, known as the "Thousand-House Dong Village," the largest Dong ethnic group settlement in China. Other ethnic villages include Baibei Miao Village, Kongshen Miniskirt Miao Village, and Wanzhai Dong Village.

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Most Popular FAQs for Rongjiang

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

Rongjiang is a culturally rich city in Southeast Guizhou, known for its Dong ethnic communities. It is home to several significant cultural and architectural landmarks, such as the Wind and Rain Bridges, which are a hallmark of Dong architecture. The city is also known for its traditional songs and music, which are central to the Dong people’s way of life.

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

Rongjiang is located in Southeast Guizhou, approximately 220 km southeast of Guiyang, the provincial capital. It can be reached by bus or taxi from Guiyang. Once in Rongjiang, you can explore the city on foot or by local transportation, including buses and taxis.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

There are no specific opening hours for the city or its cultural sites, as they are open to the public year-round. The best times to visit are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and the natural landscapes are at their best.

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

Entrance to most of the cultural attractions in Rongjiang, such as the Wind and Rain Bridges, is free. However, some specific cultural performances or guided tours may charge a fee. Tickets for performances or special tours can typically be purchased on-site or through local travel agencies.

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

Booking in advance is generally not necessary for visiting the city or its main attractions. However, if you plan to attend special events or performances, it’s advisable to book tickets a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore the main cultural sites in Rongjiang and experience the local culture, 1-2 days is sufficient. If you plan to hike in the surrounding areas or explore nearby villages, 2-3 days would be ideal.

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

• The Wind and Rain Bridges, which are iconic structures of Dong architecture.
• The Dong ethnic villages around Rongjiang, where visitors can see traditional wooden houses and engage with local people.
• Traditional Dong music performances, which offer a deep insight into the culture of the region.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer services in English. Audio guides may also be available in some sites, such as the Wind and Rain Bridges.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Wind and Rain Bridges are perfect for both daytime and sunset photography.
• From the nearby hills, you can capture panoramic views of Rongjiang and its surrounding landscape.
• Traditional Dong villages provide excellent photo opportunities with their distinctive architecture and scenic surroundings.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start with a visit to the Wind and Rain Bridges to admire their unique architecture.
• Explore the Dong ethnic villages to learn about the local culture and traditions.
• End the day with a traditional Dong music performance or cultural event.

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

There are no regular night visits or light shows in Rongjiang. However, some cultural performances or events may be held in the evening, particularly during festivals or special occasions.

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

Rongjiang is generally not crowded, but it can see more visitors during national holidays or festivals. The least crowded times are during the weekdays, especially outside of the summer and autumn peak seasons.

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

Basic facilities like toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available at most major attractions. You’ll also find shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs in and around the town center.

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

Rongjiang is relatively accessible for elderly and children, especially in the town center and main attractions. However, some rural villages and mountainous areas may not be as suitable for disabled visitors due to uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in Rongjiang, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in most tourist areas, shops, and restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a number of local restaurants offering Guizhou specialties like rice noodles and sour-spicy dishes. You’ll also find cafes serving local snacks and drinks in the town center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in restaurants that cater to local tastes. Halal food options may be available in some restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a variety of accommodations in Rongjiang, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. For more luxury accommodations, you may need to stay in Guiyang and travel to Rongjiang for the day.

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

Nearby attractions include the Basha Miao village, known for its preserved Miao traditions, and the Zhenyuan Ancient Town, which features traditional architecture and scenic river views.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Rongjiang offer traditional Dong handicrafts, such as embroidered textiles, pottery, and silver jewelry. You can also find unique items like Dong musical instruments and ethnic clothing.

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

From Rongjiang, buses and taxis can take you to other parts of Guizhou, including the provincial capital, Guiyang. There are also long-distance buses available for travel to nearby regions.