XishuangBanna Yiwu Ancient Town in Mengla County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Yiwu Ancient Town in XishuangBanna(易武古镇).

● Chinese Name: 易武古镇（ Yi Wu Gu Zhen)
● Keywords: Yiwu Ancient Town tickets, Puer Tea, Ancient Tea-Horse Trail, Mengla Tour, Six Old Tea.
● Location: Yiwu Village, Mengla County, Xishuangbanna,Yunnan, China
● Scenic Area: 878.2 square kilometers
● Admission Fee: 0
● Opening Hours: All day (2-3 hours for a visit)

‣ About Yiwu Ancient Town

Yiwu Town is situated in the north of Mengla County, Xishuangbanna Prefecture. It is the hometown of Pu’er Tea as well as the starting point of the Ancient Tea-Horse Trail (Road). In old times, Yiwu was known as a commercial city. It serves as the linkage between China and Laos and an important gateway to the Southeast Asia.

As the hometown of Pu’er Tea, Yiwu has conserved in good conditions historical relics of the “Ancient 6 Teas Mountains”. Strolling on the old streets of Yiwu, one will be greeted by time-honored trademarks of tea businesses such as Cheshun, Qianlizhen, Anle and Tongxing etc.

‣  A Brief History

Historically, Yiwu is famous for being the center of distribution for tribute tea to be sent to the emperor. The six famous tea mountains produced mao cha where it would be collected and sent out to Beijing from Yiwu. This trade brought a large number of Han merchants (the principle Chinese ethnic group) to the area to trade tea (source). Some of the more famous examples of aged pu’erh (from the 1930s) also originated here. i.e. Fuyuanchang, Tongqin Hao and Songpin Hao.

From the 1940s until the 1990s, tea production shifted away from these regions to Menghai County where Menghai Tea Factory planted ground. During this period, tea that was produced was usually unceremoniously sold as raw mao cha to the larger factories.

When China began to open up to the west, many Taiwanese traders visited Yiwu hoping to find both tea production and more aged tea. They found neither, but ended up helping the locals to restart tea production. As a result, the greater Yiwu area has strong ties with the Taiwanese market. Many of the Taiwanese pu’erh brands have strong ties to this region. This is covered far more thoroughly in Zhang Jinghong’s Ancient Caravans and Urban Chic.

Note #1: In Zhang’s book she characterizes the Taiwanese and Yiwu style as emphasizing the hand-made and traditional aspects of tea-making, a supposed contrast from the more production oriented Menghai County tea. Yiwu tea operations tend to be smaller, often family-oriented, whereas Menghai County is more densely populated with major operations, i.e. Menghai Tea Factory .

‣ Characteristic Taste

Yiwu is known for a distinctive softer, less punchy base with a long-lasting sweet aftertaste when compared with other pu’erh regions, i.e. Bulang/Banzhang. There are a number of growing regions within the greater Yiwu area, including the six famous tea mountains. These areas all represent Yiwu to some extent, although there will even be significant variation moving from one region to the next.

Note #1: Because Yiwu is a township and a county it is ambiguous as to what exactly constitutes “Yiwu”. This has not stopped tea producers from constantly marketing and using the Yiwu name to sell tea.

‣  Karst Sightseeing

Yiwu also is endowed with Karst sights some of which are Huashegongzhu Cave (Cave of Princess Snake), Nametiancaiyun Cave (Colorful Clouds Cave) and Gaoshanluoshui Cave etc.

● Snake Princess Cave

About 500 meters in the northeast of Yiwu, the Snake Princess Cave is in fact a dolomite. It’s known for the patriotic poems by Xu Ziheng, Li Shouchang and Dao Chengzhang all of whom were officials in the Qing Dynasty.

● Nametiancaiyun Cave 

More spectacular than the Snake Cave, Nametiancaiyun Cave is noted for stalagtites and stalagmites all of which are queerly shaped. It integrates natural and cultural sights, tropical rain forests and Karst caves, thus bringing forth picturesque sceneries.

‣ About Ethnic

Yiwu is a multi-ethnic village, there are many ethnic live here together, such as Han, Yi ethnic, Dai ethnic, Yao ethnic, Hani ethnic. 

