History of Dongchuan Red Land in Kunming

1. Natural Attractions

• Shilin Stone Forest: The iconic karst landscape of Shilin Stone Forest is a must-visit. Visitors can explore the unique stone formations and enjoy guided tours that highlight the geological and cultural significance of the area.
• Black Stone Forest: Located within the Apricot Tree Garden, this area features over 30 scenic spots with distinctive karst formations, offering a different style of natural beauty compared to the main Stone Forest.

2. Cultural Experiences

• Ashima Cultural Square: This square is dedicated to the legend of Ashima, a central part of local Yi ethnic culture. It features large-scale stone sculptures and rockeries, and is a venue for cultural performances and outdoor activities.
• Apricot Tree Garden: A comprehensive garden resort that combines traditional Chinese medicine culture with tourism and leisure. It includes areas for herbal cuisine, wellness, and cultural displays.

3. Recreational Activities

• Tian Mu Sports Park: A popular spot for sports and outdoor activities, including cycling, walking, and sports events.
• Fuyuan Garden Education and Leisure Farm: Offers educational and leisure experiences, ideal for families and those interested in agricultural activities.
• Le Ju Fang Table Games: A venue for board games and interactive entertainment, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

4. Entertainment Venues

• Shilin Water Jump Bay Entertainment Bar: Features dance halls and entertainment activities, providing a lively nightlife option.
• Shilin Good Voice Entertainment Co., Ltd: Offers karaoke and entertainment services, a popular choice for social gatherings.

5. Culinary and Wellness

• Yinghuayu Herbal Cuisine Restaurant: Known for its unique herbal cuisine, using organic ingredients grown within the Apricot Tree Garden. It’s a great place to enjoy healthy and flavorful meals.
• Shiquan Village: A serene area with wooden cottages and villas, offering a peaceful stay with natural surroundings.

6. Festivals and Events

• Torch Festival: A significant cultural event celebrated by the Yi ethnic minority, featuring traditional dances, music, and fireworks.
• Ashima Cultural Festival: Dedicated to the legend of Ashima, this festival includes theatrical performances, parades, and cultural exhibitions.

Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: May, September, and October are ideal for outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
• Transportation: Shilin County is easily accessible from Kunming by bus or private car.
• Local Cuisine: Try local specialties such as buckwheat pancakes and roasted meat, which are widely available in restaurants and food stalls.

1. Yi Ethnic Culture

Language and Script

• The Sani people speak the Sani dialect of the Yi language, which belongs to the Tibeto-Burman language family.
• The Yi script, a syllabic writing system, is still used in some traditional contexts, though it is less common today.

Traditional Clothing

• Men: Traditionally wear black turbans, short jackets, and wide-legged trousers. The clothing is often adorned with intricate embroidery.
• Women: Wear colorful embroidered blouses, pleated skirts, and aprons. Their headwear is particularly distinctive, often featuring elaborate designs and patterns.

Music and Dance

• Traditional Music: The Sani people have a rich musical tradition, often accompanied by instruments such as the bawu (a bamboo flute), pipa (a four-stringed lute), and erhu (a two-stringed fiddle).
• Dance: The Axi Moonlight Dance (阿细跳月) is one of the most famous traditional dances of the Sani people. It is performed during festivals and celebrations, often under the moonlight, and involves lively, rhythmic movements.

Folklore and Legends

• Ashima Legend: The legend of Ashima (阿诗玛) is a central part of Sani culture. It tells the story of a beautiful and kind-hearted girl who is turned into a stone by a jealous rival. This legend is celebrated through songs, dances, and theatrical performances.
• Rock Art: Ancient rock paintings and carvings in the area depict scenes of hunting, dancing, and daily life, providing insights into the cultural practices of early inhabitants.

2. Natural and Cultural Integration

• Stone Forest as a Cultural Symbol: The Stone Forest is not just a natural wonder but also a cultural symbol for the Sani people. Many of their stories, songs, and dances are inspired by the stone formations.
• Traditional Beliefs: The Sani people have animistic beliefs, where natural elements like stones, trees, and rivers are considered sacred. Rituals and offerings are sometimes performed to honor these elements.

