Private Journeys in Chengyang

A few hours’ drive beyond Longji takes you from the Zhuang villages into the heart of Dong minority territory. Nestled along the winding Lingxi River, the village of Chengyang comprises four charming hamlets. Here, traditional wooden houses and peaceful fishponds sit in harmony with bamboo groves and surrounding hillsides, creating an idyllic rural setting.

Each hamlet features the iconic architectural symbols of the Dong people — ornate ‘wind and rain bridges’ and multi-tiered drum towers. These structures are not only functional but also works of art, with each hamlet competing in design complexity and craftsmanship. The bridges serve as communal gathering places and offer shelter from the region’s frequent rains, while the drum towers function as central meeting points for ceremonies and announcements.

Around Chengyang

From Chengyang, travelers have two main options: continue the rewarding — though occasionally demanding — overland journey north to Kaili in Guizhou Province, or return to Guilin for a flight onward to your next destination. Either route offers further insight into China’s diverse minority cultures and scenic countryside.