Laibaokang Village of Qinglong Town in Huaning County, Yuxi
Laibaokang Village (来保康村) is located in Luomei Village Committee (落梅村委会), Qinglong Town (青龙镇), Huaning County (华宁县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It lies southeast of Qinglong Town (青龙镇), approximately 40 kilometers from the town government and 89 kilometers from the county seat of Huaning (华宁县). The village is nestled between green hills on the east and west, with 216 well-preserved ancient dwellings built along the slopes in a compact and orderly layout.
History and Culture
Laibaokang Village (来保康村) was established during the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty (清康熙年间), with a history of over 300 years. Originally named “Lebakua (勒粑跨),” the name was changed in 1948 to “Laibaokang (来保康)” to reflect aspirations for a healthy and prosperous life. The iconic Kuixing Pavilion (魁星阁) in the village was first built in the 12th year of the Tongzhi era (1873) and completed in the 32nd year of the Guangxu era (1906), serving as a cultural landmark of the village.
Folk Customs
Laibaokang Village (来保康村) retains rich Yi ethnic customs, including distinctive clothing, singing and dancing, and traditional festivals. Traditional art forms such as the Yi flower-drum dance and four-string dance are actively preserved and performed in the village.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Qinglong Town (青龙镇) has an average annual temperature of 15.2°C, with January averaging 7.4°C and July 20.9°C. The frost-free period lasts around 250 days per year, with an average annual sunshine duration of 2,025 hours and an annual rainfall of 921.1 mm. The best seasons to visit are spring and autumn, when the climate is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its finest.
Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time
- Kuixing Pavilion (魁星阁): The symbolic structure of Laibaokang Village, constructed between 1873 and 1906.
Recommended visit duration: 1 hour - Traditional Village: Walk through the village to appreciate traditional Yi architecture and heritage.
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours - Surrounding Natural Scenery: The area around the village is ideal for hiking and photography, offering stunning natural beauty.
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Transportation
- Public Transportation: Take a public bus within Yuxi City (玉溪市) to Qinglong Town (青龙镇), then transfer to local transportation to reach Laibaokang Village (来保康村).
- Self-Driving: Depart from Yuxi City, follow signs to Qinglong Town (青龙镇), then proceed to Laibaokang Village (来保康村), covering a total distance of around 90 kilometers.
Local Cuisine
The village and its surrounding areas offer Yi ethnic delicacies such as:
- Spicy dipping fish
- Eshan pounded chicken
- Huanian roast goose
Shopping
Laibaokang Village (来保康村) features a variety of local agricultural products and handicraft shops where visitors can purchase unique local souvenirs.
Accommodation
- Local Homestays (农家乐): Provide lodging and an authentic rural experience.
- Nearby Hotels: Hotels in Huaning County (华宁县) are conveniently located near the village.
Visitor Tips
- Protect the Environment: Please keep the area clean and avoid littering during your visit.
- Respect Local Customs: When participating in local folk activities, be respectful of the cultural practices and traditions.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning – Arrive at Laibaokang Village (来保康村), visit Kuixing Pavilion (魁星阁), and learn about local history and culture
Noon – Enjoy local specialty cuisine
Afternoon – Stroll through the traditional village and appreciate Yi-style architecture
Evening – Stay overnight at a local homestay
Day 2:
Morning – Explore surrounding natural scenery, hike, and take photos
Noon – Lunch at the homestay
Afternoon – Return to Huaning County (华宁县) or Yuxi City (玉溪市), ending the trip
Laibaokang Village (来保康村) attracts numerous visitors with its unique natural beauty and rich Yi ethnic culture. Whether strolling through the ancient village or engaging in traditional folk activities, you’ll experience the distinct charm of this historic place. We hope you have a memorable journey in Laibaokang Village.
