Zhuang Autonomous Counties in China

Zhuang ethnic group is one of the largest minority ethnic groups in China, primarily concentrated in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, as well as in parts of Yunnan, Guangdong, Guizhou, and Hunan provinces. In China, there are several autonomous counties where the Zhuang people have a significant presence and where their cultural heritage is recognized and protected.

As the only Zhuang Autonomous Cunty in China,”Lianshan Zhuang and Yao Autonomous County” (连山壮族瑶族自治县) is located in Qingyuan City, Guangdong Province. It is situated in the Mengzhulian mountain range, one of the Nanling Wuling mountain ranges, at the junction of Guangdong, Hunan, and Guangxi provinces. It borders Lian’nan Yao Autonomous County to the east, Bajiaozu District of Hezhou City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region to the west, Huaiji County to the south, and Jianghua Yao Autonomous County, Yongzhou City, Hunan Province to the north. The area is characterized by rugged mountains, winding streams, and steep terrain, with 87% of the total area being mountainous. It is often referred to as “nine and a half mountains, half water, and half farmland” in ancient times.