Being around 450 kilometers from the provincial capital Kunming(昆明), Hekou Border(河口边境) is known for its cross-culture scenery. It is also one of the most famous scenic areas in Yunnan, which can be easily reached by train. Sapa, is a frontier township and capital of Sa Pa District in Lào Cai Province in north-west Vietnam. It is one of the main market towns in the area, where several ethnic minority groups such as Hmong, Dao (Yao), Giáy, Pho Lu, and Tay live. Tourists can take the train to Hekou and change the bus to Sapa.

From Kunming to Hekou by Train

Please be noted, that after you have arrived at the North railway station of Hekou County, you will still need to transfer by local coach or taxi to Hekou Border. However, it is absolutely important for you to reach a deal with the driver or conductor before departure. Everyday, there will be about 4 trains departing from Kunming Railway Station to Hekou North Railway Station, and the schedule is listed as follows:

Address of Kunming Railway Station:
No.1 Beijing Road, Guandu District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province
This railway station can be reached by City Bus No.2; No.80; No.23; No.24; No.25; No.44; No.83(CNY 1 for ordinary, CNY 2 for air-conditioned), and Airport Express No.919 C (approximately CNY 13), as well as Metro Line 1(can be transferred to at Dongfeng Square Station). The taxi fare from downtown area is around CNY 15 (according to the Chinese Uber, Didi), and expected time of arrival will be around 20 mins.

Transportation in Yunnan:

Yunnan Travel by Air

• Airlines in Yunnan
• Flights to Yunnan
• Airport Transfer
• International Flights to Yunnan
• Airports in Yunnan

Rail Transport in Yunnan

• High-speed Rail in Yunnan
• Railway Stations in Yunnan
• Railways in Yunnan
• Trains to Yunnan
• Trans Asia Railway
• Metro in Yunnan

Roads in Yunnan

• Bridges in Yunnan
• Freeways in Yunnan
• Highways in Yunnan
• Roads to Yunnan
• Trans-Asia Roads
• National Roads in Yunnan

Chinese Name：文山壮族苗族自治州广南县坝美镇革乍村委会汤拿村
English Name: Tangna Village of Bamei Town in Guangnan County, Wenshan

Tangna Village is located in Gecha Village Committee, Bamei Town, Guangnan County, Wenshan Zhuang Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is a typical Zhuang village with beautiful natural scenery, rich ethnic customs, and profound historical and cultural heritage. It is a good place for tourists to understand Zhuang culture.

Location Tangna Village is located in Gecha Village Committee, Bamei Town, Guangnan County, Yunnan Province, about 50 kilometers away from Guangnan County and 20 kilometers away from Bamei Town. The village has large areas of farmland, mountains, and rivers, with beautiful natural scenery.

Zhuang Culture The main residents of Tangna Village are Zhuang people, accounting for more than 90% of the village’s population. The Zhuang people have a rich ethnic culture, including clothing, diet, architecture, music, and dance. The Zhuang people in the village are warm and hospitable, good at singing and dancing, and have colorful festival activities.

Historical Buildings Tangna Village has a unique architectural style, with traditional Zhuang earthen buildings and siheyuan still retaining their original appearance. In addition, the village’s elderly people also teach traditional Zhuang skills such as embroidering ball and weaving.

Tourist Activities

• Enjoy the natural scenery: When visiting Tangna Village, you can appreciate the magnificent landscape and experience the ethnic customs of the Zhuang people.
• Visit historical buildings: You can visit the village’s Zhuang drum tower, temple, and other buildings to learn about the historical and cultural heritage of the Zhuang people.
• Experience ethnic customs: You can taste Zhuang cuisine, watch Zhuang singing and dancing performances, and feel the strong Zhuang cultural atmosphere.
• Participate in festivals: Every March 3rd, Tangna Village holds a grand Zhuang Song Festival, where tourists can come to experience the festive atmosphere.

Transportation Guide From Guangnan County, take a bus to Bamei Town, and then transfer to a van or motorcycle to Gecha Village Committee in Bamei Town. From there, take a boat to Tangna Village. The whole journey takes about 1.5 hours.

Chinese Name：文山壮族苗族自治州丘北县温浏乡石别村
English Name: Shibie Village of Wenliu Town in Quibei County, Wenshan

Shibu Village, Wenliu Township, Qiubei County is a region with a rich minority culture and is also a beautiful tourist destination. Below are some travel tips for Shibu Village, Wenliu Township, Qiubei County, as well as information on transportation from Qiubei County to Shibu Village.