Yi ethnic are indigenous peoples of Yiwu village, which can date back to Han Dynasty. Diligent and kind Yi people keep a simple life style, work with sunrise and stop at sunset. 

The Torch Festival is a traditional festival for the Yi ethnic group. It falls on the 24th of the sixth month of the Chinese calendar, and the celebration lasts for 3 days. The origin of the festival is related to ancestors’ worshipping of the fire, which is believed to have the power to repel insects, ward off evils, and protect the growth of crops. In some villages, it is a tradition for the elderly to pass down their farming experience to the younger generation during the festival.

During the festival, big torches are erected in the village, while small torches are placed in front of each household. When the night falls, an altar is set up and the holy flame is lit up. The Bimo (village flamen) will chant prayers, light up torches from the flame, and pass them to the villagers. Villagers, holding the flame, walk around the village, houses and the fields, and place the torches in the field corners to drive away evils. Inside the village, young men and women sing and dance around bir burning torches throughout the night.

‣ Attraction Transportation
Go around: Take bus from Jinghong Bus Station, 30rmb for one bus ticket

‣ Best Time to Visit

Can be visit all year. Belonging to tropical rainforest climate, Xishuangbanna’s dry season is from November to April the next year and rainy season is from May to October. With annual average temperature of 21c, it has long summer and no winter. With cool and pleasant four seasons, the best time for traveling Xishuangbanna is from October to June the next year. 

‣ Tips

●  Respect local ethnic culture.

About Longquan Temple

Longquan temple（龙泉寺）also known as Sam Sing Kung Chinese Temple（三圣宫）which was built in Ming dynasty and rebuilt in 1983, is located in Shuhe Ancient Town, 7 km northwest of Lijiang Ancient Town. Longquan temple gets its name from Longquan Lake near the temple, and the temple is built along the lake. Overlooking the lake from the second floor of Dajue Palace（大觉宫）, tourists appreciate the pleasant view. Longquan Lake more clear than that in Lijiang Ancient Town runs along the river through the ancient streets to directly serve as the villagers’ drinking water. Longquan Temple is a good place for the Naxi （纳西）family to have delicious dinner and spring outing because of its quiet environment.

The temple is a quadrangle courtyard while the north sits the main hall, enshrining the God of Rain（龙王） in Chinese Mythology inside. The west hall is consecrate the Goddess of Mercy（观音）, the south tower is dedicated to the father cobbler, Sun Bin, and the east building blocks straight into the water. With the corridors all the three sides of the temple, visitors to overlook the charming view around the temple. In ancient times, some scholars often visited to enjoy the glorious full moon in the moonlit night here, and hence came the “Longmen full moon”（龙门望月）.

 The temple is painted with Ming dynasty murals with the content of Buddhism. The picture is different from Baisha Frescos（白沙壁画） in Dabaoji Palace（大宝积宫）， Baisha Ancient Town. It is one of the treasures of the Ming dynasty Lijiang fresco because of its unique features.

Structure of Longquan Temple

The construction structure with the four upturning eaves up is symmetrical and harmonious using a wooden brackets structure. The forehead pillar is decorated with all kinds of lively birds and animals. Shuhe Ancient Town is very similar to Lijiang Ancient Town, which is centered on a quadrate square in the whole layout. The water originates from of Longquan Lake going through the streets.

What to See in Longquan Temple

In the village, flows the clear water from several springs all year round, across the village. The willows on both side of the river droop down and touch the water surface gently. The black tiles and white walls are covered with green shade, showing visitors beautiful scenery. Walking from the stone bridge in the west of the village the stream of the spring, along strange stone was made, visitors and see a fantastic rock peak and a clear spring behind the rock.

Near the pond there situates a pavilion whose name is actually Longquan Temple. The structure is exquisite and unique with the upturning eaves and the beautiful and generous ornamentation sculpture. There full of wide variety of flowers and trees in the courtyard with pleasant fragrant. Every spring, various kinds of flowers blossom continually. That’s really wonderful scene. Traveling here, tourists can view the whole building, and the scenery of Longquan Lake, which gives people a comfortable and happy feeling.

How to Get to Longquan Temple

1. Take the 11 bus to Shuhe Ancient Town and walk 100 meters northward to the temple.
2. Take a taxi from Dayan Ancient Town for 20Yuan.
3. Take the shuttle bus from Lijiang Ancient Town to Shuhe Ancient Town for 2 Yuan.　

