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Explore the Drum Hall's unique architecture, enjoy local cultural performances, and learn about the traditions of the Miao people. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in local rituals or traditional drum performances.
In Xijiang, there is a grand festival for ancestor worship, which is held every thirteen years and is commonly known as the "Guzang Festival."
The Miao people's "sacred object" - the bronze drum - is enshrined in the Guzang Hall.
This was where the Miao people’s sacrificial masters lived in the past. The profession of “sacrifice” was hereditary, and they specialized in the Miao people’s ancestor worship and blessing activities. This activity was called “Gu Zang Festival”, which is one of my country’s intangible cultural heritage projects.
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.
free
The Drum Hall is a traditional Miao structure, serving both as a community gathering place and a place for celebrations. It holds cultural significance, symbolizing unity and the spirit of the Miao people.
The Drum Hall is located in Southeast Guizhou. You can reach it by taxi or bus from nearby towns. Walking is possible once you are in the area.
The Drum Hall is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists.
The entrance fee is generally around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be bought on-site, and in some cases, you may be able to purchase them online through local tourism websites.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually required, except during peak tourist seasons or special events. It’s recommended to book a day or two in advance during such times.
You can fully explore the Drum Hall and its surroundings in about 1-1.5 hours, including time for photography and cultural experiences.
The main highlight is the Drum Hall itself, with its distinct architecture and impressive drums. The surrounding cultural exhibits and performances are also worth experiencing.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may be available in English if prearranged. Audio guides are not commonly available, so hiring a local guide is recommended for a better understanding of the cultural context.
Great photography spots include the Drum Hall’s exterior, the surrounding scenic area, and views of the Miao village. The intricate carvings and drums are also ideal for close-up shots.
Start by exploring the Drum Hall’s exterior and architecture, then move inside to see the displays and watch any live performances. If possible, interact with local Miao people to learn about their traditions.
Night visits are not typically available, but the Drum Hall may be lit up in the evening, offering beautiful photography opportunities. Special cultural tours or performances may be available during certain festivals.
The Drum Hall is relatively less crowded on weekdays and in the early morning. The least crowded times are generally outside of the peak tourist seasons, which are during Chinese holidays or festivals.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are food stalls and small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs around the area.
The Drum Hall is accessible to elderly and children, though some stairs may be present. However, it may not be fully accessible for disabled visitors due to its traditional architectural design.
Cash is commonly accepted, and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely used. Credit card payments might not be available in smaller shops or food stalls.
There are a few local restaurants near the Drum Hall offering traditional Guizhou dishes such as rice noodles and sour fish soup. For more variety, you may need to head to nearby towns.
Vegetarian options are available in most local restaurants, though vegan and halal options may be more limited. It’s advisable to check with restaurants before ordering.
There are basic guesthouses and hotels in the nearby town of Congjiang. For more upscale accommodations, you can find hotels in larger towns like Kaili or Guiyang.
Nearby attractions include the Miao villages, the Congjiang Ethnic Cultural Museum, and scenic spots such as Libo Forest. These can all be visited as part of a day trip from the Drum Hall.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the Drum Hall selling local handicrafts, textiles, ethnic jewelry, and traditional musical instruments. Local snacks and tea are also popular souvenirs.
Taxis and local buses are the best options to continue your trip to nearby towns or attractions. For longer journeys, you can take buses from Congjiang to larger cities like Kaili or Guiyang.
