Relics of Xunjiansi Old Town in Eshan County, Yuxi

The Xunjian Sicheng Site (巡检司城遗址) is located in Sicheng Village (司城村), Dalongtan Township (大龙潭乡), Eshan Yi Autonomous County (峨山彝族自治县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省), China. The ancient city was built on a strategic mountain ridge, with steep cliffs on both the north and south sides, making it accessible only through the east and west gates.

History and Culture

The site of Xunjian Sicheng (巡检司城遗址) was first constructed during the Chenghua period of the Ming Dynasty and was abolished in the 59th year of the Qianlong era in the Qing Dynasty. The village was thus named Sicheng (司城). Due to natural disasters and human destruction, most of the original city has collapsed. The old city was 198 meters long from east to west and 93.7 meters wide from north to south. The walls were 5 meters high and 1 meter thick. The western city gate, Fuxian Gate (福仙门), still stands today, and a stone tablet inside the gate dates back to the second year of the Qianlong reign (1737).

Local Customs

Eshan County (峨山县) is an autonomous Yi ethnic county with a rich Yi culture and vibrant ethnic traditions. Visitors can experience traditional Yi customs such as the Yi Flower Drum Dance (彝族花鼓舞).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Eshan County (峨山县) enjoys a subtropical semi-humid, cool-winter plateau monsoon climate with average temperatures ranging from 13°C to 20.7°C. The best time to visit is from March to November, when the weather is cool and pleasant for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Times

• Xunjian Sicheng Site (巡检司城遗址): Explore the ancient city ruins and learn about its historical transformations. Estimated visiting time: about 1 hour.
• Fuxian Gate (福仙门): The surviving west gate of the city, with three engraved Chinese characters above the entrance. Estimated visiting time: about 30 minutes.
• Sicheng Village (司城村): Experience Yi culture through local architecture and customs. Estimated visiting time: about 2 hours.

Transportation

• Public Transport: Take a bus from Eshan County (峨山县城) to Dalongtan Township (大龙潭乡), then transfer to local transportation to reach Sicheng Village (司城村).
• Self-Driving: Drive from Eshan County to Sicheng Village via signposted routes. The total distance is approximately 30 kilometers.

Food

The area offers a variety of Yi ethnic cuisine, including Yi-style barbecue (彝族烤肉) and bamboo rice (竹筒饭).

Shopping

Local Yi handicrafts and embroidery souvenirs can be purchased around the scenic area or in Eshan County town.

Accommodation

Hotels and guesthouses are available in Eshan County, offering convenient access to nearby attractions.

Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: 08:00–18:00
• Admission: Free
• Tips: Please protect the environment and respect local culture and customs during your visit.

Suggested Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Eshan County (峨山县城), check into a hotel, visit the Xunjian Sicheng Site (巡检司城遗址), and learn about its historical evolution.
• Day 2: Explore Sicheng Village (司城村), experience Yi culture, and return to the county town for a rest in the afternoon.
• Day 3: Stroll around Eshan County, sample local cuisine, shop for ethnic souvenirs, and return to your departure point.

The Xunjian Sicheng Site (巡检司城遗址) captivates visitors with its rich historical legacy and unique folk customs. Whether you're exploring the traces of an ancient city or immersing yourself in local culture, you’ll feel the unique charm of this land. We hope this guide helps you better plan your trip and enjoy a memorable journey to Xunjian Sicheng.

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