Live Your Best Lives
In Dali Dong Village, visitors can explore the traditional Dong ethnic architecture, enjoy the scenic countryside, and immerse themselves in local customs. It's also a great spot for photography, hiking, and experiencing local culture through folk songs and dances.
Dali Dong Village is located in Zaima Town, Rongjiang County, Guizhou Province, 25 kilometers from the county seat. The village has 246 households and 1,218 people, all of whom are 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 main attractions include the ancient stone road built in the 58th year of Emperor Qianlong's reign in the Qing Dynasty, the majestic Dong courtyard, the unique grain drying granary, and the five flower bridges (also called "wind and rain bridges", which, like the drum tower, are the iconic buildings of the Dong village) that are leisurely and successively built across the stream. It is said that these five flower bridges have a history of hundreds of years and have gone through vicissitudes of life, witnessing the history and honor and disgrace of Dali Dong Village.
free
All day
Dali Dong Village is famous for its preservation of Dong ethnic culture, with centuries-old wooden houses, drum towers, and wind and rain bridges. The village is an example of traditional Dong culture and is one of the few places where visitors can experience an unspoiled rural lifestyle in Guizhou.
The village is located in Southeast Guizhou, close to Kaili. The most convenient way to reach Dali Dong Village is by taxi or private car from Kaili, which is well connected by buses from Guiyang, the provincial capital. It is not directly accessible by metro.
Dali Dong Village is open year-round, with the best time to visit being in the spring or autumn, when the weather is mild. Summer can be hot, and winter may be too cold, so the months between April and October are ideal.
The entrance fee for the village is generally low, around 20-30 CNY per person. Tickets can typically be purchased on-site, but some tour operators may offer packages including transportation and local guides.
Tickets are not usually required in advance. However, if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons, it's advisable to book through a local tour agency or online platforms to avoid delays.
A visit to Dali Dong Village typically takes 2 to 3 hours. This allows time for exploring the village, taking photos, and enjoying the local atmosphere.
The main highlights include the traditional Dong-style drum tower, wind and rain bridges, and the local wooden architecture. Don’t miss the village square where local festivals and performances often take place.
Guided tours are available and often provided by local residents or hired guides. English-speaking guides may be available, but it's recommended to check in advance. Audio guides are typically not provided.
The best photography spots include the elevated views of the village from the drum tower and the picturesque landscape surrounding the village. The iconic wind and rain bridges are also great spots for photography.
Start by visiting the village square, where you can see traditional dances and music performances. Then, head towards the drum tower and wind and rain bridges. End the visit by walking around the village to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
There are no light shows or night visits specifically organized in Dali Dong Village. However, the village does host cultural performances during festivals, which may include traditional night performances.
The village can get crowded during public holidays or festivals. The best times to visit for a less crowded experience are on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities are available, including public toilets and small shops selling snacks and souvenirs. There are also a few local restaurants where you can try traditional Dong food.
The village is not particularly suited for those with mobility impairments due to its traditional architecture and uneven paths. However, elderly and children can explore most of the areas with some assistance.
Cash is preferred in Dali Dong Village, especially for small transactions. Mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, but credit cards are less commonly used.
There are small local eateries offering traditional Dong food, including rice dishes, pickled vegetables, and local meats. Most of these are located within the village or in nearby towns.
Vegetarian options are available in the form of rice, vegetables, and tofu dishes. Halal food is not widely available in the village, but there may be some options in nearby towns.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Kaili, which is about a 30-minute drive from Dali Dong Village. For a more authentic experience, staying in a local guesthouse within the village can be an option.
Nearby attractions include the Kaili Ethnology Museum, Xijiang Miao Village, and Leishan. These can all be easily visited in a day trip from Dali Dong Village.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops selling traditional Dong crafts, including woven textiles, wood carvings, and ethnic jewelry. You can also buy local snacks as souvenirs.
After visiting Dali Dong Village, taxis or buses are the most convenient transportation options to continue your trip. The village is located about 30 minutes from Kaili, where you can catch long-distance buses to other cities in Guizhou.
