Off the Beaten Path: Guizhou’s Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village – Leigongping Hiking Guide

Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village is a place that preserves the"pristine ecology"and intact culture of the Miao people. It consists of over tennatural villages built along the mountains, connected together to form the largest Miao ethnic settlement in China and even the world. It’s like an open-air museum, offering a place to appreciate and understand the long history and development of the Miao people in China.

Leigongping is located to the north of the main peak of the Miao Mountains, Leigong Mountain, at an altitude of1850meters. It is about18kilometers from Qianhu Miao Village in Xijiang and10kilometers from the government seat of Fangxiang. It is called “Leigongping” (Thunder God Flatland) due to its unique terrain. It is a typical highland basin, surrounded by six peaks on all sides, with a large flat area in the middle covering about30square meters. The surrounding mountains are lush with forests, while the flatland has rich water and grass, blooming with mountain flowers in spring and summer, offering beautiful scenery. A small stream meanders through the flatland flowing eastward, making it very suitable for hiking and trekking.

From Xijiang to Leigongping:Mountain path, approximately fifteen kilometers, about eight kilometers of which are uphill. The first half has many forks in the road, so it is recommended to hire a local guide (guide fee around30~50yuan). There is drinkable water along the way from Xijiang to Leigongping. The top of Leigongping is spacious, with many spots suitable for camping, and water sources are available near the campsites.
From Leigongping to Fangxiang::Mountain path, approximately twelve kilometers, all downhill, with fewer forks in the road. Stick to the main path to avoid getting lost. However, be aware that there are limited water sources on the descent from Leigongping, so prepare in advance.

From Fangxiang, you can take a bus to Leishan County. The last bus departs at 1:00 PM, but it may leave earlier when busy, so try to arrive early. The fare is about10yuan/per person. (The ride takes about one and a half hours.)After arriving in Leishan County, you can take a bus to Kaili, which takes about1.5hours. From Kaili to Guiyang, it's very convenient with both train and bus options.

△ The reference map is provided by Lüzújiǎo (Footprint) user @rexlovezc. Download the Lüzújiǎo app and search for route 35559 to view the track.

Activity Equipment:1,Individual: Male60L,Female45LThe above: backpack, hiking boots, windproof and waterproof jacket and pants, rain gear, sleeping bag (preferably rated for minus5degrees), sleeping mat, personal tableware, headlamp (with spare batteries), knife, personal toiletries, personal medication, food.