Tucked into the karst-riddled countryside of western Hunan Province, Dehang is a popular destination for domestic tourists. There is plenty for international visitors as well, including exploring the Miao minority village or trekking through the backcountry.
Portions of the village feel a bit artificial, a byproduct of increased domestic tourism. Even so, visitors don’t have to wander far to find the authentic historic quarters where life continues as it has for centuries. Jielong Bridge is a good place to start, where elderly Miao people weave baskets, mill cotton and lead their livestock to pasture.
Directly outside of town is the nature preserve, where the landscape gives way to majestic peaks and forested crags. The opportunity for photographs here is second to none, especially on days when the low-lying clouds roll in like a fog. Some of the karst structures out here are flanked by terraced rice fields.
Getting There & Away
Jishou is the local gateway to Dehang, a prominent transport hub just south of the city. Minibuses and hire cars can make it to Dehang in less than an hour. From Jishou, passengers can travel on to Changsha by rail (8 hours) to make use of the international airport.
Things to Do
Dehang Attractions
- Liusha Waterfall
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Dropping 700 feet, this picturesque waterfall can be reached on foot from the city center in about an hour.
- Tianwen Tai
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Another waterfall, this one boasts a high viewing platform that affords an excellent view over the karst limestone formations.
- Trekking
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Dehang is a popular staging ground for treks in to the countryside, which is riddled with limestone cliffs that can be hiked, climbed or simply admired from afar.