Gasa Town in Xinping County, Yuxi

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Jiasa Town (戛洒镇) is located in the western part of Xinping County (新平县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It lies on the eastern slope of the central Ailao Mountains (哀牢山脉) and along the upper reaches of the Jiasa River (戛洒江), a tributary of the Red River (红河). Jiasa is a transportation hub connecting three prefecture-level areas (Yuxi, Chuxiong, and Pu’er) and five counties (Xinping, Shuangbai, Zhenyuan, Mojiang, Yuanjiang). The town government is located in Jiasa Street (戛洒街), approximately 245 km from Kunming City (昆明市) and 65 km from Xinping County Seat (新平县城).

History and Culture

Known as the “Hometown of the Huayao Dai People (花腰傣族之乡)”, the name “Jiasa” comes from the Dai language, meaning “a street on the beach.” Historically, the town has been an important hub for trade and transportation. Jiasa boasts magnificent mountain landscapes of the Ailao Mountains (哀牢山) and the vibrant cultural atmosphere of the Huayao Dai (花腰傣) ethnic group.

Folk Customs

As a major settlement for the Huayao Dai people (花腰傣), Jiasa retains rich traditions and ancient folk customs. Locals are skilled in weaving, embroidery, and other traditional crafts. The town also hosts a variety of folk festivals, including the Water Splashing Festival (泼水节) and the Huayao Dai Bathing Festival (花腰傣风情沐浴节).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Jiasa experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, with an annual average temperature between 17°C and 23°C. Its vertical climate changes significantly with altitude. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when the weather is most comfortable and the scenery is at its best.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Duration

Huayao Dai Cultural Eco Village at Dabinlangyuan (大槟榔园花腰傣民族文化生态村)

Explore traditional Huayao Dai customs and handicrafts.
Suggested visit duration: Around 1 hour

Ailao Mountain Scenic Area (哀牢山景区)

Enjoy untouched nature and rich biodiversity in the mountains.
Suggested visit duration: Around 2 hours

Nanen Waterfall (南恩瀑布)

Marvel at the powerful cascades and natural beauty.
Suggested visit duration: Around 1 hour

Shimen Gorge (石门峡景区)

Famous for its naturally formed stone gates and crystal-clear streams.
Suggested visit duration: Around 2 hours

Admission Fees

• Ailao Mountain Scenic Area (哀牢山景区): Free
• Shimen Gorge (石门峡景区): ¥40 per person

Transportation

Self-Driving

From Kunming (昆明), drive along the Kunming-Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速) to the Xinping exit (新平出口), then take Provincial Highway 218 (省道218) to Jiasa Town (戛洒镇).

Public Transportation

Take a long-distance bus from Kunming (昆明) to Xinping County (新平县城), then transfer to local buses or taxis to reach Jiasa Town (戛洒镇).

Local Cuisine

Local specialties include bamboo tube rice (竹筒饭), grilled fish (烤鱼), and sour soup dishes (酸汤), all featuring the unique flavors of Dai (傣族) cuisine.

Shopping

Visitors can purchase traditional Huayao Dai handicrafts, such as embroidery (刺绣) and silver jewelry (银饰), as unique souvenirs.

Accommodation

Hotels in Xinping County (新平县城)

A variety of hotels are available at reasonable prices.

Homestays in Jiasa Town (戛洒镇)

Charming guesthouses and ethnic-style homestays offer immersive local experiences.

Travel Tips

• Environmental Protection: Please do not litter and help preserve the natural environment.
• Respect Local Culture: Stay quiet during visits and respect local customs and religious practices.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

• Morning: Arrive at Xinping County (新平县城), head to Jiasa Town (戛洒镇)
• Afternoon: Visit Huayao Dai Cultural Eco Village (大槟榔园花腰傣民族文化生态村) and experience local culture

Day 2

• Morning: Explore the Ailao Mountain Scenic Area (哀牢山景区)
• Afternoon: Visit the Nanen Waterfall (南恩瀑布) and enjoy its majestic view

Day 3

• Morning: Discover the wonders of Shimen Gorge (石门峡景区)
• Afternoon: Return to Xinping County (新平县城) and enjoy local cuisine

With its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, Jiasa Town (戛洒镇) is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. We hope your journey through Xinping (新平) leaves you with unforgettable memories of this vibrant and authentic Dai cultural heartland.