Creating a photo gallery for the “Impression Lijiang” show would ideally include a selection of images capturing various aspects of the performance, the stunning backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and the unique cultural elements presented. Here’s a curated list of images that could be included in such a gallery:

1. Panoramic View of the Stage and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

• A wide-angle shot showcasing the expansive outdoor stage set against the majestic backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, highlighting the natural beauty and grandeur of the venue.

2. Colorful Costumes and Performers

• Close-up images of performers dressed in vibrant traditional Naxi costumes, adorned with intricate embroidery and accessories, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Naxi people.

3. Traditional Naxi Dance Performances

• Action shots of dancers performing traditional Naxi dances on the stage, capturing moments of grace, agility, and cultural expression under the open sky.

4. Lighting and Visual Effects

• Images showcasing the use of lighting and visual effects that enhance the atmosphere and mood of the performance, creating a magical and immersive experience for the audience.

5. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as Backdrop

• Stunning shots of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain during different phases of the performance, capturing the changing hues of the mountain under the natural light, adding to the visual spectacle.

6. Acrobatics and Aerial Performances

• Captivating images of acrobatic and aerial performances integrated into the show, demonstrating skillful maneuvers against the backdrop of the mountainous landscape.

7. Audience Reactions and Interaction

• Candid shots of the audience members immersed in the show, capturing their expressions of awe and wonder as they witness the cultural extravaganza unfold before them.

8. Night-time Performances

• Photos of the show during the evening, with the stage illuminated against the darkening sky, emphasizing the contrast between the performers and the natural surroundings.

9. Scenic Views of Lijiang Old Town

• Optional: Include a few shots of Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to provide context and showcase the cultural richness of the region beyond the performance venue.

10. Behind-the-Scenes

• Behind-the-scenes photos of rehearsals, costume preparation, and stage setup, offering insights into the production process and the dedication of the creative team.

Conclusion

Organizing the photo gallery in this manner ensures a comprehensive visual representation of the “Impression Lijiang” show, capturing its cultural essence, natural beauty, and technical brilliance. Each image should aim to convey the unique experience of attending this spectacular outdoor performance at one of China’s most iconic cultural destinations.

Location and Timing

Highlights of the Festival

• Drum Fire Ceremony: A traditional ritual where the sacred fire is ignited using the ancient method of drilling wood, symbolizing the continuity of Yi culture.
• Ancestral Worship: A solemn ceremony to honor the ancestors, reflecting the deep respect and reverence the Yi people have for their forebears.
• Huagu Dance Performances: Teams from various towns in Eshan County come together to perform the Huagu Dance, each bringing their unique style and flair.
• Cultural Exhibitions: Displays of Yi ethnic costumes, traditional crafts, and other cultural artifacts that highlight the diversity and richness of Yi culture.
• Entertainment Activities: Including fireworks, drone shows, and large-scale dance performances that add a modern twist to the traditional festival.

Cultural Significance

How to Get There

Accommodation

Food and Shopping

Tips for Visitors

• Respect Local Customs: The festival is deeply rooted in Yi culture, so it’s important to show respect for local traditions and customs.
• Plan Your Visit: Check the festival schedule in advance to make the most of your time. Some events may require prior booking.
• Enjoy the Performances: The Huagu Dance performances are the highlight of the festival, so be sure to find a good spot to enjoy the shows.

Introduction 

Chinese Name: 阿细跳月
English Name: Axi Tiaoyue Dance Festival of Axi Ethnic People in Mile County, Honghe
Location: Mi’le County, Honghe Prefecture

Axi Jumping Moon is also known as “Axi Tiaoyue” or “Tiaoyue.” It is a traditional folk dance of the Yi ethnic group, self-identified as “Axi” or “Sani.” It is popular in areas such as Mile, Lunan, and Luxi in Yunnan. This dance serves as a social recreational activity for young men and women. Male dancers play the large sanxian or flute, while the females dance in sync with them. They may join hands in a circle, swaying side to side, clapping and stamping their feet, and spinning while dancing. It is one of the folk dances of the Yi people’s Sani and Axi groups, prevalent in the Yi region of Yunnan. The main movements include jumping in threes, clapping, and turning. The rhythm is distinctive, and the mood is cheerful. It is also known as Tiaole.