3. Festivals and Celebrations

• Torch Festival (火把节): One of the most important festivals of the Yi people, held annually in July or August. It involves lighting torches, dancing, singing, and feasting. The festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.
• Sani Folk Culture Festival (彝族文化节): Held every year to celebrate Sani culture, featuring traditional music, dance performances, and exhibitions of traditional crafts.
• Ashima Cultural Festival: Dedicated to the legend of Ashima, this festival includes theatrical performances, parades, and cultural exhibitions.

4. Traditional Crafts

• Embroidery: Women are particularly skilled in embroidery, creating intricate patterns on clothing, bags, and household items.
• Pottery: Traditional pottery-making is another important craft, with distinctive designs and motifs reflecting Sani culture.
• Weaving: Traditional weaving techniques are used to create fabrics for clothing and other items.

5. Culinary Culture

• Buckwheat Pancakes (荞饼): A traditional dish made from buckwheat flour, often served with various toppings.
• Roasted Meat: Barbecued pork, lamb, and chicken are popular, often cooked over open fires.
• Local Wines: Traditional wines made from local fruits and grains are commonly enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.

6. Modern Cultural Development

• Cultural Tourism: The Stone Forest and surrounding areas have become major tourist attractions, with cultural performances and exhibitions showcasing Sani traditions.
• Cultural Education: Efforts are being made to teach younger generations about traditional crafts, music, and dance to ensure the continuation of cultural practices.
• Festivals and Events: Regular cultural festivals and events attract both locals and tourists, helping to spread awareness of Shilin’s unique culture.

7. Cultural Significance

Entertainment in Anning City

History of Anning City in Kunming

Anning City Culture in Kunming

Theme Parks

• Colorful Yunnan Paradise: This is one of the largest theme parks in Southwest China, combining Yunnan’s ethnic culture, regional characteristics, and ancient Dian culture. It features seven themed areas, including the Four Seasons Flower Sea, Magic Yunnan, Children’s Dream World, Dian Army Camp, Vientiane Tribe, Frost Moon Cold Continent, and Prehistoric Secret Realm. The park also hosts various performances such as “Flying Over Colorful Yunnan,” “Colorful Yunnan,” and “Ancient Dian Culture” shows. Since its opening in July 2018, it has attracted over 2 million visitors.
• Dwarves Empire: A theme park designed for children, featuring various interactive and educational activities. It offers a unique experience with its focus on dwarf characters and interactive play areas.

Cultural and Historical Attractions

• Ancient Dian Town: Part of the Colorful Yunnan program, this area recreates the charm of the ancient Dian Kingdom (278-109 BC). It includes cultural performances, traditional architecture, and historical exhibits. The town also features a hot spring villa, offering a relaxing experience alongside cultural immersion.
• Nandianchi National Wetland Park: Located on the south bank of Dianchi Lake, this park is dedicated to protecting the biodiversity of the lake and maintaining its ecological safety. It offers a peaceful environment for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Family and Leisure Activities

• Pets Eden: A unique attraction where visitors can interact with animals such as peacocks and sheep. It offers a more intimate and educational experience compared to traditional zoos, making it ideal for families.
• Hot Spring Villa: Located within the Ancient Dian Town, this villa provides a luxurious and relaxing experience with various hot spring pools and facilities.

Festivals and Events

• Torch Festival: A significant cultural event celebrated by the Yi ethnic minority, featuring traditional dances, music, and fireworks. It attracts thousands of visitors each year.
• Folk-Tune Singing Competition: Held during the Lantern Festival, this event brings together residents and tourists for a celebration of local music and culture.

Transportation and Accessibility

• By Car: Jinning District is easily accessible from Kunming city center via major highways such as the Kunming-Mohan Expressway.
• By Bus: There are direct bus routes from Kunming’s Changshui International Airport and Kunming South Station to Jinning District.

Tips for Visitors

• Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes as many attractions require walking.
• Check Schedules: Verify opening hours and event schedules in advance, as they may vary by season.
• Local Cuisine: Try local specialties and snacks available at various restaurants and food stalls within the parks and attractions.

