Encountering Zhaoxing Dong Village – Rediscovering the Romance of Slow Life Among Drum Towers and Terraced Fields

🌿 Zhaoxing Dong Village Travel Guide: Exploring the Millennial Secrets of Southeast Guizhou Zhaoxing Dong Village, hailed as the "First Village of the Dong People," is a sparkling gem in Southeast Guizhou. Here, drum towers stand tall, wind-and-rain bridges span the streams, and the rich Dong culture blends seamlessly with picturesque landscapes. Whether you're escaping urban chaos or seeking authentic ethnic experiences, Zhaoxing Dong Village is an ideal destination. 📅 Best Time to Visit - Spring & Autumn (March-May, September-November): Pleasant weather; March brings blooming rapeseed flowers, while September paints the terraces golden. - Summer (June-August): Cool but rainy, perfect for summer retreats. Post-rain mist creates a fairy-tale ambiance. - Winter (December-February): Experience Dong New Year festivities and unique folk activities. 🚆 Transportation Guide - High-Speed Rail: Take a train from Guiyang North Station to Congjiang Station (~1.5 hours), then transfer to a shuttle bus (¥10/person, 15 minutes) to the village. - Self-Drive: Navigate to Zhaoxing Dong Village Scenic Area. Park and take a sightseeing shuttle into the village (parking fee: ¥30/day). 🎫 Ticket Information - Adult: ¥78 (free during certain periods). - Discounts: Free for children, seniors over 65, teachers, and medical workers. 🏞️ Must-Visit Attractions 1. Drum Tower Cluster (Ren, Yi, Li, Zhi, Xin): The soul of the village, lit up like a fairy tale at night. 2. Wind-and-Rain Bridge: A social hub for locals and a photogenic spot. 3. Viewing Platform: Panoramic vistas of the village, stunning at sunrise, sunset, and night. 4. Tang’an Terraces: 7 km from Zhaoxing, accessible by hike or car, offering poetic scenery. 5. Dong Grand Song Performance: Nightly at 8 PM in Xin Drum Tower—a mesmerizing polyphonic choir without instruments. 🍜 Local Delicacies - Sour Fish Soup: A Guizhou classic—tangy, spicy, and tender. - Crispy Pork: A signature dish, crispy outside and juicy inside. - Glutinous Rice-Wrapped BBQ: Charcoal-grilled meat wrapped in fragrant sticky rice. - Oil Tea: A traditional Dong beverage with roasted rice and peanuts, warming and nourishing. 🏡 Accommodation Picks - In Zhaoxing: - Guge Secret Homestay: Stilt-house design facing terraces. - Riverside Zhaoxing Hotel: Stunning riverside night views. - In Tang’an: - Dongyunju: Ideal for tranquility, with sunrise views over terraces. 🎨 Unique Experiences - Batik/Tie-Dye: Craft blue-and-white Dong textiles at "Jiajie Batik" shop. - Dong Costume Rental: Dress in traditional attire (¥30-50/set) for photos. - Tang’an Ancient Trail Hike: A 3-hour trek through terraces and ancient villages. 📌 Tips - Clothing: Layers for spring/autumn, sun/rain protection for summer, warmth for winter. Comfortable shoes are a must. - Bug & Sun Protection: Pack repellent and sunscreen for mountain terrain. - Cash: Some small shops don’t accept e-payments; carry small bills. Zhaoxing Dong Village is where time slows down—whether stoning cobbled paths or listening to elders chat under drum towers, you’ll feel the purest Dong lifestyle. If you crave a back-to-basics journey, this place won’t disappoint! ✨ Zhaoxing Dong Village