Historical Changes

The Axi Tiaoyue, or Axi Jumping Moon, is a collective dance of the Axi people, a branch of the Yi ethnic group living in the Xishan area of Mile City, Yunnan Province. It flows, burns, and is passed down through this land like the refreshing mountain breeze, the cheerful mountain stream, and the blazing torch. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the Axi Tiaoyue has once again demonstrated the unique charm of ethnic culture and has been favored by the domestic literary and artistic communities as well as international friends. Accompanying the growth of New China, the connotation carried by Axi Tiaoyue has long transcended the simplicity of being just a dance. It has evolved from a dance into a grand festival of a nation, telling the story of a nation’s history of struggle and development.

The Axi are a branch of the Yi ethnic group, self-identified as “Axi Pu,” residing in the Xishan area of Mile City. The Axi people have been known since ancient times for their singing and dancing. “Axi Tiaoyue” is one of their most beloved and widely practiced folk collective dances. Originally called “Tiaole,” it gained its name “Tiaoyue” because they often danced under the moonlight, with connotations of courtship. Therefore, they would avoid the elders and arrange to gather outside the village in the mountains or forests at night to dance in the moonlight or around a bonfire. During the Anti-Japanese War, it began to be known as “Axi Tiaoyue.”

There are many legends about the origin of “Tiaoyue,” all of which are related to fire. One legend suggests that it originated from labor when farming with slash-and-burn techniques in ancient times, where burnt bushes would easily injure the feet, leading to jumping while sowing seeds, eventually evolving into the dance; another says that the Axi village faced disaster from “heavenly fire.” The children of the Axi, Azhang and A’e, led the people courageously to extinguish the fire. As the ground was scorched, they would alternate between jumping with both feet, forming the basic movements of today’s “Tiaoyue.” “Axi Tiaoyue” has a brisk rhythm, and its dance movements are rugged and unrestrained, featuring both elderly and youth dances. The elderly’s dance involves playing a small sanxian (a traditional three-stringed instrument) with gentle, slow, and steady movements. The youth’s dance is passionate and exuberant, serving as a recreational activity for young men and women to communicate their feelings and choose partners. During festivals or in the slack farming seasons, unmarried young men and women from neighboring villages would first agree on the time and place for their gathering. If one side failed to meet the agreement, the other side would place stones on tree branches along the path to signify “pressing the soul” (soul is the interpretation of life in the Yi culture). The side that was pressed must explain the reason, apologize, and seek forgiveness before a new date could be set. In this arrangement, men would come from one village, and women from another. Before the meeting, the women would groom themselves in the woods, purposely delaying their arrival, while the men, aware of the women’s preparations, would play short, urgent notes on their flutes or strum their sanxians rapidly. One side would be in a hurry, and the other would be slow, creating an intriguing dynamic. Just as the flute plays gracefully and the strings resonate, the women would clap their hands and dance out of the woods, forming a line on the lawn to joyfully sing and dance with the men. The melodies would match the dance steps, and the sound of the strings would echo the sentiments of the heart, occasionally erupting in roars of “Oh! Oh!” The music is lively and passionate, and the dance steps resemble jumping on fire, first with one foot jumping three times (making three beats), then both feet hitting the ground (making four beats), and then jumping with the other foot, continuously repeating this pattern. While singing and dancing, the participants search for suitable partners before switching formations to dance as pairs. Due to the high intensity of “Axi Tiaoyue,” especially for young men carrying large sanxians weighing four to five kilograms while playing, singing, jumping, and twirling, they often end up sweating profusely. Yet the compelling nature of “Axi Tiaoyue” continues to attract young men and women to dance year after year, generation after generation.

The Local Activities

1. Traditional Dance Performances

The centerpiece of the festival is the Axi Tiaoyue dance itself, where participants engage in lively group dances under the moonlight. Both men and women showcase their dancing skills, often accompanied by traditional music played on instruments like the sanxian (a three-stringed lute) and flutes. The dances are characterized by energetic movements, colorful costumes, and a strong sense of community.

2. Cultural Exhibitions

The festival often features exhibitions that highlight Axi culture, including displays of traditional clothing, handicrafts, and other forms of artistic expression. Participants may also share stories about the history and significance of the Axi culture, enriching attendees’ understanding of their heritage.