Best Time to Visit

The peak period for visiting Shuhe Ancient Town is from May to October. Actually, Shuhe is worth visiting during any season, so if you do not want to experience a crowded scene, avoiding that period might be a good option.

Recommended Tour with

1 Day Lijiang Cycling Tour from Lijiang Old Town to Shuhe, Baisha and Yuhu Village

Shuhe Ancient Town Accommodation

Shuhe Ancient Town is an important constituent part of Lijiang Ancient City, a world cultural heritage site in China. There are many high-quality hotels in the old town although the quantity is not as good as that of Lijiang Old Town. Shuhe old town is much more tranquil than Lijiang Old Town, less crowded and less noisy, and the air is very good at the foot of the mountain. Follow Yunnan Exploration to discover the best hotels in Shuhe Old Town such as Banyan Tree Lijiang.

1.Lijiang Conifer Lishui Yangguang Hotel(康年丽水阳光酒店)

At Lijiang Conifer Lishui Yangguang Hotel, the excellent service and superior facilities make for an unforgettable stay. The hotel offers access to a vast array of services, including 24-hour room service, casino, facilities for disabled guests, Wi-Fi in public areas, car park.

Add: Entrance of Shu He Ancient Town, Suburbs, Lijiang, China

2. Lijiang E-Outfitting Boutique Hotel(丽江首译精品客栈)

Lijiang E-Outfitting Boutique Hotel also offers many facilities to enrich your stay in Lijiang. While lodging at this wonderful property, guests can enjoy 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour front desk, express check-in/check-out, luggage storage.

Add: No.35 Qingyun Village, Shuhe Old Town, Lijiang, China

3.Banyan Tree Lijiang(丽江悦榕庄)

Located in Shuhe Old Town, Lijiang, Banyan Tree offers a relaxing retreat away from the city. Surrounded by fresh mountain air and green landscapes, the property features luxurious accommodations with traditional Naxi-style décor and free Wi-Fi in all areas.

Add: No.1, Yuerong Road, Shuhe Old Town, Lijiang, China

4.The Bivou Lijiang(佖屋酒店)

Only a short 1-minute stroll from Shuhe Ancient Town, The Bivou features accommodations in local and modern styles combined together. Blending in by making use of the barbecue facilities, lazing in soothing massage, going horse riding or enjoying a fun time with your children at kids’ club seems like a nice getaway. Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas.

Add: 16 Zhonghe Cun, Shuhe Old Town, Lijiang, China

5.K2 International Youth Hostel(束河K2国际青年旅舍)

K2 International Youth Hostel Lijiang offers a comfortable setting while in Lijiang. It also provides luggage storage, a 24-hour reception and wireless internet. Lijiang Sanyi Airport is a 55-minute drive from K2 International Youth Hostel Lijiang. Black Dragon Pool and the Dongba Culture Museum are just a short drive from the hostel.

Add: No. 1 Guailiu Lane Kangpu Road, Shuhe Old Town, Lijiang, China

Mohei Old Town

Most people know the name of Ninglang because of the famous Pu’er tea, followed by the Mohei salt produced by the Mohei town. In the history, the Mohei salt is popular among people because it has less impurities. The prosperity of the former tobacco leaves has created the prosperity of the ancient town. The ancient tea-horse roads that go to the capital and the coastal areas of China must go through the old town, making it very popular. Today, deep salt wells, ancient buildings, long lanes, green stone roads, horseshoe prints on the ancient roads keep the glory of the ancient town. There are Corner Building, Peacock Screen, Yang Likun. 

Mohei is the hometown of the actor Yang Likun and the national model Zhang Peiying. Into the Mohei, People will feel that it is old and young, and there are Xinzhen Street, Xinmin Street, densely populated with all-wood houses. The house is almost a black-and-white wall with a red-wood bar.

Ning’er was introduced to the world for Pu’er tea, and Mohei salt well received for the pure taste and fewer impurities. Tobacco prosperity once created the prosperous town, the tea-horse route connected this place to coastal regions

and the capital city of China, making a Mohei popular spot. Nowadays there still stand deep salt wells, ancient alleys, green stone passes, and hoof prints on the road, telling glory to the past days. Corner buildings, peacocks flaunting tails, and Yang Likun record the everlasting history of Mohei.

