Cigu Catholic Church (茨姑天主教堂, Cígū tiānzhǔjiàotáng) is located in Padong Village Committee (巴东村委会, Bādōng cūn wěihùi), Yanmen Township (燕门乡, Yānmén xiāng), Deqin County (德钦县, Déqīn xiàn), Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州, Dìqìng zàngzú zìzhìzhōu), Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán shěng). Built in the sixth year of the Tongzhi era (同治, Tóngzhì) during the Qing Dynasty (清朝, Qīng cháo) in 1876, it is one of the earliest churches established in Diqing.
Before 1905, Cigu Catholic Church served as the cathedral of the Yunnan region under the jurisdiction of the French Foreign Missions Society in Tibet (天主教法国外方传教会, Tiānzhǔjiào fǎguó wàifāng chuánjiàohuì). The church originally comprised 15 rooms in three buildings facing east, west, and north, along with three earthen flat-roofed houses.
Unfortunately, in 1905, the church was completely destroyed during the second incident involving the A Dunzi Case (阿墩子教案, Ā Dūnzǐ jiào’àn). After receiving government approval in 1985, the church was rebuilt and has since resumed its activities.
To reach Cigu Catholic Church, you can travel to Deqin County by road. From the county seat, head towards Yanmen Township, following local signage to Padong Village. Public transportation or hiring a private vehicle are viable options.
Shuangjiang County is rich in archaeological and cultural heritage, featuring a variety of ancient sites that highlight its diverse history. Key locations include the Xiaozhai Site, known for its stone tools, and the Ganlongtang Site, which showcases a range of stone artifacts. The Mazong Mountain Site and Huiluoshanzhai Site reveal the area’s prehistoric occupation through tools and pottery. Other significant sites include ancient burial grounds like the Datian Village Ancient Tombs and Yinjiafen, showcasing burial practices and artifacts. The Mangkang Cultural Site is notable for its connection to the Lahu ethnic group’s religious history, while the Stone Incense Burner and various stone carvings offer insights into local craftsmanship and beliefs. Together, these sites provide a comprehensive look at Shuangjiang’s historical and cultural development.
Located at an altitude of 1,600 meters in the Xiaozhai area of Bahua Village, Mangnuo Township, on the high terrace along the west bank of the Lancang River (澜沧江), this site has yielded 17 stone axes, the largest measuring 18.5 cm long and 3 cm thick. Additionally, two pieces of coarse pottery with sand inclusions were discovered.
This site is situated 70 meters west of a small hill in the southern rubber plantation of Dawen Township, covering an area of 15×30 meters. More than 30 stone axes and over 10 pottery shards have been found here, alongside a hexagonal grinding stone fragment measuring 10–13 cm long, 5.5–7.5 cm wide, and approximately 1.5–2.0 cm thick, primarily trapezoidal in shape. The pottery fragments are coarse with sand inclusions, brown in color, thick-walled, with low firing temperatures making them fragile.
Located 1,000 meters west of Mazong Mountain Village in the Huangtian area of Mangnuo Township, at an altitude of 1,200 meters, this site is on a secondary terrace where the Mangnuo River meets the Lancang River, approximately 400 meters above the river. It has yielded 20 stone axes and fragments, all belonging to the Mangnuo type.
This site is situated on the southeastern slope of Huilu Mountain in Banduo Village, Dawen Township. Surface findings include 30 stone tools, predominantly shaped like axes, exhibiting characteristics between the Mangnuo and Nanbiqiao types. The pottery shards are mostly clay-based, with a smaller proportion of sand, brown in color, and featuring rope patterns.
Located about 1,000 meters west of Datian Village in Bahua Village, Mangnuo Township, on a steep slope along the southern section of the Gongang River, this group of tombs consists of three burial pits measuring approximately 200 cm in length and 60–70 cm in width, oriented north-south. Two coins were also discovered alongside.
This site is found 1,500 meters from Mangla Village in the Huangtian area of Mangnuo Township, on a terrace where the Mangla River meets the Lancang River, at an altitude of 1,100 meters. Ten stone axes, one scraper, and remnants indicative of the Mangnuo type were uncovered. The scraper measures 7 cm in length, 4.5 cm in width, and is 0.6 cm thick, showing signs of use.
