Dongling

　　A diligent ethnic group, a magical land, a unique culture, and a breathtaking earthly paradise—it is Dongling, a Yao village situated over 60 kilometers north of Rong’an County at the junction of Rong’an, Sanjiang, and Longsheng counties. Known as the “Cock Crowing in Three Counties” and “Guangxi’s Jiuzhaigou,” this place boasts verdant mountains, towering ancient trees, murmuring streams, and cascading waterfalls, all forming a pristine natural landscape.

　　Upon entering Dongling, you are greeted by the rolling green waves of pine forests and bamboo groves, making you feel as if you are gliding through crystal-clear waters—refreshing and serene. This is one of the city’s largest ecological forest reserves, covering nearly 70,000 mu of forestland with a coverage rate of over 90%, earning it the reputation of a “natural oxygen bar.” The lush, towering ancient trees provide ample shade; the twisted, uniquely shaped roots and vines sprawl wildly across the hills, swaying like playful green ribbons. The vibrant wildflowers, dense bamboo thickets, and colorful mushrooms create a scene so enchanting it feels like stepping into a vivid traditional painting. The local Yao villagers are warm and generous, their melodious mountain songs echoing through the valleys, adding to the idyllic charm of this fairy-tale land.

　　Two Hearts Forever United

　　Entering Dongling, the mountain paths twist and turn, as do the waterways. The Camel Hump Mountain and Snail Mountain stand vividly in shape, mirroring each other from afar. The Zhongzhai River meanders with dramatic bends, undulating like a jade ribbon dancing in the hands of a celestial maiden. At the summit of Guangfu Mountain, the highest peak in the county, clouds linger in the air while the morning bells, evening drums, and rustling pine waves from the mountain temple compose a symphony of nature. Standing atop the peak and looking down at the surrounding mountains, you’ll find the view both refreshing and uplifting.

　　The most enchanting sight in Dongling is the winding Zhongzhai River. Where water meets mountain, the river embraces the hills while the hills lean on the river. Along just a few kilometers of the stream, there are over ten waterfalls and secluded pools, among which the “Nine Streams and Three Pools” formed by nine waterfalls and three jade-green pools are especially spectacular. Here, you can witness the “Milky Way cascading from the heavens,” playing with the clear spring waters. The Mandarin Duck Waterfall, “Jade Maiden Grooming,” Horse Tail Beach Waterfall, Immortal Pool, Kongming Pond, Dragon Pool—each spot has its own touching legend. The Mandarin Duck Waterfall features two falls of different sizes descending side by side, flying together like inseparable lovers, truly embodying the idea of “two hearts forever united,” envied by many human couples. If the Mandarin Duck Waterfall is graceful, the Horse Tail Beach Waterfall is majestic. The stream plunges down the mountainside, crashing against jutting rocks, sending up showers of water droplets and mist in a powerful and stirring display—aptly described as “a white dragon hanging from the cliff, a curtain of wind carrying jade elegance.”

　　The Beauty of Kongming Pond

　　The “Three Pools” vary in character—some deep and mysterious, others shallow with visible fish; some delicate like young maidens, others graceful like noble ladies—all with crystal-clear emerald waters. The winding stream remains cool and fresh. Some parts are still as a sleeping beauty, making fish and ducks seem to blush with shyness; others flow like startled rabbits, swift and unceasing. If you scoop up a drink, the water is sweet and refreshing, cooling your entire body. At Shimen, you might marvel at nature’s artistry: a hundred-meter stretch of river flanked by steep, smooth cliffs, ending at a gate-like rock wall blocking the way. It’s said the stream turns into a large cave, though no one knows where it ultimately leads. “Mountain hiking in the rain adds to the charm”—during summer rains, clouds drift through the valleys, waterfalls hang from cliffs, appearing and disappearing amid thunderous roars. Shaded woods, deep clear pools, rainbows arching over the water, and roaring falls form a stunning landscape painting.

　　Exploring Dongling is like venturing into a maiden’s hidden sanctuary. Whether climbing cliffs in quiet valleys or leaving new footprints by waterfalls and streams, every step brings a new surprise. Beyond the waterfalls, pools, and streams, the uniquely shaped pebbles along the riverbanks, peculiar root carvings, and bright red flower petals or fallen leaves floating on the water are enough to captivate your gaze and stir reflection. Deep in the forest, mysterious ancient petrified tree clusters transport you to prehistoric dreams. Rare wildlife such as giant salamanders, pangolins, pheasants, rabbits, turtles, and various birds and insects accompany you, ensuring you never feel alone in these valleys. The chirping of insects and birdsong create a scene worthy of the phrase “wild paths where flowers fly, butterflies dance, and clear springs murmur with birdsong.”

　　Butterflies dance with blossoms, and clear springs ripple as birds harmonize.

　　Rainbows Over the Yao Mountains

　　As the sun sets, bamboo waterwheels by the stream turn with a creaking sound, accompanied by the returning shepherd boy’s song—another beautiful melody. Wooden stilt houses exude warmth as smoke rises from their kitchens. The hospitable Yao villagers welcome guests with the simplest yet most genuine hospitality. Enjoy generous servings of wild game, cured meats, and unnamed wild vegetables, paired with bowls of Yao rice wine and fragrant oil tea. Throughout the meal, mountain songs and toasts fill the air. When spirits are high, someone might play the suona, and young Yao men and women invite you to join in their traditional dances, immersing you in rich local culture and warmth…

　　Ancient Petrified Tree Clusters

　　Visiting the mysterious Dongling, a place of grandeur, danger, beauty, serenity, wonder, and antiquity—along with the cultural Yao village—is perfect for a weekend getaway with family and friends. Spend two or three days here to escape the hustle and noise of the city, leaving you reluctant to leave and returning with lasting memories.