Azheke Village and Mushroom Houses in Yuanyang County, Honghe

Chinese Name: 红河州元阳县新街镇爱春村委会阿者科村

English Name: Azheke Village of Xinjie Town in Yuanyang County, Honghe

Azheke Village (阿者科村) is situated in Xinjie Town, within the Aichun Village Committee (爱春村委会), approximately 28 kilometers from Xinjie Town (新街镇). The primary sources of income for the villagers are agriculture and animal husbandry, with the fertile land of the region providing ample opportunities for both activities.

The Location and Cultural Significance of Azheke Village

Azheke Village lies deep within the Yuanyang (元阳) terraced landscape, renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The village is part of the Hani (哈尼) ethnic stockade villages and is home to more than 60 households. The Hani terraces, with a history spanning over a thousand years, are a significant cultural and agricultural treasure of the Hani people. These terraces are among the most iconic features of Yuanyang and showcase the harmonious relationship between the local population and their environment.

Traditional Mushroom-Shaped Housing

One of the most striking aspects of Azheke Village is its unique mushroom-shaped thatched houses. These traditional dwellings are built with local materials such as bamboo, wood, and thatch, and their design is adapted to the natural environment. The rounded mushroom shape is both practical and symbolic, reflecting the villagers’ deep respect for nature and the balance between architecture and the surrounding landscape.

These houses are strategically placed on the mountainside, creating a picturesque and harmonious environment where the village, terraces, river, and forests coexist. The villagers rely on mountain spring water for both their daily lives and agricultural activities, further reinforcing the eco-friendly and sustainable nature of the community.

A Unique Ecological Stockade Village

Azheke is an extraordinary example of an eco-village that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The village's architectural and agricultural practices are deeply embedded in the natural surroundings, and the community continues to use traditional methods that reflect a profound connection with the land. The village’s location, surrounded by terraced fields, forests, and mountains, is a testament to the villagers' resourcefulness and respect for their environment.

In 2013, when the Hani Terraces were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Azheke was one of the five villages included in the declaration, with a population of around 400 people. This recognition highlights the village's cultural importance and its role in preserving the heritage of the Hani people.

A Popular Destination for Tourists and Filmmakers

Azheke Village attracts a steady stream of domestic and international tourists, particularly between November and April. The village's scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and traditional lifestyle make it an appealing destination for those looking to experience an authentic rural environment. In addition to its cultural and natural significance, Azheke also served as a filming location for the 2018 movie Forever Young (《无问西东》), further raising the village’s profile.

Visitors to Azheke can enjoy the stunning views of the terraces, cloud-covered mountains, and misty landscapes, all while learning about the history and traditions of the Hani people. The villagers are known for their warmth and hospitality, and it is common for tourists to sit with the elderly residents, hear stories about village life, and gain insights into the region’s long-standing agricultural practices.

Cultural Education in Azheke Village

The educational needs of Azheke’s younger residents are met by local schools. Elementary school students attend the Aichun Elementary School (爱春), while middle school students travel to Shengcun Village (胜村), located 1.5 kilometers from the elementary school. Currently, there are 39 elementary students and 14 middle school students enrolled in the village's educational system.

The village’s education system, though small, plays a vital role in preserving the local culture while also preparing the next generation for the future. The voluntary education offered in the village is an important part of ensuring the continued prosperity and cultural integrity of Azheke.

Azheke Village is a hidden gem in the heart of Yuanyang County, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the cultural richness of the Hani people, their sustainable agricultural practices, and their deeply rooted connection to nature. Whether it’s the traditional mushroom-shaped houses, the breathtaking terraced fields, or the warm hospitality of the villagers, Azheke provides a unique and memorable experience for all who visit.

How to Get to Azheke Village in Yuanyang County, Honghe

There are several transportation options for reaching Azheke Village, including self-driving, high-speed train, and chartered vehicles.

1. Self-Driving:

• Route: From Kunming, drive along the Kunming-Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速) and the Yongjin Expressway (永金高速), which takes about 5 hours. This route is smooth and hassle-free.
• Alternative Route: You can also take the Chengyuan Expressway (呈元高速) and National Highway 245 (245国道), but the latter part of the journey consists of winding mountain roads, which can be challenging, especially in the rainy season due to fog. This route requires higher driving skills.

2. By High-Speed Train:

• Step 1: Fly into Kunming Changshui International Airport.
• Step 2: From the airport, take a bus to Yuanyang County, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.
• Step 3: Once in Yuanyang, you can either take a tourist bus or rent a car to reach Azheke Village, which takes another 2 hours.

3. Charter a Vehicle:

• Pick-up: You can charter a vehicle from either Mengzi Railway Station (蒙自火车站) or Honghe Railway Station (红河站).
• Cost: The chartered vehicle price is approximately 500 RMB for a private car, or around 120 RMB per person for a shared ride. The journey takes about 3 to 4 hours, but it’s best to arrange the vehicle in advance through local accommodations or tour services.

4. Parking at Azheke Village:

• Upon arrival at Azheke Village, there is a small parking lot at the village entrance, which can accommodate about 20 vehicles and offers free parking. However, if you arrive late, you may need to park outside the village and walk in.

Accommodation Recommendations:

• For a Deep Immersion Experience: If you want to stay within a traditional Hani ethnic village, consider the Xiangban Yuanshe Azheke Hotel (乡伴原舍阿者科酒店). Located in the midst of the terraces, it offers an authentic village experience.

• For Convenient Access to Multiple Attractions: If your itinerary includes visiting several attractions, staying at the Yunshang Terrace Hotel (云上梯田酒店) is a great option. It’s 20 kilometers away from Azheke Village (a 40-minute drive), making it a convenient choice for travelers with a busy schedule.

These transportation and accommodation options will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit to Azheke Village.