Located in the Yingpan area of Dawen and Gengma, these trenches can still be seen at various locations, including three trenches behind Yingpan Village in Shahe Township.
This military relic consists of 52 simple air raid shelters constructed in 1970, covering a total area of 107 square meters, along with 161 single-person shelters. One semi-permanent air raid shelter made of brick and stone, measuring 20 square meters, still exists today.
Located 20 kilometers north of Mengku Town, this stone bridge, built in 1905, is 6 meters long, 2.2 meters wide, and 2.3 meters high, comprising five stone slabs. It serves as a key thoroughfare bridge connecting to Lincang.
The Pu Family Compound (浦家大院), the residence of revolutionary figure Pu Shimin (浦世民), is located in Qianxin, Dawen Township. Built between 1944 and 1945, it features a two-story wooden structure covering 726.8 square meters. In March 1949, under the leadership of Li Peilun (李培伦), Pu Shimin, and Dao San, an armed uprising was initiated, marking the beginning of the liberation efforts in Shuanggjiang.
Situated on a hilltop south of Pond Village, 4 kilometers from the Mangnuo Township government, this site contains a stone incense burner, originally a religious artifact of the Lahu ethnic group (拉祜族). Historically, this area served as a center for Lahu religious and political activities.
Discovered in a field south of Huangtian Village in Mangnuo Township, this artifact features a standard hexagonal shape with a distance of 13.5–14 cm between opposite corners, with a drilled hole 6.5 cm in diameter.
This historical artifact, found in Daliangzi Village in Dawen Township, is half of a copper axe casting mold made from fine sand. It measures 13.7 cm long, 8.3 cm wide, and 3.6 cm thick.
Two earth cannons can be found in Bangyou Village, Heluxiang Township. One is housed in the county archives; it measures approximately 1.5 meters in length, with an internal diameter of 2 cm.
This monument, authored by Xiao Yichun (萧译春), is preserved in the county archives, where a complete version is recorded.
Numerous wide-shouldered pottery jars have been found in Mangnuo Township, primarily in Bangtan and Daban villages, characterized by a vase-like shape.
This historical artifact is a vibrantly colored wooden horse collected from the local populace within Dawen Township.
Located in Jingkang Buddhist Temple (景亢佛寺), this cabinet features intricate carvings of flowers and a female figure holding a pen and a scroll, inscribed with the names of past Buddhist devotees.
This historical record recounts the history of the Mengmeng Tusi (土司), though the original document has been lost. A copy made by Song Zinia (宋子臬) in 1946 exists.
This incense burner, located on a hilltop south of the Mangnuo Township government, stands 80 cm tall and 60 cm in diameter. It is intricately designed and is significant to the cultural history of the Lahu people.
Discovered near Xiaobidi on the ancient post road in Mangnuo Township, these inscriptions were documented in 1998 and are considered important cultural heritage within the region.
To reach Shuanggjiang County, you can take a flight to Lincang City and then travel by bus or taxi to the county. Major highways connect Shuanggjiang with nearby cities.
The Mini Three Gorges (小三峡, Xiǎo Sānxiá) in Luoping County (罗平县, Luópíng Xiàn), Qujing (曲靖市, Qūjìng Shì) are a stunning natural landscape, serving as a reservoir for the Lubuge Hydropower Station (鲁布革水电站, Lǔbùgé Shuǐdiànzhàn). Originally a perilous section of the Huangni River (黄泥河, Huángní Hé), Lubuge was once an obscure Buyei (布依族, Bùyīzú) village situated 46 kilometers from the county seat, perched on a ridge along the river that forms the border between Yunnan (云南, Yúnnán) and Guizhou (贵州, Guìzhōu) provinces.
In June 1981, the national government approved the construction of the 600,000-kilowatt Lubuge Hydropower Station, marking it as a key national project. During preliminary surveys, hydrological experts were delighted to discover that local Buyei residents interpreted “Lubuge” as “a beautiful village with clear mountains and water.” Construction of the station began in November 1982, with water diversion completed in November 1985. The first unit started generating electricity in December 1988, and the project passed national acceptance in 1992.
