Yicibei Village of Wadie Town in Yuanjiang County, Yuxi
Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村) is located in Wadie Township (洼垤乡), Yuanjiang County (元江县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省), approximately 52 kilometers from the county seat of Yuanjiang. The total land area under the village committee’s administration is 31,698 mu. The elevation is 1,631.3 meters, and the average annual temperature is 26.9°C.
History and Culture
Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村) is a typical mixed settlement of the Yi (彝族) and Han (汉族) ethnic groups, rich in Yi cultural resources. The village name “Yicibei” is a transliteration from the Yi language, where “Yi” means water, “Ci” means edge, and “Bei” is a Chinese character meaning “monument,” collectively referring to a stone stele by the water. The village is nestled among mountains and waters, with a unique layout of forests, farmland, ponds, and traditional Yi-style tu zhang fang (土掌房) houses. These traditional flat-roofed earth houses reflect the vibrant cultural landscape and living heritage of China’s mountain-dwelling Yi communities.
Folk Customs
Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村) preserves rich Yi ethnic customs. The tiered and clustered tu zhang fang (土掌房) homes embody distinct Yi characteristics. Residents often communicate in the Yi language in their daily lives, demonstrating the village’s strong continuity and development of Yi culture.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村) experiences a temperate monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 17.5°C and annual rainfall of 980 mm. The best seasons to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most picturesque.
Recommended Attractions and Suggested Visiting Duration
Traditional Tu Zhang Fang Residences:
The distinctive architecture of Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村) provides a great opportunity to learn about Yi culture.
Suggested visiting time: 1–2 hours.
Surrounding Natural Scenery :
Encircled by mountains and waters, the surroundings are ideal for hiking and photography.
Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hours.
Transportation
Public Transport:
You can take local buses within Yuanjiang County (元江县) to reach Wadie Township (洼垤乡), then transfer to local transportation to arrive at Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村).
Self-driving:
From Yuanjiang County (元江县), follow signs to Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村), approximately 52 kilometers in total.
Local Cuisine
The cuisine in Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村) features Yi ethnic dishes such as roasted tobacco-fed pork, bamboo forest chicken, and wild mushrooms. You can also try local agricultural products like roasted tobacco leaves and corn.
Shopping
Shopping in Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村) is mainly centered around the village center, where visitors can find handmade crafts and local agricultural specialties such as embroidery, bamboo weaving, and regional products.
Accommodation
Local Farm Stays (农家乐):
Offer lodging and an authentic countryside experience.
Nearby Hotels:
Hotels in Yuanjiang County (元江县) provide comfortable accommodation and convenient access to the village.
Visitor Tips
Protect the Environment:
Please avoid littering and help preserve the natural surroundings during your visit.
Respect Local Customs:
When participating in cultural events, please be respectful of local traditions and etiquette.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1:
- Morning: Arrive at Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村), explore traditional tu zhang fang (土掌房) and learn about Yi culture.
- Noon: Enjoy local specialty cuisine.
- Afternoon: Hike in the surrounding nature and take photographs.
- Evening: Stay at a local farm guesthouse and rest.
Day 2:
- rning: Shop for local souvenirs in the village center.
- Noon: Lunch at the guesthouse.
- Afternoon: Return to Yuanjiang County (元江县) or Yuxi City (玉溪市) to end the trip.
With its stunning natural scenery and rich Yi culture, Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村) attracts many visitors seeking authentic experiences. Whether you’re wandering through traditional homes or admiring the lush surroundings, the village offers a glimpse into the heart of Yi life. We hope you enjoy an unforgettable journey in Yicibei Village (邑慈碑村).