Mohei is the hometown of famous actress Yang Likun and the national heroine Zhang Peiying. Buildings in Mohei have black roofs, white walls and red balusters, only yellowed with age.

Location: Mohei Town, Ning’er·Pu’er

Lion Hill in Lijiang Ancient Town

Lion Hill(丽江古城狮子山), located in the center of Lijiang Ancient Town, is an important part of the world cultural heritage of Lijiang Ancient Town and the main attraction of the national scenic spots. It is like a lying lion, hence the name. The ancient town is at the foot of the Lion Hill. It is the best place to see the panoramic view of the ancient city of Lijiang. 

Where is Lion Hill?

Lion Hill is situated in the Lijiang Ancient Town. 

Distance from other main attractions in Lijiang

• About 5.9 km from Shuhe Ancient Town
• About 16 km from Baisha Mural Painting in Baisha Village
• About 24 km from Former Residence of Joseph Rock in Yuhu Village
• About 25.8 km from Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

How to get to Lion Hill?

Lion Hill is in Lijiang Ancient Town, and travelers can walk to foot of Lion Hill.

By taxi: There is no taxi in the ancient city of Lijiang, and motor vehicles are prohibited. The main taxi stop in Lijiang is located near the Yulong Bridge at the junction of the ancient city and the new city. 
By bus: The fare is 1 yuan for one ticket. There is no need to find a supplement. In addition, the mini-cars or mini-trucks in the urban area are also one yuan for a person. Travelers can take No. 2, 3, 11, 28 buses and take off at the Gonglu Zongduan Station, then walk 1.3 km to Lion Hill.

Features

On the top of the Lion Hill, there is a Wangu Building. When you climb the Wangu Tower, you can see the magical and beautiful Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the north, the Lijiang Old Town in the east with the creeks and bridge, the colorful Lijiang New Town in the west, and the idyllic village in the south.In the far south, there is also a “Wenbi Peak” like a giant pen. Combined with the ink-slab of Lijiang Ancient Town, they show the Naxi culture in terms of the worship to study.

Main Attractions

Lion Hill enjoys the area of 15 hectares, with the singing birds and green trees etc.

▪ Wangu Tower (万古楼)

Located on the top of Lion Hill, Wangu Tower is 32.8 meters in height with 123,000 dragon head of Naxi style on the top, which ranks the world’s greatest. Standing on the top of the tower, you can hace panoramic view of the whole Lijiang Old Town and rivers to the east, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the north and Naxi villages to the south, which is magnificent.

▪ Baima Longtan Temple(白马龙潭寺)

Located in the south of the park, it was built in Qianlong Period of Qing Dynasty. It is the key historical protection unit of Lijiang City. There is a clear and crystal pond in this temple, connecting with the Three-eye Pond of Naxi People.

Nearby Attraction

Lijiang Ancient Town

The beauty of the Old City is also due to the integrity of geographical nature and harmony. In 30 km northwest to the Old City lies the unconquerable Yulong Snow Mountain of 5,596 m and the relics of glacier in the Quaternary Period. The spring is divided into three branches to flow into the Old City relatively from east, middle and west. The countless small branches are threading among the stone-paved lanes, just as the poem describes “spring crossing around each household forms a poem while flying willow before every household draws a painting”. Many architects give highly praise for it and it has gained such a beautiful name as “Suzhou in Highland” and “Eastern Venice”. A great number of travelers are attracted by the beauty and charm of the Old City and the Snow Mountain, keeping pouring and lingering on their primitive simplicity and quietness. And, now, the Lijiang Old City is being reported as one of China Historical Cultural Cities in the whole world’s cultural heritages. Thus, as a bright pearl of our country, it will be more splendid.

Useful Travel Tips

1.Accommodation

There are many high-quality hotels and recommended guest house in Lijiang Ancient Town. Travelers can choose one to stay. 