The construction transformed the dangerous Huangni River into a tranquil reservoir stretching 20 kilometers. The most renowned sections of the reservoir are the Mini Three Gorges, comprising Lion Gorge (雄狮峡, Xióngshī Xiá), Diling Gorge (滴灵峡, Dīlíng Xiá), and Elephant Trunk Gorge (双象峡, Shuāngxiàng Xiá). Towering cliffs flank the gorge, with some rising steeply and others featuring precarious outcrops. Stalactites hang over the water in various forms, resembling giant gourds or clusters of grapes.
Traveling by boat across the wide lake, the first gorge encountered is Lion Gorge, which is approximately 30 meters wide at its entrance. On the left bank, massive rocks appear as lions descending from the heavens, gazing down at the shimmering lake. Once past the gorge entrance, the lake opens up again. On the Guizhou side, a large rock resembles a graceful Buyei maiden brushing her hair, preparing to meet her Yunnan beau on the opposite bank. On the Yunnan side, two large rocks resemble a young man returning from collecting firewood, sitting by the river, gazing across, waiting for his lover from Guizhou.
On the left bank, there is a Buyei village with a large tree known as the Time Tree (报时树, Bàoshí Shù). It is said that the tree’s budding, leafing, and flowering reflect seasonal changes, and the local Buyei people observe it to determine their agricultural activities. Ignoring the tree’s signals leads to poor harvests.
As you enter Diling Gorge, the second gorge of the Mini Three Gorges, the waterway narrows to just over 10 meters. Wild ducks and mandarin ducks can often be seen swimming on the calm surface, while small wooden boats are anchored along the rocky edges, used by locals for fishing. The cliffs are splashed with red hues, resembling flames. The immense stone walls feature bizarre rock formations, and dense forests on the cliffs are often home to macaques.
As you exit Diling Gorge, two hillocks resembling elephants drinking water come into view, giving rise to the name Elephant Trunk Gorge. Beyond this gorge, the scenery opens up to a broad expanse of water, where the magnificent Naigesha Waterfall (乃格沙瀑布, Nàigéshā Pùbù) cascades down from over 80 meters, creating a spectacular multi-tiered waterfall.
The Mini Three Gorges is a beautifully crafted natural gallery showcasing the wonders of nature. To reach this scenic area, take the asphalt road from the county seat of Luoping, passing through Xinzhai (新寨, Xīnzhaì), Bajiao Village (芭蕉寨, Bājiāo Zhài), Duoyi (多依, Duōyī), and the Naigesha Dam (乃格沙大坝, Nàigéshā Dàbà), while enjoying breathtaking views of the Ten Thousand Great Mountains (十万大山, Shíwàn Dàshān), local Buyei villages, the Lubuge Hydropower Station, and the Huangni River Canyon.
Location: 087 County Road, Luoping County, Qujing City, Yunnan Province, China.
The Lubuge Three Gorges is gradually increasing in popularity as an AAAA-rated tourist destination, entering the peak season for visitors.
To reach the Mini Three Gorges, you can travel by road from Qujing or Luoping. Local transportation options include buses or taxis that can take you directly to the scenic area.
In the colorful clouds of Yunnan (彩云之南, Cǎi yún zhī nán), there lies a dreamy destination known as the Honghe Rice Terraces (红河梯田, Hónghé Tītián). This stunning location boasts no harsh winters, making it an ideal spot for photography and travel during the Spring Festival. While the terraces are beautiful year-round, their most enchanting season is undoubtedly winter.
In this region, the hardworking Hani ethnic group (哈尼族, Hāní zú) transforms the mountains into picturesque ink wash paintings through their wisdom and labor.
Here, you can capture the dazzling sunrises and the lingering glow of sunsets over the terraces. Whether it’s the jade-like paths or the shifting clouds, photographers are left enchanted, as if transported to another world. No matter how hard you try to capture every angle and light, the beauty seems limitless.
The allure of Yuanyang (元阳, Yuányáng) is hard to articulate. Those who have visited often say, “The beauty of Yuanyang cannot be described!” One netizen remarked, “If you are a traveler and don’t visit Yuanyang, it will feel sorry for you; if you are a photographer and don’t go, even God will feel sorry for you!”
In this age of information overload, visual impressions can often overshadow reality. The more stunning photos you see, the more you yearn to step foot on this magical land and experience its beauty up close—feeling its warmth, listening to its steady heartbeat.
