Hongxishi Archway in Mile City, Honghe

Overview

The Rainbow Creek Stone Arch (虹溪石牌坊) is located in the central section of Dongmen Street (东门街) in Hongxi Town (虹溪镇), Mile County (弥勒县). Constructed from bluestone, the arch measures 10 meters in height and 6 meters in width, covering an area of 64 square meters. It was built in the 26th year of the Guangxu reign (光绪) of the Qing Dynasty (清朝), specifically in the year 1900.

Architectural Features

The archway features a three-tiered eave structure and is supported by four pillars. At the base of the pillars, there are four pairs of stone-carved lions facing each other. The ends of the stone ridge are adorned with eight opposing stone carvings of mythical creatures. Centrally located at the top of the arch is a hollowed-out stone plaque featuring a dragon, inscribed with the characters “圣旨旌表” (Proclamation of Imperial Edict). Below this is a horizontal plaque with the inscription “三代一品封典” (The Three Generations of First-Class Titles).

On either side of the platform base, there are seven-levels of inclined walkways, and three couplets are displayed on the vertical pillars. The arch was commissioned by Wang Zhi (王炽), a prominent local merchant and benefactor known for his loyalty to the Qing court, which earned him imperial recognition. Wang was also noted for his charitable deeds in the community, earning him a reputation as “乐善好施” (a kind and generous person).

Cultural and Historical Significance

The stone arch is intricately carved and possesses significant artistic value. It was recognized as a provincial cultural heritage site in December 2003 and was previously listed as a protected unit in the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州) in 1983.

The Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture is situated in the southern Yunnan (云南) region of the Yungui Plateau (云贵高原), characterized by its diverse topography, including limestone mountains, plateaus, valleys, plains, and hills. The region experiences a significant elevation difference and complex terrain, resulting in abundant rainfall, ample sunlight, and a mild annual temperature range. The climate is predominantly humid subtropical with monsoonal influences.

Due to the Tropic of Cancer (北回归线) passing through the region, temperatures and humidity increase from north to south. The rainy season in Honghe is concentrated from May to October, with frost periods occurring from late November to January and February of the following year. Therefore, the best time to visit Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture is during the mild, less rainy months of March to April and September to November, avoiding the hot, rainy summer and autumn.

How to Get There

To reach the Rainbow Creek Stone Arch:

1. By Car: Drive to Mile City (弥勒市) and follow signs to Hongxi Town (虹溪镇). The arch is located on Dongmen Street (东门街) in the town center.
2. Public Transport: Buses regularly operate from major cities in Yunnan to Mile City. Once in Mile City, local transport options can take you to Hongxi Town.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: March to April and September to November for comfortable weather.
• Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of local customs and the significance of the site.
• Photography: The intricate carvings and architecture provide excellent opportunities for photography.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially if visiting during warmer months, as the area can be humid.