Zhoucheng Old Town in Binchuan County, Dali

Introduction

Zhoucheng Old Town (州城古镇) is nestled at the foot of Zhongying Mountain (钟英山) in Binchuan County (宾川县), Dali Prefecture (大理州), Yunnan Province (云南省). With a history exceeding 2,000 years, it originated during the Warring States period (战国时代). This town has played a pivotal role in the spread of Central Plains culture during the Qin (秦) and Han (汉) dynasties and served as a crucial stop on the Ancient Tea Horse Road (茶马古道) from the Ming (明) to the Republic of China (民国) eras.

Historical Significance

Zhoucheng Old Town is a site of great historical importance, particularly as the location where the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army (中国工农红军) passed through during the Long March (长征) in April 1936. The town is home to various relics, revolutionary stories, and significant educational sites for patriotism in Dali Prefecture.

Notable historical sites include:

• Nationally Protected Cultural Heritage:
  • Confucian Temple (文庙)
  • Martial Temple (武庙)
• Provincial Level Sites:
  • Nanxun Bridge (南薰桥)
  • Zhonggu Tower (钟鼓楼)
  • Jichuan Bridge (济川桥)
  • Zhizheng Bridge (知政桥)
  • Bishan Academy (笔山书院)
  • Sichuan Guild Hall (四川会馆)
  • Ancient City Wall Ruins

The well-preserved ancient city wall, built in 1494 (the seventh year of the Hongzhi reign), is a rare find among provincial towns. The architectural features reflect rich local ethnic characteristics, earning the town provincial and national recognition as a historical and cultural site.

Cultural Insights

The wall bricks, inscribed with ancient texts, have sparked public interest. Following the Ming Hongwu period (洪武十五年, 1382 AD), strategies were enacted to manage the region’s complexities, leading to significant military and civilian migrations.

The inscriptions on these bricks vary in content and style, primarily in Kai (楷体) and highlight the craftsmanship of local artisans. They offer valuable insights into the historical context and artistic expressions of the era.

Opening Hours

• Open year-round.

Location

Zhoucheng Old Town is situated in the central region of Binchuan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province.

Transportation

Taxi

The starting fare for taxis in Dali is 8 yuan.

Road

Traveling to Dali by bus is convenient, with a well-maintained highway connecting Kunming (昆明) to Dali. Various bus services run frequently throughout the day and night.

Travel Tips

• Visit historical sites early in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Sample local Bai cuisine to immerse yourself in the regional culture.
• Respect local customs, especially in religious sites.
• Carry cash, as some small vendors may not accept credit cards.