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At the Qiandongnan Prefecture Ethnic Museum, explore the rich cultural heritage of Guizhou's ethnic minorities. Discover traditional costumes, intricate handicrafts, and exhibits showcasing local customs and history. You can also enjoy cultural performances and learn about the customs and traditions of the Miao, Dong, and other ethnic groups.
Qiandongnan Prefecture National Museum has a unique architectural style. The central tower adopts the double-eaved style of the Dong ethnic group's drum tower, while the east and west towers adopt the stilt houses of the Miao ethnic group. The appearance emphasizes that Qiandongnan is the "hometown of Miao and Dong".
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.
The Drum Tower Exhibition Hall is on the first floor, and the exhibition halls are on the second and third floors. They consist of theme halls such as the "Southeast Guizhou Overview Hall", "Minority Customs Hall", "Minority Costumes Hall", "Dragon Boat Hall" and "Modern Folk Arts and Crafts Museum".
Free admission
Tuesday to Sunday 9:00-17:00 (last admission at 16:30). Monday is a closed day (holidays are postponed)
The Qiandongnan Prefecture Ethnic Museum was established to preserve and showcase the culture and traditions of the various ethnic minorities in the region, especially the Miao, Dong, and other indigenous groups. It plays a key role in educating the public about the rich diversity of Guizhou’s cultural heritage and fostering respect for these communities.
The museum is located in the Qiandongnan Prefecture, Southeast Guizhou. It can be accessed by taking a bus or taxi from the central area of the city of Kaili. There are no direct metro connections, so taxis or local buses are the most convenient transportation options.
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the morning, especially on weekdays, to avoid crowds and enjoy a more leisurely experience.
The entrance fee is typically around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the museum's ticket booth. It is advisable to check the museum's website for any special events or discounts that may be available.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary, but if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons or for special events, it is recommended to book at least a few days in advance through the museum's official website or by contacting the ticket office.
You will need approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum, depending on your interest in the exhibits and the pace at which you explore the collections.
Key highlights include the exhibition halls showcasing traditional clothing, textiles, and handicrafts, as well as displays about the unique cultures, festivals, and music of the ethnic minorities of Guizhou. Be sure to visit the cultural performance area if available.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some staff members may offer basic information in English. Audio guides are also available in Chinese, and you may request an English version if necessary.
Photography is allowed in the museum, and the best spots include the displays of traditional clothing and the outdoor areas showcasing ethnic architecture. The detailed craftsmanship on the exhibits makes for excellent photo opportunities.
Start by visiting the main exhibition halls featuring the different ethnic groups. Follow the cultural and historical timeline of the region, then head outdoors to explore the traditional structures and performances, if available. Finish by browsing the museum shop for souvenirs.
Night visits are not available at the museum. However, during specific cultural festivals, there may be special performances or events scheduled in the evenings. It's best to check with the museum ahead of your visit.
The museum can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit in the early morning on weekdays, especially during the off-season months from November to March.
The museum offers public toilets, a rest area, and a small gift shop selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. There are no full-service restaurants inside, but small snack stalls may be available.
Yes, the museum is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. The building is wheelchair-friendly, and there are elevators and ramps for easy access to all areas.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used at the museum for tickets and souvenirs. Credit cards may also be accepted at the gift shop.
There are a few local restaurants near the museum offering Guizhou specialties such as sour soup and rice noodles. For more dining options, visit Kaili city center, where a variety of restaurants and cafes are available.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants, particularly in Kaili. However, halal food options may be limited, so it's advisable to check with local restaurants ahead of time.
Nearby hotels include the Kaili International Hotel and the Miaojiang Hotel. Both are located within a short drive of the museum and offer comfortable accommodations for visitors.
Other nearby attractions include the Kaili Miao Ethnic Village and the Langde Miao Village. These can easily be combined with a trip to the museum for a full day of cultural exploration.
There is a souvenir shop at the museum selling handicrafts such as embroidered textiles, silver jewelry, and ethnic-style clothing. These make for unique gifts and souvenirs from your visit.
To continue your trip, the best options are taking a taxi or local bus to nearby villages or other cultural attractions. Taxis are readily available, and buses connect to Kaili city center and surrounding areas.
