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Leigong Mountain (鈥淕od of Thunder鈥?Mountain) and its surrounding areas, roughly defined by modern-day Leishan County in the southeast of Guizhou province, are the ancestral home of the Miao minority group. For centuries the Miao have settled amidst the tranquil foothills and valleys undulating away from their revered mountain. Visiting their villages and gaining a glimpse into their culture has become one of China's most unique travel experiences.
 Pai Ka Village
The village of Pai Ka is known for its manufacture of Lushengs, the characteristic musical instrument of the Miao. Visit the home of a Lusheng maker and buy a lusheng as a unique souvenir.
Xin Qiao Village
Xin Qiao Village is known for its traditional dance performances, as well as the Miao version of the miniskirt.
 Dances are held in the village square. A huge gong is tied to a wooden post in the middle of the square. An all-male band of Lusheng players, with the bandleader also in charge of striking the gong, plays for an all-female group of dancers. The lushly dressed female dancers, whose total number can reach 100, move in lines and circles, forming different patterns. Their bodies, adorned with silver headwear, necklaces, bangles, and anklets become musical instruments as well, emitting a metallic melody in sync with the rhythm of their footsteps.The most popular dances include 鈥淭he Pheasant Dance鈥? 鈥淭he Wooden Stool Dance鈥? and 鈥淭he Joyful Children Dance.鈥?Guests can participate in the dances.
Besides dancing, the Miao women of Xin Qiao are also known for their tradition of wearing miniskirts. The Miao miniskirt, measures 16 centimeters in length, but is made from 7 meters of local cloth.
 Xi Jiang Village
Xi Jiang has a population of nearly six thousand, making it one of the largest Miao villages, though technically it is comprised of eight smaller villages located close to one another. Like most Miao villages, Xi Jiang lies in a valley. Situated on two hills in the valley, a small stream bisects the village.
Xi Jiang contains many examples of Miao architecture, which is known for its harmony with nature. Many of the inhabitants live in a type of house known as diao jiao lou. These are wooden houses with tile roofs and stilt-like supports built on hillsides. Cobblestone paths hiding under the tiled eaves lead the way to each Miao family. Xi Jiang
's silverwork and batik also rank among the village's claims to fame.
 Mao Mao He Village
Mao Mao He village (鈥?st1:place w:st="on">Cat Cat River鈥?village) is a tiny example of human settlement. Built along one rugged tree-lined path, Mao Mao He is known as a great place to sample the regional cuisine. Dinner shows often complement the great food.
 Bullfighting
Unlike Spanish bullfighting, Miao bullfighting is only between bulls. Visit Leishan County in October and November, the annual festival season of the Miao, if you want to catch the bullfights.(Text and photos by Chu Daye)
Source: CRI.com
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