Liziqing Village of Hedian Town in Xiangyun County, Dali

Chinese Name:祥云县禾甸镇大营村委会李子箐苗寨
English Name: Liziqing Village (Miao Ethnic Minority) of Hedian Town in Xiangyun County, Dali
Kaishan Festival of Miao Ethnic Minority is held in Liziqing Miao Ethnic Village in Xiangyun County every year.

Li Zijing Miao Village, located in Hedian Town of Xiangyun County, Yunnan Province, is a traditional Miao ethnic village known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque natural surroundings. Nestled in the scenic landscape of Yunnan, this village offers visitors a glimpse into the Miao people's way of life and their vibrant traditions.

Key Attractions:

1. Traditional Miao Architecture: The village is renowned for its traditional Miao architecture, including intricately decorated wooden houses and communal structures.
2. Miao Culture and Festivals: Visitors can experience traditional Miao customs, including colorful festivals, traditional dances, and music performances. The Miao people are known for their elaborate costumes and silver jewelry, which are often showcased during cultural events.
3. Scenic Landscape: Surrounded by lush greenery, terraced fields, and rolling hills, Li Zijing Miao Village offers stunning natural beauty. The landscape provides excellent opportunities for photography and hiking.
4. Handicrafts: The village is known for its local handicrafts, including traditional embroidery and silverwork. Visitors can purchase unique souvenirs and observe local artisans at work.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring and Autumn: The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.

How to Get There:

• By Car: The village can be reached by car from Xiangyun County or nearby cities. It is advisable to use a GPS or map for accurate directions.
• Public Transportation: Check local bus routes or travel services for options to reach Hedian Town, and then arrange for local transportation to the village.

Entrance Fees:

• Details: Entrance to the village is generally free, but some cultural performances or special activities may have associated fees. It is best to inquire locally for any specific charges.

Opening Hours:

• Daily Access: The village is open year-round. However, cultural activities and local events may have specific schedules.

Accommodation:

• Local Lodging: There are traditional guesthouses and homestays available in and around the village, offering an authentic experience of Miao hospitality.

Travel Tips:

• Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially when participating in cultural events or visiting local homes.
• Bring Cash: Some small vendors and local services may not accept credit cards, so it's a good idea to carry some cash.
• Weather Preparedness: Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress accordingly, as rural areas may have limited access to amenities.

Contact Information:

• Local Tourism Office: For more detailed information on visiting Li Zijing Miao Village, you may contact local tourism offices or guides in Xiangyun County.

Enjoy your visit to Li Zijing Miao Village, where the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Yunnan come together to offer a unique and memorable experience!

Li Zijing Village Miao “Mountain Opening Festival”

Overview:

The "Mountain Opening Festival" is a traditional Miao ethnic celebration that has been passed down through generations, with a history of over a hundred years. In 2016, it was included in the intangible cultural heritage list of Xiangyun County.

According to legend, the Miao people, who migrated for thousands of years and struggled against harsh natural conditions, once lived by hunting in remote mountain areas. On the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, Li Zijing Miao Village celebrates the festival with a ceremony to honor their ancestors and mark the beginning of a year’s labor and hunting activities. During the festival, the Miao people erect a mountain god altar, play traditional reed pipes, and gather from all directions to sing, dance, and drink sweet wine. They pray for a good harvest, favorable weather, and safe and successful hunting for the year.

Welcome Ceremony:

• Welcome Gate: The distinctive entrance gate for the festival.
• Unique Pouring Method: Traditional way of serving drinks.
• Welcome Wine: Sweet Miao wine served to guests.
• Friendly Miao Women: Warm greetings from local Miao women.
• Toast Songs: Traditional songs performed to celebrate.
• Festive Atmosphere: The lively scene of the welcome event.

Mountain Opening Ceremony:

• Ceremony Site: The location where the rituals are performed.
• Ritual Activities: Various traditional rites conducted during the festival.
• Ritual Items: Objects used in the ceremonial practices.
• Miao Men with Bows and Crossbows: Traditional weapons used in rituals.
• Unique Ritual Methods: Traditional Miao practices during the festival.

Festival Performances:

• Passionate Speeches: Enthusiastic addresses by festival organizers.
• Miao Host: Emcee with traditional Miao flair.
• Simple and Rustic Setting: Traditional and down-to-earth festival atmosphere.
• Beautiful Miao Dances: Elegant dances performed by the Miao people.
• Miao Songs: Emotional performances of Miao folk songs.
• Singing and Dancing: Joyful participation by the villagers.
• Inspirational Stories: Stories of resilience, including those of disabled Miao girls.
• Mountain Songs: Traditional mountain songs performed.
• Children’s Dance Performances: Energetic dance acts by local children.
• Miao Fashion Show: Display of traditional Miao clothing.
• Community Dancing: Enjoying the afternoon with group dances.

Hunting Activities:

• Hunting Grounds: The areas where hunting takes place.
• Hunters: Miao men engaged in hunting.
• Start of the Hunt: The beginning of the hunting activities.
• Successful Hunts: Hunters showcasing their successful catches.
• Return and Sharing: Sharing the results of the hunt with the community.
• Tasty Results: Tempting results of the hunting effort.

Daily Life and Production:

• Field Work: Farming and agricultural activities.
• Oxen Plowing: Use of oxen in agricultural work.
• Collecting Firewood: Miao women returning with firewood.
• Hardworking Miao Women: Depictions of daily labor and diligence.

Experience Liziqing Village:

In Liziqing Miao Village, the “Mountain Opening Festival” retains its traditional charm, reflecting the Miao people's ideals and pursuits for life and their environment.

Charming Liziqing Village:

• Pine Needle Roads: Pine needles lining the village paths.
• Red Lanterns and Ancient Homes: Traditional decorations and architecture.
• Organic Eggs: Fresh, locally produced eggs.
• Mountain Beauty: The scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains.
• Miao Girls: Traditional Miao attire and accessories.
• Grass Stacks: Unique styles of traditional grass storage.
• Miao Costumes: Elegant traditional clothing.
• Miao Headgear: Intricate Miao headpieces.
• Kind Miao Elderly: Warm and welcoming elder villagers.
• Miao Youth: Stylish young Miao men.
• Traditional Beauty: The inherent beauty of Miao culture and attire.

Liziqing Village is like a precious pearl, nestled on the eastern side of Daying Village in Hedian Town, Xiangyun County. The mountains, waters, and people here embody a poetic charm. The trees, wind, and air offer a lingering, irresistible comfort.

Visiting Liziqing is like opening a magical book, where every visitor and reader will find their own story. The beauty here is a blend of misty and rustic elements, from leisurely chess games under trees to enjoying wine among flowers and savoring tea in courtyards.

Walking through Liziqing, immerse yourself in the century-old history of the Miao people and their timeless grace. The warm and hospitable Liziqing Village always welcomes you!