3. Food and Drink Stalls

Local culinary delights feature prominently at the festival. Stalls selling traditional Axi foods allow visitors to taste dishes like roasted meats, rice, and various local snacks. Special beverages, such as traditional rice wine, may also be available, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

4. Community Engagement Activities

The festival encourages community involvement through various interactive activities. This may include competitions, such as dance-offs or games that foster cooperation among participants. It is a time for both the young and the elderly to come together and strengthen community bonds.

5. Ceremonies and Rituals

The festival may begin with a ceremonial event, where local leaders and elders bless the activities. Rituals that pay homage to ancestors and express gratitude for blessings can be an important element, reflecting the Axi people’s respect for tradition and spirituality.

6. Cultural Roadshows

In addition to the main festival activities, some events may take place in nearby villages, allowing for a broader cultural exchange. These roadshows can feature performances by dance troupes, storytelling, and showcases of local crafts, encouraging participation from a wider audience.

7. Youth Engagement

Youth participation is crucial, as the festival serves as a platform for young people to learn about their cultural roots and develop their identities. Workshops or mentoring sessions may be organized to teach traditional dance, music, and crafts to the younger generations.

Basic Introduction

Chinese Name: 漾濞县核桃节
English Name: The Walnut Festivalue in Yangbi County, Dali
Date:  Annual September
Location: Guangming Village, Yangbi County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture

The month-long festival has been set to be launched at the walnut orchard of Guangming Village, which is about 15 km from the county seat of Yangbi. A sacrifice-offering ceremony will be held by locals for the God of Walnut, and different activities will come soon, such as tasting walnut food, countryside sightseeing, walnut products promotion, and cultural shows etc.

Guangming Village sits on the west side of the Cangshan Mt, and is called home by nationalities of Han, Yi, Hui, Miao and Lisu. 65% of the income here counts on walnut trees-the number of which has amounted to at least 81,000 since the 1980s. Its estimate annual output of walnuts stands at 220 tonnes (fresh), with dry nuts worth 2.2 million yuan ($0.35 mn).

Dali possesses a unique natural environment and climatic conditions, making it the best suitable area for walnut cultivation. Dali is the origin and primary production area of the southern walnut variety known as “Yangbi Walnut.” The region has a long history of walnut cultivation, with vast suitable planting areas and rich germplasm resources.

In the walnut forests of Dali, one can directly experience the fragrant golden fruits and also share in the joy of the local people’s bountiful harvest. The Yangbi Walnut has established significant brand value not only in the province but also nationwide. Every year, the Dali Walnut Festival utilizes various promotional channels to strengthen this brand further. Additionally, the sprawling walnut forests in Yangbi County have spurred the development of the local tourism industry, making the Dali Walnut Festival a major attraction for tourists from all over the country.

*Travel Route: Kunming–Chuxiong–Dali—Yangbi

Local Activities of The Walnut Festival 

1. Walnut Harvesting: Participants can engage in the traditional harvesting of walnuts, allowing visitors to experience the agricultural practices and hard work of local farmers.
2. Cultural Performances: The festival often features traditional music and dance performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region, including local ethnic customs.
3. Walnut-Themed Workshops: Workshops may be held to educate attendees on various aspects of walnut cultivation, processing, and usage, including cooking classes that highlight walnut-based dishes.
4. Artisan Markets: Local artisans may set up booths to sell walnut-related products, crafts, and souvenirs, allowing visitors to support local economies and take home unique items.
5. Tastings and Food Festivals: Visitors can sample a variety of dishes made with walnuts, as well as other local delicacies, during food fairs and tastings held throughout the festival.
6. Nature Tours: Guided tours of the picturesque walnut orchards and surrounding natural landscapes are often organized, offering participants a chance to enjoy the stunning scenery of Dali.
7. Competitions and Games: Various fun competitions, such as walnut-picking contests or cooking challenges, are usually held to engage participants and create a festive atmosphere.
8. Community Celebrations: The festival often serves as a platform for community gatherings, including feasting, storytelling, and sharing of local traditions, fostering a sense of unity among residents and visitors.