1. Travel Tips
   1.1 Recommended Attractions Shedu Grassland: A picturesque grassland where you can relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. Puzhe Black Waterfall Scenic Area: A scenic area featuring lakes, karst landforms, and Zhuang ethnic customs. Xianren Cave Village: A traditional Zhuang village where you can experience local customs and cuisine.
   1.2 Recommended Foods Zhuang Glutinous Rice Cake: A food made from glutinous rice flour with a sticky and sweet taste. Fish with Pickled Cabbage: A dish made from local fresh fish and pickled cabbage, with a spicy and sour taste. Chicken Stewed with Mushrooms: A dish made from local wild mushrooms and a free-range chicken, with a rich broth and tender chicken.
   1.3 Important Notes Please respect local customs and traditions during your trip. Protect the environment by not littering. Pay attention to safety and follow the regulations of the scenic area.
2. Transportation Information From Qiubei County to Shibu Village, you can choose one of the following two transportation options:

2.1 Driving Start from Qiubei County, drive along Provincial Highway S240 to Puzhe Black Waterfall Scenic Area, and then turn onto County Road X044 and continue to Shibu Village. The whole journey is about 33 kilometers and takes about 1 hour to drive.

2.2 Public Transportation Take a bus from Qiubei County Bus Station to Puzhe Black Waterfall Scenic Area, and then transfer to a bus to Shibu Village at Puzhe Black Waterfall Scenic Area. The whole journey takes about 1 hour.

Chinese Name: 文山壮族苗族自治州丘北县腻脚乡老寨村
English Name: Laozhai Village of Nijiao Town in Qiubei County, Wenshan

Geographical Location

Laozhai Village is a small village group within Nijiao Village in Nijiao Town, Qiubei County. It is located in a mountainous area, approximately 1 kilometer away from the village committee and 1 kilometer from the town center. The village covers a land area of 10 square kilometers, sitting at an elevation of 2,030 meters. It experiences an average annual temperature of 14°C and an annual rainfall of 1,168 millimeters. The climate and geography are suitable for growing crops such as corn and cabbage.

Village Overview

The average cultivated land per capita in Laozhai Village is 1.2 mu (about 0.08 hectares). The village has a registered population of over 1,240 people, with around 1,040 residents living there permanently. In 2013, the average per capita net income for farmers was 6,583 yuan. The primary sources of income for the villagers are farming and animal husbandry.

Cultural Highlights

Laozhai Village has a unique architectural culture developed through generations of living in harmony with the land, following the natural rhythm of the sun and mountains. The village’s residential buildings are constructed with care, featuring grand and robust designs. All village houses are traditional quadrangle courtyard-style buildings, with wooden components and stone materials. The structures are substantial, with meticulously crafted columns, bases, doors, windows, and engraved wooden flower columns. The walls are built using a mixture of five-faced stones, glutinous rice, sand, and ash. The main gate is an arched structure made of semi-circular stone, while the front eaves of the main house are adorned with tri-color decorative brackets. The courtyard is paved with five-faced stones, suitable for drying grains. The quadrangle courtyards have efficient drainage systems that leave visitors in awe. Traditional dwellings make up 79% of the village’s buildings, and their architectural style is well-preserved, showcasing distinctive local cultural characteristics.

Nijiao Laozhai is primarily inhabited by the descendants of the Han people who settled there during the Qing Dynasty. The village contains a cluster of 357 traditional houses, home to over 1,600 people. These traditional buildings are built with large green stones, giving them a rustic and heavy style characteristic of the typical “one-seal” residential architecture.

Fire Safety and Preservation Measures

In recent years, to enhance the preservation of Nijiao Village’s traditional ancient village, Nijiao Town has focused on fire prevention, closely monitoring potential sources of hazards, encouraging community participation, and conducting practical drills to improve the fire response capabilities for traditional ancient villages. The responsibilities for fire safety are clearly defined and implemented.

• Focusing on Key Areas to Eliminate Fire Hazards: To strengthen the ability of ancient village residents to manage potential hazards, Nijiao Town has undertaken hazard inspections. Village officials walk through the village and visit homes to encourage residents to participate in hazard rectification, addressing small issues to prevent larger risks. In line with improving the rural living environment, they have organized the cleaning of firewood, haystacks, and clutter around homes to beautify the village, standardize courtyards, and eliminate potential fire hazards, thereby enhancing fire safety in the village.
• Integrated Management and Joint Supervision: The town has established five work mechanisms, including patrols, grid management, hazard inspections, fire safety training, and the construction of micro fire stations. These form a seamless “fire prevention + N” joint supervision model, creating a chain of responsibilities. Fire safety responsibility agreements are signed at every level, and a joint emergency response plan has been established. Detailed management is carried out, and a 20-member volunteer firefighting team has been formed, regularly conducting fire safety publicity, training, and drills. This gradual formation of a response model, primarily led by government efforts and involving responsible departments, ensures a coordinated approach to dealing with incidents.
• Strengthening Awareness and Foundation: To further strengthen cooperation between the government and residents, the town conducts warning education and policy promotion. It develops and perfects village rules and regulations, holding face-to-face discussions with residents to analyze local hazards, teach the use of fire safety equipment, and guide hazard identification and rectification. This continuous effort enhances fire prevention, self-rescue, and mutual aid capabilities, cultivating a group of knowledgeable individuals in fire safety and ancient village preservation.
• Demonstration Drills to Improve Practical Skills: Regular fire safety emergency drills are organized, focusing on the proper use of fire extinguishers, connecting fire hoses, laying out water hoses, and safe evacuation techniques. Demonstrations guide residents through hands-on experiences with using fire extinguishers and other equipment. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical exercises, each participant is better equipped to respond calmly in the event of an accident. This effectively enhances residents’ awareness of safety precautions and their practical operational skills, ensuring that the benefits of these drills reach the entire community.

