Guizhou's Hidden Gem: Danzhai Travel Guide

Danzhai County in Guizhou, a severely underrated treasure town in the mysterious Miao region, made me realize that the Miao ethnic group has eight branches... Each branch has its own language and clothing. This small county town surprisingly has nine national intangible cultural heritages. Every village has its own 'unique skill,' with beautiful scenery, fewer people, and a pristine environment. Isn't this better than squeezing into the Huangguoshu Waterfall? ✅ Karla Village Miao village, known as the Chinese Birdcage Village. There is a giant birdcage on the mountain top in the village. All villagers, young and old, can weave birdcages by hand, which is an intangible cultural heritage skill. The village also hosts various folk activities such as cockfighting, bird fighting, bullfighting, dragon dancing, and Lusheng dancing. ✅ Shiqiao Village Known as the hometown of ancient Chinese papermaking, it is an intangible cultural heritage skill. The villagers have inherited the papermaking techniques from the Tang Dynasty. The paper used for the restoration of many national cultural relics and ancient books comes from here. With stilted buildings and green mountains and rivers, this is a secluded Miao village. ✅ Paimo Village The villagers have inherited the Miao batik craft, which is an intangible cultural heritage skill and the origin of world batik art. This village feels isolated from the world, surrounded by clouds and mist, with endless terraces, making it a fairy-like Miao village. ✅ Silversmith Village Specializes in intangible cultural heritage silver jewelry making, with batik and embroidery inheritors also residing here. It is a highly interactive and participatory Miao village. ✅ Danzhai Wanda Town If time is limited and you cannot visit every intangible cultural heritage Miao village, Danzhai Wanda Town is a good choice. Almost all of Danzhai's intangible cultural heritage projects have studios in the town, allowing for a one-stop experience. The town's architectural style is a mix of Dong and Miao ethnic groups, with daily performances of Miao's Jinji Dance and Mangtong Lusheng. The best part is that the town's entrance is free.