Overview: The World’s Largest Miao Settlement

Nestled among the mountains of Leishan County, Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou, China, Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village is the world’s largest Miao settlement, known as the "Miao Capital". Composed of over ten natural villages built along the mountains, it is home to more than 1,400 households and over 6,000 Miao people, of whom 99.5% are original Miao residents. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, it is the core inheritance hub of Miao culture.

Architectural Wonder: Mountain-Climbing Stilted Houses

Surrounded by mountains, the village is bisected by the Baishui River. Its most iconic features are the layered wooden stilted houses that cascade from the foot to the peak of the mountains. Constructed entirely with mortise-and-tenon joints—no nails or bolts used—these structures are a national intangible cultural heritageThe State Council Information Office of the People's Republic of China. The dark-tiled wooden buildings harmonize with green mountains, terraced fields, and flowing water, forming a breathtaking landscape of human-nature coexistence.

Living Culture: Millennia-Old Miao Traditions

Xijiang is an open-air museum of Miao culture, preserving ancient customs and intangible heritage skills. In Gage Ancient Alley, silversmiths hammer silver ornaments and embroiderers weave delicate patterns, passing down silversmithing and Miao embroidery for generations. On the Lusheng Square, Miao people in elaborate costumes perform Lusheng dances and sing Miao flying songs in lively celebrations. Traditional festivals like the Miao New Year and New Harvest Festival offer immersive cultural experiences.

Dazzling Nightscape: Starry Lights on Earth

As night falls, the village reveals its most enchanting side. Over 10,000 warm yellow lights flicker on from the stilted houses, winding down the mountains like a galaxy falling into the valley—dubbed the "real-life Spirited Away." Overlooking from the viewing platform, lights, mountains, and river blend into a starry sky illusion. Strolling on bluestone paths, evening breezes carry Miao songs and rice wine fragrance, creating a serene, healing atmosphere.

Rural Delights: Authentic Miao Flavors

A visit to Xijiang is incomplete without savoring authentic Miao cuisine. The Long Table Banquet, the Miao’s highest hospitality ritual, gathers dozens around a long table to enjoy sour soup fish, Miao bacon, and glutinous rice, paired with "High Mountain Flowing Water" rice wine for full festive ambiance. Other specialties include chewy Miao glutinous rice cakes and savory chicken stew with mushrooms. Every bite delivers fresh mountain flavors, embodying the village’s warm rural charm.