Hometown of the Gelao · Ecological Daozhen

Daozhen County, Zunyi — the cultural center of the Chinese Gelao ethnic group and a treasure trove of natural ecology. This 2-day 1-night itinerary explores Dashahe, strolls through ancient towns, experiences Nuo culture, and feels the perfect integration of ethnic culture, natural ecology and historical humanities.

Dashahe
Nature Conservation
Gelao
Ethnic Culture
Nuo Culture
Intangible Heritage Inheritance
Ecology
Green Treasure Trove
Dashahe Nature Reserve
Dashahe Nature Reserve, Daozhen County
Dense primeval forests and rich biodiversity

2-Day 1-Night Ethnic Cultural and Ecological Tour of Daozhen County

Natural exploration + ancient town stroll + cultural experience, feel the customs and ecological beauty of the Gelao ethnic group

Itinerary Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Dashahe Nature Reserve, Luolong Ancient Town, China Nuo City, Gelao Culture Museum
Suitable For
Ethnic culture enthusiasts, eco-tourists, photography lovers
Per Capita Budget
¥300-¥520
01
Natural Ecological Tour
Exploring Dashahe Nature Reserve
Itinerary Highlights

Full-day visit to nature reserve and ancient town

Attraction Arrangement
Dashahe Nature Reserve
A national-level nature reserve with a well-preserved primeval forest ecosystem and extremely rich biodiversity. It is a natural gene bank for rare plants such as Cathaya argyrophylla and Davidia involucrata, known as the "Kingdom of Animals and Plants".
Luolong Ancient Town
A traditional ancient town built in the Ming Dynasty, with well-preserved Gelao ethnic residential buildings and charming ancient streets and lanes. It is an ideal place to experience the traditional culture and ancient town customs of the Gelao ethnic group.
Gelao Ethnic Culture Museum
A thematic museum showcasing the history, culture and folk customs of the Gelao ethnic group. It comprehensively introduces the development history and cultural characteristics of the Gelao ethnic group through cultural relics, pictures, physical objects and other forms.
Practical Information
Travel Tips
  • A guide is required for the nature reserve
  • Ethnic costumes can be experienced in the ancient town
  • It is recommended to taste Gelao ethnic cuisine
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Characteristic homestays in the ancient town
  • Star hotels in the county seat
  • Farmhouses around the nature reserve
02
Cultural Experience Tour
In-depth Experience of Gelao Ethnic Nuo Culture
Itinerary Highlights

Full-day exploration of Nuo culture and folk custom experience

Attraction Arrangement
China Nuo City
A cultural tourism area themed on Nuo culture, which focuses on displaying the intangible cultural heritage of Gelao ethnic Nuo opera, Nuo dance, Nuo masks, etc. You can watch Nuo culture performances and experience the charm of Nuo culture.
Nuo Culture Inheritance Base
A living inheritance base for Nuo culture. You can watch Nuo opera performances, learn about the production process of Nuo masks, participate in Nuo culture experience activities, and deeply feel the unique charm of this ancient culture.
Furong River Gorge
A beautiful gorge landscape with clear river water and towering peaks on both sides. You can take a boat tour to enjoy the gorge scenery and feel the extraordinary craftsmanship of nature.
Practical Information
Characteristic Experiences
  • Watching Nuo culture performances
  • Experience of making Nuo masks
  • Participation in Gelao ethnic folk activities
Return Suggestions
  • Reserve sufficient time
  • Buy ethnic handicrafts
  • Pay attention to return trains/buses

Must-Try Cuisine in Daozhen Gelao and Miao Autonomous County

Daozhen Grey Tofu Balls

A specialty of Daozhen, made from high-quality local soybeans through special craftsmanship. The outer skin is crispy, the inner part is tender, with a rich bean flavor, and it is a traditional food of the Gelao ethnic group.

Gelao Ethnic Oil Tea

A traditional drink of the Gelao ethnic group, made from tea leaves, rice, peanuts, sesame and other raw materials. It has a rich fragrance and a unique taste, and is an essential food for receiving guests.

Luolong Garlic

A specialty of Daozhen and a national geographical indication product. It has large garlic bulbs, full cloves, rich fragrance, and high edible and medicinal value.

Gelao Ethnic "Sanyao Tai" Banquet

A traditional banquet of the Gelao ethnic group, divided into three stages: tea banquet, wine banquet and rice banquet. It has rich dishes and exquisite etiquette, and is an important way to experience the dietary culture of the Gelao ethnic group.

Travel Tips for Daozhen Gelao and Miao Autonomous County
Best Seasons
  • April-June: Spring blossoms, the best time to visit
  • July-August: Summer resort, cool in the nature reserve
  • September-October: Clear autumn weather, rich folk activities
  • Winter: Nuo culture performance season
Cultural Etiquette
  • Respect the folk customs of the Gelao ethnic group
  • Abide by etiquette when participating in Nuo culture activities
  • Protect ethnic cultural heritage
  • Permission is required to photograph Nuo masks
Tourist Reminders
  • Pay attention to safety in the nature reserve
  • Be careful of slipping when visiting the gorge
  • Drive carefully on mountain roads
  • Pay attention to mosquito and insect bites
Transportation Guide
  • 2.5 hours' drive from downtown Zunyi to Daozhen
  • Daozhen is accessible by expressway
  • It is recommended to charter a car or drive by yourself between attractions
  • There are shuttle buses from the county seat to various towns

Explore Tourism in Various Districts and Counties of Zunyi City