
Located in the southeastern part of Guizhou Province, Liping County is widely regarded as one of the birthplaces and cultural centers of the Dong ethnic group in China. With beautiful mountain landscapes, traditional villages, unique customs, and well-preserved Dong culture, Liping is one of the best destinations in Guizhou for travelers seeking an authentic ethnic experience.
Situated at the meeting point of Guizhou, Hunan, and Guangxi provinces, Liping borders Rongjiang County to the west and is about 250 kilometers (155 miles) from Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province.
The county is famous for its spectacular natural scenery, including valleys, plains, hills, mountains, and distinctive karst landscapes, as well as its traditional Dong villages featuring wooden architecture, drum towers, and wind-and-rain bridges.
Liping County Overview
Location: Southeast Guizhou Province, where Guizhou, Hunan, and Guangxi meet
Area: Approximately 4,441 square kilometers (1,715 square miles)
Postal Code: 557300
Climate: Subtropical monsoon humid climate
Main Ethnic Groups: Dong, Miao, Yao, and Zhuang peoples
Liping is rich in natural resources and traditional handicrafts. The county is known for products such as:
* Dong ethnic handicrafts
* Tea
* Chinese herbal medicine
* Bamboo products
Climate and Best Time to Visit Liping
Liping enjoys a subtropical monsoon humid climate with an average annual temperature of around 15–25°C (59–77°F). The region receives abundant rainfall, with rainy days occurring during much of the year.
The best time to visit Liping is generally from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the mountains are especially beautiful.
Top Attractions in Liping
Liping combines stunning natural landscapes with rich Dong ethnic traditions. The most famous attractions include:
Zhaoxing Dong Village
Zhaoxing Dong Village is one of the largest and most famous Dong villages in China. Known as the “No. 1 Dong Village in Liping,” it is famous for its traditional wooden houses, five impressive drum towers, Dong folk songs, and ancient village atmosphere.
Bazhou River Scenic Area
The Bazhou River Scenic Area features beautiful river landscapes, karst scenery, and peaceful countryside views. Liping Airport is also located near this scenic area.
Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge
The Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge is a representative example of Dong architectural craftsmanship. These covered bridges serve not only as transportation routes but also as places for villagers to rest and socialize.
Feilong Cave
Feilong Cave is a natural karst attraction featuring unique underground landscapes created by water erosion.
Nanquan Mountain
Nanquan Mountain offers beautiful mountain scenery and opportunities to experience the natural environment of southeast Guizhou.
Qiaojie Street
Qiaojie Street is a historic commercial street where visitors can explore local culture, traditional crafts, souvenirs, and Dong specialties.
Transportation to Liping
By Air
Liping Airport is located near Bazhou River Scenic Area. Regular flights connect Liping with:
* Guiyang (daily flights)
* Guangzhou (scheduled flights on selected days)
By Bus
Liping Long-distance Bus Station is located in the center of Defeng Town. Regular buses connect Liping with cities and counties including:
* Guiyang
* Kaili
* Congjiang
* Dongguan
* Huaihua
* Quanzhou
Travel information:
* Liping to Congjiang: about 6 hours, approximately CNY 24 per person
* Liping to Kaili: buses depart at around 09:30, taking about 8–9 hours, approximately CNY 58 per person
Transportation Within Liping
Taxis and local pedicabs are available in the county. Short-distance trips within Liping usually cost no more than CNY 5.
Travel Tips for Liping
When visiting Liping’s mountainous areas, travelers are advised to prepare:
1. An umbrella or raincoat – Rain is common in the mountains, and shops selling these items may be limited in remote villages.
2. Mosquito repellent – Especially useful during summer.
3. Comfortable non-slip shoes – Many villages have stone paths and mountain trails.
4. A light jacket – Temperatures can change between day and night.
Shopping in Liping
Visitors can find traditional Dong handicrafts and souvenirs at Dong Xiang Yi Fang on Qiaojie Street.
Popular items include:
* Dong traditional costumes
* Embroidery products
* Silver ornaments
* Traditional masks
* Musical instruments
* Tea oil
* Salted fish
These handicrafts reflect the creativity and cultural heritage of the Dong people.
Local Food in Liping
Liping offers many traditional Dong dishes and local specialties, including:
* Oil tea
* Boiled meat dishes
* Roasted fish
* Fish in sour soup
* Pickled vegetables
* Salted fish
Dong cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, unique flavors, and traditional cooking methods.
Traditional Festivals in Liping
Festivals are an important part of Dong culture. Visitors may experience colorful celebrations throughout the year, including:
Chinese Drum Tower Art Festival
Time: Early October
A cultural event featuring Dong architecture, music, singing, and traditional performances.
Dong Wrestling Festival
Time: March 15th on the Chinese lunar calendar
A traditional event featuring wrestling competitions and community celebrations.
Ladies’ Day
Time: April 8th on the Chinese lunar calendar
A festival celebrating Dong women with traditional clothing, songs, and gatherings.
Bullfight Festival
Time: February or August on the Chinese lunar calendar
A traditional celebration featuring bullfighting and folk activities.
Experience the Authentic Dong Culture of Liping
With its ancient villages, unique wooden architecture, traditional festivals, and breathtaking mountain scenery, Liping County is one of the best places in China to experience the culture of the Dong ethnic group.
From exploring Zhaoxing Dong Village to listening to Dong folk songs and discovering traditional crafts, travelers can enjoy an authentic journey into one of Guizhou’s most fascinating ethnic cultures.