Chinese Name:牟定县彝族三月会/三月街
English Name: March Fair (Sanyuehui) of Yi Ethnic Minority in Mouding County, Chuxiong
http://bbs.pcauto.com.cn/topic-14170648.html
牟定三月会，又名三月街，是当地彝族的歌舞盛会。参加的人数10多万人。除本州各县都有人来参加外，州外、省外都有人来参加。三天三夜的歌舞盛会，也是一次大规模的文化交流、物资交流盛会。

中文名 牟定三月会 外文名 MouDing March Meet 节日类型 传统节日 节日地点 牟定
简介编辑
“河边杨柳排对排，年年有个三月街，三月街子两头赶，阿哥阿妹跳脚来。”牟定三月会，又名三月街，是当地彝族的歌舞盛会。参加的人数10多万人。除本州各县都有人来参加外，州外、省外都有人来参加。三天三夜的歌舞盛会，也是一次大规模的文化交流、物资交流盛会。
历史编辑
传说很早以前，牟定城外有一个龙潭，潭里有一条恶龙作怪，城里城外乱作一片。人们赶着牲畜，拖JL带女向四山逃难，县衙门也只得搬上翠屏山顶。转眼间城内外汪洋一片，房屋淹没了，家具什物到处漂流，田里刚插上的秧苗全被冲走，人畜死伤无数，好不凄惨。知县见此情景，只有含泪安慰黎民百姓。洪水一过，他便把东酉两屏山国库粮仓打开救济灾民。人们对他是交口称赞，但是他整天里眉头紧锁，心想：“这样下去，连年饥荒，民不聊生，皇粮收不上，还得救济，身为一县的父母官，于心何忍！”于是他喊来文书官商量，决定除掉恶龙。文书官说：“知县大人，这恶龙作怪，年年如此，前任县令就因无法制服它，只好离任而去，我们何苦与这恶龙作对呢？再说，要制服恶龙，谈何容易，要是出个三长两短，大人你……。” 知县说：“恶龙不除，定远①这坝子难得治理，百 姓难得安居乐业，你我也难得安定啊！”他要文书官去请来彝家众头人共谋除恶大计。
一番商议，大计定下，知县便告知百姓知晓，并要大家第二年三月二十八那天，每户送几斤栗炭，到城外龙潭边去烧。
很快，三月二十八日到了，人们都纷纷来到龙 潭旁，燃起炭火，炭火烧红了天空。知县一声令下，将所有烧得红彤彤的栗炭都倒进了龙潭里，霎 时，龙潭水滚沸起来，恶龙被烫得浑身是伤，动弹 不得，后来人们又抬来石头，挖来泥土，把龙潭填 了。为了使恶龙永世不得翻身，大家便在新土上欢 乐地跳起舞来，借以踩实泥土。从此以后，恶龙再也没有出来作怪，人民安居乐业了。
为了纪念这个胜利，大家便把每年三月二十八订为赶会跳歌的日子。知县还规定：每年三月街，人们不但可以在街上跳，还可以到县衙门二堂跳，官民同乐。

Overview of The Festival

Chinese Name: 弥渡县花灯节
English Name: Lantern Festival (Huadengjie)  in Midu County, Dali
Location: 弥渡县密祉镇/Mizi Township, Midu County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan.
Date : Every year on the fifteenth and sixteenth day of the first lunar month, lasting for two days

Every year, on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, the lantern festival is a traditional activity in Mizi Township, Midu County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan, which has a history of over a thousand years. Describing it with the sounds of gongs and drums, the crackling of firecrackers, the fluttering of red flags, and a crowd of people is not an exaggeration at all.

Festival Content

During the Midu Lantern Festival, Mizi Township is one of the liveliest places in Dali Prefecture. During the festival, all the natural villages, large and small, in Mizi Township organize lantern teams to perform lion dances, dragon dances, and lantern displays in the Dasi Street of Mizi. They celebrate the party’s policies and the good lives of the people through self-composed songs and performances, collectively wishing for an even better life in the coming year. Lantern teams from various villages gather in the square in front of Mizi Dasi, performing dragon dances, lion dances, lantern jumping, singing, lantern competitions, and setting off firecrackers, celebrating all night long in a frenzy, creating a scene of a sea of people, earning the title of the “Oriental Lantern Carnival.”

Festival Culture

Mizi Township in Midu County, Dali Prefecture, has a long cultural history, beautiful mountains and rivers, rich natural and human resources, and well-preserved ancient residential buildings and folk customs. It boasts a traditional lantern festival that has thrived for a thousand years, and is honored as the “Hometown of Lanterns, Cultural Hometown, and Hometown of the Gentle Flowing River.”.

