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The scenic area is located at the confluence of Xiche River and Dianfang River in Miaoertan Town, Longshan County, 75 kilometers north of Longshan County. It consists of three Tujia villages: Pengjiazhai and Rebala in Laochehe Village, and Liangjiazhai in Liangjia Village.
"Rebala" is a Tujia name for Laochehe Village, and the name is a Tujia place name. It means "a beautiful place seen on a beautiful road." Rebala is also known as the "First Tujia Village of Wuling."
The scenic area's main attractions are concentrated in Laochehe Village, where Tujia ethnicity accounts for 95% of the residents. This place boasts a long and rich history and rich cultural heritage. In 2010, Neolithic cultural relics were discovered on the banks of Laochehe River, revealing artifacts such as stone axes and pottery wheelbarrows, indicating human activity there as far back as 8,000 to 9,000 years ago.
Along the Laoche River, towering ancient trees and stilt-roofed wooden buildings stand side by side, nestled amidst lush greenery, creating a scene reminiscent of a paradise. The pristine natural ecology, indigenous ethnic culture, and pristine historical relics blend harmoniously into a vivid canvas.
Subtropical mountain prototype monsoon humid climate, spring, summer and autumn are the best times to travel
1-2 days
free
All day
Rebala is a cultural and historical site located in the Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture. The area is significant for its preservation of the Tujia and Miao ethnic cultures, including traditional wooden architecture, unique customs, and festivals. It provides visitors with insight into the lifestyles and traditions of these indigenous peoples.
Rebala is located in the Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in Hunan Province, China. The best way to reach Rebala is by bus or taxi from Zhangjiajie, the nearest major city. Public transportation options may be limited, so renting a car or hiring a taxi is recommended for convenience.
Rebala is open year-round. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful. Avoid the summer months, which can be crowded with tourists. Festivals held in the spring and autumn also offer a chance to experience local cultural performances.
There is no general entrance fee to visit Rebala, but some attractions, such as certain cultural performances or private tours, may require tickets. Tickets for specific attractions can be purchased on-site or through local tour operators. It’s recommended to check for tour packages that include access to multiple sites in the region.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary for general visits. However, for popular tours or during peak seasons, it is advisable to book at least 1-2 days in advance to secure a spot, especially for boat tours or cultural shows.
A visit to Rebala typically takes 3-4 hours, including time to explore the village, enjoy the local culture, and take a boat ride on the river. If you're interested in participating in cultural festivals or extended tours, you may want to allocate a full day.
Guided tours are available and are usually offered in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it's recommended to book in advance if you need one. Audio guides are not commonly available in languages other than Mandarin.
Start your visit by exploring the Rebala Ancient Village, walking through its narrow streets and appreciating the traditional architecture. Then, take a scenic boat ride along the river to admire the natural surroundings. End your visit by attending a cultural performance or exploring local handicraft workshops.
Night visits are possible, particularly if there is a cultural performance or festival in the evening. Special tours, such as evening boat rides or night-time visits to the village, can be arranged, but they are typically not available year-round.
Rebala can become crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially during the summer and Chinese New Year holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays or during the off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or early spring.
Basic facilities are available in and around Rebala, including public toilets, rest areas, and food stalls offering local snacks. However, there are limited shops selling souvenirs and more substantial meals. For a more diverse food selection, you may need to travel to nearby towns.
Rebala is generally accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths and easy access to most attractions. However, some of the rural paths and the boat ride may be challenging for disabled visitors. It's recommended to contact local authorities for specific accessibility information.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in rural areas. Mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in the area. Credit cards are rarely accepted, so it's advisable to carry cash or use mobile payments for convenience.
There are a few small cafes and restaurants within Rebala offering traditional local dishes. For more variety, you can head to the nearby towns in Xiangxi Prefecture for a broader selection of eateries.
Vegetarian food options are available, particularly in the local vegetarian dishes typical of Tujia and Miao cuisine. Halal food options may be limited, so it's recommended to check with restaurants in advance if you have specific dietary needs.
There are limited accommodation options directly in Rebala, but nearby towns offer a variety of hotels, from budget guesthouses to more comfortable mid-range options. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in and around Rebala, selling local crafts such as handwoven fabrics, wooden carvings, and embroidered textiles. Traditional Tujia and Miao handicrafts make for popular souvenirs.
