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Gaozeng Dong Village is a renowned Dong village in Guizhou. With a history of over 600 years, it boasts three drum towers, one each for the Shangzhai, the other for the Xiazhai, and the Bazhai. Maintaining its pristine local customs, a towering drum tower stands in the village's center, while an exquisite wind and rain bridge borders the village. The village boasts a picturesque setting, with a clear stream flowing gently alongside. The flower bridge, drum tower, ancient banyan trees, and stilt houses complement each other, creating a picturesque scene. Known as the "Land of Beauties," it is also known as the home of Dong folk songs.
It belongs to the mid-subtropical warm type;
Summer is a good place to escape the heat
To visit the Drum Tower and other attractions in Gaozeng, you need to buy a ticket for 6 yuan
All day
Gaozeng Dong Village is a traditional Dong ethnic minority village in Southeast Guizhou, known for preserving authentic Dong culture, architecture, and customs. It is significant for cultural tourism and heritage preservation, showcasing the lifestyle and artistry of the Dong people.
The village is located in Southeast Guizhou province. Visitors can reach Gaozeng Dong Village by bus or taxi from nearby cities such as Kaili or Rongjiang. Private car hire is also common. Walking around the village is recommended to fully experience its charm.
The village is open year-round. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild, and the surrounding landscapes, including terraced fields, are most picturesque.
The entrance fee is typically modest, around CNY 30–50 per person. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site. Some travel agencies or local tourism websites may offer online booking options.
Advance booking is generally not required for casual visits. For organized tours or large group visits, booking a few days in advance is recommended.
2–3 hours are sufficient to explore the main village area and nearby scenic spots. If you plan to participate in workshops or cultural performances, allow half a day.
Local guides are available in Mandarin and occasionally in English. Audio guides are uncommon; hiring a local guide is recommended for cultural insights.
Start at the village entrance, visit the drum tower and stilt houses, walk through the main alleys, participate in craft workshops, and finish with a hike to nearby scenic fields for panoramic views.
Night visits are limited; some villages occasionally host cultural performances in the evening. Light shows are generally not available.
The village is usually quiet, especially on weekdays. Weekends and national holidays may see more tourists.
Basic facilities are available including public toilets and small local eateries. Some souvenir shops and rest areas are present near the main village square.
The village has uneven paths and stairs, which may be challenging for disabled visitors or elderly people. Children can explore safely under supervision.
Cash is preferred, though mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay may be accepted at some shops and restaurants.
Small local eateries serve traditional Dong cuisine. Visitors can find noodle dishes, rice-based meals, and snacks. Nearby towns offer more dining options.
Vegetarian options are limited but available at some local restaurants. Halal options are rare.
Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, embroidered textiles, wooden carvings, and traditional Dong musical instruments.
Travelers can take local buses or taxis to nearby towns or return to major cities like Kaili or Rongjiang. Private car hire is also convenient for exploring multiple villages in the region.
