Tangan Dong Village

Written by Vivian Updated Jun. 16, 2021

Located in the east of Liping County, Guizhou Province with a history of more than 700 years, is one of the largest Dong ethnic villages in Guizhou Province. Tangan Dong Village is renowned for its unique architecture, music, festival and customs. It is widely regarded as an example of human back to nature.

The Natural Wonderlands

Tangan is surrounded by great mountains and green rivers. Birds are singing on tall trees while fishes are swimming under the clear water. There is a well-named Piaojing. Water runs from the well is clear and sweet. People can drink fresh water directly without disinfecting. Taking a walk through the rural roads will make travelers feel like they are walking in a fairyland.

The natural and serene environment makes Tangan a nice place for people to escape from the noisy city life and experience rural life. Travelers can see clearly reflections of theirs in rivers when they standing by the riverbanks.

The Cultural Attractions

Drum Tower

The drum tower is not only a wooden tower but also a gathering place for Dong people. And what’s more, the drum tower stands for the strong will and spirit of Dong people. Drum tower plays an essential role in Dong people’s daily life. It is widely said that: Where there is Dong Ethnic, there is drum.

There are some performances like the local song and dance show, drum play, etc. Players there will begin to dance when the rhythmic drum-beatings.

Drama Stage

There is usually a drama stage alongside the drum tower. A drama stage is a place for Dong people to show their talents. There will be lots of Dong drama performances, which playing the whole day.

Everyone there is a talented dancer and singer by nature. Lots of traditional dramas will be played by locals. Also, travelers are welcome to take part in.

The Gourd-shaped Well

It is a drinkable well with perennially running water. The well is made of green stone and there are two grooves from left to right respectively. Because the shape of the well looks like a lying gourd, locals called it “Piaojing” (Gourd-shaped well).

The water running out of the well is sweet and cool. People from other villages often come there carry gallons of water home.

Fengyu Bridge

It is a bridge made of wood. Fengyu bridge is very popular among young single girls and boys. It is built by Miao people for the purpose of improving living conditions and protecting the local environment. And also, it is built as a gathering place for single boys and girls to love.

There is a folk custom: in summer, there will be lots of young single boys singing and dancing with Lusheng (local reed pipe) and Chinese lute. While young single girls will sit down on the bridge and find the one she likes. The custom not only suits for locals but also welcomes travelers to join in.

Nearby Attractions

Kaili City, the center of China’s Miao ethnic minority is located close there. It is a beautiful and serene city that suited for families with children to enjoy the colorful folk customs of Miao people.

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