Xijiang is a traditional Miao village in eastern Guizhou, not far from the town of Kaili. It is the largest Miao village in China and has plenty of touristy appeal, as well as more authentic parts.
Xijiang is accessible from Guiyang by bussing or training it to Kaili, from where buses go to Leishan and then onward to Xijiang. It is a few hours east of Kaili. There are around a thousand houses in Xijiang, lending it the title ‘thousand household village’.
Xijiang actually lies in LeiGongshan National Park in a picturesque valley where there is also some pretty good hiking. The Xijiang houses are of dark hardwood and are built up along numerous tiers over a hillside. The best views of the village are from the entrance gate while the main street has the bulk of the tourist kitsch.
Getting There & Away
Leishan is the crossroads for visits to Xijiang and is southeast of Kaili on the S203 Rongjiang route. The trip from Kaili all up is about 3 hours. Kaili is about 150kms east of Guiyang on the G210 and G320 highways and is accessible by bus or train. Guiyang Longdongbao Airport is six hours from Xijiang.
Things to Do
Xijiang Attractions
- Xijiang main street
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While a bit contrived, you can shop for locally made crafts here and take in fine views of the rest of the village across the hillside.
Side trips from Xijiang
- Langde
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Another miao village which is west of leishan and split into two parts, with upper langde having the best of it.
Events
- Daily performances
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There is singing and dancing in xijiang before noon and at 17
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00, along with many festivals around chinese new year.