Chengyang Eight Villages Scenic Area in Sanjiang County, Liuzhou City
Chengyang Eight Villages Scenic Area, commonly known as Chengyang Eight Villages (程阳八寨景区), is located in Linxi Town, Sanjiang Dong Autonomous County, Liuzhou City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. This scenic area is situated in the core section of the “Hundred-Mile Dong Village Corridor,” bordering Guangxi, Hunan, and Guizhou provinces.
Overview
The Chengyang Eight Villages Scenic Area covers an area of 7.6 square kilometers and boasts over 2,000 stilt houses, 13 drum towers, and 11 covered bridges. It is renowned for housing the largest Dong wooden architecture museum in China and features the famous Chengyang Yongji Bridge (程阳永济桥), one of the four great historical bridges in the world, which has received accolades from Mr. Guo Moruo. The bridge is also a national key cultural heritage site. The area is home to over 10,000 Dong people, and it preserves the rich ethnic traditions of the Dong community, including wooden architecture, clothing, decorations, folk songs, and dance culture. The scenic area is famous for hosting the largest traditional Dong weddings, representing a treasure trove of ecological tourism resources. It is often referred to as the largest, most primitive, and most beautiful Dong village in China, recognized as a living museum of Dong culture and the largest cultural tourism site for the Dong people.
On February 6, 2024, the Chengyang Eight Villages Scenic Area was officially recognized as a national AAAA-level tourist attraction by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China.
Geographical Environment
Nestled within Sanjiang County, where Guangxi meets Hunan and Guizhou, the Chengyang Eight Villages consist of eight connected Dong villages. These villages have not only preserved ancient traditions but also blended them with modern life, evolving into a captivating tourist destination. Located 19 kilometers from Sanjiang County Town, the scenic area comprises eight villages: Ma’anzhai (马安寨), Pingtanzhai (平坦寨), Pingzhai (平寨), Yanzhai (岩寨), Dongzhai (东寨), Dazhai (大寨), Pingfuzhai (平甫寨), and Jichangzhai (吉昌寨), covering an area of 12.55 square kilometers with a population of 9,701 across 2,197 households. The Chengyang Yongji Bridge is situated over the Linxi River beside the scenic area.
Transportation
To reach Chengyang Eight Villages Scenic Area:
- By Car: From Liuzhou City, take the G72 highway towards Sanjiang County. It’s approximately a 2-hour drive (around 80 km). Follow local signage once you arrive in Sanjiang to reach Linxi Town.
- By Bus: Regular buses run from Liuzhou City to Sanjiang County. From Sanjiang, you can take a local bus or taxi to Linxi Town and the scenic area.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and festivals are held, showcasing local culture.
- Cultural Events: Participate in local events such as traditional Dong weddings and folk festivals for an immersive experience.
- Photography: Bring your camera to capture the stunning stilt houses, bridges, and vibrant cultural scenes.
- Respect Local Customs: When visiting, be respectful of the local traditions and ask for permission before taking photos of people or private properties.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the chance to try local Dong cuisine, including rice dumplings and various traditional dishes, often served during festivals.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially if you plan to explore the villages and surrounding areas on foot.