Chinese Name: 文山壮族苗族自治州丘北县平寨乡革雷村
English Name: Gelei Village of Pingzhai Town in Qiubei County, Wenshan

Geographical Location

Gelei Village is situated in a mountainous area, approximately 4 kilometers from the village committee and 30 kilometers from the town center. The village covers a land area of 11.72 square kilometers, with an elevation of 1,242 meters. The annual average temperature is 16°C, and it receives about 1,150 millimeters of rainfall each year. These conditions are ideal for cultivating crops such as rice and corn.

Village Overview

Gelei Village has a total of 366 mu (about 24.4 hectares) of arable land, with an average of 0.4 mu (about 0.027 hectares) per capita. There is also 1,400 mu (about 93.3 hectares) of forested land. The village is divided into two village groups and consists of 174 households. Agriculture and animal husbandry are the primary sources of income for the villagers. The village is characterized by its north-south mountain ranges and the east-west flowing Qing Shui River valley. About 2 kilometers to the east of the village is the Gelei Level 1 Power Station, operated by China Southern Power Grid. A suspension bridge in the village connects a simple mountain road to the Qiubei-Guangnan highway. The geographical setting on the southeastern slope of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, combined with a humid climate and abundant evergreen broadleaf forests, contributes to a pleasant environment. The village is also home to ancient banyan trees that remain green throughout the year.

Cultural Highlights

Gelei Village is located in the middle and lower reaches of the Qing Shui River, with fertile land conducive to the development of agriculture. The river has good water quality, teeming with fish and shrimp, and the presence of ancient banyan trees adds to the village’s picturesque and poetic charm. The village enjoys ample water supply and easy irrigation, but its only drawback is the slightly inconvenient transportation. Despite this, the entire village is well-organized and well-preserved.

The village lies in a river valley with a humid environment, favoring the construction of stilt-style houses, which offer comfortable living conditions. This architectural style is a traditional dwelling form among ethnic minorities in Yunnan Province and has been prevalent since the late Neolithic period. Gelei Zhuang ethnic houses are built near the mountains and water, facing north to south. The village is covered with ancient banyan trees, and all 203 houses are built in the “stilt-style” architecture, featuring a horizontally elongated rectangular layout. The houses vary in size, with some having 3, 4, or 6 compartments. The lower level of these houses is shorter, while the upper level is taller, with the design allowing humans to live on the upper level and livestock to be kept below. The upper level is divided into bedrooms and a central hall by horizontal wooden panels. The central hall serves as a communal space for family activities and hosting guests, featuring a shrine for deities and ancestral tablets. A hearth at one end of the hall is used for cooking, making it a central part of daily life.

Chinese Name: 临沧市沧源县芒卡镇湖广村
English Name: Huguang Village of Mangka Town in Cangyuan County, Lincang

Geographical Location

Huguang Village is located in Mangka Town, on the western side of Cangyuan County, Lincang City. The village is approximately 40 kilometers from the Mangka Town government office and 90 kilometers from the county seat. The road to the town is an unpaved dirt road, but the transportation within the village is relatively convenient. Huguang Village administers seven villager groups: Chagou, Zhupeng, Xiaozhai, Laoliuzhai, Yanjiao, Ganhe, and others.

Village Overview

The village consists of 198 households, with a total population of 950 people, all of whom are engaged in agriculture. Out of these, 623 are part of the active labor force, with 459 individuals involved in primary agricultural activities.

Agriculture and Livestock Development

Huguang Village has been focusing on developing its pig farming industry. By leveraging traditional craftsmanship, the village has extended its production chain to include the processing of high-quality, natural pig ham. These hams are known for their excellent flavor and taste, making them popular among consumers. The processed ham is sold at prices ranging from 50 to 60 yuan per kilogram in both local and inland markets. This venture has been well-received, with total sales exceeding 70,000 yuan so far. The success of this pig farming and ham processing initiative has provided the village with a new pathway to increase revenue and strengthen the collective village economy.

Chinese Name: 临沧市沧源县勐董镇芒摆村委会永点村
English Name: Yongdian Village of Mengdong Town in Cangyuan County, Lincang

Geographical Location

Yongdian Village is situated in Mengdong Town, under the administration of Mangbai Village Committee, in Cangyuan Va Autonomous County, Lincang City, Yunnan Province. This village is part of the second batch of Chinese traditional villages recognized for their cultural and historical significance. Yongdian is a naturally peaceful village located in a semi-mountainous area. It lies on the southeastern border of Mengdong Town, 7 kilometers away from the Mangbai Village Committee and about 16 kilometers by road from the town center. The total area of Yongdian Village is around 3.4 square kilometers, with an elevation of 1,740 meters above sea level.