Preparation and anticipation lead to a quest for the perfect season to visit the dreamlike Hani terraces.
The period around the Spring Festival is ideal for capturing the Hani terraces, where one can easily witness sea of clouds. After confirming travel plans and securing accommodations, it’s essential to plan meticulously. Given that the Spring Festival is peak tourist season in Yuanyang, accommodations can be scarce. It took contacting multiple travel agencies before finally securing a room. After negotiating prices and finalizing the itinerary, I eagerly awaited the festive season.
When speaking of terraces in Yunnan, the first thing that comes to mind is the Yuanyang Rice Terraces. Broadly, they are often referred to as Hani Terraces because these terraces are a vital source of sustenance for the Hani people. The Yuanyang terraces are just one representative of the Hani terraces in Yunnan.
Located in the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州, Hónghé Hānízú Yízú Zìzhìzhōu), the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces spread along the southern slopes of the Ailao Mountain (哀牢山, Āiláo Shān), encompassing counties such as Honghe (红河, Hónghé), Yuanyang, Luchun (绿春, Lǜchūn), and Jinping (金平, Jīnpíng). Over a thousand years, the local ethnic groups have utilized the unique geographical and climatic conditions—where one mountain can have four distinct seasons—to create a remarkable agricultural civilization.
In comparison to the terraces in Yuanyang, the Samaba Terraces (撒玛坝梯田, Sāmǎbà Tītián) in Honghe County (红河县, Hónghé Xiàn) possess a unique charm. Despite their relatively later development in tourism, these terraces showcase a more rustic and pristine character.
For centuries, the Hani people have developed rich experiences in cultivating terraces amidst high mountains and deep valleys. They build embankments and channels according to the terrain and soil type, harnessing mountain springs to irrigate their fields.
In early spring, the terraces brim with crystal-clear water, sparkling under the sun and creating a breathtaking scene. By March and April, the terraces flourish in vibrant greens, resembling a lush carpet. In late summer and early autumn, the ripening rice fields turn golden, creating a stunning, ever-changing ink wash painting.
The Honghe Hani Terraces are vast and magnificent, with over 190,000 acres located within the core area of the UNESCO World Heritage application in Yuanyang, where some terraces stretch across thousands of acres. The most famous among these include the Duoyishu (多依树, Duōyīshù), Bada (坝达, Bàdá), Malizhai (麻栗寨, Málìzhài), Mengpin (勐品, Měngpǐn), and Niujiaozhai (牛角寨, Niújiǎozhài).
The region enjoys abundant water sources, humid air, and frequent fog, which sometimes results in vast seas of clouds, enhancing the valleys and terraces with an enchanting atmosphere, earning it the title of “Highland Sea.”
The countless terraces, stretching from the foothills to peaks over 2,000 meters high, create a stunning visual akin to a sea of waves glistening in sunlight. The terraces appear as a green-blue ocean from a distance, as if the heavens have descended to earth.
The harmonious coexistence of forests, villages, terraces, and rivers showcases how the Hani and other ethnic groups utilize local geography to transform natural ecological agriculture into a unique agricultural ecosystem—a perfect blend of humanity and nature.
Since the 1980s, the fame of the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces has grown, drawing visitors and scholars from around the world. During the first International Hani Culture Symposium in 1993, over 100 representatives from more than ten countries, including China, the Netherlands, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Thailand, were captivated by the splendor and rich culture of the Hani terraces.
In 1995, French anthropologist Dr. Ouena visited the Tiger Mouth Terraces (老虎嘴梯田, Lǎohǔzuǐ Tītián) in Yuanyang. He was so moved by the vast expanse of terraces that he praised, “The Hani terraces are a true earth art, and the Hani people are true earth artists!” Standing on any mountain peak in Yuanyang, one can see the terraces rolling like mountains and seas.
This itinerary focuses on in-depth photography of the Hani terraces, allowing you to explore the stunning vistas of the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces and discover unique ecosystems beyond Yuanyang. Your photographic journey will be unlike anyone else’s!
