Located in the eastern border of Guizhou Province in southwest China, Zhaoxing Dong Village stands out not only for its ethnic diversity but also for its rich cultural heritage passed down through generations. As part of Liping County, the village is one of the areas with the densest population of Dong people. Approximately 71% of the county’s population consists of Dong, making the region a significant center for the preservation and transmission of Dong culture in China.
Zhaoxing is one of the most well-known villages in Liping, which was recognized as China’s first “ethnically distinctive area of natural beauty” at the national level. The village features five drum towers (鼓楼), which, in Dong culture, serve as distinctive symbols of communal life, functioning as gathering spaces for social deliberation, ceremonies, and performances, and show Dong people’s sophisticated wooden architectural tradition. The stream that flows through the center of the village, along with the stone-paved paths and traditional bridges, illustrates the Dong people’s harmonious relationship with nature.
What truly distinguishes Zhaoxing, however, is the deep commitment of its residents to preserving their cultural heritage. Foremost among these traditions is the Grand Song of the Dong Ethnic Group (侗族大歌), recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This polyphonic musical tradition serves as both a medium of social cohesion and a vessel of historical memory. In recent years, the tradition has been revitalized through staged performances under the theme “Village Songs Rising,” aimed at both local residents and visitors.
One of the most significant examples of the Dong people’s efforts to promote this musical tradition globally is the 2024 China (Qiandongnan) International Folk Choir Festival. Seventeen choirs from countries including Poland, Italy, Malaysia, and Thailand performed together with local communities, creating not only a cultural exchange but also a platform for Dong people to express their identity. At the end of the event, Zhaoxing Village was awarded the title of “International Music and Art Village” by the United Nations.
Zhaoxing is not only a place where traditional culture is preserved but also a space where this culture contributes to the local economy. Events themed around “village songs” are enriched by markets offering traditional cuisine, stalls selling handmade goods, and performances intertwined with music. Moreover, part of the revenue generated from tourism is shared directly with the local population. As a result, Dong culture has not only been preserved but has also become a source of livelihood for the community.
The government of Liping County aims to elevate Zhaoxing to the highest level of national tourism evaluation, the 5A classification. Toward this goal, fire safety measures are being enhanced, infrastructure is being strengthened, environmental improvements are being implemented, and the village’s cultural assets are being documented and protected. Simultaneously, efforts are being made to train local guides and improve service quality in line with the village’s tourism planning.
In conclusion, Zhaoxing Dong Village is a place where traditional culture, harmony with nature, and community solidarity converge—making it a significant site of study for researchers, students, and anyone interested in cultural heritage.
