The ancient Chengyang Eight Villages.
Attraction: Chengyang Eight Villages
Address: Chengyang Eight Villages Scenic Area, Sanjiang Dong Autonomous County, Liuzhou, Guangxi
Duration: Half a day to 1 day
Food: Try the local tea oil noodles for breakfast, which are refreshing and not greasy. For dinner, try the Hundred Family Banquet, CNY 80 per person, including a show.
*In this fast-paced modern life, we are often troubled by various busyness and noise. Perhaps we should slow down and let the quiet beauty of nature nourish our hearts.
*Enter the ancient and mysterious Chengyang Eight Villages architectural complex. The century-old Chengyang Eight Villages Yongji Bridge has carved deep wrinkles with its weathered hands, witnessing the changes of the Dong villages over the millennia.
*For transportation, you can choose to drive yourself, as the road conditions are excellent. You can also take a high-speed train directly to Sanjiang South Station, then transfer to a ride-hailing service or bus. Once you enter the scenic area, there is also a convenient sightseeing bus service to help you easily explore the villages.
*Chengyang Eight Villages is composed of eight villages. If you are short on time, you can choose Yan Village, Ping Village, and Ma'an Village. The other villages are relatively remote and have fewer highlights.
*Route 1: It is recommended to start from Chengyang Yongji Bridge, which is the gateway to the villages. If you're lucky, you can join a tour group and enjoy wonderful performances, including ethnic performances, band performances, and mountain song duets, allowing you to deeply experience the unique charm of Dong culture. If there are not many tourists, you may not have such a good opportunity. But don't worry, there are eye-catching signs along the way, just follow them.
*Route 2: If you are staying in a homestay in the village, start from the attraction closest to you and explore in one direction. This way, you can visit all the fun spots.
*Must-see attractions:
1. Lainu Pavilion: It only takes 15 minutes to reach the top. It is the best viewing point in Chengyang Eight Villages, even better than Tingye Pavilion.
2. Yan Village Water Street: Take photos on the steps next to Wanshou Bridge and capture the most beautiful moments at the bridgehead.
3. Chengyang Yongji Bridge: The bridge is suitable for taking detailed photos. If you want to take panoramic photos, the field area under the bridge is the best location.
4. Ma'an Village Wharf: You can take photos of beautiful women walking across the bridge from the high point at the bridgehead.
5. Next to the century-old house, there is a skilled old bamboo craftsman. His craftsmanship is full of ethnic characteristics. Feel free to chat with him and experience the enthusiasm of the locals.
6. Dong Painting Gallery: Dong paintings are rich in color and innovative in design, perfectly showcasing the local folk customs.
7. Wooden Structure Museum: Here, you can see the woodworking skills of the Dong people. The Wind and Rain Bridge, Drum Tower, and other structures are exquisite masterpieces. The top floor of the museum is also a viewing point in Yan Village.
*In Chengyang Eight Villages, you can not only enjoy the beautiful natural scenery but also taste authentic Dong cuisine. Special dishes such as oil tea and the Hundred Family Banquet are not only delicious but also full of local characteristics.
*Photo spots, such as the Wind and Rain Bridge, Drum Tower, and terraces, allow you to capture beautiful moments. Don't forget to interact with the locals. Their hospitality will bring you more surprises.
*Travel tips:
1. You need to buy a sightseeing bus ticket to enter the village, CNY 15 per person.
2. If you want to participate in the Hundred Family Banquet, ask in advance if the place you are staying has arranged any activities.
*If you haven't been to Sanjiang Chengyang Eight Villages, I recommend you visit. It's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle and find peace and harmony.