Inter Continental Lijiang Ancient Town Resort(丽江和府洲际度假酒店)
Hotel Indigo Lijiang Ancient Town(丽江古城英迪格酒店)
Lijiang Wangfu Hotel(丽江王府饭店)
Manty House(漫庭美宿酒店)
Lijiang International Hotel(丽江国际大酒店)

2.Naxi Festivals held in Lijiang Old Town

Bangbang Festival: January 15 on lunar calendar
Sanduo Festival: February 8 on lunar calendar
Torch Festival: June 25 to June 27 on lunar calendar
July Festival: middle July on lunar calendar

About Three Wells in Lijiang Old Town

Although Naxi ancestors lived in Lijiang Old Town with rich water resource, They still cherish a kind of original conception that make the best use of water in harmony with nature. Three Wells in Lijiang Old Town not only have local ethnic feature but also are scientific, sanitary, reasonable and convenient. According to the elevation difference, Naxi ancestors built three-graded wells and separated them into different application. Being the source of spring, the first well is used to daily drink. Water overflows from the first well and runs into the second well, which is used to wash dishes. Then the third well is used to wash clothes. Finally, water pours into the gutterway. Wherever the three wells are, small plaza and ancient trees are surrounded. Except for the people who come to carry water, wash dishes and wash clothes, many old men and children will come here to take a rest and play games, forming a special living scene in Lijiang Old Town.

Other Attractions in Lijiang Old Town

▪ Mu’s Residence 

Mu’ Residence is a splendid ancient architecture first built in Yuan Dynasty, which not only reflects ancient architectural style in central plains of Ming Dynasty but also remains the lingering charm of Tang and Song Dynasty. Mu’s Residence was called the miniature Forbidden City. Looked from a far distance, it likes a grand imperial palace and it is famous for the grandness and architectural buildings. 

▪ Wangu Tower 

Located on the top of Lion Hill, Wangu Tower is 32.8 meters in height with 123,000 dragon head of Naxi style on the top, which ranks the world’s greatest. Standing on the top of the tower, you can hace panoramic view of the whole Lijiang Old Town and rivers to the east, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the north and Naxi villages to the south, which is magnificent.

▪ Black Dragon Pool

Black Dragon Pool Park, also called Jade Spring Park, is located at the foot of Elephant Hill. The well-arranged ancient architectures, exquisite temples, pavilions and bridges over the pool offers a spectacular landscape to the visitors. Standing on the white marble bridge, visitors can also have a view of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which is holy and pure.

▪ Dongba Culture Museum

Lijiang Dongba Culture Museum is located in the north of Black Dragon Pool Park, established in 1984. Built according to the traditional Naxi architectural style with four sets, the museum has more than 12,000 rare Dongba relics including unearthed cultural relics, paintings and calligraphy of all ages, Dongba scriptures and religious articles, etc.

Transportation

You can take bus No.2/13 to Parking Lot Station of Old Town, or take bus No.7 to Department Store Station then walk into the old town from the north gate. And you can take bus No.2/3/12 to South Gate Street Station and walk into the old town from the south gate.

Travel Tips of Three Wells in Lijiang Old Town

There are five large or small three-wells in Lijiang Old Town, among which the Three Wells of Malong Pool, Shiliu Well and Yican Well are the larger ones.

• Three Wells of Malong Pool is located in the Guangbi Alley, Guangyi Street, that is the entrance of southwest Lijiang Old Town. 
• Shiliu Well and Yican Well is located in Qiyi Street and Mishi Alley, all belonging to the busy streets in Lijiang Old Town.

Chinese Name:会泽娜姑古镇
English Name: Nagu Old Town in Huize County, Qujing

Nagu is located 20 km from Huize and Bai Wu Old Town is located 6 km from Nagu. Bai Wu is listed as one of the Historical and Cultural villages of Yunnan. Constructed over 2,000 years ago, Nagu town had become the first post on the “10 thousand-li transportation to the national capital” thanks to the prosperity of Huize which enjoys the fame of “Copper Capital” in the Han Dynasty.

In the past, Nagu is where rich merchants, governmental and military officials, miners, craftsmen, scholars and theatrical artists etc gathered, funding to construct a large numbers of guilds, inns, wine houses, theaters, temples and churches.

The “ancient road for copper transportation” carved on cliffs of the south Jinsha River bank had left behind rows of stone holes that were vestiges of hardships of the copper transporters. Presently, Nagu has preserved 21 ancient architectures, 10 steles and related relics etc.

