Jinzidong Cave and Cliff Painting in Mile City, Honghe

Jinzidong Cave and Cliff Painting (金子洞坡崖画) is located 70 kilometers southwest of Mile City (弥勒市) along the eastern bank of the Nanpan River (南盘江), at an elevation of 1,700 meters. Discovered in May 1985, the ancient cliff painting measures 8 meters in length and 3 meters in height.

Location and Elevation

• Elevation: 1,700 m
• Discovery Date: May 1985
• Location: 70 kilometers southwest of Mile City, eastern bank of the Nanpan River

Description

The cliff painting has suffered significant damage but still reveals 66 human figures and 17 Yi characters (彝族文字), all depicted in red. The pigments were made from hematite powder mixed with animal blood or fat. The artwork likely reflects ancient Yi people's reverence for nature and their ancestors. The historical dating of the cliff painting is estimated to be over a thousand years, possibly dating back to the Tang (唐) or Song (宋) dynasties, or even earlier. In 1988, it was designated as a protected cultural site in Mile County.

Geological Context

Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州) is situated on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, featuring diverse landscapes such as limestone mountains, plateaus, valleys, and hills. The region experiences ample precipitation and mild temperature variations, typical of a subtropical highland monsoon climate.

Travel Seasons

Due to the climate, it is advisable to avoid traveling during the rainy and hot summer and autumn months (May-October). The best times to visit are from March to April and September to November, when the weather is milder and rainfall is less frequent.

Local Legends

In the nearby Duijia Village (独家村), there are tales that the cliff may hide treasures. According to local lore, deciphering the inscriptions on the rock wall could lead one to hidden gold.

Cultural Insights

The local elderly, known as "Azhers" (阿者), regard the Jinzidong site as auspicious. They believe that ancient people hid gold within the cave. The cliff painting is perceived as sacred, with a belief that disturbing it would bring misfortune to families.

Other Cliff Paintings in Mile

Mile City boasts four ancient cliff paintings:

• Jinzidong Cave Cliff Painting (金子洞坡崖画)
• Tiger Mountain Cliff Painting (老虎山崖画)
• Lion Mountain Cliff Painting (狮子山崖画)
• Dove Rock Cliff Painting (斑鸠岩崖画)

Artistic and Historical Significance

The Jinzidong cliff painting depicts various scenes of ancient Yi celebrations, possibly relating to natural phenomena or ancestral worship. The artwork’s themes resonate with local myths, such as the story of the hero who shot down suns to save the earth.

Artistic Analysis

The painting consists of various human figures engaged in dances or performances, with a distinct style characterized by simplicity and vitality.

How to Get There

To reach Jinzidong Cave and Cliff Painting:

1. Travel to Mile City via bus or car.
2. Head towards Xunjiansi Town (巡检司镇) and follow local roads to Duijia Village (独家村).
3. Expect limited public transport options; a private vehicle may be more convenient.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: March-April or September-November for optimal weather.
• Local Culture: Engage with local legends and customs; be respectful of cultural beliefs surrounding the cliff paintings.
• Preparation: Bring water and snacks as amenities may be limited near the site. Ensure to have a reliable map or GPS as signage may be scarce.