Travel Information

By Bus:

Kunming Western Bus Station to Dali: 7:20 AM to 8:00 PM, over 60 departures. Ticket price: 111 yuan. Travel time: approximately 6 hours.
Kunming Western Bus Station to Midu County: 9:10 AM to 7:30 PM, 7 departures total. Ticket price: 122 yuan. Travel time: approximately 6 hours.
Dali Bus Station to Midu County: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, multiple departures. Travel time: approximately 90 minutes.

By Train:

Kunming to Dali: 8:35, 9:42, 12:10, 21:15, 21:40, 22:06, 22:29, 22:47, 8 departures total. Ticket prices: Hard seat: 64 yuan; Hard sleeper: 97.5 yuan; Soft sleeper: 149.5 yuan.

By Plane:

Kunming Changshui International Airport to Dali Airport: 7:40 AM to 7:30 PM, with more than ten flights available.

Local Activities

1. Lantern Displays

• Villagers create and showcase colorful lanterns of various shapes and sizes. These lanterns often depict traditional motifs and sometimes contain riddles written on them for visitors to solve.

2. Lion and Dragon Dances

• Performers engage in energetic lion and dragon dances, which are believed to bring good luck and drive away evil spirits. These performances are a highlight of the festival and attract large crowds.

3. Lantern Processions

• Different villages organize lantern teams that parade through the streets of Mizi Township. These processions feature singing, dancing, and showcasing of the beautifully crafted lanterns.

4. Traditional Music and Dance Performances

• Local musicians perform traditional music, and dancers present folk dances, which reflect the cultural diversity of the region. Participating in these performances creates a lively and festive atmosphere.

5. Firecracker Displays

• To celebrate the occasion and ward off bad luck, firecrackers are set off throughout the festival. The sound of firecrackers complements the festive ambiance and heightens the celebratory spirit.

6. Community Gatherings

• The festival serves as an opportunity for community bonding. Locals gather to share meals, participate in games, and engage in cultural exchanges, reinforcing community ties.

7. Culinary Traditions

• Special foods are prepared and enjoyed during the festival, often including traditional snacks and dishes specific to the region. This culinary aspect adds a delicious dimension to the festivities.

8. Cultural Exhibitions

• Various cultural exhibitions may take place, showcasing local arts and crafts, traditional costumes, and other aspects of the region’s heritage.

9. Riddle Solving

• A fun tradition where riddles are attached to lanterns. Participants engage in solving these riddles, often winning small prizes or gaining the honor of being recognized for their intelligence.

10. Wishes for the New Year

• As part of the celebrations, community members look forward to the upcoming year by expressing their hopes and wishes for prosperity, happiness, and good health.

Basic Information

• Chinese Name: 昭通市中营清真寺
• English Name: Zhongying Mosque
• Location: Xiaolongdong Township, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, China

Introduction

Zhongying Mosque, also known as Central Camp Mosque, is a prominent religious site for the Hui Muslim community in Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. It has a rich history dating back to the Qing Dynasty.

Historical Background

• Founding: Established in the 9th year of Yongzheng Emperor’s reign in the Qing Dynasty (1731). It suffered destruction during the failed Yunnan Muslim uprising against the Qing Dynasty in the 6th year of Xianfeng Emperor’s reign (1856). The mosque was subsequently rebuilt but faced further damage during the Cultural Revolution. Reconstruction efforts began in 1979 with local Muslims raising funds. The mosque was finally completed and inaugurated in October 1984.

Architectural Features

• Size and Layout: Zhongying Mosque covers an area of 9.3 acres with a total construction area of 1,958 square meters. The main prayer hall spans 378 square meters.
• Architectural Style: The mosque features an Arabic architectural style with a main hall of 5 rooms, front corridors, and rear pavilions. The minaret stands 13 meters tall with a hexagonal spire, showcasing Islamic architectural elements.
• Special Features: Inside the mosque, there are commemorative steles for the reconstruction and the call to prayer tower. It also houses four ancient white twig trees, each over two hundred years old.

Community and Religious Practices

• Community: Currently, Zhongying Mosque serves 900 households with approximately 4,500 people, all belonging to the Gedi clan. It has 18 Islamic scholars (学董) and 40 imams (阿訇).
• Leadership: The current Imam is Hu Xianrong, and the current Islamic scholar is Ma Zhirong.
• Cultural Artifacts: The mosque’s collection includes 200 volumes of Arabic classics.

