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Experience the traditional Dong culture, explore the beautiful wooden architecture, visit the Wind and Rain Bridge, and participate in local cultural activities like traditional singing and dancing. Hiking in the surrounding countryside to see rice terraces and rivers is also highly recommended.
There are more than 500 households and more than 2,300 people in Dimenzhai Village, all of whom are Dong people. They live by the mountains and rivers. It is the most ancient and complete Dong village in the Dong area with the most representative ethnic customs and culture.
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.
Several Dong villages separated from Dimen would gather in Dimen from the 11th to the 15th day of the first lunar month every year to hold a grand ancestor worship ceremony. This has become a custom over the years, so this festival is called the "Qiansan Gathering Festival."
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All day
Dimen Dong Village is a picturesque village inhabited by the Dong people, an ethnic minority in Guizhou. The village is famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture, including the iconic Wind and Rain Bridge. It offers a glimpse into the Dong culture, particularly their architecture, clothing, and way of life.
Dimen Dong Village is located in the southeastern part of Guizhou Province. The nearest city is Kaili, from where you can take a bus or taxi to Dimen Village. The journey takes about 1.5 hours by car or bus from Kaili.
Dimen Dong Village is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. Visiting during festivals like the Dong New Year or the Spring Festival offers a chance to experience vibrant local celebrations.
There is a small entrance fee of around 20-30 RMB to enter the village. Tickets can be purchased on-site, though it is recommended to check in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not typically necessary, but it’s advisable during peak seasons like national holidays or festivals. Tickets can usually be booked 1-2 days in advance if needed.
You can explore Dimen Dong Village in about 2-3 hours, which includes walking through the village, visiting the Wind and Rain Bridge, and experiencing some local culture and scenery.
The must-see highlights include the Wind and Rain Bridge, the Dong-style wooden houses, and the local cultural exhibitions. The surrounding landscape with terraced rice fields is also a major draw.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, though it is advisable to arrange this in advance if needed. Audio guides may also be available in Chinese.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the Wind and Rain Bridge and from the surrounding hills, where you can capture panoramic views of the village and the terraced rice fields. The river flowing through the village also provides excellent photo opportunities.
Start by exploring the Wind and Rain Bridge and the nearby wooden houses. Walk through the village to see local life, then hike up to the surrounding hills for a view of the village and the rice terraces. If possible, visit a local home to learn about the Dong people's culture.
There are no light shows or night visits, but the village has a unique charm in the evening as you can experience local life and the tranquil atmosphere. Some cultural performances may be available in the evenings during festivals.
Dimen Dong Village can get crowded during Chinese public holidays and festivals. The least crowded times are weekdays outside of peak tourist seasons (summer and national holidays).
There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. Several local restaurants offer traditional Dong food, and there are small shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts.
The village's terrain can be uneven, and there are some stairs, particularly around the Wind and Rain Bridge. Elderly or disabled visitors may find it challenging to explore the entire village, but there are easier paths around the main areas.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in the village. Credit cards are not commonly accepted at smaller shops or food vendors.
There are local restaurants in the village offering traditional Dong cuisine, such as sour fish soup and rice dumplings. Several cafes near the entrance serve refreshments and light snacks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local restaurants, though they may be limited. Halal options are not widely available, so it is advisable to check with restaurants in advance.
There are several guesthouses and budget hotels in the area. For more luxurious options, Kaili, the nearest city, offers a wider selection of accommodations.
Nearby attractions include the Kaili Ethnic Minorities Museum, which showcases the culture of various ethnic groups in Guizhou, and the Miao villages in the region. Both can be easily visited in a day trip from Dimen Dong Village.
There are souvenir shops in the village selling local handicrafts, such as Dong-style embroidery, wooden carvings, and ethnic musical instruments. Local teas and spices are also popular souvenirs.
The best transportation options are to take a taxi or bus back to Kaili, where you can continue your trip to other destinations in Guizhou. Alternatively, there are buses and taxis to nearby villages and attractions.