Ancient History

• Prehistoric Times: Archaeological evidence shows that humans lived in the Jinning area as early as the Neolithic Age.
• Ancient Dian Kingdom: The area was once the capital of the ancient Dian Kingdom, which existed from the late Spring and Autumn period to the Eastern Han dynasty (278 BC to 109 BC). The Gold Seal of King Dian, a symbol of the Ancient Dian culture, was excavated in Shangsuan Town of Jinning District.
• Han Dynasty: During the Han Dynasty, Jinning was known as Dianchi County and served as the administrative center for various regions, including Yizhou, Jinning, Ningzhou, and Jianning.

Medieval to Modern History

• Tang and Song Dynasties: Jinning was part of the Nanzhao and Dali territories.
• Ming Dynasty: In 1486, during the Ming Dynasty, a brick city was constructed in Jinning, featuring encircling walls and four main gates. The city saw periods of destruction and restoration over the following centuries.
• Modern Era: In 1958, Jinning and Kunyang counties merged into Jinning County, and the county government moved to Kunyang Town. In 2016, Jinning County was abolished and established as Jinning District of Kunming City.

Cultural Significance

• Zheng He’s Hometown: Jinning is the birthplace of Zheng He, a famous voyager and diplomatist during the Ming Dynasty. Zheng He led the Ming treasure voyages, which were seven maritime expeditions by Ming China’s treasure fleet between 1405 and 1433.
• Cultural Heritage: Jinning District is known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings, particularly in Jincheng Ancient Town. The town features unique architectural styles such as “stilt style” and “Yikeyin” dwellings, as well as grid-like street patterns.
• Natural and Cultural Integration: Jinning District is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including Dianchi Lake and various historical sites. The area is also known for its numerous ancient wells, with over 1,100 wells preserved in Jincheng Town and surrounding villages, making it the largest community of ancient wells in Yunnan.

Modern Development

• Tourism and Culture: Jinning District has become an emerging tourist destination, attracting visitors with its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. The “Colorful Yunnan • Ancient Dian” project is an integrated development aimed at promoting Ancient Dian culture and environmental protection.
• Zheng He Festival: To honor Zheng He’s spirit, the Zheng He International Culture and Tourism Festival is held annually in Jinning, featuring various cultural activities and exhibitions.

1. Historical and Cultural Heritage

• Ancient Dian Culture: Jinning District is the birthplace of the ancient Dian Kingdom, a significant historical and cultural site. The Gold Seal of King Dian, a symbol of the Ancient Dian culture, was excavated in Shangsuan Town.
• Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs: Located in Shizhaicun Village, these tombs are the burial sites of Dian kings and their clans from the Warring States Period to the Han Dynasty. They are considered a representative site of Bronze Age culture in Southeast Asia and world civilization history.
• Jincheng Old Town: Once the capital of the ancient Dian Kingdom, this town is surrounded by mountains on three sides and bordered by lakeside plains. It is known for its Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture and is considered the birthplace of Dian culture.

2. Traditional Villages

• Fuan Village: A traditional village in Jincheng Town, known for its rich ethnic culture, including traditional architecture, festivals, and crafts.
• Xinzhai Village: A vibrant Yi ethnic village with over 300 years of history, preserving unique Yi customs, traditional dances, and architecture. It is recognized as a Yi cultural protection area and a traditional village in China.

3. Festivals and Cultural Activities

• Torch Festival: A significant cultural event celebrated by the Yi ethnic minority, featuring traditional dances, music, and fireworks.
• Zheng He International Culture and Tourism Festival: Held annually to honor Zheng He, a famous Ming Dynasty voyager and diplomatist. The festival includes cultural performances, exhibitions, and activities.

4. Architecture and Art

• Traditional Yi Architecture: Villages like Xinzhai showcase a blend of Yi earthen houses and Han architectural styles, with intricate wooden carvings and colorful murals.
• Colorful Yunnan Ancient Dian Lake Kingdom: A cultural tourism attraction featuring performances like “Records of Ancient Yunnan,” ethnic dances, and interactive cultural experiences.