Visitor Information

For those visiting Zhongying Mosque:

1. Respectful Conduct: Visitors should dress modestly and adhere to mosque etiquette.
2. Cultural Experience: Explore the historical and cultural significance of Zhongying Mosque, including its architectural beauty and community contributions.
3. Location: Zhongying Mosque is located in Xiaolongdong Township, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. It is accessible via local roads in the area.

Conclusion

Zhongying Mosque stands as a testament to the resilience and cultural heritage of the Hui Muslim community in Zhaotong, Yunnan Province. Its architectural splendor and historical significance make it a noteworthy site for both religious worship and cultural appreciation.

Photos of XishuangBanna Tropical Botanical Garden

Date: 21-25 Sep.
Place: Fubao Cultural City, Guandu District, Kunming

*Travel Route: Kunming—Fubao Cultural City

Geographical Location

Yuanyang County (元阳县) is located in the southern part of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). The region is characterized by high mountains and deep valleys, and it is home to 190,000 mu (approximately 12,667 hectares) of terraced fields with a history of over 1,300 years. These terraces, along with the unique farming culture of the Hani people (哈尼族), have given rise to an ecological system that harmoniously integrates forest, village, terraced fields, and water systems — a miracle in the history of global agricultural civilization.

Cultural and Historical Background

“Kaixiangmen” (开秧门) is a traditional and solemn ceremony held by Hani villages to mark the beginning of the rice transplanting season, symbolizing the official start of spring plowing. The Hani people are known for their deep reverence for nature, which is reflected in their spiritual beliefs and daily practices. Through their hard work and ingenuity, they created the world-renowned Honghe Hani Rice Terraces (红河哈尼梯田), now recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

Folk Customs

On the day of “Kaixiangmen” (开秧门), Hani people of all ages gather at the terraces, singing while planting rice and dancing during breaks. They dress in traditional festive attire and bring offerings to a ritual altar near the fields, including yellow sticky rice and red-dyed eggs. These offerings are part of prayers for favorable weather and a bountiful harvest. During the festival, visitors can take part in rice planting and enjoy traditional events such as the Long Table Feast (长街宴).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Yuanyang County (元阳县) has a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by mild temperatures and abundant rainfall. The best time to visit is from April to May, when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time

Kaixiangmen Ceremony Site in Hani Town (哈尼小镇):
Visitors can observe performances of the “Kaixiangmen” ritual and demonstrations of traditional farming techniques.
Suggested visit duration: 2–3 hours.

Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces (元阳哈尼梯田):
Marvel at the breathtaking terraced landscapes and immerse yourself in Hani agricultural culture.
Suggested visit duration: 1–2 days.

Transportation

Public Transport:
Take a long-distance bus from Kunming South Bus Station (昆明南部客运站) to Yuanyang (元阳). The journey takes about 5–6 hours. After arriving in Yuanyang, transfer to local transportation to reach Hani Town (哈尼小镇).

Self-Driving:
From Kunming (昆明), drive along the Kunming–Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速, G8511) to Yuanyang, then continue to Hani Town. Total distance is about 332 kilometers.

Local Cuisine

Hani Long Table Feast:
Sample traditional Hani dishes such as yellow sticky rice and red-dyed eggs.

Red Rice Noodles:
Unique noodles made from red rice grown in the terraced fields, offering a distinct flavor and texture.

Shopping

Hani Embroidery:
Traditional handcrafted embroidery items made by Hani artisans.

Terrace Red Rice:
A local specialty, this nutritious red rice is grown in the iconic terraced fields.

Accommodation

Hani Town :
Offers a range of hotels and guesthouses with affordable prices and strong ethnic charm.

Yuanyang County Town:
For a more comfortable stay, consider accommodations in the county center.

Travel Tips

• Respect the customs and traditions of local ethnic minorities, especially when visiting villages or participating in cultural festivals.
• Help preserve the environment by not littering.
• Some paths in the terraced fields are steep, so wear comfortable and sturdy footwear.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Yuanyang County, check into your hotel, and head to Hani Town to watch the “Kaixiangmen” performance.

Day 2:
Visit Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces to admire the stunning landscapes and experience Hani agricultural life.

Day 3:
Return to Yuanyang County town and conclude your journey.

