1 Day Congjiang Ethnic Dong Village Private Tour from Guilin
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
With private guide, you will dive deep into the ethnic Dong culture in the picturesque mountainous village. Experiencing the traditional Dong-style indigo tie-dyeing on your own, while catch a beautiful sunset over the vibrant green terraced rice fields.
Available options
1 Day Congjiang Ethnic Dong Village Private Tour from Guilin
Pickup included
What's included
Entrance fees to tourist sites
Fares for DiDi rides/ taxis/ buses
Lunch and dinner
Private English-speaking guide
Train fares of Guilin/Congjiang/Guilin
Detailed itinerary
1
In the morning, your private guide will meet you at your hotel lobby on time. Accompanied by the guide, you will then take a taxi or private car to the railway station of Guilin for an early high-speed train to Congjiang Station.
You can take in the scenic countryside views, and your guide will also brief you on today’s signature sights.
2
Known as one of the largest Dong villages in China, Zhaoxing Dong Village is home to more than 5,200 residents in 1,200 households, where you can dive deep into the unique Dong community's rich culture.
Apart from admiring iconic drum towers, you will also be guided to appreciate historical theaters and old bridges, and stroll along the 2-km (1.2 mi) long flagstone main street.
Standing at the village entrance, you will be first amazed at a large group of multi-layer wooden pagoda-shaped buildings, the emblems of the typical Dong architecture, Drum Towers. Every Dong group has its own drum towers as the public center and also the spiritual heart. Your guide will lead you to admire these masterpieces, among which the tallest one is called “Xintuan Drum Tower”. You can observe some colorful carvings and paintings on the structure, vividly depicting the lives and legends of local Dong people. You can also have a chance to experience the dyeing with the help of a local master.
3
In the afternoon, we will hop on a local sightseeing bus to the nearby Tang’an Dong Village. As it drives along the mountain road with turnings, a picturesque painting of green paddy fields is gradually unfolding before your eyes.
Set on a hilltop, Tang’an Dong village is the Mecca of photographers, surrounded by mountains on three sides and overlooking spectacular terraced fields. After arrival, you will be guided to the viewing platform, where you can marvel at the breathtaking vistas of terraced fields stacked layer upon layer.
Following the guide, step on the narrow flagstone path twisting and turning, which leads you to explore every quaint corner of the village. Drum towers, old theaters, and song squares are definitely the most characterized architecture of the village. Before leaving the village, entertained by a once-in-a-lifetime sunset that casts a warm glow over the vibrant green terraced rice fields in the valley.
4
After that, we will return to Zhaoxing Dong Village, enjoy a short free exploration on your own and have dinner. Then we will take the shuttle bus to Congjiang Railway Station for the return train journey. Upon arrival, the guide will escort you back to your hotel by taxi.
What's not included
Hotel accommodation
Personal expenses
Gratuities for guide
Not suitable for people over 80 years old
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Guilin
Guilin is renowned for its stunning karst landscapes, with the Li River meandering through picturesque peaks and lush greenery. This city offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination in southern China.
Top Attractions
Li River Cruise
A scenic cruise along the Li River, offering breathtaking views of karst peaks, lush greenery, and traditional villages. The cruise typically starts from Guilin and ends in Yangshuo, covering a distance of about 83 kilometers.
Nature
4-5 hours for the full cruise
Moderate (¥150-300 depending on the type of cruise)
Elephant Trunk Hill
A famous landmark in Guilin, shaped like an elephant drinking water from the Li River. The hill offers hiking trails, a scenic cave, and panoramic views of the city and river.
Nature
1-2 hours
Budget (¥30-50)
Reed Flute Cave
A stunning limestone cave with a history of over 1,800 years. The cave is known for its intricate rock formations, colorful lighting, and ancient inscriptions.
Nature
1-2 hours
Budget (¥80-100)
Longji Terraced Fields
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning terraced rice fields carved into the hillsides. The fields are a testament to the ingenuity of the local Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities, who have cultivated the land for centuries.
Nature
Full day trip
Moderate (¥100-200 for transportation and entrance fees)
Yangshuo
A picturesque town along the Li River, known for its stunning karst landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife. Yangshuo is a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
Nature
Half day to full day trip
Budget to Moderate (depending on activities)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Guilin Rice Noodles (Guilin Mifen)
A local specialty made from rice, served with various toppings and broths. The noodles are thin, chewy, and often served with ingredients like pickled vegetables, peanuts, and meat.
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Beer Fish (Pijiu Yu)
A local delicacy featuring fish marinated in beer and deep-fried, served with a spicy sauce. The dish is known for its crispy texture and unique flavor.
Dinner
Contains fish and gluten (beer)
Liangpi (Cold Noodles)
A refreshing and light dish made from rice flour, served cold with a variety of toppings and sauces. It is a popular street food and a great option for hot summer days.
Snack/Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Osmanthus Cake (Guihua Bing)
A traditional sweet made from glutinous rice flour, osmanthus flowers, and sugar. The cake has a unique fragrance and a soft, chewy texture.
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Popular Activities
Rock climbing
Rafting and kayaking
Hiking
Li River cruise
Tea house visits
Spa and wellness
Visiting ethnic minority villages
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with moderate temperatures and lush greenery, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
- Widely spoken: Cantonese, Zhuang (local dialect)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Guilin is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
- • Bargain for souvenirs and street food, and be cautious of overpriced or fake goods
Getting there
By air
- Guilin Liangjiang International Airport • 27 km from city center
By train
Guilin Railway Station, Guilin West Railway Station
By bus
Guilin Long-Distance Bus Station, Guilin South Long-Distance Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient, with routes covering most of the city and connecting to popular tourist spots.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Zhengyang District
Xiangshan District
Qixing District
Day trips
Yangshuo
65 km from Guilin • Half day to full day trip
Yangshuo is a picturesque town along the Li River, known for its stunning karst landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife. The town offers a variety of adventures, from biking and rock climbing to rafting and kayaking.
Longji Terraced Fields
70 km from Guilin • Full day trip
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning terraced rice fields carved into the hillsides. The fields are a testament to the ingenuity of the local Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities, who have cultivated the land for centuries.
Xingping Ancient Town
25 km from Guilin • Half day trip
A well-preserved ancient town along the Li River, known for its traditional architecture, historic sites, and scenic views. The town is famous for its appearance on the back of the 20 RMB note.
Festivals
Li River Festival • September
Guilin Tea Culture Festival • March
Zhuang Ethnic Minority Festival • Varies (usually in spring or autumn)
Pro tips
- Take a Li River cruise at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and fewer crowds
- Hire a local guide for a more informative and immersive experience, especially when visiting ethnic minority villages or historic sites
- Learn a few basic Chinese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture
- Carry small denominations of cash for street vendors, tips, and small purchases
- Use ride-hailing apps like Didi for convenient and affordable transportation, but ensure you have a local SIM card or eSIM
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
