Shimen Village of Haikou Town in Chengjiang County, Yuxi
Shimen Village (石门村) is located in Songyuan Village Committee (松元村委会), Haikou Town (海口镇), Chengjiang City (澄江市), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). This ancient Yi (彝族) village faces south and is surrounded by mountains on three sides. The village got its name from the stone gate at the only entrance. It is approximately 27 kilometers from Chengjiang City.
History and Culture
Shimen Village was first established during the late Ming (明) to early Qing (清) dynasties. In November 2014, it was listed as one of the third batch of national traditional villages by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development. The village still preserves over 200 years of traditional residences and more than 100 years of Yi-style houses. The architectural style mainly includes “three rooms with two side wings and a gate” and “sliding three-room” structures, with exteriors painted with Yi cultural motifs.
Folk Customs
Shimen Village preserves rich Yi ethnic customs. One unique cultural activity is the Straw Dragon Dance (草龙舞). Originating from the Sui and Tang dynasties and flourishing during the Ming and Qing periods, this dance expresses reverence for dragons and prayers for peace and blessings. The village also promotes and preserves this tradition through events such as “Exploring Intangible Cultural Heritage and Watching the Straw Dragon Performance.”
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Chengjiang City (澄江市) has a subtropical low-latitude plateau monsoon climate with mild weather and distinct seasons. The best times to visit Shimen Village are spring and autumn when the climate is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its best.
Recommended Attractions and Visit Duration
Traditional Village
Stroll through the traditional village to experience the charm of Yi-style architecture.
Suggested duration: 1–2 hours
Ancient Wells and Trees
The village contains three ancient wells with clear water that have sustained generations. There are also many notable ancient trees such as Clerodendrum (清香木) and Pistacia chinensis (黄连木).
Suggested duration: 1 hour
Surrounding Natural Scenery
The surrounding area is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, ideal for hiking and photography.
Suggested duration: 2–3 hours
Transportation
Public Transportation
Take a local bus within Yuxi City (玉溪市) to Haikou Town (海口镇), Chengjiang City (澄江市), and then transfer to local transport to reach Shimen Village.
Self-Driving
Drive from Yuxi City (玉溪市) along the road signs toward Haikou Town (海口镇), then proceed to Shimen Village. The total distance is about 30 kilometers.
Local Cuisine
The village and nearby areas feature Yi specialty foods such as Zhan Shui Fish (蘸水鱼), Eshan Mashed Chicken (峨山舂鸡), and Huanian Roast Goose (化念烤鹅).
Shopping
Shimen Village has many shops selling local agricultural products and handicrafts. Visitors can buy unique local souvenirs.
Accommodation
Local Farm Stays
Offer accommodation services and allow visitors to experience authentic rural Yi life.
Nearby Hotels
Hotels in Haikou Town (海口镇), Chengjiang City (澄江市), are conveniently located near the village.
Travel Tips
- Environmental Protection: Please do not litter and help preserve the natural environment.
- Respect Local Customs: When participating in folk activities, respect the local culture and traditions.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning: Arrive in Shimen Village and explore the traditional architecture.
- Noon: Enjoy local specialty dishes.
- Afternoon: Visit the ancient wells and old trees, experiencing the blend of nature and history.
- Evening: Stay overnight in a local farm stay.
Day 2
- Morning: Explore the surrounding natural scenery for hiking and photography.
- Noon: Lunch at the farm stay.
- Afternoon: Return to Haikou Town (海口镇), Chengjiang City (澄江市), or Yuxi City (玉溪市), ending the trip.
Shimen Village (石门村) attracts numerous visitors with its unique natural beauty and rich Yi culture. Whether you are wandering through the ancient village or engaging in cultural festivities, you will be captivated by the village’s distinctive charm. We hope you have a memorable journey in Shimen Village.
