Podie Village (坡垤村) is located in Tacaiqi Village Committee (它才吉村委会), Wadie Township (洼垤乡), in the southeastern part of Yuanjiang County (元江县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). The village is built along the mountains and nestled by water, surrounded by hills with beautiful natural scenery. It is approximately 15 kilometers from the Wadie Township government and 54 kilometers from the Yuanjiang County seat, with an elevation of around 1400 meters.
History and Culture
Podie Village (坡垤村) was established in the early Qing Dynasty. The first settlers were families with the surnames He (何) and Li (李), who migrated from Dashuicheng (大水城), Shiping County (石屏县). In 2013, Podie Village was listed among the second batch of National Traditional Villages, and in 2019, it was designated as part of the third batch of “Chinese Ethnic Minority Characteristic Villages” by the National Ethnic Affairs Commission. With over 80% forest coverage and strong Yi (彝族) cultural presence, the village’s traditional residential architecture is unique and characteristic.
Folk Customs
Podie Village is a Yi (彝族) ethnic settlement that has preserved rich cultural traditions. Villagers live in earth-structured homes built into the mountains and beside water, reflecting the Yi concept of village planning: “back to the mountain, facing the water; farming in front, herding behind; near the hills, close to the fields.” The architecture, known as “tu zhang fang” (土掌房), is distinctive. The village also retains traditional Yi folk dances such as the Left-Foot Dance (左脚舞).
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Yuanjiang County (元江县) has a subtropical monsoon climate. Podie Village enjoys a mild climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.
Recommended Attractions and Duration
Traditional Village:
Stroll through the traditional village to appreciate the charm of Yi-style architecture.
Recommended Duration: 1–2 hours
Ancient Bridges and Pathways:
Explore multiple ancient bridges and pathways that tell the story of the village’s long history.
Recommended Duration: 1 hour
Surrounding Natural Scenery:
Enjoy the picturesque natural surroundings, ideal for hiking and photography.
Recommended Duration: 2–3 hours
Transportation
Public Transport:
Take a local bus within Yuanjiang County (元江县) to Wadie Township (洼垤乡), then transfer to local transport to reach Podie Village.
Self-Drive:
From Yuanjiang County seat, follow the signs to Wadie Township, then proceed to Podie Village. The total distance is about 54 kilometers.
Local Cuisine
The cuisine in Podie Village and its surrounding areas features Yi (彝族) specialties, such as Zhan Shui Yu (蘸水鱼, fish with dipping sauce), Eshan Mashed Chicken (峨山舂鸡), and Huanian Roast Goose (化念烤鹅). Visitors can also sample local agricultural products like Yuanjiang Mangoes (元江芒果) and Yuanjiang Dragon Fruit (元江火龙果).
Shopping
There are various shops selling local agricultural products and handicrafts in Podie Village, offering unique souvenirs for visitors.
Accommodation
Local Farm Stays:
These provide lodging and an opportunity to experience rural Yi village life.
Nearby Hotels:
Hotels in the Yuanjiang County seat are relatively close to Podie Village and offer convenient transportation.
Travel Tips
- Environmental Protection: Please be mindful of the environment during your visit; do not litter.
- Respect Local Customs: When participating in cultural activities, respect local traditions and customs.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning arrival at Podie Village, tour the traditional village and admire Yi-style architecture.
Lunch: Enjoy local specialties.
Afternoon: Walk along ancient bridges and trails, feel the traces of history.
Evening: Stay at a local farmhouse for rest.
Day 2:
Morning: Explore the surrounding natural landscapes, hike and photograph the scenery.
Lunch: Return to the farmhouse for a meal.
Afternoon: Return to Yuanjiang County or Yuxi City to conclude your journey.
With its distinctive natural beauty and rich Yi ethnic culture, Podie Village (坡垤村) attracts many visitors. Whether wandering through ancient settlements or participating in traditional activities, you’ll experience the unique charm of this historic village. We hope you enjoy a memorable journey in Podie Village.
