Overview
- Chinese Name: 石屏县异龙镇上普租村龙母山跳鼓坡节
- English Name: Tiaogupo Festival of Yi Ethnic Minority in Longmushan Mountain of Shiping County, Honghe
- Location: 石屏县异龙镇上普租村/Shangpuzi Village, Yilong Town, Shidian County
The Tiaogupo Festival is a vibrant and culturally significant celebration among the Yi ethnic minority, particularly in the region of Longmushan Mountain in Shiping County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. This festival reflects the rich cultural heritage, traditions, and social values of the Yi people.
The Tiaogupo Festival is a dynamic celebration that plays a vital role in the cultural fabric of the Yi community in Longmushan Mountain of Shiping County. Through its rich array of rituals, traditional performances, and communal activities, the Tiaogupo Festival not only signifies the importance of the harvest but also reinforces social ties, cultural identity, and the continuation of traditional customs among the Yi ethnic minority. It embodies the spirit of unity, resilience, and cultural pride, celebrating both the community’s past and its future.
Background
- Cultural Significance:
- The Tiaogupo Festival, also known as the “Jumping from the Mountain Festival,” is primarily held to celebrate the harvest and pay homage to the gods, expressing gratitude for bountiful crops and seeking blessings for the future. It serves as a time for community bonding, cultural expression, and preservation of Yi traditions.
- Timing:
- The festival typically takes place in late summer or early autumn, aligning with the end of the harvest season. The exact dates may vary based on the lunar calendar and local customs.
Local Activities
- Ritual Ceremonies:
- The festival often begins with a series of religious rituals, where villagers gather to offer sacrifices to their ancestors and local deities. This acts as a way to invoke blessings for health, prosperity, and good fortune for the coming year.
- Traditional Music and Dance:
- One of the highlights of the Tiaogupo Festival is the lively display of traditional Yi music and dance. Performers often wear colorful, festive clothing, and the dances are characterized by energetic movements, accompanied by traditional instruments such as the lute, drum, and flute.
- Jumping from the Mountain:
- The festival’s name is derived from a unique tradition where participants engage in a ceremonial “jumping” act, often involving symbolic gestures that represent courage, strength, and a connection to the mountain and nature. This activity is not only an expression of physical prowess but also carries significant cultural meaning in representing resilience and community spirit.
- Athletic Competitions:
- Various sporting events are held during the festival, including traditional games that test skills in archery, wrestling, and other traditional sports. These competitions foster camaraderie and friendly rivalry among different villages.
- Culinary Traditions:
- The preparation and sharing of traditional Yi dishes is an essential aspect of the Tiaogupo Festival. Local specialties may include grilled meats, sticky rice, and varieties of wild herbs. Community feasts are held, reinforcing social bonds as families and neighbors come together to share meals.
- Cultural Exhibitions:
- During the festival, there might be exhibitions of traditional Yi crafts, such as weaving, embroidery, and pottery. This provides an opportunity for artisans to showcase their skills and for visitors to appreciate the cultural craftsmanship of the Yi people.
- Storytelling and Oral Traditions:
- Elders may share folk tales and legends related to the Yi culture during the festival. This oral tradition serves to educate younger generations about their heritage and instills a sense of identity and pride in their cultural roots.
Overview
- Chinese Name:石屏县花腰彝人祭龙节
- English Name: Dragon Worship (Jilong) Festival of Huayaoyi Ethnic People in Shiping County, Honghe
- Location: Shiping County, Honghe
The Dragon Worship Festival of the Huayao Yi in Shiping
In the deep mountains of Shiping County lives a small population of the Yi ethnic group, known as the Nisu. For centuries, they have worn handmade embroidered clothing and brewed their own wheat wine, rising with the sun and resting at sunset. In addition to their joyful songs and dances, they possess many beautiful legends filled with adoration for heroes. The first horse day after the Spring Festival each year is when the Nisu people hold the Dragon Worship Festival to commemorate the hero A Long.
On the hillside stands the “Little Potala Palace.” In Shiping, Shaochong, and Shuiguachong, golden rapeseed flowers bloom vibrantly in the fields, while freshly cut pine trees stand at the village entrance, adorned with colorful flags fluttering in the breeze. The villagers are busy with their work in their festive attire, children happily play in the dirt, and young men strum the four-stringed instrument. The Huayao Yi girls, dressed in bright clothing, stand at the village entrance, raising bamboo tubes of wine and singing heartfelt toasts repeatedly: “Dear guests from afar, please have a cup of our homemade wheat wine.”