Climate and Environment

Yongdian Village enjoys a mild climate, with an average annual temperature of approximately 16°C. One of the village’s prominent features is its abundant rainfall, averaging 1,800 millimeters per year, which provides a rich water supply for agricultural production. The fertile soil conditions in Yongdian Village are suitable for cultivating various crops, especially rice and corn. These natural resources support the villagers in leading a self-sufficient lifestyle.

Village Life

The daily life in Yongdian Village reflects a harmonious blend of agricultural work and traditional practices. Villagers engage in farming activities, both in the fields and around their homes, showcasing the unique charm of Yongdian’s rural landscape. The community thrives on its agricultural productivity, with villagers working diligently in the fields and carrying out their daily tasks around the village. This lifestyle emphasizes the simplicity and authenticity of life in Yongdian Village, characterized by the villagers’ hard work and their close connection to the land.

Chinese Name: 临沧市凤庆县新华乡紫薇村平坦苗寨
English Name: Pingtan Miao Ethnic Village of Xinhua Town in Fengqing County, Lincang

The Pingtan Group of Zimei Village exudes a rich ethnic cultural atmosphere. The Miao people here are mainly divided into three groups: “Qing Miao,” “Bai Miao,” and “Hua Miao.” Their ancestors migrated from Guizhou, and due to the isolation provided by the mountains and the Lancang River, many of their customs have been preserved relatively intact to this day.

With azure skies, floating white clouds, and lush green crops that resemble a vibrant robe, the beautiful Miao mountain village is adorned with graceful elegance. Gentle breezes, curling smoke from kitchen chimneys, buzzing bees, fluttering butterflies, and the joyful sounds of people and horses create a lively scene. The Miao people, who love to dress in bright red and green, lead colorful lives as vivid as this picturesque robe. The unique Miao “Three-Course Tea” is as delightful and varied as a beautiful landscape, leaving a lasting impression and making visitors reluctant to leave this enchanting place.

This is Pingtan Natural Village, nestled at the foot of Niujian Mountain, the second highest peak in Xinhua Township. The village is surrounded by rolling mountains and walnut groves that cover the green slopes. The melodious songs of birds and the fragrance of flowers can be found everywhere. The village is dotted with traditional houses, featuring blue-tiled roofs and white walls, scattered among the mountains. The simple and honest local customs are as remarkable as the picturesque scenery.

The Miao people here are skilled in weaving, love to sing and dance, and excel in brewing “Wotuo Luo” wine. Their courtship rituals, such as singing to exchange love tokens, matchmaking with the help of the elderly, and wedding ceremonies accompanied by songs across the Milky Way, are especially distinctive. The village also boasts handmade hemp cloth Miao costumes, vibrant and adorned with colorful patterns and jingling bells. In Pingtan Village, one can experience the most authentic and diverse Miao culture. The “Hegao Dance” appears and disappears before your eyes, the “Lusheng Melody” echoes softly in your ears, and the “Mountain Song Tune” stirs your heart. Visitors can immerse themselves in the unique local customs, savor tea, and appreciate the rich cultural heritage shaped by this land.

Transportation:

Pingtan Natural Village in Zimei Village is 12 kilometers from the township government and 120 kilometers from the county seat.

TIPS:

Pingtan offers a wide variety of delicious foods, with a particularly renowned specialty being “Wotuo Luo” wine. This rich and aromatic wine, brewed from grains, is an essential part of Miao celebrations, especially weddings. It is often brewed two or even ten years in advance and stored in an attic. The wine is traditionally consumed by inserting a bamboo stick into the bottom of the jar, with a piece of cloth tied to the end for filtration. Guests are expected to drink a full bowl when offered.

Chinese Name: 临沧市凤庆县洛党镇箐头村委会石洞寺村
English Name: Shidongsi Village of Luodang Town in Fengqing County, Lincang

Shidongsi Village is named after the Shidong Temple, which is acclaimed as one of the “Ten Scenic Spots of Shunning.” The temple is built against a rock and features various structures, including a main hall, two wings, an arch bridge, a lotus pond, and twin pavilions, all surrounded by fragrant camellias. Additionally, there is an ancient camellia tree with a girth that can be embraced by more than one person, known as the “Pumen tea,” with the prestigious name of “Nine Pistils and Eighteen Petals,” which is as famous as the temple itself. The twin pavilions in front of the temple were constructed during the Daoguang and Xianfeng periods of the Qing Dynasty (approximately 1848–1853) on two massive stones, with the steps carved into the rock, winding upwards. The rock walls are inscribed with many past inscriptions, some bold and passionate, others ethereal and transcendent, revealing glimpses of the personalities of those who came before. The ancient rock walls bear witness to the passage of time, while the ephemeral splendor dissipates in the flow of years. Today, people do not see the moon of ancient times, yet the current moon once illuminated the ancients.