Key terraces along this route include:
The Hani terraces are mainly located alongside roads. Here are some notable spots:
The Honghe Rice Terraces offer an unforgettable experience, combining breathtaking natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re capturing the perfect photograph or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, a visit to this magical destination in Yunnan will leave you enchanted.
Note: Please consider the travel regulations and accommodation availability during your visit. Enjoy your journey to the Honghe Rice Terraces!
Chinese Version:
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The South Wuliqiao Mosque大理市南五里桥清真寺 is located west of Dafeng Road, south of Dali Ancient City, facing Erhai Lake and backed by Mount Malong Peak (the highest peak of Cangshan) and the Qilong Nushi Pool. The clear waters of Longxi River flow through the village, and the ancient Tea Horse Road runs behind the village, connecting it closely to Dali Ancient City, Dali University, Dali Finance School, and Dali No. 5 Middle School. This garden-like mosque is rich in history and culture, with a thriving educational atmosphere. It stands out for its harmonious ethnic culture, picturesque scenery, and robust education system, making it a beautiful and culturally rich mosque.
The mosque serves as the location for the South Wuliqiao Qur’an School, the Dali branch of Kunming Islamic Institute, and the editorial office of “Dali Islamic Studies.” It was originally established in the tenth year of the Yuan Dynasty under Emperor Xuan Zong (1233 AD) and featured an expansive and majestic main hall covering over 500 square meters, with a reading platform constructed of high-quality Dali marble, surrounded by intricately carved marble railings. After the failure of the Dali Hui People’s Uprising in 1873, the mosque was destroyed. It was rebuilt in 1918 and resumed its educational activities.
In December 1990, with the approval of the Dali Islamic Association and registration with the Dali Municipal United Front Work Department, the mosque was granted recognition as the Dali Muslim Culture Vocational School. In March 2005, the school collaborated with a retired professor from Dali University to offer a degree in Chinese Language and Literature, leading to a graduation certificate from Yunnan Normal University. In January 2009, the Dali People’s Armed Forces Department signed a cooperation agreement with the school to create a “civilized school” and “civilized mosque,” yielding positive results. On May 5, 2012, the school signed a partnership agreement with Dali Technician College, becoming a training site for Arabic language skills. In 2010, the school was renamed the Dali South Wuliqiao Mosque Qur’an School after approval from the Dali Prefecture Religious Affairs Bureau. By 2014, it was recognized as a qualified Qur’an school after completing its management assessment. In October 2015, the school successfully passed an evaluation by the Yunnan Islamic Association Education Committee and was recognized as a qualified Qur’an school. On December 19, 2015, the Yunnan Provincial Ethnic and Religious Affairs Committee approved the establishment of the Kunming Islamic Institute Dali Branch at the South Wuliqiao Mosque.
The South Wuliqiao natural village, part of Yanghe Village Committee, is located south of Dali Ancient City and west of Dafeng Highway, adjacent to Dali University and Dali Finance School. The village has a favorable geographical location with five resident groups, 358 households, and a population of 1,452 people, with a cultivated area of 369 acres and an average of 0.26 acres per person. The village is home to a mix of Hui, Han, and Bai ethnic groups, with Hui people making up over 95% of the total population. Leveraging its designation as a model beautiful village, the community aims to create a harmonious living environment by promoting ethnic culture and building a happy home.
To reach the South Wuliqiao Mosque from Dali Ancient City, you can take a local bus or a taxi. Buses run frequently from the city center to the nearby Dali University and Finance School, which are just a short walk from the mosque. Alternatively, if you prefer to drive, parking is available near the mosque. The scenic views along the route also make for a pleasant journey.
Chinese Name:西双版纳景洪市孔雀湖
English Name: Peacock Lake in Jinghong, XishuangBanna
Located in the center of Jinghong, Peacock Lake covers an area of 18,700 square meters and is surrounded by water on three sides, with crystal-clear waters as reflective as a mirror. Established as a park in 1977, the area features traditional Chinese pavilions, waterside structures, and lush tropical plants. The park is home to a variety of animals, including peacocks, pythons, foxes, wild boars, monkeys, mynas, and thrushes, among other rare and exotic species.
