Shiping Old Town, Honghe

Shiping Old Town, Honghe
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Chinese Name:石屏古城
English Name: Shiping Old Town, Honghe

Overview

Shiping Old Town, located in Shiping County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province, is one of the first cities in China to be selected as a “Historical and Cultural Street” by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development and the National Cultural Heritage Administration. Announced on April 21, 2015, the selection recognized 30 districts, with Shiping Old Town being the only one from Yunnan.

The town is renowned for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture and historical ambiance. It serves as a key component in the protection of China’s historical and cultural heritage, holding significant historical and cultural value due to its well-preserved state and deep cultural roots.

Main Attractions

  1. Historical Significance:
    Shiping Old Town has been noted for its comprehensive collection of Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings. It has a long history of educational and cultural achievements, with historical records highlighting the presence of various schools and academies during the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
  2. Legend and Water Wells:
    According to legend, Shiping County was built on a giant turtle shell floating on water. The city’s wells are said to be connected, with water from one well eventually appearing in another. These wells, located at the eastern, western, southern, northern, and central parts of the town, have historically provided water for various uses, including tofu production, for over 600 years.
  3. Cultural Heritage:
    Shiping is home to rich cultural traditions, including distinctive local dances such as the “Yanhui Dance” and traditional songs like “Haicai Tune.” The town’s cultural richness is also evident in its food, particularly the renowned Shiping tofu, which has gained fame for its unique production method.

Entrance Tickets and Booking

  • Ticket Information: There is no entrance fee for visiting Shiping Old Town.
  • Booking: No prior booking is required. Visitors can explore the town freely.

Best Time to Visit

  • Season: The ideal time to visit is from October to April when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.
  • Avoid: The rainy season (May to September) can make travel less enjoyable due to potential flooding and slippery conditions.

How to Get There

  1. By Air: Fly into Kunming Changshui International Airport.
  2. By Train: Take a train to Kunming Railway Station.
  3. By Bus: From Kunming Railway Station, take a bus to Shiping County.
  4. Local Transport: Within Shiping, taxis and local buses are available for getting around the town and visiting various attractions.

Highlights

  • Historical Architecture: Explore the well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings.
  • Cultural Experiences: Enjoy traditional local dances, music, and food.
  • Unique Legends: Discover the fascinating legend of the town’s water wells.

Facts

  • Historical Era: The town has been an important cultural and educational center since the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
  • Cultural Status: Recognized as a key historical and cultural area with significant preservation of ancient structures and traditions.
  • Special Features: Known for its traditional tofu, historical water wells, and local cultural practices.

History

Shiping has a rich historical background, having been part of the Chu state during the Qin Dynasty and later known as Shengxiu County during the Han Dynasty. It became Shiping Prefecture during the Yuan Dynasty, and over the centuries, it has maintained its importance as a cultural and educational hub.

Weather

  • Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, with frequent rains.
  • Autumn (September to November): Cool and dry, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Winter (December to February): Mild and pleasant, good for exploring historical sites.
  • Spring (March to May): Warm and comfortable, great for enjoying cultural activities.

Accommodation

  • Nearby Options: Various hotels and guesthouses are available in Shiping County, offering a range of accommodations from budget to more luxurious options.

Visiting Routes

  1. Direct Route: Travel directly from Kunming to Shiping by bus or train.
  2. Scenic Route: Explore nearby natural and cultural attractions on the way to Shiping.

Travel Tips

  • Prepare: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the town’s historic sites.
  • Respect Local Customs: Follow local customs and practices, especially during cultural performances and traditional activities.
  • Weather Check: Check the weather forecast before traveling to ensure a pleasant visit.

Cultural Heritage Sites

  • National Heritage Sites: Yupi Building Complex, Wenmiao Building Complex, Shiping County Government Building, Li Hengsheng’s Former Residence, Ding Zhaoguan’s Residence.
  • Provincial Heritage Sites: Yuan Jiagu’s Former Residence.
  • Prefectural Heritage Sites: Yuntai Gate.
  • County-Level Heritage Sites: Include various temples, ancestral halls, and historical residences such as the Zhang Zheng Tang Villa, Li Qiao’s Former Residence, and more than 180 cultural protection units across the county.

Shiping Old Town provides a rich historical and cultural experience, showcasing the unique blend of traditional architecture, local customs, and cultural heritage that make it a fascinating destination.