娜姑镇位于会泽县西部，金沙江东岸，以礼河西岸，属乌蒙山区腹地，距会泽县城32公里。娜姑镇之名，原为彝语“纳姑”，“纳”为黑，“姑”即原野或土地，意为“黑色的土地”或“黑色的坝子”。 省级历史文化名镇，2005年，娜姑镇白雾村获得“国家级历史文化名村”称号。

历史变迁
镇政府所在地是新建的娜姑镇，而真正的娜姑古镇，是坝子东南端安静的白雾村。娜姑古镇开发较早，始建于西汉建元六年(公元前135年)，已经有2000多年的历史。自古以来就是滇、川经济、文化往来的古道要冲地，早在汉晋时期，就是中原文化、蜀文化乃至楚文化与滇文化相互交流影响的重要通道。厚重的历史积淀，物化成娜姑灿烂的人文景观，现存有明清古建筑、古墓葬、碑刻、人工开凿在悬崖绝壁之上的京运古驿道。这里还有有剑齿象等古生物化石和新石器时期的石器，还出现了春秋战国时代的秦铜器和大量汉币。

娜姑铜史
云南的昭通、东川、会泽地区都是产铜的地方，在古代，铜就是生命与财富，中国几千年的货币都是由铜铸造的铜钱，为了铸钱的需要，就通过人背马驮把云南东川、会泽的铜先集中于娜姑，然后再转运到昭通、四川宜宾进入长江，经水路运往京城。明清时期，云南东川府产铜量占全国的一半以上，其铜冶业在乾嘉时期最高年产量达一千万斤以上，每年额定600万斤运交京师专供铸币，东川的铜曾是大清帝国重要的经济支柱，小小的娜姑成了中国版图上的经济重镇。当年的娜姑是非常的繁华的，客栈、酒楼、妓院、赌馆、粮行、油行、糖行、轿行、花生行、丝绸铺、银器铺、马鞍铺、铃铛铺、典当铺样样都有，文官武将、富商大贾、贩夫走卒、矿工匠人不绝于道。还有各省前来押运、采购铜的官员、商人常驻于此，建起了各省的会馆、庙宇，接待本省同乡，供奉着本省神祇。内地各都在会泽设立过会馆，至今仍有迹可循。就连洋人都跑来此传教，建起了教堂。受到铜商文化强有力的推动，经济、文化进入了繁荣昌盛的时期。
铜是地处乌蒙腹地的娜姑的生命，因铜而生，随铜而逝。铜业的衰落，交通的改变，娜姑回复了山区小镇的宁静。[1]

历史建筑
古镇虽历经千年的风霜洗礼，但依然保留下来一部分古建筑，有寿福寺、云峰寺、财神庙、文庙、万寿宫、三元宫、太阳宫、三圣宫、古戏台、天主教堂以及典型民居陈氏住宅等，形成了别具一格的“铜商文化”的古镇风貌。

道路介绍
地处滇川古要冲，是云峰古驿道的起点。云峰古驿道西起娜姑东至会泽，全长67公里，现保存完好的一段长2.8公里，宽2米，坡道及弯道处均由石阶铺筑而成，是明清时期运铜的主要官道。现在大部分路段已被淹没于荒草乱石之中，这段仍在使用的古道还幸运地保持着马路特征，坡道由不规则的石块砌成一台台石级。白雾街两旁集中了绝大部分古建筑，整条街较为平缓，宽不过五、六米，长也就两百多米，除了古建筑坐北向南排列外，其他如马店、驿站、青楼、各类店铺、典型民居鳞次栉比。但现在这些古建筑已随历史的落幕而破败。[1]

