Banqiao Village of Banqiao Town in Longyang District, Baoshan

Chinese Name: 保山市隆阳区板桥镇板桥村
English Name: Banqiao Village of Banqiao Town in Longyang District, Baoshan

Overview

• Chinese Name: 板桥村 (Banqiao Village)

• Location: Banqiao Town, Longyang District, Baoshan City, Yunnan Province, China

• Proximity: Only 5 kilometers from the city center of Baoshan

• Elevation: 1,650 meters above sea level

• Climate: Average annual temperature of 16.5°C, with annual rainfall of 1,000 mm, ideal for growing rice, vegetables, and rapeseed

Banqiao Village (板桥村) is located in Banqiao Town (板桥镇), Longyang District (隆阳区), Baoshan (保山市), in Yunnan Province (云南省). Situated at the heart of the town, it is only 5 kilometers away from Baoshan's urban area and is easily accessible via asphalt roads. The village is surrounded by neighboring villages, including Shike Village (世科村) to the east, Jinji Zhengguan Village (金鸡郑关村) to the south, Gao Hai Village (高海村) and Wulong Village (乌龙村) to the west, and Beihan Zhuang Village (北汉庄村) to the north.

Geography and Demographics

• Area: 2.5 square kilometers

• Cultivated Land: 1,150 acres (0.225 acres per person)

• Population: 5,121 people (as of 2009), with 1,277 households

• Labor Force: 2,406 people, with 587 working in the primary industry

The village has a rich agricultural landscape, with fertile land ideal for cultivating various crops. It is well-equipped with infrastructure, including water, electricity, roads, television, and telephone services. The village center also features a local market.

Economy and Infrastructure

In 2009, Banqiao Village generated a total income of 98.78 million yuan, with an average per capita income of 3,633.5 yuan. The primary sources of income include transportation, commerce, construction, and processed food products. The village is well-developed, with comprehensive infrastructure that includes paved main roads and public utilities.

Historical and Cultural Significance

History and Naming

Banqiao Village is named after the wooden bridge (木板桥) built during the Ming Dynasty (明朝) in 1382. It was an important stop along the Southern Silk Road (南方丝绸之路). The Qinglong Street (青龙街), which is lined with traditional architecture from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, was an important commercial and cultural hub. The street was added to the China Traditional Villages List in 2012, preserving the historical charm of the area.

Qinglong Street

Qinglong Street, 875 meters long, is paved with bluestone slabs (青石板) resembling dragon scales. The street is home to many traditional houses (前店后宅) that date back to the Ming and Qing periods, with the iconic Wanjiashu Temple (万家祖庙) being a notable example of the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Tourist Attractions

1. Qinglong Street

Qinglong Street is the centerpiece of Banqiao Village. Known as “Ten Thousand Families Half Street” (万家半条街), it features over 30 intangible cultural heritage (ICH) businesses, including traditional crafts such as Wutong Silver Crafts (乌铜走银) and Jiama Woodblock Prints (甲马版画). Visitors can explore the street’s history while experiencing its vibrant commercial and cultural atmosphere.

Key Highlights:

• Old Teahouse: A 174-year-old teahouse that retains the traditional wood-fired stove used to brew tea.

• Wan Family Ancestral Hall: A 300-year-old building that symbolizes the village’s rich mercantile culture.

• Kui Xing Pavilion: A Qing Dynasty architectural structure featuring a sculpture of Wenkuixing, the patron god of scholars.

2. Other Attractions in the Area

• Guangzun Temple (光尊寺): A national-level cultural heritage site, this Buddhist temple dates back to the Tang Dynasty (唐代) and is known for its architectural beauty.

• Wofu Temple (卧佛寺): Known for the Yunyan Reclining Buddha (云岩卧佛), this temple is one of the Eight Scenic Views of Yongchang (永昌外八景).

Cuisine and Local Delicacies

Banqiao Village is known for its delicious local dishes, including:

• Tengchong Cuisine (腾冲菜): Local specialties such as Dajiu Jia (大救驾) and Ersisi Erkuai (饵丝饵块).

• Banqiao Snacks (板桥镇传统小吃): Traditional treats such as Dongji Guixianglou Pastry (董记桂香楼糕点).

Visitors can explore the village's food culture and experience traditional flavors unique to the Baoshan area.

Recent Developments and Tourism Initiatives

1. Economic Growth and Tourism Integration

In recent years, Banqiao Village has been actively developing tourism, with an emphasis on integrating culture and tourism through the revitalization of Qinglong Street. Over 35 million yuan has been invested in restoring ancient buildings, improving infrastructure such as drainage and lighting, and creating a 4A-level tourist attraction. As of 2022, Banqiao Town (板桥镇) had a population of 102,000 and is a key logistics and transportation hub in northern Baoshan.

2. Environmental Improvements

In May 2025, the village will launch a large-scale environmental cleanup initiative, clearing over 1,000 areas of waste and improving more than 30 kilometers of waterways. Public spaces, such as Xiabu Family Garbage Pit (下付家村垃圾坑), will be transformed into green areas for flower planting.

3. Local Governance and Community Engagement

Banqiao Town is implementing a “Party Leadership + Community Participation” model for environmental management. Local party leaders and residents will work together to clean up neglected areas and improve the village's appearance.

4. Nighttime Economy Development

Qinglong Street has experienced a surge in nightlife and local economic activities, with the establishment of a new police service station and extended street lighting to ensure safety during evening cultural events.

Key Attractions and Recommendations

Qinglong Street (青龙街)

A highlight of Banqiao Village, this 875-meter street features beautiful bluestone tiles (青石板), traditional architecture, and over 30 ICH businesses. Must-visit attractions on this street include:

• Hundred-Year-Old Teahouse (百年老茶馆)

• Wan Family Ancestral Hall (万氏祖祠)

• Kui Xing Pavilion (魁星阁)

Nearby Attractions:

• Guangzun Temple (光尊寺): A national-level cultural heritage site.

• Wofu Temple (卧佛寺): A Buddhist temple that features the Yunyan Reclining Buddha.

Cultural Heritage and Special Activities

Intangible Cultural Heritage Experiences

• Jiama Woodblock Printmaking (甲马版画制作体验): Visitors can participate in or watch the creation of these traditional prints.

• Wutong Silver Craftsmanship (乌铜走银工艺展示): Demonstrations of this provincial-level ICH project.

Festivals and Events:

• Xingyun Market (杏运市集): A traditional autumn market showcasing ICH crafts.

• ICH Shopping Festival (非遗购物节): Held in June 2025, this event will feature over 27 ICH projects for sale.

Practical Information

Opening Hours and Fees

• Opening Hours: Open all day. The core attractions are free to visit, with some experiential activities costing between 20-50 yuan per activity.

Transportation

• By Car: From Baoshan City (保山城区), drive 5 kilometers (approximately 15 minutes) towards Banqiao Town.

• Public Transport: Take a city bus from Baoshan Bus Station to Banqiao Town