From 7100RMB / person
6 days
Mountain land and ethnic groups
Guizhou is the only Chinese province without flat land. Its karstic mountains have kept the local population more isolated for centuries, and the various ancient settlements evolved into different minority groups, all characterized by different habits, customs, festivals, sometimes dialects, architecture or clothing. According to the PRC official registration, 18 minority groups live in Guizhou (among 56 recognized all over the country), when the whole province covers only 2% of China's surface area. Imagine the diversity of a trip to Guizhou!
Visiting ethnic minorities
Guizhou province, still less-known and less visited than many other parts of China will strike you with a real air of authenticity while you witness the New Year celebrations in these remote villages. You'll discover the traditional crafts and techniques that make each of them special, but also enjoy the lusheng (a traditional music instrument) playing and young people's dances.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival in Guiyang, leave the big city to reach Qiandongnan, an area that stayed isolated for a long time and is home to many ethnic minorities. For several days you will discover local life and festivities in the villages you'll cross.
Itinerary
Day 1: February 18th Arrival to Guiyang – Huanggang
Upon your arrival at Guiyang airport, your driver will greet you and take you to Huanggang, an authentic Dong village, and learn about Dong people activities in this period of the year: the Bell Tower at the centre of the village is always filled with people and festivities.
Day 2: February 19th Huanggang - Xiaohuang - Huanggang (B)
Today, visit to the Dong villages of Xiaohuang; enjoy a Dong ethnic festival held in the village center under the Drum Tower: ancestor worship, polyphonic Dong chants, Lusheng (a traditional instrument) and dances. Afterwards, we will go back to Huanggang village.
Day 3: February 20th Huanggang - Congjiang - Zaidang (B)
During this day you will explore the villages of Congjang region, including attending a ghost festival in a Zhuang village. Activities take place within the village, such as bringing and guiding spirits through the village accompanied by Lusheng and dances. This ritual serves to ward off evil spirits and ensure favorable weather for the harvest in the coming months. Tonight you will stay at the Dong village of Zaidang.
Day 4: February 21st Zaidang - Xiaodanjiang (B)
After breakfast, leave Zaidang for Leli. On the road witness the Dong ethnic group’s round dance festival, featuring songs primarily intended to foster connections among young people. Tonight you’ll sleep in the Miao village of Xiaodanjiang.
Day 5: February 22nd Xiaodanjiang - Landong - Xiaodanjiang (B)
Today is your last day to enjoy the festival. You will attend the ancestor veneration in a Miao village, where villagers present offerings, play the Lusheng and dance to venerate their ancestors.
Day 6: February 23rd Xiaodanjiang – Guiyang Departure (B)
This morning, your driver will take you back to Guiyang airport (~210km, 5hrs drive). You’ll reach the airport, and it will be time to take your flight back home.
Information
Inclusions:
- 3* hotel with breakfast (B)
- Private driver
- English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees
- Meals
Exclusions:
- Visa
- International and domestic flights
- Personal expenses
- Tips to the driver and guide
- Insurance
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