Unilever.edu.vn invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey to Xijiang Miao Village (Thiên Hộ Miêu Trại), one of the most enchanting destinations in China. Nestled in the heart of Guizhou province, this quaint village boasts an extraordinary history, mesmerizing landscapes, and a rich cultural tapestry that reflects the heritage of the Miao people. But what makes Xijiang Miao Village truly special? Let’s dive deeper into this captivating locale!
A Historical Overview of Xijiang Miao Village
Xijiang Miao Village, also known as Thiên Hộ Miêu Trại, is a picturesque village with a history stretching back over a thousand years. It is home to nearly 6,000 residents, predominantly from the Miao ethnic group, which constitutes about 99% of the population. Recognized as the largest Miao village in the world, Xijiang serves as a vibrant representation of the unique traditions and culture of the Miao people.
Xijiang Miao Village in Guizhou, China
Over 40 years ago, Xijiang was a humble village, but a wave of transformation began in 1982 when China opened its doors to economic development. The provincial government recognized the village’s tourism potential and began to promote it as a leading travel destination. Today, Xijiang Miao Village attracts visitors from around the globe seeking to experience the tranquil lifestyle far removed from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
The defining feature of this charming village is its more than 1,200 wooden houses, meticulously constructed without any nails or pegs. These structures are built along the mountainside, facing the Baishui River, creating a breathtaking view where the earthy tones of wood blend harmoniously with the lush green mountains. As night falls, the village illuminates, transforming into a mesmerizing sight reminiscent of a living painting.
Xijiang Miao Village is not just a tourism hotspot; it is a dynamic space that preserves and celebrates the cultural values and traditions of the Miao people. When visiting this idyllic location, travelers can immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty and delve into the rich history, culture, and customs of the Miao community.
Stunning Landscapes in Xijiang Miao Village
Unique Stilt House Architecture
A highlight of Xijiang Miao Village is undoubtedly its unique stilt houses, locally referred to as “Diao Jiao Lou.” These stunning wooden structures are typically built into the steep mountainsides with gradients ranging from 30 to 70 degrees, creating a dramatic landscape. Remarkably, these architectural marvels do not employ nails or pegs in their construction.
Each stilt house generally comprises three levels, each serving its distinct purpose:
- Level 1: Used for storing tools and fertilizer, as well as housing poultry and livestock.
- Level 2: Comprises living spaces, including a living room, bedrooms, and kitchen, with special areas for relaxation and embroidery.
- Level 3: Primarily functions as storage for grains, fodder, and various household items. Many of these houses have been repurposed into businesses and guesthouses, catering to the growing number of tourists. Notably, some of the older homes, dating back over 1,700 years, are regarded as valuable cultural heritage.
Unique wooden stilt houses in Xijiang Miao Village
The Phong Vu Bridge
Xijiang Miao Village features several Phong Vu bridges designed to enhance the “feng shui” of the area while providing convenience to residents. Here, visitors can take a moment to rest at the base of these bridges and admire the intricate designs. There are six consecutive Phong Vu bridges spanning the Baishui River, numbered from 1 to 6, with the first bridge being the most prominent. Originally wooden, these bridges have since been rebuilt with a mix of concrete and wood, and all visitors must traverse at least one of the bridges upon their arrival.
Phong Vu Bridge glowing under the night sky
Breathtaking Views of the Village
When visiting Xijiang Miao Village, don’t miss the opportunity to capture its stunning panoramic views, both by day and night. There are observation platforms on the hills opposite the village where you can take a cable car to reach. From these vantage points, you will be treated to a picturesque tableau of the serene countryside during the day. As night descends and the houses are illuminated, the village sparkles like stars suspended in the sky. The Phong Vu bridges glisten romantically across the Baishui River, reminiscent of fireflies dotting the vast landscape.
Stunning panoramic view of Xijiang Miao Village
Picturesque Rural Scenery
Xijiang Miao Village is nestled against Mount Longgong and surrounded by expansive rice fields, enhancing the village’s allure and picturesque charm. The tranquil fields juxtaposed with the lively village atmosphere offer diverse experiences for visitors. You will find that exploring both the quiet agricultural surroundings and the bustling village brings forth a unique emotional experience.
