• Qiandongnan (Miao & Dong)

• Name in Chinese characters: 黔东南苗族侗族自治
• Name in Pinyin: Qiándōngnán Miáozú Dòngzú Zìzhìzhōu
• Status: Autonomous prefecture

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• Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture (to give it its full title) is a rural prefecture being the south-eastern corner of Guizhou Province rather than the area around any one major city. Even Kaili is not very large. It is an area dominated by ethnic minorities, of which the Miao and Dong are only the largest. Even then, the registration process is not a perfect measurement system as some minorities get grouped together, and it is best not to get too caught up in statistics.

  Travel

  There is no airport in Qiandongnan Prefecture. The nearest is at Giuyang (Airport code: KWE) approximately 130 kilometres west of Kaili.

  Kaili is served by both rail and road. Much of the prefecture is very rugged and even road travel can be slow.

  Attractions For Visitors

  The attraction of Qiandongnan is its remoteness. The rugged terrain has effectively cut this area off from the developments elsewhere leaving ethnic minorities in place with their own distinct cultures that are so interesting to see. In this way, sightseeing is something that happens all day long rather than at specific sites, though some of the architecture is absolutely wonderful and will grab your attention.

  An essential part of the strong cultures that live here are the various festivals throughout the calendar year. These are great social occasions and also a window upon the issues that are most important to each of the groups. Timing atrip so as to catch a range of festivals is not easy but, if the chance arises, it is worth making the extra effort to get to one if you can.

  The rugged terrain that prevented easy access to this area is also a feature to be enjoyed. Although this does make sriving tortuous at times it does make for some delighful landscapes. Since the local farmers have worked with the land, even their efforts have an appeal, especially for photographers.

  The following (official) minorities can be encountered in Qiandongnan:

  Miao:

  Dong:

  Shui:

  Buyei:

  Tujia:

  She:

  Mulam:

  Zhuang:

  Yao:

  Yi:

  Hui:

  Gelao:

  The following China Journeys include a stay in Qiandongnan:

  • Minority Rapport
  
  
  
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