After spending a couple of days in the wonderful Huangguoshu Waterfall, we wanted to see an authentic Chinese village. That’s why we went to Xijiang, the biggest Miao village in the country.
Granted, most of the buildings in Xijiang are new. However, the village is absolutely beautiful and authentic. Historic buildings dot the village, the hills are amazing, the river is full of life, and the locals are fantastic.
We spent our days walking, eating delicious food, and hanging along the river. What we liked the most were the people: traditional, open, and great hosts. Visit Xijiang, immerse yourself in Chinese culture, and enjoy a gorgeous town.
How to Get
From the city of Guiyang take the high-speed 30-to-40-minute train to Kaili South Train Station (Kailinan). There are fast trains to this station from other major cities too.
In Kaili South, hop on the direct tourist coach (1 hour) or take a taxi to the Xijiang Scenic Area entrance.
If you are in Kaili City Center, take local bus No. 1 or a taxi to the Kaili General Bus Station where you can catch a direct bus to Xijiang.
Once at the Xijiang Scenic Area, purchase your entrance ticket and take a sightseeing bus to the village. It’s included in the ticket.
Where to Stay
Since we traveled in low season and had no booking, we walked along the river and found a nice place. We don’t recommend doing this in high season, as hotels may be fully booked.
We stayed at the wonderful Seven Letters Preface Hotel Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village. Our room had a super comfy bed and splendid views over the hills and the village.
Another great option is the Jianxiyan Hot Spring Panorama Hotel. It has a heated pool and a deck with incredible views. The best rooms are huge and come with a tub!
Things to Do
Walk along the Streets of the Old Town
Beautiful wooden buildings line the main street (Youfang), next to the river. There are restaurants, shops, and coffee houses. All you have to do is walk, and rest whenever you feel like it.
Go up the Ancient Street. Be sure to check the aisles and small streets. Each and every single one is interesting. You will see big wooden structures that serve as halls for people to meet.
Notice the locals drying their products and going on with their every daily lives. People dance together in the afternoons. Walking at night is mandatory. Xijiang looks beautiful illuminated.
Dwell on a Historic Bridge
We loved the bridges that cross the river. There are several. You have to cross every single one of them. Don’t rush: stop, listen to the water flow and admire the views.
To be honest, we couldn’t tell which bridges were ancient and which were not. All are beautiful wooden structures. You will see locals crossing with their products.
Chinese tourists from all over the country dress up in traditional costumes and take pictures next to the bridges. You can do so too! Again, checkout the bridges at night.
Visit the Rice Fields
If you keep walking to the end of the village you will reach the rice fields. We loved them! Though not a big area, the rice fields are authentic and alive.
Besides, since there are not that many buildings the area is open and offers great views of the surrounding hills. You can walk along the fields through dirt paths and wooden planks.
Notice the adorable ducks swimming in the water. There are some restaurants and coffee houses that overlook the fields. Sit down and enjoy!
Enjoy the View from the Top of the Hill
We went all the way to the top of the hill and had a great time. Buses take you half way along the hill and to the top.
The area on top of the hill seemed to us newer. The hotels are bigger too and made of concrete. However, the views will take your breath away.
When we went, the cable car wasn’t working. We walked until we found a restaurant with epic views and had a delicious lunch. Then we took the bus down to the town.
See a Live Performance
The town’s main square (Lusheng Ground) is on the Ancient Street, close to the river. When we first saw it, the big plaza was empty. Then the show started. We sat down and watched a traditional Miao show.
Granted, we didn’t understand a thing, but we didn’t have to. Local people dressed in beautiful costumes danced to the tune of traditional music.
We also watched a show at night while eating at a restaurant overlooking the river. The locals and Chinese tourists invited us for a drink and a laugh. See? We told you, our hosts were fantastic.
Visit the Local Museum
To be fully honest, the Xijiang Miao Nationality Museum is nothing special. However, we liked the big wooden house and we did learn a bit about Miao culture. The original photographs were cool too.
The museum is near the main plaza; you can’t miss it. Since its free and small, it’s worth your time. Besides, the second floor offers memorable views from its wooden windows.
Try Delicious Local Food
The food in Xijiang was another highlight. Our favorite dishes were the Bamboo Tube Rice and the Black Pork Skewers. The rice was delicious too. We never had a problem ordering food.
All we had to do was point at a dish someone else was eating! People were so nice, that they happily shared info with us. They also shared the local Miao Rice Wine with us. Thanks!
Notice the Long Table Banquet. It’s a traditional dining experience where dozens of tables are lined up end to end. The array of local delicacies will blow your mind.