Key Features:
Visiting Information:
Chinese Name:西双版纳原始森林公园-孔雀放飞
English Name:Peacock Flying Show in Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park
The Peacock Flying Show is a highlight of Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park, taking place at the “Peacock Villa” near Golden Lake. This impressive event combines cultural performances with the beauty of nature, leaving a lasting impact on visitors.
Before the peacock flight, a dance drama titled “Zhao Shutun and Nanmunuona” is performed. Adapted from the Dai ethnic long narrative poem “Zhao Shutun,” the story tells of the peacock princess Nanmunuona and her six sisters, who are discovered by Prince Zhao Shutun while bathing in Golden Lake. The prince secretly hides Nanmunuona’s peacock feathers, preventing her from returning to the sky. Eventually, the prince returns her feathers, and they fall in love by the lake.
After the drama ends, the spectacular Peacock Flying Show begins. Hundreds of peacocks, with their vibrant blue feathers and graceful tails shimmering in the sunlight, glide from the mountains and fly across Golden Lake. The sight of so many peacocks soaring through the sky is awe-inspiring. Once they land on the grassy shore, visitors are invited to participate in a feeding activity, interacting with the peacocks in a close-up experience.
A wooden corridor along the shore of Golden Lake provides seating where visitors can enjoy boxed lunches and beverages while waiting for the show. As we sat and ate our 25-yuan lunch boxes, we admired the scenic beauty of the lake and anticipated the peacock flight. The lake, which may be natural or artificial, spans over a hundred acres. While its depth is unknown, it accommodates small boats and is home to several black swans and other water birds.
Accompanied by traditional Dai music, a brightly colored boat carrying peacocks, along with Dai girls and boys, sails toward the center of the lake. The girls sing and dance as the boat moves, adding to the atmosphere. Suddenly, a whistle sounds, and flocks of peacocks take flight from across the lake, gracefully soaring over the water. Though peacocks are not typically known for their flight abilities, these birds glide effortlessly, creating an unforgettable spectacle. Upon landing, Dai girls greet them with food, completing the enchanting scene.
The Peacock Flying Show is a perfect blend of Dai ethnic culture and the natural beauty of Xishuangbanna, offering visitors a unique and magical experience.
Chinese Name:西双版纳热带动物园
English Name: Xishuangbanna Tropical Zoo
Xishuangbanna Tropical Zoo is located within the Ethnic Customs Park on the banks of the Liusha River, 1 km southwest of Jinghong. The zoo covers an area of 40 acres and is home to over 100 animal species, including 30 species of tropical wildlife.
The Ethnic Customs Park, where the zoo is located, spans 66.7 hectares (667,000 square meters), with 534,000 square meters of land and 133,000 square meters of water. The park is divided into a southern and a northern section, and within its lush tropical gardens are pavilions representing the six indigenous ethnic minorities of Xishuangbanna. The park is a microcosm of Xishuangbanna, blending its unique tropical flora and fauna with rich ethnic culture.
Established in 2005, the Xishuangbanna Tropical Zoo houses more than 100 animals, including 30 tropical wildlife species that are especially loved by local children. Recently, the zoo has introduced new animals, including an Arabian baboon, brought from the Kunming Wildlife Zoo to be paired with a male baboon in the park, along with a pair of African zebras, ring-tailed lemurs, and an African lion. These additions bring the total number of species in the zoo to 30.
Tourist Information:
Chinese Name:西双版纳傣族园孔雀园
English Name: Peacock Garden of Dai Minority Garden in Jinghong, XishuangBanna
The Peacock Garden is one of the main attractions within the Xishuangbanna Dai Minority Park. Located in the heart of Xishuangbanna, the garden is a symbol of the region’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, blending natural beauty with the vibrant traditions of the Dai ethnic minority. Visitors can marvel at the stunning peacocks, enjoy their elegant flight shows, and explore the cultural exhibits that make this park unique.