“In the deep mountains lies an ancient temple, where one listens to the sound of mantras among the clouds.”

Exploring the depths and climbing the mountains, one can walk amidst swirling mists and cool air. Ascending step by step, Shidong Temple is situated at the mountain’s summit, with the ancient temple offering tranquility and a strong mountain breeze, while the white clouds float gently by. The ancient temple stands silently, exuding an otherworldly atmosphere, where the turmoil and complexities of the earthly realm instantly vanish.

Travel Tips

Shidongsi Village is located 30 kilometers from Fengqing County, 16 kilometers from the town government seat, and 12 kilometers from Yunxian County. The rural roads are well-maintained and easily accessible.

Shidong Temple, perched on the mountain peak, enjoys a pleasant climate and showcases different beautiful scenery in all four seasons, making it suitable for exploration and sightseeing at any time.

Shidong Temple

Shidong Temple is situated 30 kilometers southeast of Fengqing County, in Qingtou Village, Luodang Yi Ethnic Township. It was built during the Qianlong and Jiaqing periods of the Qing Dynasty—specifically in 1794—and was renovated in 1926. The temple complex includes the main hall, two wings, an arch bridge, a lotus pond, and twin pavilions. The temple compound consists of five buildings with eleven rooms, including the main hall and side rooms, along with an ancient camellia tree that can be embraced by more than one person, known for its “Nine Pistils and Eighteen Petals,” which is equally renowned as the temple. The twin pavilions in front of the temple, built during the Daoguang and Xianfeng periods, stand on two massive stones connected by a stone bridge, with a steep terrain and beautiful scenery. The temple has been rated as a Class 2A scenic spot.

Upon arriving outside Shidong Temple, one encounters various uniquely shaped stones, said to form the “Stone Group of the Celestial Shepherd.” Legend has it that in ancient times, a celestial being wanted to move a large rock from the mountain to the Yingchun River below to create an artificial lake for irrigating the fields of Daxing and Yunzhou. He went to the Heavenly Palace to borrow a celestial whip from the Jade Emperor. The Jade Emperor, believing that the celestial being was doing good for the people, lent him the whip with some incantations but required that it be returned before dawn, or it would lose its power. The celestial being took the whip and, under the cover of night, went to move the stones. With a crack of the whip and a recitation of an incantation, the stones transformed into a flock of sheep, descending the mountain ridge. However, due to the large number of sheep and their mischievousness—fighting among themselves, searching for food, and straying—progress was slow and scattered. The celestial being, sweating profusely, called out to them. Just as he reached Shidong Temple, dawn was approaching, and the roosters began to crow for the first time. Hearing the rooster’s call, the sheep turned back into large stones and stood motionless outside the temple ever since.

As one weaves through these stones, the twin pavilions, Yunyan Twin Pavilions, can be seen perched atop the two giant stones in front of the temple. The Yunyan Twin Pavilions form a natural pair, also known as the Male and Female Pavilions or Husband and Wife Pavilions. The left pavilion is Yunyan Pavilion, and the right is Qingxu Pavilion. The two pavilions are connected by a sky bridge for ease of passage, built with donations from Sun Wei, a tribute student from Yunzhou, in 1850. The grand gate at the base of the twin pavilions has a couplet: “Cloud Mountains are elegant and serene, out of the mundane world; the rocks are clear and ethereal, entering a painted screen.” This couplet incorporates the names of both pavilions. On the wall of the giant rock, there are poems by the poet Su Fen: “Looking at Yunyan, many caves, two flying pavilions, breaking through the night sky; the temple is deeply hidden, winding paths, with a rainbow bridge, soaring high; the pond is clear, the green moss is vibrant, the bamboo is dark green, the pine is lush; the stone gate opens, celestial guests enter, floating, attending to the ancient Buddha.”

Upon entering the temple, another scene unfolds, with several ancient halls exhibiting a charming antique style. The large and ancient camellia tree in the courtyard is a precious variety known as the “Nine Pistils and Eighteen Petals” of Pumen camellia. In the world of camellias, there is a saying: “Yunnan camellias are the best in the world, and Pumen camellias are the best in Yunnan,” with Pumen being the ancient name for Fengqing. Legend has it that over two hundred years ago, a woman with the surname Mei from nearby Taohua Village came here to escape an arranged marriage and practiced Taoism in a stone cave. On the fifteenth day of the second lunar month one year, she suddenly heard the sounds of bells, chanting, and drums coming from behind the stone cave. Since then, every fifteenth day of the second lunar month at midnight, the same sounds can be heard. The woman with the surname Mei concluded that the Supreme Laozi was there—since the fifteenth day of the second lunar month is the birthday of the Taoist ancestor Laozi, Li Er. She then raised funds to build the main hall and became known as Daoist Mei. After the hall was completed, a local military officer learned of her dedication and wanted to marry her, but she declined. The officer then gifted her his precious camellia, which he had nurtured for decades, “Nine Pistils and Eighteen Petals,” and together they planted it in the temple courtyard. Today, this camellia still exhibits the majestic phrase: “Flowers bloom in the temple, filling the courtyard with brilliance; residual blood burns the sky red on one side.”

