Shidong is a Miao village in central Guizhou. While not a remarkable place, it makes a decent daytrip destination for those staying in the Guizhou capital, Guiyang, and is accessible part way by the Guiyang-Chongqing Expressway.
Shidong is all about festivals and the locals love to celebrate. The Sister’s Rice Festival and the Dragon-canoe Festival are two of the most popular. Buses provide the only public transport to Shidong, with daily departures from Guiyang.
The sizeable Shidong market occupies most of the town, as well as part of the riverside, and is the main draw here. Visitors can pick up all types of items such as silk sheets, batiks and hats.
Getting There & Away
Shidong is best reached by public bus direct from Guiyang. It is a good 50kms - half along the along the Guiyang-Chongqing Expressway and half along a winding country road. Guiyang Longdongbao Airport is a 2-hour journey from Shidong, with flights from Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Guiyang is also a rail hub.
Things to Do
Shidong Attractions
- Shidong market
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Life revolves around the market in shidong where all sorts of wares are available. batiks are a good buy but need to be bargained for.
Side trips from Shidong
- Shuangliu
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Lies on highway 178 not far from shidong towards the main expressway and is worth a few hours for the scenery and trekking.
Events
- Sisters’ Rice Festival
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A december event and the main festival of the year, with miao women dressing up to woo a mate. drums, bullfighting and fireworks ensue.