景点介绍
三圣宫
娜姑名镇还有许多景点，如”通省大道”云峰古驿道，蜿蜒崎岖，穿壑越岭，跨谷破峡，地势坎坷，山川险峻；
云峰寺
云峰村曾经是古娜姑的中心区，而今只剩下孤零零的云峰寺，寺内，殿堂保存尚好，两株参天古柏，一片清幽环境，对游客颇有吸引力。
陈家大院
“陈家大院”现已作为村委会办公地点。“陈氏住宅”是民国时期原白雾镇民团团首陈炳的私宅，是典型的“一颗印式四合五天井”建筑。建于1945年，占地1100多平方米，正面有着最具当地民居建筑特点的‘猫弓墙’，顺高高的石阶而上，两进院，是典型‘四合五天井’和‘走马转角楼’建筑形式。当时在大院的照壁、门楼和后围墙上，曾有很多高低不一的射击孔，护院的士卒可以方便地向外射击。如今，“陈家大院”往日的奢华随着时间已经褪去，留下的是历史的厚重和宁静。
老教堂
这座教堂是的中西合璧式的土木结构建筑。建于清代晚期，是一个意大利神父和一个法国神父到这里传教时建的，当时信教的人很多，教堂的范围也比现在大，周围种满了各种鲜花，外国神父还在教堂旁建了一所简易的医院，教友看病是不要钱。抗日战争时期，这里成为避难所，躲到教堂里，便不会被抓去当壮丁充军。后来，信教的人越来越少，教堂也就逐渐破败。现在教堂已经很破旧，里面除了有几尊圣像，进去祈祷和做礼拜的人只能站着。
城墙
过去白雾街的热闹与繁华却绝不容小视，白雾村原有城墙护卫，城墙建于清咸丰十年，城墙围白雾街主街而建，内外墙全用大块石头垒砌，中间填土夯实。东面据得胜桥设卡，南面依城墙置栅子，西、北两面均筑有拱洞形城门。如此层层严实的防范，显示出白雾街的繁荣和富有。城墙、城门这些旧物都已经不在了。

About Zili Old Town

Zili Old Town（梓里古镇） which is 1850 meters above sea level is located besides Jinsha River in Yongsheng County, Lijiang City. It is an important market of multi-ethnic integration. Here, visitors can see the attractive scenery along the river, the beautiful wooden staircase on the ancient path near Xiumei Village（秀美村）, the greenwood and the dangerous rock of “monkey slope”（猴子坡）, as well as well as the strange banyan tree in Lagudong Cave, Banqiao Village（板桥村）. There is a spring gushing out from the roots of the banyan tree.

What to see in Zili Old Town

Along the way, tourists can not only view river valley sceneries such as the banana plantations and the olive groves, but also experience the primitive and strong ethnic customs because there are Naxi, Bai, Yi, Lisu, Miao and Han nationalities living together in Yongan Village（永安村）, Xiumei Village（秀美村）, Banqiao Village（板桥村） and Jiahe Village（嘉禾村）. Travelers can especially take part in the golden bonfire dancing party in Jiahe Village at night. In addition, hiking through the forest along the river, you can experience the adventure fun of the forest.

The ancient town of Bali is near the Jin’an Bridge in Yongsheng County, Lijiang. It is an ancient town on the Jinsha River. It is a multi-ethnic market. It is a multi-ethnic market. You can see the scenery along the river in the ancient town of Qili. There is a wooden staircase next to the beautiful village. “The ancient plank road, as well as the “Monkey Slope” dangerous rock green forest, as well as the “Lagudong” strange banyan tree on the edge of Banqiao Village. The roots of the “Lagudong” banyan tree gushing out a spring, quite beautiful. This line can be seen along the river valley, olive forest and other river valley scenery; simple and rich ethnic customs, Yongan, Xiume, Banqiao, Jiahe, etc. all the way to the village are Naxi, Bai, Yi, Yi, Miao and Han mixed, especially Jiahe Village night bonfire dance, the folk style is thick; the other is the forest along the river, you can experience the fun of adventure, Jiahe Village to Taiji all the way to the river valley is beautiful. Every month, the town is located in the market. The locals exchange leather shoes, saddles, leather garments, twine, ironware, bamboo, and some silk silk, cloud legs, white medicine, kohlrabi, steam pot chicken, and bridge. Rice noodles, etc.

What to eat in Zili Old Town

During the market time, local people in Zili Town will trade leather shoes, saddle, leather clothing, twine, iron, bamboo articles, and some other things like silk, Yunnan ham, Yunnan Baiyao（云南白药）， turnips（大头菜）, steam pot chicken（汽锅鸡）, Yunnan Cross-bridge Rice Noodles（过桥米线）, etc.