Chinese Name: 临沧市临翔区圈内乡斗阁村委会斗阁大寨
English Name: Douge Dazhai Village of Quannei Town in Linxiang District, Lincang

In Linxiang District, there lies a village gently embraced by history—Douge Dazhai. Nestled quietly in the arms of Wulong Mountain, it is ancient yet mysterious. This old village, with its unique charm and profound cultural heritage, has become a model for Linxiang District’s efforts to explore new paths for the protection and inheritance of historical and cultural resources.

Douge Dazhai is located in the southern part of Linxiang District, surrounded by mountains and rivers, boasting beautiful scenery. It is home to several ethnic groups, including the Wa, Lahu, and Dai, living harmoniously together. During the Ming Dynasty, the migration of Han people from Jiangnan added rich cultural colors to this land. The blending of these diverse cultures has given rise to Douge Dazhai’s unique architectural style and deep cultural roots, where every brick and tile tells stories of history and ethnic wisdom.

Stepping into Douge Dazhai feels like entering a beautiful painting. The ancient houses are scattered harmoniously, and the winding stone paths reveal traces of time and the charm of history. A gentle breeze brushes against your face, bringing coolness that refreshes the mind. Here, one can feel the strong ethnic customs and unique cultural atmosphere, as if traveling back to a distant era.

Villager Zhao Qungang moved from Linjiang City to Douge Village on December 26, 1968, and has lived in Douge Village ever since. “On the night we arrived at the commune, a few classmates and I walked along the road to the south and saw a large village at the foot of Wulong Mountain. From a distance, it looked very elegant, and that village is Douge Dazhai,” Zhao said. “In my memory, Douge Dazhai is a very beautiful and old village.”

In recent years, with the acceleration of urbanization, Douge Dazhai has faced severe challenges such as the outflow of original residents, rural hollowing, and damage to cultural heritage. The dilapidation of old houses, the desolation of cottages, and the loss of memories, especially for important historical buildings like the Douge Yang Clan Ancestral Hall, have caused the ancient village to fall into silence and decay due to ownership issues and lack of maintenance. In response to the plight of Douge Dazhai, the local government has implemented a series of effective measures to protect and inherit this valuable historical and cultural resource. They have invested funds to restore traditional residential buildings and built public infrastructure, improving the fire safety management system, laying a solid foundation for the village’s sustainable development.

Douge Village also emphasizes integrating Douge Dazhai’s cultural resources with the tourism industry. By developing rural tourism and conducting cultural heritage promotion activities, they attract tourists to explore. Here, visitors can not only appreciate the ancient residential architecture and experience rich ethnic customs but also participate in various cultural activities to immerse themselves in the historical culture of Douge Dazhai.

“I grew up in Douge Dazhai; I am a local,” said villager He Wen. “When I was young, there was a well in the village called Malu Well, and my family often took us there to fetch water. Passing by it now brings back my memories.” He added, “In the future, I will actively participate in cultural heritage protection efforts to preserve this precious sense of nostalgia.”

Looking ahead, Linxiang District will continue to uphold the principles of “protection first, rescue as a priority, rational use, and strengthened management” to enhance the protection of traditional villages. At the same time, they will actively explore more scientific and rational models for protection and development, allowing these ancient villages, which carry a millennium of memories, to shine even brighter in the journey of the new era.

He Gencheng, the Party Secretary of Douge Village, stated, “In the future, we will work closely with industry departments to strengthen the protection of ancient villages, increase funding for infrastructure construction, and enhance publicity efforts. We aim to turn Douge Dazhai into a beautiful tourism brand, making more tourists aware of Douge Dazhai and encouraging them to experience traditional culture here.”

Chinese Name: 保山市腾冲市荷花镇民团村坝派村
English Name: Bapai Village of Hehua Town in Tengchong City, Baoshan

“Bapai/坝派” means “a place covered with hemp and pine trees” in the Dai language. Bapai Village is located south of Hehua Town in Tengchong City. The village, situated amidst mountains and rivers, boasts well-preserved residences and temples dating back to the Qing Dynasty. Some of these structures still retain traditional Dai cultural elements, exuding a strong rural architectural charm. The renowned Bapai Village Jiuquan Spring within the area is widely known far and wide.

Bapai Village is located in the southern part of Hetai Town, Tengchong City, within the Min Tuan community. It serves as an important junction on the Tenglong Secondary Highway, situated 27 kilometers from downtown Tengchong. The village covers an area of 1.19 square kilometers and is positioned at 24°56′ N latitude and 98°23′ E longitude, with an average altitude of 1,210 meters.