Breathtaking rural scenery surrounding Xijiang Miao Village
Unique Experiences to Enjoy in Xijiang Miao Village
Miao Ethnic Cultural Performances
As you set foot in Xijiang Miao Village, you’ll be immersed in the various facets of Miao culture, such as:
- A traditional welcoming ceremony with a respected elder offering a toast at the northern village entrance.
- Miao singing performances held at the Phong Vu Bridge number 2 around 11:30 AM.
- Lusheng (a kind of bamboo musical instrument) performances at the old Lusheng Square.
- Batik shows showcasing the intricate art and skill of Miao textile traditions.
- Traditional songs sung by the elderly at the Dong Cổ Lusheng Square.
- Cockfighting and bird dance contests during market days.
The Long Table Feast
With a history spanning thousands of years, the Long Table Feast is a cherished ritual for important occasions such as weddings, childbirth celebrations, and village meetings. At the feast, the host sits on the left side, while the guests sit on the right. The host raises a toast to celebrate the guests and welcomes them with delightful songs. Visiting Xijiang Miao Village presents a rare opportunity to partake in this communal feast alongside hundreds of attendees. Expect an array of delectable local dishes, including Thịt Tráng Ki, Thịt Muối, Gà Xắt, Cá Hầm Chua, and Đậu Phụ Thanh Miện, among others.
Miao Ethnic Festivals
Noteworthy Miao festivals include:
- The Guzang Festival: The largest ancestral worship ceremony of the Miao ethnic group. The smaller Guzang Festival occurs annually at the start of spring and late fall, while the larger Guzang Festival takes place every 13 years, featuring significant ancestral rites, traditional Lusheng dance, and even bullfighting. The Guzang festival can last for 5 to 9 days.
- Other Festivals: Besides the Guzang Festival, Xijiang hosts other vibrant festivities such as the Miao New Year (September to November), the New Rice Festival (June to July), and the Lusheng Festival (January to March).
Visitor Information for Xijiang Miao Village
Best Time to Visit
Xijiang Miao Village enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate, making it a year-round travel destination with mild and humid weather. Average temperatures range from 13.6°C to 16.2°C, perfect for relaxation. July is the warmest month at around 25°C, while January is the coolest with an average temperature of 4.6°C. Rainfall in Kaili is relatively frequent, so visitors should bring layered clothing and an umbrella regardless of the season.
The ideal time for travel also depends on personal preferences. To avoid crowds, consider steering clear of peak seasons like the first week of May and October. For photography enthusiasts, the best time is from late September to mid-October to capture the stunning autumn harvest or January and the months that follow to snap the vibrant festival images. Spring is fabulous for hiking as wildflowers bloom, while autumn showcases picturesque countryside landscapes adorned in golden foliage.
How to Get to Xijiang Miao Village
Embarking on your adventure to Xijiang Miao Village is a colorful cultural experience. To start, ensure you have a Chinese visa; this is essential as a regular passport won’t suffice for entry. Here are some transportation options compiled by MIA.vn:
- By Car: From Vietnam, head to the Huu Nghi border in Lang Son. The drive takes about 8 hours, covering approximately 780–800 km to Guizhou. This option suits those who prefer to explore at their own pace.
- High-Speed Train: Another option is to travel from Huu Nghi to Bang Tuong (15 km by car) before continuing to Nanning for about 2 hours, then taking a high-speed train to Tam Do in Guizhou, which will take around 4 hours and 52 minutes. A taxi from Tam Do station will take roughly an hour and a half to reach Xijiang Miao Village.
- By Air: There are two airports near Xijiang Miao Village. Kaili Huangping Airport is around 100 km away, while Guiyang Airport, further afield, has more flight options. Depending on your schedule and budget, you can choose the airport that best fits your needs.
Xijiang Miao Village is an attractive destination for those looking to explore cultural heritage and experience stunning natural beauty. With the insights shared in this article, we hope your journey to Xijiang Miao Village will be perfect and memorable. Stay tuned to Unilever.edu.vn for more exciting destinations!
