Yinsheng Old Town in Jingdong, Puer

Yinsheng Old Town, now known as Jingdong (景东), is located in the central part of southwestern Yunnan (云南), China. This town, with its long history and rich cultural heritage, is surrounded by the Ailao Mountains (哀牢山) to the east, neighboring Nanhua (南华), Chuxiong (楚雄), and Shuangbai (双柏) counties; to the south, it borders Zhenyuan (镇沅) County; to the west, it faces Yunxian (云县) County across the Lancang River (澜沧江); and to the north, it connects with the counties of Nanjian (南涧) and Midu (弥渡). Jingdong serves as the northern gateway to Puer (普洱), linking Kunming (昆明), Dali (大理), and southern Yunnan, and is a key land transportation hub connecting Puer and other cities in Yunnan.

Historical Significance

Yinsheng, an ancient settlement, rose to prominence around 794 AD during the Tang-Song (唐宋) period. It was a key military and economic center for the Nanzhao (南诏) and Dali (大理) kingdoms. The famous Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), which linked China with Southeast Asia, originated from Yinsheng. The town is a cultural crossroads, where 15 native ethnic cultures, Central Plains culture, Bai culture (白族) from Dali, and ancient Dai (傣族) civilization converged. This fusion of diverse traditions resulted in a unique and vibrant cultural heritage that is reflected in local customs, architecture, and festivals.

Main Attractions and Core Sites

Yinsheng Ancient City Walls (银生古城墙)

Address: Hongqiao Road (虹桥路), Yubi Mountain Leisure Park (御笔山休闲公园), Jingdong, Puer
These ancient city walls, dating back to the Nanzhao period, offer a historical glimpse of the region. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the town.

Yubi Mountain Forest Park (御笔山森林公园)

This park seamlessly blends history and nature. It's an ideal spot for hiking and relaxation, offering beautiful views and a tranquil environment.

Tea Horse Road Ruins (茶马古道遗址)

The Tea Horse Road, which played a significant role in the tea trade during the Tang Dynasty, passes through this area. Visitors can explore the surrounding wild ancient tea trees and learn about the prosperous tea trade that originated here.

Yinsheng Ancient Hotel (银生大酒店)

Located on Lingyun Road (凌云路), this hotel provides convenient accommodation for tourists visiting the ancient town and nearby attractions.

Yinsheng Middle School (银生中学)

Situated in Jinchuan Road (景川路), this school is an integral part of the town's community.

Cultural Experiences

Yi Ethnic Culture

Experience the rich Yi culture by participating in traditional events like the Torch Festival (火把节), Yi dance (跳菜舞), and trying local Yi delicacies such as Yi-style roasted tea (彝家煳米罐罐香烤茶). These activities showcase the cultural vibrancy of the Yi ethnic group.

Ecological Exploration

Explore the Wuliang Mountain Nature Reserve (无量山自然保护区) and Ailao Mountain Nature Reserve (哀牢山自然保护区), where you can spot the endangered black-headed gibbon (黑冠长臂猿) and visit scenic spots like Duyun Lake (杜鹃湖).

Tea Culture

Visit the ancient tea gardens in the region, such as those in the Wuliang Mountains (无量山), to learn about the traditional production of Puer tea (普洱茶) and the art of tea-making.

Travel Information

By Car

From Kunming (昆明), take the Kunming-Mo Highway (昆磨高速) to the Jingdong South exit, a 5-hour drive.

Public Transport

Buses from Puer city (普洱市) travel directly to Jingdong (景东), and taxis are available to the ancient town (about 10 minutes from the bus station).

Local Cuisine Recommendations

• Wuliang Mountain Ham (无量山火腿)

• Yellow Eel Noodles (黄鳝面)

• Papaya Chicken (木瓜鸡)

• Jingdong Small Yellow Cake (景东小黄饼)

• Ailao Mountain Puer Tea (哀牢山普洱茶) – a must-buy souvenir.

Suggested Itinerary

• One-Day Tour:

  • Yinsheng Ancient City Walls → Yubi Mountain → Tea Horse Road Ruins

• Extended Tour:

  • Add Wuliang Mountain Nature Reserve (无量山自然保护区) and Shuanghe Hot Springs Valley (双河温泉谷) for a deeper experience.

Historical Development

The Rise of Yinsheng

Yinsheng Old Town thrived around 794 AD during the Tang Dynasty, particularly as a political, military, and economic center of the Nanzhao Kingdom (南诏) and later the Dali Kingdom (大理). The town served as a vital hub for trade along the Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), facilitating the exchange of goods, especially tea. The prosperous tea trade began during this period and continued to flourish.

Dai Civilization in Jingdong

The Tusi (土司) system in the region began during the Yuan Dynasty (元朝), and Jingdong became a key political and cultural center. The Dai (傣族) nobility, under the leadership of the Tusi, played an important role in defending the region and maintaining peace. The last Tusi ruler died in battle during the Hui Muslim Uprising (回民起义) in 1856, marking the end of the Tusi’s rule.

Tusi Residences and Artifacts

The ruins of the Tusi residence in Yubi Mountain (御笔山), now the site of the ancient city, offer valuable insights into the life and culture of the Dai nobility. Archaeological discoveries, including gold masks and intricate jewelry, reflect the region's past wealth and the cultural significance of the Tusi system.

Modern Development

A Blend of History and Modernity

Today, Jingdong (景东) maintains a blend of ancient history and modern development. The county government has invested heavily in infrastructure projects, including cultural squares, riverfront parks, and urban beautification. Yubi Mountain Forest Park (御笔山森林公园), with its historical and cultural landmarks, is a prime example of integrating local culture with modern urban development.

Rich Biodiversity

Jingdong is a biodiversity hotspot, home to endangered species such as the black-headed gibbon (黑冠长臂猿). The Wuliang Mountain (无量山) and Ailao Mountain (哀牢山) nature reserves harbor numerous rare plant and animal species, making the area a natural haven.

The Tea Culture Legacy

Jingdong is one of the original centers of tea production, with ancient tea gardens and wild tea trees spread throughout the Wuliang Mountain area. The region's tea culture, particularly in Yinsheng, dates back centuries, and it continues to thrive today. The area remains a major producer of Puer tea (普洱茶), contributing to its global reputation.

Yinsheng Old Town in Jingdong offers a captivating mix of history, culture, and nature. From its ancient city walls and Tea Horse Road ruins to the vibrant Yi ethnic traditions and rich biodiversity, Jingdong is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in a diverse cultural experience. Whether exploring the town's history, savoring local cuisine, or learning about tea-making traditions, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of Yunnan.