Climate and Geography:

• Average Temperature: 16.7°C
• Annual Rainfall: 1,450 millimeters

Bapai Giant Spring

Bapai Village is renowned for its unique spring water, home to Yunnan Province’s largest underground low-temperature spring—the Bapai Giant Spring, also known as “Chushui Cave.” This remarkable spring stretches about 500 meters from north to south and 60 meters from east to west, maintaining a constant temperature of around 19°C year-round. It features a total of 56 spring outlets, three of which have a flow rate of 4 to 5 cubic meters per second.

Characteristics of the Giant Spring

The Giant Spring has an impressive discharge rate, with water bursting forth from the cave like a dragon, flowing vigorously downstream at nearly 4 tons per second. The spring’s source is Ma’anshan Mountain near Heshun Town, where two mysterious underground rivers converge. The crystal-clear spring water travels over ten kilometers through volcanic cliffs before reaching Bapai Village, remaining unaffected by geothermal influences. In 2002, it was designated a first-level protected area within the Tengchong Volcanic Geothermal National Geological Park due to its geological significance.

Visiting the Giant Spring

At the entrance of the Giant Spring, marked by a white archway inscribed with “Chushui Cave,” visitors descend stone steps into a breathtaking landscape. The sound of roaring water fills the air, and the rushing water flows into a clear pond, creating a serene and picturesque scene surrounded by lush banana trees. The spring water flows continuously, merging into a river downstream before joining the Daying River, a tributary of the Irrawaddy River.

Water Quality

The quality of the Bapai Giant Spring water is exceptional, remaining stable at 5 to 6 degrees higher than other local springs even in winter. It can be used directly as drinking water. In the 1980s, a sugar factory built nearby connected a water pipeline from Chushui Cave, allowing the spring water to be used without treatment. Local lore suggests that the spring water not only enhances beauty but also improves food flavor.

Cultural Significance

Bapai Village is predominantly inhabited by the Dai ethnic group. The term “Bapai” translates to “a place covered with fragrant herbs” in Dai, reflecting the villagers’ deep connection to water, which nourishes both the land and their livelihoods. The Dai people celebrate the Water Splashing Festival every year in mid-April, gathering near the spring in festive attire to honor water as a vital source of life and fortune.

Culinary Delights of Bapai

Bapai’s rich Dai culture is reflected in its culinary offerings, which include unique dishes made from local ingredients. The village is often referred to as a real-life “Monet’s Garden,” with its picturesque scenery and delicious food attracting numerous tourists.

Must-Try Dishes

1. Lemon Fish: A popular dish made from fresh carp, fried until golden and crispy, then drizzled with a secret sauce of chives, lemon, and chili peppers. It’s a refreshing summer dish.
2. Crispy Melon Flower: Fresh melon flowers are dipped in egg batter and fried, creating a fragrant treat that captures the essence of the surrounding fields.
3. Gui Ji (Ghost Chicken): This dish features hand-shredded chicken mixed with ginger, garlic, small chili peppers, and coriander, offering a sour, spicy, and refreshing flavor that is a summer delicacy in Bapai.

Conclusion

Bapai Village is a charming destination filled with breathtaking scenery and delightful cuisine. The unique natural landscape, coupled with the rich cultural heritage and culinary experiences, makes it a place worth visiting. We eagerly await your arrival for a memorable culinary journey in Bapai!

Yunnan Travel Guide

Things To Do

• Yunnan Overview
• Yunnan Attractions
• Yunnan Tours
• Yunnan Shopping
• Yunnan Culture
• Festivals and Activities

Travel Information

• Yunnan Travel Tips
• Yunnan Climate
• Yunnan Transportation
• Yunnan Maps
• Yunnan Photos
• Yunnan Dining
• Yunnan Accommodation
• Yunnan Education
• Yunnan Travel News
• Administrative Divisions

Create My Trip

You Might Like

• 8 Days Yunnan Classic Tour with Shaxi Old Town (Kunming-Dali-Shaxi-Lijiang-ShangriLa)
• 7 Days XishuangBanna and Puer Tea Culture Tour
• 6 Days Yunnan Tobacco Industry Tour
• 3 Days Yuanyang Rice Terrace Photography Tour from Kunming
• 20 Days Old Burma Road Cycling Tour from Kunming to Yangon
• 13 Days Yunnan Ancient Tea Horse Road Discovery and Puer Tea Culture Tour~From XishuangBanna to Puer and Dali
• 6 Days Kunming-Dali-Lijiang-Shangri-La Small Group Tour
• 8 Days Lijiang Tour and Gemu Mountain Goddess Festival Tour At Lugu Lake

Article of Yunnan Tour, Yunnan Travel, Yunnan Travel Agency, Yunnan Trip, Yunnan Guide

Travel to Hekou Border and Sapa from Kunming by Train

Being around 450 kilometers from the provincial capital Kunming(昆明), Hekou Border(河口边境) is known for its cross-culture scenery. It is also one of the most famous scenic areas in Yunnan,...

