Mysterious Xiangxi | Reba La, a Hidden Fairytale-like Ancient Village

#discoverchina
Xiangxi is full of mysterious and breathtaking places, and Reba La is one of those lesser-known gems that’s stunning beyond words.

As a child, I often heard stories about Xiangxi's culture from my elders—
Back then, I didn’t pay much attention,
But as I’ve grown older, I’ve found myself increasingly fascinated—
Maybe it’s in my blood. (My grandma’s family has four generations of Taoist priests, and my grandaunt is a local shaman.)

Even though Reba La is gaining a bit of popularity, it’s still quiet when you visit.
Even for someone from Xiangxi, it’s a jaw-dropping place—
“How can something so architecturally beautiful exist hidden deep in these mountains?”

Why You Should Visit Reba La
1. The name is poetic and mysterious
"Reba La" sounds like something out of a fantasy novel—
And in real life, it lives up to that magic.

2. Architectural wonderland
The village is built along the mountainside, shaded by ancient trees and lined with rows of stilted wooden houses.
Intricate carvings and rare architectural styles leave visitors in awe.
You’ll find structures like the Tuwang Palace, Baishou Hall, Sky Piercing Tower, Earth Cellar House, Corner Tower, and Lala Ferry, each full of cultural heritage and visual charm.

3. Peaceful, lush paradise
Compared to touristy sites, Reba La remains untouched and serene.
Three natural villages are connected by a wind-and-rain bridge over the Lao Che River,
Its flowing waters set the tone for this dreamy escape from the world.

4. Filming location for fantasy dramas
Reba La has been featured in numerous Chinese fantasy TV shows.
With its misty mountains and ancient pavilions, stepping into the village truly feels like entering another world
#thingstodo #travel