Haimen Village of Jiangcheng Town in Jiangchuan District, Yuxi
Haimen Village (海门村) is located in Jiangcheng Town (江城镇), Jiangchuan District (江川区), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It lies on the northern shore of Xingyun Lake (星云湖) and is adjacent to Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖). Surrounded by picturesque landscapes of mountains and water, the village is uniquely positioned between two lakes, connected by a river that flows through the village and links Xingyun Lake with Fuxian Lake.
History and Culture
Haimen Village (海门村) has a long history dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (元代), when people first settled here. During the Yuan period, due to the stationing of Mongol troops, the village was known as Shatuo Village (沙陀村). After the fall of the Yuan, it was renamed Fenghuang Village (凤凰村). In the Ming Dynasty (明代), roads and bridges were renovated, and a post station named Haimen Post (海门哨) was established. During the Tianshun period of the Ming, the original wooden bridge was destroyed by floodwaters. A new stone bridge was built under the guidance of the local county magistrate and named Haimen Bridge (海门桥), after which the village was renamed Haimen Village (海门村), a name still in use today.
In 2013, Haimen Village was listed in the second batch of “China’s Traditional Villages.” It is well known not only for attractions like Jieyushi (界鱼石) and Haimen Bridge (海门桥) but also for its preserved ancient post roads, inns, ornately carved traditional residences, and the still-practiced traditional folk dance “Bench Dragon” (板凳龙).
Local Customs
Haimen Village (海门村) retains a rich array of folk customs. The “Bench Dragon” (板凳龙) is a traditional folk dance from Jiangchuan District (江川区), originating in the Ming Dynasty. It is an essential performance during the Spring Festival and the celebration of Lao Jun from the 2nd to the 8th day of the second lunar month. This dance is more than entertainment—it expresses the deep cultural heritage and ancient legends of Haimen Village.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Jiangchuan District (江川区) experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons and mild weather. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when the climate is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.
Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time
Jieyushi (界鱼石): A well-known natural feature with the phenomenon of “two lakes connecting, but fish not crossing.” Recommended visit duration: 1 hour.
Haimen Bridge (海门桥): A three-arched stone bridge built in the Ming Dynasty, it stands as a testament to the village’s history. Recommended visit duration: 1 hour.
Ancient Post Road and Stations: Haimen Village was a major land and water transportation hub during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Its old post stations reflect a prosperous past. Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours.
Surrounding Natural Scenery: The nearby landscape is ideal for hiking and photography. Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours.
Transportation
Public Transportation: Take a city bus in Yuxi (玉溪市) to Jiangcheng Town (江城镇), then transfer to local transportation to reach Haimen Village.
Self-Driving: Drive from downtown Yuxi (玉溪市) and follow the signs to Haimen Village. The total distance is about 20 kilometers.
Local Cuisine
The local cuisine highlights regional flavors, with specialties such as salted fish (盐水鱼), mushroom feasts (菌子宴), and fish hotpot cooked in a copper pot (铜锅煮鱼).
Shopping
Haimen Village (海门村) has many shops offering local agricultural products and handicrafts. Visitors can purchase distinctive local souvenirs.
Accommodation
Local Farmstays: Offer lodging and a chance to experience rural life.
Nearby Hotels: Hotels in Jiangcheng Town (江城镇), Jiangchuan District (江川区) are close by and conveniently located for travel.
Travel Tips
- Environmental Protection: Please protect the environment and avoid littering during your visit.
- Respect Local Customs: When participating in local folk activities, respect cultural traditions and practices.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning – Arrive at Haimen Village, visit Jieyushi and Haimen Bridge to learn about local history and culture.
Noon – Enjoy local specialty cuisine.
Afternoon – Visit the ancient post road and stations to explore historical remnants.
Evening – Stay at a local farmstay for a relaxing night.
Day 2:
Morning – Explore the surrounding natural scenery and enjoy hiking and photography.
Noon – Lunch at the farmstay.
Afternoon – Return to Jiangchuan District or Yuxi City to end the trip.
Haimen Village (海门村) attracts numerous visitors with its unique natural landscapes and rich historical and cultural heritage. Whether you’re strolling through ancient alleys or taking part in folk traditions, you’ll feel the deep charm of this ancient village. May your visit to Haimen Village be a truly memorable experience.