This is a typical settlement of the Huayao Yi. Most of the villagers living here are Huayao Yi. The residential houses of the Huayao Yi are unique earthen structures known as “tuzhangfang.” The houses in the village are built against the mountain, and from a distance, they resemble a miniature Potala Palace. Many visitors who come to explore Huayao Yi culture affectionately refer to it as the “Little Potala Palace.” The small village is surrounded by lush greenery, and it still retains the gate built during the Guangxu period. The villagers tell us that many years ago, the entire village of Shuiguachong was enclosed by a wall, with two gates at the front and back, which were closed at nightfall. All the paths in the village are paved with irregular stones, and the household pigs, chickens, and cattle leisurely roam around. The sunlight shines down on the uneven stones, creating an inviting and warm atmosphere.
Looking up at the earthen houses, the walls are built from earth, while the roofs are compacted earth as well, mixed with pine needles or dried ferns to increase the soil’s adhesion. The roofs of these earthen houses are quite sturdy, allowing for the drying of grains and other goods on top, and nearly every house’s roof connects to its neighbors. One can easily access a neighboring roof from any other rooftop, making it possible to traverse the entire village in this manner. Besides its dim lighting, the earthen house’s significant advantage is its ability to stay warm in winter and cool in summer.
Dragon Worship Procession
On February 10, the first horse day after the Spring Festival, the Huayao Yi people, who had been preparing for a month, welcomed the first “Dragon Worship Day” (known as “Miga Hao” in Yi language). After lunch, the Huayao Yi, all ready, prepared to set off. As the firecrackers exploded, the worship teams from the villages of Shuiguachong, Mocedian, Shuiguachong Shangzhai, and the foot of Polong Mountain began their procession, departing from the entrance of Shuiguachong village along the dirt paths through the fields.
Leading their dragon worship procession was a colorful flag team, followed by a group of young boys holding wooden carvings of dragon heads, axes, and sickles. A few boys dressed in costumes and wearing masks impersonated characters like Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and various animals, playfully chasing and frolicking at the prompting of the village elders. There were also adults in costume, many of whom appeared to embody characters from Han culture, such as “Old Fisherman” and “Clam Fairy Dance.”
Elderly individuals carrying a dragon palanquin and incense altars, adorned with colorful paper, stood out prominently in the vibrant procession. Each dragon palanquin was carried by two individuals, known as “Longzi,” selected from among the adult men who had married before the beginning of spring that year. Following the palanquin were several elders dressed in long robes, walking solemnly. They were the chosen “elders” of the village, each carrying a basket filled with incense, tea, alcohol, and candies. A group of young men with their faces painted and wearing large red flowers in their hair, dressed in traditional Yi attire, also carried small flags adorned with the name “Guan Yu.” These spirited young men were referred to as warriors and generals, displaying their martial arts skills with sticks and weapons as they walked.
The women in extravagant outfits respectfully followed at the rear of the procession, singing ancient songs in the Yi language. Their melodies carried a more serious tone than usual, suggesting a deeper significance to the occasion.
Dragon Worship Ceremony
Amidst the sound of firecrackers, the procession of hundreds of people welcoming the dragon moved forward along the road into the village. After walking a short distance, they paused to perform. The hillside and fields were filled with spectators. The Dragon Tree stands at the end of Shuiguachong village, but the “Welcoming the Dragon” event must take place along the countryside road opposite the village, making a half-circle around it. The entire “Welcoming the Dragon” process took about two or three hours. During this journey, the “Longruo” who had gone out at dawn to “steal” spring water and wash the sacred stones in the dragon pond returned to the procession, bringing with them “Longfu” (the two large geode stones kept in the Dragon Palace year-round), which they held aloft into the dragon palanquin. About two or three hundred meters away from the Dragon Tree, the lively procession came to a stop. On a small bridge, the men formed a circle, with the women kept outside, and the Bimo (a spiritual leader) selected the first village to enter the dragon worship site.
Amidst the loud sounds of drums and firecrackers, reporters and all the women were stopped and directed to return to the village via a small path beside the fields. In surprise, the female reporters were informed that this was a tradition left by their ancestors: women cannot enter the dragon worship site, not even the women of the village can approach the “Dragon Tree” for their entire lives. Under the setting sun, the rapeseed flowers in the fields bloomed brilliantly, making the Huayao Yi women walking among them even more enchanting. Not far away, a grove of trees appeared extraordinarily mysterious in the smoke of cooking fires. Nestled within the dense trees was a cypress referred to as the “Dragon God Tree.” This dragon god tree was about the size of a basin, with a straight trunk and lush leaves. Elders told the story that the original dragon god tree worshipped by the ancestors was enormous, requiring two or three people holding hands to embrace it. Unfortunately, it was cut down in 1958. The current one was found later; aside from some mysterious divinations, its health and cleanliness were also assessed, including whether birds had built nests in it. In the woods, there was also a small pavilion dedicated to “Longfu,” about the size of a local land temple, adorned with a painting of a dragon and a tiger in vivid detail. The dragon worship ceremony took place in front of this pavilion, which had a small cleared area in front, covered with green pine needles.
