Is Qianhu Miao Village worth visiting? - Stunningly beautiful or just a great place for travel photography?

Guiyang - Xijiang Miao Village (approximately 200km) 🚗 We set off early from Guiyang, heading straight for Xijiang Miao Village, the world's largest Miao village. Many are drawn to its spectacular panoramic views, and we were no exception. Nearby is Langde Upper Village, smaller but more authentic. 🎫 The Xijiang Miao Village scenic area has been closed to the public since 2005. Tickets are required, followed by a sightseeing bus or cable car for entry. Parking is available at the North and West gates; the West gate is closer to the viewing platform. Due to the large crowds during the National Day holiday, the electric shuttle buses only went as far as the transfer station; the rest of the journey required walking, and we heard many tourists complaining along the way. 🌃 The intricate stilted houses are built along the Baishui River valley, dividing the area in two and connecting it with seven covered bridges. To maximize the view, we chose a hotel on a high viewing platform. The sun shines on the terraced fields and the stilted houses of the Miao village, creating a truly healing atmosphere. At night, it feels like stepping into the world of Spirited Away, with the stilted houses twinkling like stars in an animated film. 🌛🌟 🥤This place is as popular as it is controversial. It's touted as a large-scale travel photography and sour fish soup base, with photography studios practically everywhere. Many people come here specifically to take a set of photos in Miao ethnic costumes. The commercial atmosphere is very strong, and the locals largely rely on tourism for their livelihood. 📷A trip here isn't complete without taking a set of travel photos. One good thing about this place is that you can go early to get your makeup done, bring your costume, eat, play, and shoot all day, and return to the studio before midnight when they close. We found a place near the Lusheng field after dinner; it cost 199 yuan per person, including makeup, costume, and two sets of photos. ☕️In recent years, many trendy shops have sprung up in the village, such as Niupeng Coffee, Caotang Tea House, and Xiangjiangshan Milk Tea... 🐮The first three require a short climb uphill from the First Wind and Rain Bridge. The Cowshed Cafe and Pigsty Cafe no longer have cowsheds or pigsties; they only offer coffee for 30-50 yuan a cup. However, the suspended swings still attract many tourists for photos. 🎭The only free performance in the scenic area is a free dance performance at 3 pm daily in the Lusheng Field. "Impression Xijiang" requires a separate ticket; it's similar to a standard performance at an ethnic cultural park and is optional. 🌈Tips: The swings are located at the Village Art Museum and the Cowshed Cafe. A long table banquet is held daily at the restaurant; if you want to participate, you can buy a package ticket when you purchase your admission ticket.