Transportation    Veiw

• Hekou County
• Honghe
• Kunming

How to Get to Luchun County from Kunming

Luchun County (绿春县) is located in the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province, China.  To get to Luchun County from Kunming, you have a few options:...

Transportation    Veiw

• Honghe
• Kunming
• Lvchun County

Tangna Village of Bamei Town in Guangnan County, Wenshan

Chinese Name：文山壮族苗族自治州广南县坝美镇革乍村委会汤拿村 English Name: Tangna Village of Bamei Town in Guangnan County, Wenshan Tangna Village is located in Gecha Village Committee, Bamei Town, Guangnan County, Wenshan Zhuang Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Prov ...

Attractions    Veiw

• Bamei Village
• Guangnan County
• Traditional Ethnic Villages in Wenshan
• Wenshan

Shibie Village of Wenliu Town in Quibei County, Wenshan

Chinese Name：文山壮族苗族自治州丘北县温浏乡石别村 English Name: Shibie Village of Wenliu Town in Quibei County, Wenshan Shibu Village, Wenliu Township, Qiubei County is a region with a rich minority culture and is also a beautiful tourist destination....

Attractions    Veiw

• Ancient Villages
• Qiubei County
• Traditional Ethnic Villages in Wenshan
• Wenshan

Laozhai Village of Nijiao Town in Quibei County, Wenshan

Chinese Name: 文山壮族苗族自治州丘北县腻脚乡老寨村 English Name: Laozhai Village of Nijiao Town in Qiubei County, Wenshan Geographical Location Laozhai Village is a small village group within Nijiao Village in Nijiao Town,...

Attractions    Veiw

• Ancient Villages
• Qiubei County
• Traditional Ethnic Villages in Wenshan
• Wenshan

Gelei Village of Pingzhai Town in Quibei County, Wenshan

Chinese Name: 文山壮族苗族自治州丘北县平寨乡革雷村 English Name: Gelei Village of Pingzhai Town in Qiubei County, Wenshan Geographical Location Gelei Village is situated in a mountainous area, approximately 4 kilometers from the...

Attractions    Veiw

• Ancient Villages
• Qiubei County
• Traditional Ethnic Villages in Wenshan
• Wenshan

Huguang Village of Mangka Town in Cangyuan County, Lincang

Chinese Name: 临沧市沧源县芒卡镇湖广村 English Name: Huguang Village of Mangka Town in Cangyuan County, Lincang Geographical Location Huguang Village is located in Mangka Town, on the western side of Cangyuan...

Attractions    Veiw

• Cangyuan County
• Lincang

Yongdian Village of Mengdong Town in Cangyuan County, Lincang

Chinese Name: 临沧市沧源县勐董镇芒摆村委会永点村 English Name: Yongdian Village of Mengdong Town in Cangyuan County, Lincang Geographical Location Yongdian Village is situated in Mengdong Town, under the administration of Mangbai Village...

Attractions    Veiw

• Cangyuan County
• Lincang

Pingtan Miao Ethnic Village of Xinhua Town in Fengqing County, Lincang

Chinese Name: 临沧市凤庆县新华乡紫薇村平坦苗寨 English Name: Pingtan Miao Ethnic Village of Xinhua Town in Fengqing County, Lincang The Pingtan Group of Zimei Village exudes a rich ethnic cultural atmosphere. The...

Attractions    Veiw

• Fengqing County
• Lincang
• Miao Ethnic Minority

Shidongsi Village of Luodang Town in Fengqing County, Lincang

Chinese Name: 临沧市凤庆县洛党镇箐头村委会石洞寺村 English Name: Shidongsi Village of Luodang Town in Fengqing County, Lincang Shidongsi Village is named after the Shidong Temple, which is acclaimed as one of the...

Attractions    Veiw

• Fengqing County
• Lincang

Douge Dazhai Village of Quannei Town in Linxiang District, Lincang

Chinese Name: 临沧市临翔区圈内乡斗阁村委会斗阁大寨 English Name: Douge Dazhai Village of Quannei Town in Linxiang District, Lincang In Linxiang District, there lies a village gently embraced by history—Douge Dazhai. Nestled quietly...

Attractions    Veiw

• Lincang
• Linxiang District
• Traditional Ethnic Villages in Lincang

Bapai Village of Hehua Town in Tengchong City, Baoshan

Chinese Name: 保山市腾冲市荷花镇民团村坝派村 English Name: Bapai Village of Hehua Town in Tengchong City, Baoshan “Bapai/坝派” means “a place covered with hemp and pine trees” in the Dai language. Bapai Village...

Attractions    Veiw

• Ancient Villages
• Baoshan
• Tengchong
• Traditional Ethnic Villages in Tengchong