When the ceremony began, the elders first took the two “Longfu” stones out of the dragon palanquin and placed them in the pavilion. Throughout this process, the elders showed great reverence for the stones. Next came the offerings; the elders took the food they brought from their baskets and laid it on the pine needles in front of the pavilion before lighting incense. The fragrance enveloped the forest. The elders approached the “Longfu,” offering liquor and then kneeling in respect. Before the “Longfu,” the elders appeared solemn, each displaying a deep sense of devotion. Later, the village chief informed us that before the dragon worship, a pig must be slaughtered as a sacrifice. After the ceremony, the pork was distributed evenly among the households in the village, with each portion accompanied by rice balls dyed red with pig’s blood and a wooden knife made from the revered “Mayinghua” tree of the Huayao Yi, symbolizing weapons to ward off evil. The “dragon meat” allocated to each household was saved for when seedlings were being sown, to be offered to the rice fields.
Mythical Legends
The myth of the hero A Long, known as “Miga Hao” in Yi language, is actually a memorial to a legendary Yi hero named A Long. According to the legend, A Long was an exceptionally skilled hero. He possessed six treasures: an iron hammer, a bronze mirror, an iron broom, an iron horsewhip, a flying horse, and Yi scriptures, which were quite remarkable. With his exceptional skills, he protected mountain villages and safeguarded the people. At that time, seven demons had turned into beautiful women and were wreaking havoc among the Yi people, disturbing the peace in the Yi mountain villages. A Long resolved to eliminate this scourge for the people; he took his six treasures, bid farewell to his fellow villagers, and went to the cave where the demons resided, fighting fiercely until he defeated the seven demons one by one.
However, the seven demons complained to the King of Hell, claiming A Long had harmed them without cause. Believing their one-sided account, the King of Hell stole A Long’s treasures, condemned him, and dispersed his head, hands, feet, waist, and heart in different directions. A Long’s hair transformed into a forest, his heart became a stone, his waist turned into land, and his feet and hands became flying birds and animals, thus endowing the Yi people with forests, stones, and land for cultivation. Gradually, the crops flourished and livestock prospered. In memory of A Long, who sacrificed himself for the people, the villagers hold annual ceremonies of worship as a customary practice.
The Huayao Yi, who worship the tiger, belong to an ancient and remarkable ethnic group with over a hundred branches. Among them, the Nisu branch, descendants of the ancient Qiang, has women’s attire predominantly in red and black, characterized by vibrant colors and exquisite patterns, especially the intricate embroidery on their belts, earning them the endearing title of “Huayao Yi.” There are only over 30,000 Huayao Yi people worldwide, with more than 20,000 living in the northern mountainous region of Shiping, where they maintain a traditional lifestyle. Their dwelling is 80 kilometers away from the county town, a journey through majestic peaks and deep valleys, where small villages dot the mountainsides. However, we were headed to Shuiguachong, which is located in a small valley deep within the mountains. Throughout the dragon worship process, we asked many questions within the procession about the various unusual sacrificial items and the unique face paints of the warriors, each of which carried profound meanings in the eyes of this ancient people. They earnestly worshiped their heroic figure, A Long, hopeful that this ancestor who embodies mountains and rivers would bring them a year of good fortune, plentiful crops, and healthy livestock.
I carefully observed the various appearances and face paints within the dragon worship procession; while participating in the ritual, the Huayao Yi did not forget their totem: the tiger. Although the warriors’ face paints appeared flamboyant, almost all of them had the character “Wang” drawn on their foreheads. In fact, the “Worshipping the Dragon” event serves as a moral benchmark for the Yi people; few men participate in the worship activities, and almost all of them are individuals with a long-standing reputation for virtue. Those who have committed offenses or divorced men are not allowed to watch. In that “Sacred Forest,” which is off-limits for females, what is consecrated there? It remains mysterious and sacred. Not only women, but even men in their forties in the village have never set foot in the “Sacred Forest.” Even young children do not venture to play near the village’s “Sacred Forest.” Throughout the entire interview, the villagers’ admiration for their ancestor A Long was evident, as was their deep respect for the sacred tree and stone. The village Bimo led a group from household to household to recite scriptures and sing lantern songs. Amid the sound of firecrackers, people sang songs that have been passed down for hundreds of years, repeating actions that have persisted for over a thousand years.
