The Dali Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum (Jianggong Temple) in Dali Old Town

Overview

The Dali Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum (大理非物质文化遗产博物馆), located at 123 Yuer Road (玉洱路) in Dali Town (大理镇), Dali Prefecture (大理白族自治州), is a pioneering institution dedicated to the study and preservation of the region's intangible cultural heritage. Officially opened on December 30, 2012, it was the first museum in Yunnan Province (云南省) to focus specifically on intangible cultural heritage.

The museum features five permanent exhibition halls, a live performance stage showcasing traditional practices, a display area for cultural crafts, and a sales area featuring local specialties from Dali. It aims to educate visitors about the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Historical Background

The Jiang Gong Shrine was built in the 31st year of the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty (1905) to honor Jiang Zonghan for his contributions, including suppressing the Du Wenshou Uprising. Jiang Zonghan (1836–1898) was from Heqing, Yunnan, and served as a military official, rising to the rank of General in Tengyue and Governor of Guizhou. He was known not only for his military achievements but also for his contributions to local infrastructure, such as building schools, improving water conservancy, and developing transportation. In 1876, he personally funded the construction of the Jindragon Bridge (also known as Zili River Bridge) over the Jinsha River in Lijiang, which took five years to complete. The bridge, featuring 18 iron chains, each weighing about one ton, remained the only major bridge in the upper reaches of the Jinsha River for 70 years and was designated a National Key Cultural Heritage Site in 2006.

Architectural Features

The Jiang Gong Shrine is a typical Qing Dynasty shrine with a two-yard layout, featuring a main gate, a passageway, a stele pavilion, a main hall, and side rooms. The shrine’s main gate has a hip-and-gable roof decorated with floral and twining branch patterns, while the side walls are painted white with ink wash paintings. The shrine is adorned with stone carvings, wood carvings, and colorful paintings, showcasing strong Bai ethnic characteristics. The stone carvings, in particular, are highly detailed and exquisite.

Cultural Value

Today, the Jiang Gong Shrine serves as the Dali Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum, displaying Dali’s rich intangible cultural heritage. The museum features five themed exhibition halls, showcasing topics such as myths and legends, traditional festivals, traditional crafts, local deity culture, Bai ethnic paper-cutting, embroidery, traditional music and dance, and tea culture. These exhibitions provide visitors with a deeper understanding of Dali’s traditions and history.

Jianggong Temple in Dali Old Town, Dali

Visiting Tips

Opening Hours: 09:00–17:00.
Admission Fee: Free.
Transportation: Within Dali Ancient City, take the sightseeing bus to the Bo’ai Road stop. Walk east to the四方 Street supermarket and then head north to reach the Jiang Gong Shrine.
The Jiang Gong Shrine is not only a historically significant shrine but also an important cultural showcase in Dali, making it well worth a visit.

Exhibition Content

The museum's exhibitions emphasize the preservation of intangible cultural heritage across four levels: national, provincial, state, and county. The five main exhibition halls cover various themes:

Exhibition Halls

Mythological Stories (神话故事): This hall presents local legends and myths that shape the cultural identity of the Dali region.

Traditional Skills (传统技艺): Visitors can explore the craftsmanship of local artisans, showcasing skills passed down through generations, including weaving, pottery, and wood carving.

Bai Ethnic Culture (白族本主文化): This section delves into the customs, beliefs, and practices of the Bai people, offering insights into their unique way of life.

Cultural Performances (文化表演): The live performance stage hosts regular events that bring intangible cultural heritage to life through music, dance, and storytelling.

Local Specialties (地方特产展销区): A marketplace where visitors can purchase handicrafts, traditional snacks, and other regional products, directly supporting local artisans.

Collections

The museum boasts a collection of 535 items related to intangible cultural heritage, with the majority created by recognized national, provincial, and local practitioners. These items not only showcase the artistic heritage of the region but also contribute to the ongoing education and engagement of the community.

How to Get There

By Public Transport:

Take bus route 4 or the special bus service to Cangshan West Gate (苍山西门), then disembark at the stop closest to the museum.

Alternatively, take bus route 8 and get off at Fenghua Xueyue Hotel (风花雪月大酒店).

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: The ideal months for a visit are March to May and September to November when the weather is mild and conducive for exploring.

Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local Bai dishes at nearby restaurants, such as "Three Courses of Rice" (三道茶) or grilled fish from Erhai Lake (洱海).

Respect Local Customs: As this is a cultural heritage site, it's essential to be respectful of local traditions, especially during performances and exhibitions.

Photography: Most areas allow photography, but always check for any signs indicating restrictions, particularly during cultural performances.

Interactive Experiences: Participate in hands-on workshops if available, which often provide deeper insights into the crafts and traditions showcased in the museum.

The Dali Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum is not just a museum; it is a vital cultural hub that plays an essential role in preserving and promoting the rich intangible heritage of the region. It offers visitors a comprehensive understanding of the Bai ethnic group's traditions and a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Dali, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Chinese culture and history.