Foreign travel bloggers uncover cultural and natural charms of Yizhou, Guangxi

Two travel bloggers, one from the United Kingdom and the other from Ireland, embarked on an enchanting journey through Yizhou in South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, the hometown of the legendary folk singer and composer third sister Liu, or Liu Sanjie, on Sept 27.

Their exploration, blending stunning landscapes with rich cultural heritage, was captured through their lenses and shared on social media like TikTok and YouTube, offering a feast of interaction, scenery, and food to the world.

Foreign bloggers dance the bamboo pole dance with local people. [Photo/WeChat account: weiguanyizhou]

Their adventure began at the Liu Sanjie Scenic Area, reputed to be the singer's birthplace. As they crossed the suspension bridge, the bloggers documented their experiences, from the mesmerizing mountain songs at Liu Sanjie's stage to trying the traditional bamboo pole dance. Guided by the enthusiastic locals of Zhuang ethnic group, they gradually mastered the dance, experiencing the vibrant spirit of Zhuang culture.

Bloggers taste eight-treasure rice. [Photo/WeChat account: weiguanyizhou]

At Liu Sanjie's former residence, a welcoming song was followed by the tossing of a red embroidered ball, a traditional gesture symbolizing friendship and good fortune. This interaction unveiled the wisdom and romance of the Zhuang people.

The bloggers then cruised down the Jiexian River, capturing the picturesque scenery of swaying bamboo and mirrored peaks. The farewell to Liu Sanjie's melodies led them to ancient Huaiyuan town, a place steeped in 1,300 years of history and culinary tradition.

Strolling the stone-paved streets, they sampled the local specialty, Eight Treasures Rice, and observed the intricate process of mooncake painting, an intangible cultural heritage item.

Bloggers experience painted mooncake making. [Photo/WeChat account: weiguanyizhou]