Overview
- Chinese Name: 石屏彝族花腰歌舞节
- English Name: Song and Dance Festival of Huayaoyi Ethnic People in Shiping County, Honghe
- Location: Shiping County
- Festival Duration: One Month
The Shiping Yi Huayao Song and Dance Festival takes place in Shiping County, which is located in the southern part of Yunnan Province, in the northwest of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture. The festival is held during the welcoming banquet at the Shiping Tobacco Building. Dressed in festive attire, the Yi girls with floral waistbands spontaneously sing a traditional Yi toasting song and offer a cup of Yi rice wine.
Basic Introduction
Shiping County is located in the southern part of Yunnan Province, in the northwest of the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture. It has access to highways and railways leading to the provincial capital, Kunming. Shiping is renowned for the accolades “A land of unmatched beauty with rivers and mountains, the cultural center of southern Yunnan” and “A famous literary place.” The area features lush mountains and clear waters, remarkable individuals, and a nurturing environment, with mild winters and summers that are not excessively hot, allowing for a pleasant climate all year round. The local culture, primarily represented by the Huayao Yi ethnic group, is rich and diverse, with mysterious and ancient ethnic festivals, exquisite and vibrant ethnic embroidery, and a strong representation of ethnic customs. Regional products include high-quality large waxberries, citrus fruits, sweet bamboo shoots, sea vegetables, and a variety of local snacks that are unique in flavor and widely enjoyed. Traditional ethnic festivals include the Dragon Worship Festival, Torch Festival, and various seasonal events such as the Waxberry Singing Festival and the Fragrant Kumquat Festival, which are part of a series of cultural tourism activities. From the flowing waters and towering green mountains to the plateau jewel of Yilong Lake, the aroma of tofu fills the air throughout the year. In February, there’s the Luo Color Singing Festival; in March, the spring outing to picturesque mountains; in April, cherries bloom with smiles; in May, waxberries paint the mountains red; in June, lotus flowers fill the lake; in July, the Yi Torch Festival ignites the night; in August, mushrooms are harvested from the deep mountains; in September, water chestnuts float on the water; in October, kumquats turn golden and intoxicating… The fragrant blossoms of spring, summer, autumn, and winter make this a magical and beautiful place.
This is a land of ethnic song and dance, citrus fruits, waxberries, and the hometown of top scholars!
Government Support
To further promote ethnic traditional culture and showcase the charm of Huayao song and dance, on November 28, 2005, the Communist Party Committee of Shiping County and the Shiping County People’s Government jointly held a series of activities for the “China Yunnan · Shiping Huayao Song and Dance Festival.” At the same time, a grand art performance titled “CCTV · Passion Plaza Invades Yunnan Shiping Huayao Song and Dance Festival” was held in Shiping, broadcasting over two hours of live coverage featuring Shiping’s Huayao song and dance. Below are some images taken by reporters from the China National Radio, including Bai Xiangbao, during their interviews at this grand event, now compiled and published for the enjoyment of netizens.
On the evening of November 27, 2005, the welcoming banquet for the Shiping Huayao Song and Dance Festival was held at the Shiping Tobacco Building. Dressed in festive attire, the Yi girls with floral waistbands spontaneously sang a traditional Yi toasting song and offered a cup of Yi rice wine.
Basic Introduction of the Festival
- Chinese Name: 石屏县彝族火把节
- English Name: Torch Festival of Yi Ethnic Minority in Shiping County, Honghe
- Location:石屏县哨冲、龙武、龙朋三个乡镇. /Torch Festival of Yi Ethnic Minority in Shiping County is held in Zuobeichong Village of Longwu Town in Shiping County and Longpeng Town.
The Torch Festival, celebrated by the Yi ethnic minority, is a significant cultural event in Shiping County, located in the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture of Yunnan Province, China. This festival usually occurs in the 6th month of the lunar calendar and is comparable to the Spring Festival for the Yi people, embodying a spirit of joy, community, and cultural pride.
Customs and Local Activities
- Torch Lighting and Procession: The festival typically begins with the lighting of large torches, which are then carried by villagers in a festive procession. This ritual symbolizes the chasing away of evil spirits and the welcoming of good fortune.
- Traditional Dances and Music: Local festivities feature traditional Yi dances, such as the “Sifang Dance,” where participants dress in colorful ethnic costumes and perform lively dances. Traditional musical instruments are often played, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
- Community Feasting: Food plays a central role in the Torch Festival. Families gather to prepare and share traditional dishes, with lamb soup being a highlight. This communal feasting embodies the spirit of sharing and hospitality.
