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Visit the Congjiang Drum Tower, enjoy its traditional architecture, and take photos of its stunning design. Experience the local culture by participating in or watching ethnic performances, and explore the surrounding villages for a glimpse of the Miao culture.
Zengchong Drum Tower, located in Wangdong Town, 82 kilometers northwest of Congjiang County, Qiandongnan Prefecture, was built in 1672 (the 11th year of the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty). Covering an area of 160 square meters, it is the oldest, largest, and best-preserved Dong ethnic drum tower in Guizhou Province. This unique Dong folk architecture serves as a venue for important activities such as gatherings to discuss matters, resolve disputes, welcome and see off guests, sing duets, and perform sheng (sheng) music.
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.
When there is something to discuss in the village or when there is a festival, the big leather drum is beaten and the villagers gather in the drum tower to listen to the elders' orders. On weekdays, the drum tower hall is a public place for leisure.
Zengchong Village, surrounded by mountains on three sides and streams, is a representative example of a Dong village. Its drum tower, stage, flower bridge, and surrounding stilt houses are picturesque and beautiful.
free
All day
The Congjiang Drum Tower is an iconic structure of the Miao people, designed to serve as a gathering place for rituals and celebrations. It symbolizes the region's cultural heritage and plays an important role in the community’s social and cultural life.
The Congjiang Drum Tower is located in Congjiang County, Guizhou Province. It can be reached by taxi or bus from Congjiang town, and walking is possible once you are within the vicinity of the tower.
The Congjiang Drum Tower is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the area is less crowded.
The entrance fee for visiting the Congjiang Drum Tower is around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance of the tower, or in some cases, online through local tourism platforms.
Advanced booking is not required for regular visits. However, during peak tourist seasons or special events, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance online, ideally a day or two before your visit.
You will need around 1-2 hours to fully explore the Congjiang Drum Tower and its surroundings, including time for photography and experiencing any cultural performances.
The main highlight is the Drum Tower itself, with its intricate wooden architecture. Be sure to explore the viewing platforms for panoramic views of the village and surrounding areas. The nearby Miao cultural exhibits and local handicraft stalls are also worth visiting.
Guided tours are available, usually in Mandarin. Some guides may offer services in basic English, but it’s advisable to arrange for an English-speaking guide in advance if needed. Audio guides are not commonly available.
The best photography spots are from the top of the Drum Tower, where you can capture sweeping views of the surrounding village and mountains. The intricate wooden carvings of the tower are also great for close-up shots.
Start by exploring the exterior and taking photos of the Drum Tower. Then, head to the surrounding village for a deeper look at local life and culture. If possible, try to catch a traditional Miao performance or event.
Night visits are not commonly offered, but the tower may be illuminated in the evening, providing a great opportunity for night-time photography. Special cultural tours may be available during festival periods.
The Congjiang Drum Tower can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The best time to visit with fewer crowds is during weekdays, especially in the morning hours.
There are basic facilities such as toilets near the entrance. Local food stalls sell snacks, and nearby shops offer souvenirs and local crafts. Rest areas are also available for visitors to take breaks.
The Drum Tower and its surroundings are accessible to children and elderly visitors, though there may be some stairs. Disabled accessibility might be limited due to the structure’s historical design.
Cash is widely accepted, and mobile payments through platforms like Alipay or WeChat Pay are also common in the area. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller shops or food stalls.
There are small local eateries around the Drum Tower where you can try traditional Guizhou food such as sour fish soup and rice noodles. For a more extensive range, head to the nearby town of Congjiang.
Vegetarian options are available in some local restaurants, though they may be limited. Vegan or halal food options are less common, so it’s advisable to check with restaurants before ordering.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels in Congjiang town, which is about a 10-minute drive from the Drum Tower. For more variety, you can find mid-range to luxury hotels in larger towns nearby.
Nearby attractions include the Miao villages in the region and the Congjiang Ethnic Cultural Museum. You can also visit the scenic areas of the Libo Forest and the Guizhou karst formations.
Yes, there are souvenir shops around the Congjiang Drum Tower selling local Miao handicrafts, traditional textiles, embroidery, and musical instruments. Local tea and snacks are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting, taxis or local buses can take you to nearby towns or attractions. For longer trips, Congjiang’s bus station offers connections to major cities like Kaili and Guiyang.
