Location & How to Get There

Nestled in the rolling hills of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Hongyanzhuang Village is a hidden gem located in Yao Autonomous County, near Guilin. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Guilin city, making it a perfect day trip or weekend escape. If you’re flying into Guilin Liangjiang Airport, rent a car or take a bus to Yaoshantou Town, then hop in a taxi or local shuttle to reach the village. For adventurers, biking from Xingping Town (famous for its limestone peaks) offers stunning riverside views along the way.

Natural Beauty: A Postcard-Worth Scene

Hongyanzhuang Village is famous for its sea of persimmon trees, which turn bright orange in autumn, creating a vibrant contrast against the emerald-green hills. The village sits in a valley surrounded by rice terraces that look like giant stairs carved into the mountains. During sunrise, mist blankets the fields, making it feel like a scene from a Chinese painting. A small river winds through the village, where you’ll spot ducks swimming and locals washing clothes by the water. In spring, wildflowers bloom along the trails, while winter brings crisp air and views of snow-dusted peaks.

Cultural Roots: Yao Heritage

The village is home to the Yao ethnic minority, known for their colorful costumes, intricate embroidery, and warm hospitality. You might catch a glimpse of women weaving traditional brocade or men crafting bamboo tools. During festivals (like the Yao New Year), the village buzzes with folk dances, firecrackers, and communal feasts. Don’t miss the drum tower—a wooden structure where villagers gather to discuss matters—and the ancestral halls decorated with red lanterns and ancient texts.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Activities

Instead of crowded tourist spots, Hongyanzhuang Village offers authentic rural life experiences. In autumn, join locals to pick ripe persimmons straight from the trees (be careful not to get stained by the fruit’s natural dye!). Hike the stone-paved paths that connect neighboring villages, passing by rice paddies and vegetable gardens. For photography lovers, the morning light casting on the terracotta roofs and golden fields is unforgettable. If you’re lucky, a villager might invite you to try homemade glutinous rice wine or teach you to weave a basket.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

  • Accommodation: Opt for a homestay run by local families. They often serve farm-to-table meals featuring smoked pork, fresh tofu, and persimmon cakes.
  • Guided Tours: Hire a bilingual guide to learn about Yao customs or join a cooking class to make traditional dishes.
  • Souvenirs: Buy handwoven textiles, dried persimmons, or handmade paper from the village workshops.
  • Best Time to Visit: Late September to November for the persimmon harvest, or April to May for spring vibes.

Why It’s Worth the Trip

Hongyanzhuang Village isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a place where nature, culture, and kindness blend seamlessly. Unlike overcrowded attractions, here you’ll feel like a welcome guest rather than a tourist. Whether you’re sipping tea under a persimmon tree, chatting with elders in the drum tower, or simply soaking in the valley’s tranquility, this village promises a genuine slice of rural China. Come prepared for muddy paths after rain, but bring your camera—every corner here is picture-perfect.