- Traditional Games and Competitions: Various traditional sports and games are held, such as wrestling and tug-of-war. These competitions serve as both entertainment and a showcase of strength and skill.
- Cultural Performances: In addition to dances, there may be performances of Yi opera, storytelling, and recitations of local folklore, preserving the community’s oral traditions and history.
- Prayers and Offerings: Rituals to honor ancestors and deities are common during the festival. Villagers make offerings and pray for a bountiful harvest, health, and prosperity for their families.
- Horse Racing and Other Sports: Horse racing is a popular event, often drawing large crowds. It reflects both the spirit of competition and the importance of horses in Yi culture.
- Fireworks and Night Celebrations: As night falls, fireworks are set off to further enhance the festivities, creating a mesmerizing spectacle in the sky. This is often accompanied by music and dancing that lasts into the night.
- Ecological and Agricultural Activities: In some areas, the festival may also involve agricultural practices, such as the planting of seeds, symbolizing hope and renewal for the upcoming harvest season.
Plan your Honghe Ethnic Villages Tour to Honghe? Visit Zuobeichong Village of Longwu Town in Shiping County, Honghe which is one of the most fascinating ethnic villages in Honghe. Explore the local folk ethnic culture including History, Food and Dining, Clothing, Customs and Traditions, Architecture, Festivals, Crafts, Religion, Language of local ethnic people in Zuobeichong Village of Longwu Town in Shiping County, Honghe.
Chinese Name: 石屏县龙武镇脚白母村委会左北冲村
English Name: Zuobeichong Village of Longwu Town in Shiping County, Honghe
Torch Festival of Yi Ethnic Minority in Shiping County is held in Zuobeichong Village of Longwu Town in Shiping County and Longpeng Town.
Overview
- Chinese Name: 红河迤萨乡端阳节
- English Name: Duanyang Festival in Honghe County, Honghe Prefecture
- Location: Honghe County, Honghe Prefecture
The Duanyang Festival, also known as the Double Fifth Festival or the Dragon Boat Festival, is an important traditional celebration in Honghe County, which is part of Honghe Prefecture in Yunnan Province, China. While the festival is widely celebrated across China, Honghe County, home to a diverse population that includes various ethnic groups (including the Zhuang, Han, and Hani), has its own unique customs and activities associated with the celebration.
The Duanyang Festival in Honghe County is not just a religious observance; it is a lively cultural celebration that brings together various ethnic groups and reflects the rich heritage of the region. Through activities like dragon boat racing, zongzi preparation, traditional music, and community rituals, the festival fosters a sense of unity, cultural pride, and continuity among the local population. It is a significant occasion to honor history, celebrate community, and promote local traditions.
Background
- Cultural Significance:
- The Duanyang Festival generally honors the ancient poet Qu Yuan, who exhibited great loyalty to his country and met a tragic end by drowning himself in a river. The festival celebrates themes of patriotism, loyalty, and the well-being of the community. In Honghe County, local interpretations of the festival often integrate regional myths and customs, making it a culturally rich event.
- Timing:
- The Duanyang Festival occurs on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar, which usually falls in June. The festival is noted for its connection to the summer solstice and the idea of warding off ill fortune.
Local Activities
- Zongzi Preparation:
- A significant aspect of the Duanyang Festival is the making and eating of zongzi, sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. In Honghe County, you might find unique local variations of zongzi, with diverse fillings that reflect local tastes, including meats, beans, and sometimes flavors derived from local herbs.
- Dragon Boat Racing:
- Dragon boat racing is a highlight of the festival in many parts of China, and Honghe County is no exception. Local teams often train in advance, and various boat races are held on rivers, fostering a strong sense of community and competition. These races involve teams paddling in synchrony, often with colorful dragon-designed boats, which adds excitement and spectacle to the festival.
- Traditional Music and Dance:
- The festival includes vibrant performances of traditional music and dance, showcasing the local heritage. The sounds of instruments like the Lusheng (a type of bamboo reed instrument) can often be heard, along with various folk songs that tell stories of love, history, and daily life among the local people.
- Cultural Rituals:
- In some communities, families may conduct rituals to honor ancestors and local deities. This may involve preparing offerings, performing prayers, and lighting incense as a way to seek blessings for health, safety, and prosperity.
- Folk Games and Competitions:
- Folk games, such as tug-of-war, traditional wrestling, and other athletic competitions, are organized, encouraging community participation and reinforcing social bonds during the festival.