Chinese Name:文山岩画汇总
English Name: Summary of Wenshan Rock Paintings
Introduction of Rock Art in Wenshan
Rock art, also known as cliff art, refers to paintings made on the surfaces or steep sides of rocks, which are natural mineral aggregations that form the Earth’s crust. The rock art of Wenshan is described as “ancient, rich in content, densely distributed, exquisitely crafted with a unique charm, and characterized by a primitive, bold, and free-spirited style. The compositions are elegant and robust, the patterns and symbols are clear and bright, and the images are vivid and distinct.” According to research, the “graffiti” created by the people of Wenshan dates back to the Neolithic period and can be found in six counties and cities within Wenshan Prefecture. Below is a summary of the rock art sites in each county and city:
Chinese Name:西双版纳景洪市允景洪街道办事处曼外村委会阿克寨
English Name:Akezhai Villages in Manwai Village in Jinghong City, XishuangBanna
Akezhai Village is divided into two sections: Ake Old Village and Ake New Village. Ake Old Village has a total of 85 households and 421 residents, primarily from the Hani ethnic group. From 2020 to 2022, it was recognized as a characteristic model village for rural tourism in Jinghong City.
Both Ake Old Village and Ake New Village are under the jurisdiction of Manwai Village Committee, Yunjinghong Sub-district, Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province. The villages are located in a mountainous area, about 17 kilometers off the road from Jinghong to Menghan Town, 18 kilometers from the village committee, and 28 kilometers from downtown Jinghong. The villages cover a land area of 12.53 square kilometers, with an elevation of 650 meters, an average annual temperature of 21°C, and an annual rainfall of 950 mm. This region is suitable for growing various crops. The villages have 117 mu of arable land and 6,559 mu of forest land. A total of 124 households and 630 rural residents live in the villages, all of whom are involved in agriculture. In 2009, the villages’ total economic income was 11.77 million yuan, with a per capita net income of 4,333 yuan. Rubber production is the primary source of income for the villagers.
The current scenic beauty of Ake Old Village in Manwai Village Committee, Jiangbei Sub-district, Jinghong City, is striking. The village, nestled by water and surrounded by mountains, forms a picturesque setting where clean and orderly communities blend harmoniously with the lush natural environment, creating a harmonious space where mountains, water, forests, and villages coexist and thrive.
In Xishuangbanna, a unique ethnic group known as the Ake people live. The term “Ake” is an external designation for them, and they are currently classified under the Hani ethnic group.
The Ake people primarily inhabit 21 villages across Jinghong City, including Jinghong Town, Menglong Town, and Menghan Town, as well as in Bulangshan Township of Menghai County and Menglun Town of Mengla County. The population of Ake people is over 6,000, with the most famous Ake Old Village located in Mengla County.
The Ake people refer to themselves as “Guoke.” According to legend, an Ake woman once encountered a Han Chinese man on her way back from work. Unable to communicate verbally due to the language barrier, they resorted to gestures. During their interaction, the Han man used the phrase “A ban ke,” meaning “go ahead.” However, the woman misheard and remembered only “Ake.” Since then, she referred to herself as “Ake,” and her descendants came to be known as the Ake people.
In the past, the Ake people lived in thatched huts with low ceilings, dark interiors, and fire pits in the center for cooking and heating. Nowadays, many Ake people have built wooden stilt houses, and some have constructed reinforced concrete buildings.
The Ake people have their own language, similar to Hani, allowing them to communicate with the Hani ethnic group. They practice animistic religions and share similar modes of production with the Hani. Their main festivals include the “New Year Festival,” “Mid-Autumn Festival,” and celebrations for new houses. During these festivals, they hold singing and dancing events with simple, primitive, and spontaneous dance movements. Some notable dances include the men’s “Chopstick Dance,” the women’s “Bolei Younai” (Silver Box Dance), and various agricultural dances depicting activities like cutting, planting, harvesting, and processing grain. There is also a ritual dance known as the “Corpse Dance.”
The Ake people live alongside the Dai, Hani, Lahu, and Bulang ethnic groups but maintain their distinct cultural identity through traditional attire. Their clothing primarily features black colors. Men wear silk headscarves, black homespun outfits, silver necklaces, and flowers in one ear. Women wear black trousers and blouses with silver coins sewn on the front, short jackets reaching the waist, and embroidered red geometric patterns on the edges. The skirts have side slits adorned with colorful fringes about a foot long. They wrap their heads with black cloth or square scarves. Middle-aged women wrap their calves with black cloth and wear large silver earrings connected by a silver chain draping down their chests. They also wear silver bracelets, silver necklaces, and colorful glass bead strings while carrying handwoven hemp bags.
