Autumn in Dayao Mountain is a Yao ethnic secret hidden in the misty clouds

Compared to popular tourist spots, I prefer exploring the primitive areas full of ethnic charm. The low-key Dayao Mountain is a treasure in my heart. In autumn, the Yao Mountain is shrouded in mist, the terraced fields turn golden, the forests on the mountain don colorful attire, and in the Yao villages on the mountainside, the joy of harvest is in the air. This is not a scenic area, it is life itself, a deep encounter between culture and nature. 【“Theme” Route Play (Cultural Exploration Line)】 Theme: In-depth experience of Yao ethnic customs and mountain autumn scenery. Route: Using Jin Xiu County as the hub → delve into Yao ethnic townships such as Liuxiang Township → visit primitive Yao villages like Shanggu Chen Village → hike around Shengtang Mountain or Lotus Mountain → experience Yao medicine and folk culture. 【Recommended Autumn Cultural Highlights】 ✅ Harvest scenes in Yao villages: Autumn is the season of harvest. On the drying racks and under the eaves in Yao villages hang golden corn and fiery red chili peppers, forming vivid scenes full of life. ✅ Layered colorful mountain forests: The main mountain range of Dayao Mountain stretches continuously. In autumn, the vegetation changes color, and from the air, the colors are splendid and magnificent. ✅ Rich Yao ethnic customs: If you have the chance to participate in Yao festivals or daily life, listen to Yao songs, watch Yao dances, taste Yao cuisine, and experience the unique cultures of different branches such as Panyao and Tea Mountain Yao. 【In-depth Experience: That Afternoon Visiting a Yao Village】 After a bumpy mountain road, we arrived at a Yao village hidden deep in a mountain hollow. The village was small and quiet, with a few native dogs lazily lying around. A warm-hearted Yao grandmother invited us to her home for tea. Her house was a traditional wooden stilt house, filled with the aroma of firewood and tea. We sat by the hearth, drinking wild tea picked and made by the family, listening to the grandmother tell stories of the mountains in heavily accented Mandarin—about herb gathering, hunting, and the world beyond the mountains. Outside the window was the autumn scenery covering the hills, and time seemed to slow to a halt. That unadorned, simple sincerity touched the heart more than any scenery. What I remember from this trip is not a specific attraction, but this warm, homely atmosphere. 【Practical Information TIPS】 ✍🏻 The Dayao Mountain area is vast and attractions are scattered, so it’s best to drive yourself or hire a car; public transportation is inconvenient. ✍🏻 When visiting Yao villages, respect local customs. It’s good to prepare small gifts (such as candy or stationery) for children, but do not give money directly. ✍🏻 Mountain roads are rugged, so drive with extra caution. Some village roads are in poor condition; it’s recommended to consult locals. ✍🏻 Accommodation is relatively simple, mostly farm stays, so be mentally prepared. ✍🏻 The best travel seasons are autumn and spring, with pleasant weather and the most beautiful scenery. This autumn, if you long for a truly deep cultural journey away from commercialization, Dayao Mountain will bring a soulful touch.