- Art and Craft Exhibitions:
- Local artisans may showcase their crafts, including embroidery, pottery, and traditional Zhuang and Hani artworks. Exhibitions often allow visitors to witness and learn about the craft-making process.
- Community Feasting:
- The festival is a time for togetherness and feasting. Families gather to share food and celebrate, emphasizing the importance of community and kinship ties. Dishes are often shared, and local specialties are featured prominently.
- Storytelling and Oral Traditions:
- Elders in the community may share stories and legends related to the Duanyang Festival and the local culture. This aspect of the celebration helps to pass down knowledge and traditions to younger generations.
Chinese Name:中华普洱茶博览苑-和谐园
English Name: Harmonious Garden of China Puer Tea Exhibition Garden in Puer City
Overview:
The Harmonious Garden, or “和谐园” in Chinese, is a significant site within the China Puer Tea Exhibition Garden. Established as a tribute to the visit of Hu Jintao, then General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, in May 2006, this garden represents both the spirit of harmony and the high-quality cultivation of Puer tea.
Historical Significance:
During his visit, Hu Jintao expressed his concern for ethnic minority regions and outlined a vision to transform the area into a premier tourist destination. His interaction with local tea farmers and participation in tea picking highlighted his deep connection with the region. In honor of his visit and the impact it had on the local community, the tea garden where he picked tea was carefully maintained and named “Harmonious Garden,” symbolizing the good fortune and harmonious relationship between the tea farmers and the region’s leaders.
Features and Characteristics:
- Location and Tea Cultivation: The Harmonious Garden is situated centrally within the exhibition area and is characterized by its terraced tea fields. The garden focuses on enhancing yield and quality through various pruning techniques. Young tea trees are pruned to shape them, while older trees undergo “platform pruning” (台刈), a method that rejuvenates the crown from the base, promoting vigorous growth and improving the overall quality of the tea.
- Tea Varieties: The garden primarily grows the Yunnan large-leaf tea variety. Compared to medium and small-leaf varieties, Yunnan large-leaf tea boasts higher levels of tea polyphenols and catechins, which are crucial for the tea’s color, aroma, and taste, as well as its health benefits, including anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.
- Flora and Ecology: The garden also features Yunnan’s unique camphor trees, which provide several benefits:
- Pest Control: The camphor trees emit a distinctive scent when damaged, which repels pests, making them an effective natural pest control measure in organic tea cultivation.
- Shade and Climate Regulation: The camphor trees offer shade, helping to regulate the microclimate within the tea garden and supporting optimal tea plant growth.
- Aesthetic Value: The tall camphor trees add to the visual appeal of the garden, enhancing its landscape and ecological design.
Visitor Information:
- Recommended Visit Duration: 10 minutes
- Latitude and Longitude: Longitude 101°5′54.5532″, Latitude 22°38′54.4272″
- Best Photography Location: Entrance Road Bend
- Best Photography Coordinates: Longitude 101°5′54.0888″, Latitude 22°38′53.8908″
- Photography Tips: The entrance archway of the Harmonious Garden provides a simple yet elegant backdrop for photographs. Capture the harmony between people and nature as you enter the garden, focusing on the integration of the natural landscape with the human element.
The Harmonious Garden is a testament to the cultural and historical significance of Puer tea and offers visitors a glimpse into the harmonious relationship between the region’s natural beauty and its tea cultivation practices.
Chinese Name: 泸西县壮族端午节/粽子节
English Name: Duanwu Festival of Zhuang Ethnic Minority in Luxi County, Honghe
Location: 泸西县永宁乡/Yongning Township, Luxi County
The Duanwu Festival, also known as the Dragon Boat Festival, is a significant cultural celebration among the Zhuang ethnic minority in Luxi County. This festival, which usually occurs on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar, typically falls in June. While the Duanwu Festival is celebrated across China, the Zhuang people’s unique traditions and customs add a distinctive flavor to this event.
The Duanwu Festival among the Zhuang ethnic minority in Luxi County is a rich tapestry of cultural traditions, communal bonds, and agricultural celebration. With activities that range from preparing zongzi to dragon boat racing, the festival not only honors the historical significance of the Duanwu celebration but also reflects the vibrant cultural identity of the Zhuang people. It serves as an important occasion for maintaining cultural continuity and fostering community solidarity.
Background
- Cultural Significance:
- The Duanwu Festival is rich in symbolism, celebrating not only the rice harvest but also paying homage to Qu Yuan, a famous poet and statesman of ancient China, who is associated with patriotism and sacrifice. For the Zhuang people, the festival also incorporates local myths and legends, integrating their unique cultural identity into the celebrations.