5. Cultural Significance

• Zheng He Spirit: Jinning District promotes the spirit of Zheng He, emphasizing “daring to be the first and striving to be the best.” This spirit is celebrated through cultural sites like Zheng He Park and the Zheng He Museum.
• Diversity of Ethnic Cultures: Jinning District is home to various ethnic groups, each contributing to its rich cultural tapestry through traditions, festivals, and crafts.

Yulong Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) is located in (云南省丽江市) Lijiang City, (云南省) Yunnan Province. It is the southernmost large snow mountain in the Northern Hemisphere, with the main peak, (扇子陡) Shan Zi Dou, reaching an elevation of 5,596 meters. In addition to its magnificent snow-capped peaks, (玉龙雪山) Yulong Snow Mountain is home to a rich diversity of plants and flowers, making it a treasure trove of biodiversity.

Plant and Flower Distribution

The plant distribution on (玉龙雪山) Yulong Snow Mountain shows a clear vertical zonation, with distinct changes in climate and ecology as the elevation increases. As a result, the types of plants change from the base to the summit of the mountain.

Low Elevation Area (Below 2000 meters)

• Vegetation Type: Predominantly subtropical evergreen broadleaf forests and mixed coniferous and broadleaf forests.

• Representative Plants: (滇润楠) Yunnan Nan, (云南樟) Yunnan Camphor, (云南松) Yunnan Pine, etc. These plants are adapted to the warm and humid climate, forming a dense forest ecosystem.

• Flowers: The area is rich in flowering plants, with common species including (云南山茶) Yunnan Camellia and (杜鹃花) Rhododendrons. Yunnan Camellia is known for its vibrant flowers and evergreen leaves and is one of Yunnan’s provincial flowers. Rhododendrons bloom in spring, creating stunning sea-like expanses of flowers that attract many tourists.

Mid Elevation Area (2000-3500 meters)

• Vegetation Type: Dominated by subalpine coniferous forests, such as (云南松) Yunnan Pine and (高山松) Alpine Pine.

• Representative Plants: (高山松) Alpine Pine, (丽江云杉) Lijiang Spruce, etc. These plants are adapted to the colder climate and have strong cold and wind resistance.

• Flowers: (报春花) Primroses are representative flowers in this area. They come in various colors and bloom in early spring, adding vitality and color to the mountain. Additionally, rare flowers like (绿绒蒿) Green Velvet Artemisia grow in alpine meadows, requiring a harsh environment to thrive, making them unique to the (玉龙雪山) Yulong Snow Mountain.

High Elevation Area (Above 3500 meters)

• Vegetation Type: Primarily alpine meadows and alpine shrubs.

• Representative Plants: (高山杜鹃) Alpine Rhododendrons, (绿绒蒿) Green Velvet Artemisia, (龙胆) Gentian, etc. These plants tend to be small and prostrate, adapted to the strong winds and low temperatures of high altitudes.

• Flowers: In the high-altitude region, (绿绒蒿) Green Velvet Artemisia and (龙胆) Gentians are particularly iconic. Green Velvet Artemisia is known for its bright flowers and unique form, earning it the title “King of Alpine Flowers.” Gentians, with their blue or purple flowers, stand out in the alpine meadows, adding a sense of mystery and tranquility to the snow mountain.

Best Times for Plant and Flower Viewing

The best times for observing plants and flowers on (玉龙雪山) Yulong Snow Mountain vary based on elevation and species, but they generally follow these stages:

Spring (March to May)

As the temperature rises and the snow begins to melt, early spring flowers like (报春花) Primroses and (杜鹃花) Rhododendrons bloom, creating vibrant and colorful flower seas. The period from April to May is the best time to see (杜鹃花) Rhododendrons in full bloom, covering the mountain with picturesque blooms.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the peak growing season for plants on (玉龙雪山) Yulong Snow Mountain, with flowers like (绿绒蒿) Green Velvet Artemisia and (龙胆) Gentians entering full bloom. During this time, the snow mountain offers not only spectacular snow scenes but also a dazzling display of flowers, making it a prime time for sightseeing and photography.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn brings golden hues to the (玉龙雪山) Yulong Snow Mountain, as the coniferous forests and alpine meadows gradually turn yellow, complementing the snow-capped peaks. Although flower variety decreases, hardy flowers like (高山杜鹃) Alpine Rhododendrons will still bloom, adding color to the snow mountain.

