Zhaoxing Dong Village: A Cultural Haven for Tourists in Southwest China

Published on December 23, 2025

With the approach of the Dong New Year, Zhaoxing Dong Village, situated in the beautiful Liping County, southwest Guizhou Province, China, witnesses a remarkable inflow of tourists. The village, famous for its strong cultural background and customs, is now attracting a large number of tourists who are eager to experience the festive atmosphere and learn about the local lifestyle. These tourists not only result in increased earning for the village, but they also help to sustain the distinct cultural practices of the Dong ethnic group.

The Allure of Zhaoxing Dong Village

Zhaoxing Dong Village, known for its breathtaking landscapes and deep-rooted cultural traditions, has become a significant tourist attraction in the region. The picturesque surroundings, traditional wooden houses, and the warm hospitality of the Dong people make it a captivating destination for travelers. The upcoming Dong New Year celebrations, an important festival for the Dong ethnic group, have further enhanced the village’s appeal, drawing tourists from all over the country.

The Dong New Year, which typically falls in late December, is celebrated with grand ceremonies, traditional music, dances, and feasts, providing visitors with an immersive cultural experience. Tourists can witness the vibrant folk performances, enjoy local delicacies, and take part in cultural workshops like traditional batik-making or embroidery, offering them a firsthand glimpse into the ethnic crafts that have been passed down through generations.

Government Support Drives Tourism Development

In recent years, the local government has strategically focused on utilizing Zhaoxing’s rich Dong ethnic cultural resources to develop the tourism industry. By promoting cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship, the village has successfully attracted an increasing number of tourists, resulting in a significant boost to the local economy.

The local government has also taken measures to improve infrastructure and services, ensuring that tourists have a seamless experience when visiting the village. Efforts include upgrading roads, improving signage, and establishing visitor centers, all aimed at enhancing the overall tourist experience. The village’s tourism development has not only made it more accessible to travelers but has also fostered the growth of various local industries, such as handicrafts, homestays, and catering.

The Economic Impact on the Local Community

One of the most significant impacts of the growing tourism in Zhaoxing Dong Village is the improvement in the living standards of the local Dong people. With tourism serving as a key economic driver, the community has witnessed increased opportunities for economic growth. Many locals have embraced entrepreneurship, launching homestays, small businesses, and cultural shops, which provide visitors with authentic experiences and goods.

The surge in tourism has allowed local artisans to showcase and sell their traditional crafts, including Dong embroidery, batik fabrics, and handwoven textiles, which are highly sought after by tourists looking for unique souvenirs. These products are not only symbolic of the Dong culture but also represent the community’s craftsmanship, which has been honed over centuries.

Cultural Preservation and Innovation

The growing interest in Zhaoxing Dong Village has also sparked a cultural revival within the community. Local artisans are finding new ways to modernize traditional crafts while staying true to their roots. Many of the younger generation are learning and inheriting the skills required to create Dong-style embroidery and handicrafts, ensuring the continuity of these cultural practices.

In addition to traditional craftsmanship, the village has seen a rise in the production of cultural and creative products. Local entrepreneurs have begun to design and sell items such as Dong-themed art, jewelry, and home decor, which blend contemporary design with traditional Dong elements. These products cater not only to tourists but also to a growing market of people interested in Chinese ethnic cultures.

Experiential Tourism: A Gateway to Authentic Cultural Exchange

For visitors, Zhaoxing Dong Village offers more than just a scenic retreat; it provides an opportunity for authentic cultural exchange. Tourists can engage in hands-on experiences, such as participating in batik-making workshops, trying their hand at traditional embroidery, or learning the art of the Dong New Year dance. These interactive experiences allow travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the Dong people’s way of life, making the trip far more enriching than a standard sightseeing tour.

Furthermore, the village’s homestays provide an intimate setting for tourists to live alongside local families. This immersive accommodation experience not only offers travelers a chance to enjoy home-cooked Dong meals but also enables them to witness the day-to-day lives of the village’s residents. These cultural exchanges have become a cornerstone of tourism in Zhaoxing, offering both locals and visitors a chance to learn from one another and form meaningful connections.

Sustainability and Future Prospects

While tourism has brought undeniable benefits to Zhaoxing Dong Village, local leaders are mindful of the need to balance growth with sustainability. Efforts are being made to promote eco-tourism and ensure that the development of the tourism industry does not compromise the village’s natural beauty or cultural integrity.

The village’s tourism infrastructure is being developed with sustainability in mind, ensuring that new developments do not disrupt the environment or local traditions. Initiatives aimed at educating both tourists and locals about responsible tourism practices, such as waste reduction and preserving cultural heritage, are also part of the long-term vision for the area.

As Zhaoxing Dong Village continues to grow as a major tourist destination, the combination of government support, cultural preservation, and innovative tourism initiatives promises a bright future for both the local community and travelers alike. The village’s success is a testament to how tourism can serve as a tool for economic development, cultural exchange, and the preservation of traditional ways of life.

A Model for Rural Tourism

The Zhaoxing Dong Village is an example per excellence of how rural towns can develop meaningful and sustainable tourism based on their cultural resources. As the Dong New Year approaches, visitors have flocked to this lively village to experience the celebrations and the opportunity to participate in the traditions and culture of the Dong people. What is remarkable about this village is that it is preserving its cultural legacy even as it develops innovative approaches to tourism and other sectors, and this is bringing growth and awareness of this fascinating ethnicity in Chinese culture.