- Traditional Beliefs:
- The festival is believed to dispel evil spirits and bring good fortune and health. The Zhuang people have their own interpretations of the legends surrounding Qu Yuan, often blending them with local folklore.
Local Activities
- Cooking Zongzi:
- A key highlight of the Duanwu Festival is the preparation and consumption of zongzi, sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. The Zhuang people often prepare zongzi with unique fillings, including savory meats, beans, and occasionally, local herbs. Sharing zongzi among family and friends is a traditional way to celebrate the festival.
- Dragon Boat Racing:
- While dragon boat racing is a prominent aspect of the Duanwu Festival in many regions, Zhuang communities may also participate in boat races on local rivers. These races not only showcase athleticism but also foster community spirit and cooperation among participants. The boats are often beautifully decorated, reflecting Zhuang artistic traditions.
- Performing Traditional Music and Dance:
- The festival features traditional Zhuang music and dance performances that highlight the community’s culture. Local musicians may play traditional instruments such as the Lusheng (a bamboo reed pipe) and participate in song-and-dance festivities, which are often accompanied by colorful costumes.
- Cultural Rituals:
- Some Zhuang communities hold rituals to honor ancestors and deities during the Duanwu Festival. These may include offerings made at altars, prayers, and the burning of incense to seek blessings for health and prosperity.
- Games and Competitions:
- Traditional games and competitions are organized, adding to the festive atmosphere. These may include athletic contests, fishing competitions, and other engaging activities that promote fun and community bonding.
- Craft Exhibitions:
- Local artisans often take part in the festival by showcasing crafts such as weaving, embroidery, and pottery. Demonstrations allow visitors to appreciate and learn about traditional Zhuang craftsmanship.
- Folk Activities:
- Other folk activities, such as storytelling and folklore sharing, take place during the festival, where elders share stories about Zhuang legends and traditions, helping to educate younger generations about their cultural heritage.
- Community Feasting:
- The Duanwu Festival is also a time for family reunions and communal feasting. Families prepare a variety of dishes to share and celebrate together, reinforcing social ties.
Chinese Name: 泸西花鼓
English Name: Huagu (Flower) Drum in Luxi County, Honghe
https://baike.baidu.com/item/泸西花鼓/12601118
Chinese Name: 泸西县龙泉寺伽蓝财神殿开光法会
English Name: Buddhābhiṣeka Puja of Samghārāma Fortune God in Longquan Temple of Luxi County, Honghe
Location:
http://www.pusa123.com/pusa/news/dujia/201590748.shtml
Chinese Name:中华普洱茶博览苑-闲怡居酒店
English Name: Xianyiju Hotel of China Puer Tea Exhibition Garden in Puer City
Overview:
The Xianyiju Hotel, located within the China Puer Tea Exhibition Garden, offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Puer City’s expansive tea plantations. Situated about 21 kilometers from the city center and 15 minutes from the Sun River National Park, the hotel is conveniently accessible, embodying the golden rule of the hospitality industry: prime location.
Hotel Features:
- Location: Nestled in the middle of a vast tea plantation at an altitude of 1650 meters, surrounded by lush tea gardens and unique Yunnan trees such as camphor, cherry, lamp post trees, and broad-leaf banyans. The hotel enjoys a pleasant climate with year-round mild temperatures, abundant greenery, and high oxygen levels, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Architecture and Facilities: The Xianyiju Hotel, which began operation in 2008, is designed according to three-star standards. The hotel features garden-style architecture, including two luxurious villas and a main guest room building. The total area is 10 acres with a building area of 1200 square meters, offering 20 exquisitely designed rooms, including standard rooms and a presidential suite. Facilities include a parking lot, tennis court, conference room, game room, and a tea restaurant. The hotel’s design combines classical elegance with modern simplicity, providing a comfortable and clean environment with 24-hour hot water and private bathrooms.
- Climate and Environment: The hotel benefits from a favorable climate with an average annual temperature between 15.3°C and 20.2°C, an annual rainfall of about 1600 mm, and high relative humidity of around 79%. The area experiences mild winters and cool summers with a temperature difference of about 10.2°C. The region’s high oxygen levels, reaching 18,000–22,000 per cubic centimeter, contribute to its reputation as a “green tea garden” and “natural oxygen bar,” perfect for health and relaxation.
- Activities and Experiences:
- Tea Appreciation: Guests can enjoy the serene environment while savoring the aroma of Puer tea. The tranquil surroundings offer a peaceful escape from city life, with opportunities to witness beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the tea mountains.
- Camping: For those seeking closer contact with nature, the hotel offers tent camping options. Guests can enjoy the stunning tea garden scenery, fresh air, and the experience of camping under the stars with family or friends.