Closing Remarks

The “Kaixiangmen” and Farming Culture Festival in Yuanyang County (元阳县) is a place rich with natural beauty and ethnic heritage. Whether you’re exploring the deep-rooted traditions of the Hani people or marveling at the awe-inspiring terraced fields, this experience promises unforgettable memories. We hope you have a wonderful and enriching journey here!

Kunming is a historical and cultural city, with a time-honored history, splendid culture and a glorious revolutionary tradition. Our ancestors in the tortuous process of pursuing of progress, happiness, independence and freedom left us a profound and effulgent culture with local characteristics and ethnic characteristics. There are many historical sites, historical tombs, historical celebrities, historical events, and historical contributions.

‣ In Ancient Times

In ancient times, Dianchi played an important role in Yunnan. There were many bamboos, grasses, Asian elephants, rhinos, pandas and other animals at the foot of the mountain and primitive forests at the hill of the mountains. Fossil teeth found in Jiuxiang Cave proved that there were early wise man lived in Kunming 300 thousand years ago. In the Neolithic age, the original population in Dianchi area has been greatly increased, “slash-and-burn cultivation” began.

‣ During Pre-Qin period

In the Chunqiu period, there were thousands of tribal alliance inDianchi and its surrounding areas, though “Dian” was the largest tribe. In the warring states period, the Zhuang people from Chu State established the Dian Kingdom in Dianchi Lake area, which brought a more advanced culture from Chu State and the middle of China to the Dian Kingdom and invigorated local politics and the economy. All ethnic groups created a world-renowned, unique bronze culture, with exquisite craft, wide subject, strong local characteristics. It reflected the social development level of ancient Dian country.

‣ The Qin and Han Dynasties

The Han Dynasty(205 BC–AD 220) wanted to do business with Burma and India, so The Han Dynasty occupied small parts of Yunnan and Yunnan was named as Dian. though subsequent dynasties expanding their borders through Yunnan gradually.

‣ In the Period of Sui and Tang Dynasties

Kunming was named as Kunzhou in The Sui Dynasty (581–618). In 765, Kunming was named as Tuodong city in the Kingdom of Nanzhao and Kunming was out of Tang’s control and became an independent area in Tang Dynasty.

‣ In the Period of Yuan Dynasties

It got its current name in 1276 from the Mongols in the period towards the decline of the Yuan dynasty and later still in 1832, the beginnings of a real city were acknowledged within the city walls and significant structures within their confines. Founding of the city can, therefore be said to have been a predominantly 19th century affair. It was also in this century that the city grew to become the major market and transport centre for the region.

‣ In the Period of Ming and Qing Dynasties

Kunming was occupied by Ming Dynasty in the 14th century and was named as Yunnanfu. Ming Dynasty built a protective wall surrounding present-day Kunming in case of invasion, but it didn’t work. And then Kunming was ruled by Manchu of Qing. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was the seat of the superior prefecture of Yunnan. At the end of the Qing Dynasty, the government chose Kunming as a commercial port. In 1910, Dianyue Railway was completed, which comprehensively enhanced the role of Kunming.

‣ In the Period of The People’s Republic of China

Yunnan was peacefully liberated in 1949, and after 1949,Kunming developed rapidly into an industrial metropolis with the construction of large iron, steel, and chemical complexes, along with Chongqing, Chengdu and Guiyang in the southwest. In the 1980s and 1990s, the city center was rebuilt, with Swiss help, in its current modern style to impress visitors attending the 1999 World Horticultural Exposition. Now, the World Horticultural Expo is widely regarded as a public relations success for Kunming, which seemed to exceed almost all expectations. The Expo made the outside world take notice of Kunming.

‣ Modern history

In the 1980s and 1990s, the city center was rebuilt, with Swiss’s help, in its current ‘modern’ style to impress visitors attending the 1999 World Hortcultural Exposition. It was primarily during 1997 and 1998 that much of the city’s roads, bridges and high rises were built.

The World Horticultural Expo was widely regarded as a public relations success for Kunming. Today the after-effects of the Expo are apparent in more than just the physical improvements to the city—it was the Expo that made the outside world take notice of Kunming, which was relatively unknown at the time.

In July 2006, talks at the ASEAN Regional Forum, China, Bangladesh and Myanmar (Burma) agreed to construct a highway from Kunming to Chittagong through Mandalay for trade and development.

On 1 March 2014, 29 people died, and more than 130 were injured at Kunming Railway Station in what the Chinese Xinhua News Agency described as a terrorist attack.

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