Ake women are known for their industriousness, kindness, and creativity. They never let their hands idle, always busy with embroidery and weaving in their spare time. Even during conversations, women continue to sew bags or spin yarn. The embroidery on Ake clothing is intricate and vibrant, featuring colorful floral patterns. The designs, stitched by hand, reflect their ideals, aspirations, and dreams, with motifs of plants, animals, and birds vividly depicted.
The Ake people primarily engage in mountain agriculture, cultivating crops like winter melon, pumpkin, taro, and yam. There are few rice paddies, and some mountainous areas have none at all. Dryland farming is prevalent, with low yields due to the lack of irrigation. The main agricultural tools are machetes and hoes. Before heading out to work in the fields, men sharpen their machetes while women inspect their baskets. Living in mountainous regions with limited contact with the outside world, the Ake people historically faced cultural and economic challenges. However, their living conditions have greatly improved in recent years, with better clothing and a more leisurely lifestyle, while still preserving their traditional customs and way of life.
Chinese Name:西双版纳勐海县勐混镇曼召村和傣族造纸
Manzhao Village, situated east of Menghun Town in Menghai County, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, is a historic Dai ethnic village. The village’s name translates to “Sprouting Village” in Dai. It is renowned for its traditional Dai papermaking technique, which has been preserved for over 800 years. This artisanal craft has made Manzhao Village famous for its Dai paper, which is shipped worldwide.
Dai Papermaking Tradition
Dai papermaking, known as “Gala” in the Dai language, boasts a rich history and was recognized in 2006 as part of the first batch of national and Yunnan provincial intangible cultural heritage. The papermaking process involves five main steps: soaking, steaming, pounding, casting, and drying. The tools used are predominantly bamboo and wooden implements, with the exception of one iron pot. The traditional methods ensure that Dai paper retains its natural and primitive characteristics.
Characteristics and Uses
Dai paper is valued for its high breathability, flexibility, and durability, allowing it to be preserved for up to a hundred years without decay. It was traditionally used for religious, cultural, and economic activities in the surrounding regions. The rise of Pu’er tea’s popularity further boosted the use of Dai paper, which is prized for its thickness, resistance to folding, and moisture absorption properties, making it ideal for wrapping high-quality Pu’er tea cakes. Manzhao Village produces over ten million sheets of Dai paper annually, generating an output value exceeding 9 million yuan. The paper is distributed across China and to countries such as Japan and South Korea.
Current Status and Challenges
As technology advanced, many villages ceased Dai papermaking. Manzhao Village remains the only producer in Xishuangbanna. The village has leveraged Dai paper to create distinctive local features and boost income through this 800-year-old craft. Dai paper is visible throughout the village, in the form of handmade products like umbrellas and handbags, which have become popular among tourists. The village has also embraced a “heritage + tourism” model, offering Dai paper experience projects to attract visitors and showcase the craft.
Cultural Significance
Dai paper has a deep connection with the Dai people and their culture. It originated in Manzhao Village, where the craft is one of the most ancient forms of papermaking still in practice. Dai paper was historically used to transcribe Buddhist scriptures, ensuring its preservation and integration into Dai culture.
Yan Kan, a provincial inheritor of Dai paper and the village party branch secretary, notes that the craft has been passed down for over 800 years. Despite a significant decline in demand due to the advent of machine-made paper, the need for Dai paper in Buddhist practices helped sustain its use. In recent years, the demand for Dai paper has risen again with its application in Pu’er tea packaging. However, as modern technology further reduces the need for traditional paper, the craft faces ongoing challenges.
Revival and Preservation
To address the decline in demand, some villagers have resumed papermaking to supplement their income. Yan Kan’s Dai paper cooperative, located at the village entrance, showcases the paper in various forms like lanterns, fans, notebooks, and paper umbrellas. The cooperative collects Dai paper from villagers, processes it into cultural products, and markets it based on demand. The cooperative’s efforts help maintain traditional techniques and provide an additional income stream for the community. Each household can earn an extra 40,000 to 50,000 yuan annually from papermaking.
Manzhao Village’s commitment to preserving Dai papermaking reflects respect for nature and cultural heritage. The papermaking process, which involves traditional tools and methods, highlights the craftsmanship and dedication involved in maintaining this ancient craft.
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