Visitor Information:
- Recommended Visit Duration: 10 minutes
- Latitude and Longitude: Longitude 101°5′58.938″, Latitude 22°38′49.056″
- Best Photography Location: Entrance Gate
- Best Photography Coordinates: Longitude 101°5′58.632″, Latitude 22°38′49.0488″
- Photography Tips: The entrance gate and surrounding tea gardens provide excellent spots for capturing the picturesque landscape. The early morning and late afternoon light offer the best opportunities for photographing the tea gardens and natural beauty of the area.
The Xianyiju Hotel offers a unique blend of comfort, natural beauty, and tea culture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and an immersive experience in Puer’s renowned tea landscapes.
Chinese Name:中华普洱茶博览苑-品鉴园(盛世一品)
English Name: Puer Tea Appreciation Garden of China Puer Tea Exhibition Garden in Puer City
Overview:
The Puer Tea Appreciation Garden, also known as “Shengshi Yipin,” which translates to “Supreme Tea of the Prosperous Era,” embodies two meanings: it signifies a place frequented by high-ranking officials and highlights Puer tea as the premier beverage of today. This garden features architectural styles reminiscent of old Shuangmiu houses from over a century ago, with notable structures including the Ju Rui Pavilion, Xiang Hun Pavilion, and Shui Yue Pavilion. A remarkable feature of the garden is a fossilized branch of an ancient tea tree estimated to be over a hundred million years old. The intricate patterns of the fossil resemble the ancient Tea Horse Road, and its overall shape, when viewed from behind, evokes the image of a tea-picking woman with a bamboo basket, making it a rare and treasured artifact of the China Puer Tea Exhibition Garden.
Highlights:
- Unique Fossil: The garden houses a one-of-a-kind ancient tea tree fossil, which is a major attraction. Its pattern resembles the winding Tea Horse Road, with clear growth rings and a smooth, lustrous surface. This fossil is considered a treasure of the garden.
- Historical Architecture: The garden’s buildings are modeled after traditional Shuangmiu house styles, offering visitors a glimpse into historical architecture and tea culture.
- Tea Tasting Experience: Visitors can sample various types of Puer tea and enjoy traditional tea performances. The garden provides an opportunity to experience the diverse flavors of Puer tea and learn about its significance.
Types of Puer Tea:
- Raw Tea (Sheng Cha): This type of tea is made from raw tea leaves without undergoing the “wet piling” process. The tea undergoes natural fermentation, which is a slow process that can take over ten years. The longer it is aged, the richer and mellower its flavors become, with a lively and vibrant character often referred to as “tea qi.”
- Ripe Tea (Shou Cha): This tea is produced through artificial fermentation and “wet piling,” which speeds up the aging process and reduces bitterness. It is ready for consumption much sooner than raw tea.
Other Yunnan Teas:
- Yunnan Black Tea: Includes Yunnan Gongfu Black Tea and Yunnan Broken Black Tea. Both types use Yunnan large-leaf tea as raw material and are renowned for their rich content of tea polyphenols and high extractable substances. Yunnan Gongfu Black Tea, known for its beautiful appearance and high-quality taste, has gained international acclaim. Yunnan Broken Black Tea has been praised for its excellent quality, comparable to high-grade Assam teas.
Tea Tasting Tips:
- Appearance: Look for whole, clear leaves in loose or compressed tea. For compressed tea, ensure it is well-formed, such as round cakes.
- Aroma: Quality tea should have a clean, pleasant fragrance with no musty or off-putting odors.
- Tea Soup Color: Raw Puer tea should brew to a yellow color. If it turns green, it may indicate improper drying.
- Taste: Raw tea may initially be bitter but should develop a sweet, chestnut-like aroma over time. Ripe tea should be smooth and mellow.
- Leaf Bottom: After brewing, raw tea leaves should be yellow-green and full of elasticity, indicating good storage potential and ongoing maturation.
Visitor Information:
- Recommended Visit Duration: 30 minutes
- Latitude and Longitude: Longitude 101°5′58.938″, Latitude 22°38′49.056″
- Best Photography Location: Entrance Gate
- Best Photography Coordinates: Longitude 101°5′58.632″, Latitude 22°38′49.0488″
- Photography Tips: The entrance gate provides an ideal spot for capturing the garden’s distinctive features. Make sure to photograph the ancient tea tree fossil, which is a centerpiece of the garden and symbolizes good fortune.
The Puer Tea Appreciation Garden offers a blend of historical architecture, unique natural artifacts, and rich tea culture, making it a must-visit for tea enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
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