Xi'E Old Town in Eshan County, Yuxi

Xi'E Old Town (嶍峨古镇), located in Eshan Yi Autonomous County (峨山彝族自治县) of Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省), is an ancient Yi ethnic town that blends Ming Dynasty (明代) Jiangnan architectural style with the traditional Yi-style "earth-hut" elements. Established during the Ming Dynasty, the town boasts over 600 years of history.

Core Attractions and Features

Architectural Style

The town preserves ancient city walls, arches, and traditional residences from the Ming (明) and Qing Dynasties (清). Landmark buildings, such as the City Gate Tower (城门楼), Kui Xing Pavilion (魁星阁), and Cui Xiu Academy (翠秀书院), stand alongside modern architectural designs like the integrated exhibition hall (规划馆), museum (博物馆), and intangible cultural heritage (ICH) showcase (非遗展示馆).

Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience

Visitors can engage in traditional Yi (彝族) embroidery, enjoy bonfire parties , and watch performances of indigenous songs, dances, and instrumental music .
Cui Xiu Academy (翠秀书院) frequently hosts live demonstrations of ethnic clothing, showcasing the region's traditional attire and embroidery techniques.
The Yuxi City (玉溪市) ICH Museum (located within the old town) dynamically presents four main exhibition areas covering ethnic music, dance, crafts, and more.

Folk Activities

The "Opening New Streets" (开新街) festival, held each spring, is a traditional Yi (彝族) festival. Visitors can immerse themselves in folk performances , workshops for handmade crafts (like pottery and weaving), and savor local delicacies such as the "Three Big Bowls" (彝家三大碗) of the Yi people and hot pots .

Practical Information

Transportation

Public buses within Eshan County (峨山县城) connect to the old town, such as Bus Line 6 , with tickets priced at 3 RMB. Buses run frequently.
If you're driving, there are free parking areas near the old town.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (during tea picking and bamboo shoot harvesting seasons) or holidays when ICH performances are most concentrated are ideal times to visit.

General Tips

Xi'E Old Town (嶍峨古镇) combines historical depth with modern cultural tourism, making it perfect for cultural enthusiasts who enjoy a slow-paced exploration.
The town is open 24 hours a day. For the best experience, visit after 4 PM to fully enjoy both the daytime and nighttime charm of the town. The streets lit up by lanterns and the lively atmosphere provide a wonderful experience in the evening.

Travel Tips and Must-Do Activities

Must-Visit Spots

1. Exploring the Multi-Level Ancient Towers: Head straight to Kui Xing Pavilion (魁星阁) and explore the three-level treasure that includes ICH handicrafts, Yi (彝族) history, and urban planning exhibits (free entry!).

2. Immersive ICH Experience: Discover Yi folk dance performances , pottery workshops , and embroidery demonstrations  where you can watch the Flower Waist Yi (花腰彝) women stitch beautiful totems.

3. Nighttime Walk: Don’t miss the Chaoyangmen Square (朝阳门广场), a local hidden gem for an evening stroll. The cobbled streets illuminated by lanterns and the aroma of local snacks like steamed lotus root powder (澄江藕粉) will make your evening special.

Suggested Tour Flow

1. Explore the ICH Museum (非遗展示馆) (1 hour).

2. Take photos of the Yi-style architecture in the Blue Stone Alley (青石巷) (0.5 hour).

3. Attend a performance at the Courtyard Theater  (check local announcements).

4. Climb the viewing platform for a panoramic view of the town.

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes! The cobbled roads  are charming but can be tough on the feet.

• The museums  close at 6:00 PM, so prioritize visiting them first.

• In summer, the UV index is high, so make sure to wear a hat  even when heading out in the evening.