Winter (December to February)

In winter, (玉龙雪山) Yulong Snow Mountain is covered in thick snow, creating a stunning silver-white landscape. While flowers have mostly withered, the majestic scenery of the snow mountain remains captivating. In some sheltered, sunny areas, you may still find green leaves of cold-resistant plants, adding a touch of life to the snow-covered mountain.

Plant and Flower Protection

Yulong Snow Mountain boasts a rich and diverse plant and flower resource, which has high ecological and ornamental value. To protect these valuable natural resources, several conservation measures have been implemented:

• Establishment of Protected Areas: (玉龙雪山) Yulong Snow Mountain has been designated a national nature reserve. Protected areas have been established to limit human activities and reduce disturbances and damage to the ecological environment.

• Ecological Monitoring: Regular monitoring of the ecological environment and plant resources on (玉龙雪山) Yulong Snow Mountain is carried out to track plant growth and environmental changes. This provides scientific data for adjusting conservation measures.

• Ecological Restoration: For damaged areas, measures like reforestation and vegetation restoration are taken to promote the recovery and rebuilding of the ecosystem.

• Public Awareness and Education: Ecotourism and educational activities are organized to raise public awareness of the need to protect the ecological environment and plant resources on (玉龙雪山) Yulong Snow Mountain, encouraging tourists to follow environmental protection guidelines and reduce ecological impact.

In conclusion, the plant and flower resources on (玉龙雪山) Yulong Snow Mountain are diverse and valuable. While enjoying these beautiful landscapes, visitors are encouraged to adhere to conservation regulations and help protect this precious natural heritage.

The Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) is located in Lijiang City (丽江市), Yunnan Province (云南省). As the southernmost large snow-capped mountain in the Northern Hemisphere, its main peak, Shanzidou (扇子陡), reaches an altitude of 5,596 meters. It is not only a famous tourist destination but also a habitat for many rare wild animals. The pristine forests of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Provincial Nature Reserve (玉龙雪山省级自然保护区) are home to a variety of rare wildlife species.

Wildlife Species

• Yellow-throated Monal-Partridge (黄喉雉鹑): A Class I nationally protected wildlife species, this is a rare alpine bird.
• Forest Musk Deer (林麝): A Class I nationally protected wildlife species, this small deer feeds on leaves, twigs, and herbs.
• White-speckled Laughingthrush (白点噪鹛): A Class I nationally protected wildlife species, this is a small bird.
• White Eared-Pheasant (白马鸡): A Class II nationally protected wildlife species, this large pheasant inhabits alpine meadows and shrublands.
• Red Muntjac (赤麂): A Class II nationally protected wildlife species, this small deer feeds on leaves, twigs, and herbs.
• Lady Amherst’s Pheasant (白腹锦鸡): A Class II nationally protected wildlife species, this large pheasant is known for its vibrant plumage.
• Blood Pheasant (血雉): A Class II nationally protected wildlife species, this small pheasant lives in alpine meadows and shrublands.
• Giant Laughingthrush (大噪鹛): A Class II nationally protected wildlife species, this is a small bird.
• Yellow-throated Marten (黄喉貂): A Class II nationally protected wildlife species, this small carnivore preys on small mammals.
• Leopard Cat (豹猫): A Class II nationally protected wildlife species, this small feline feeds on small mammals and birds.
• Chinese Goral (中华斑羚): A Class II nationally protected wildlife species, this small antelope is skilled at leaping and climbing steep cliffs.

Conservation Measures

The Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Nature Reserve monitors wildlife using infrared cameras and other equipment to study species composition, distribution, population numbers, and conservation management. In recent years, strengthened protection measures have significantly improved wildlife habitats, leading to a steady increase in populations and the formation of a complete biological chain within their ecosystems.

Note

The Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) boasts rich and diverse wildlife resources, making it a treasure trove of biodiversity. While admiring the stunning mountain scenery, visitors should also take care to protect wildlife and their habitats.

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