Other Attractions 

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

The Jade Dragon Snow Mountains (玉龙雪山) are a small group of peaks close to the city of Lijiang. The nearest slope is only about 30 kilometers north of the Dayan Ancient City District, and the mountain can be clearly seen from the Black Dragon Pool next to the ancient district.

Lijiang Ancient Town

The beauty of the Old City is also due to the integrity of geographical nature and harmony. In 30 km northwest to the Old City lies the unconquerable Yulong Snow Mountain of 5,596 m and the relics of glacier in the Quaternary Period. The spring is divided into three branches to flow into the Old City relatively from east, middle and west.

Black Dragon Pool

Black Dragon Pool (also Heilongtan), or Jade Spring(Yuquan) Park is the main headwater of the Yushui River which goes through the Old Town. People believe that the gods of the Naxi people are living in the chestnut woods, beside the mouth of springs, behind the carved doors and below the bridges. The springs come from the god-protected mountains and gather in this place and finally form the dragon pool. Then water goes down a waterfall and becomes the Yuhe River, pouring life to the Old Town.

Dongba Culture Museum,Lijiang

The Dongba culture is a most inclusive term referring mainly to the language and scriptures. The Dongba language is actually composed of 1,400 picture-like characters and symbols that are still used by Dongbas, researchers and artists of the culture. It is by now the only living hieroglyph in the world and is regarded as a precious cultural relic of mankind. On August 30, 2003, the Dongba classical literature was accepted as a written world heritage by UNESCO

How to get Zili Old Town

1. Take the bus to Yongsheng County at Lijiang Passenger Terminal, get off at Jinanqiao Bridge（金安桥）and walk to Zili Village.

Attraction Travel Tips

The best time to visit: Due to the low temperature in autumn and winter, it is difficult to browse the beautiful scenery of the ancient town in the river. The best tourist season in the ancient town of Bali is from April to October.

Chinese Name: 会泽古城
English Name: Huize Ancient Town, Qujing

可以直接去看百度百科
http://baike.baidu.com/link?url=pqEpevzLRcEe30_WVlnhEZ5fEQIhSxLvFyJX6c5_6zT5op7OO93JndGFUy07joO6xmwW6BMuLVOB_Wm05waFvdcKSJbq6mVGqEwmz41Goa-InmzDAG4i-ZYUDlF7rWKf

会泽古城，位于云南省东北部，曲靖市西北部，地处三省五州（市）接壤地带，距省会昆明市区205千米，距曲靖市区187千米。会泽历史悠久，是历史上云南最早设置的四个郡县之一。会泽古城建于清雍正九年（1731年），由时任东川知府崔乃镛主持建造。会泽古城有馆藏文物8000余件，其中国家级文物67件。会泽会馆林立、寺庙众多，名居民宅独具特色，被誉为“明清古建筑博物馆”。明清时期曾建有会馆、寺庙108座，现存会馆、寺庙38座，特色民居65处。以八大会馆为代表的会泽会馆群被列为国家重点文物保护单位。2013年5月22日，国务院批复同意会泽县列为国家历史文化名城。

历史沿革
会泽古城建于清雍正九年（1731年），由时任东川知府崔乃镛主持建造。
雍正十年（1732年）十月东川府石城竣工，共用工37万个，支银31425两。石城周长214丈，南北141.6丈，城墙高厚各1.4丈，设炮台八座，垛口1213个，四门城楼各两层，高2.7丈。
雍正十一年（1733年）东川7.5级大地震，部分损坏，后修复。
道光二十四年（1844年），城墙出现部分坍塌，知府李德生、知县黄梦菊发动官绅士民捐银16366两重修，城墙加高三尺，达2.1丈，垛口达到1372个。
光绪六年（1880年），代理知县秦述先禀请重修了年久朽坏的四门城楼。
同治元年（1862年）10月，太平天国翼王石达开率西征军进入东川（今会泽）境内，曾派小股部队攻打东川府城。由于城防坚固，太平军两次攻打未克，遂主动放弃府城，向西北的娜姑进发。东川知府黎兴德、参将杨盛宗、会泽知县靖华壁乘隙率清兵出城追击太平军，双方在崇礼乡（今白雾街）展开鏖战。
1935年5月2日，长征中的中国工农红军九军团在军团长罗炳辉和政委何长工率领下进驻会泽，九军团部和参谋人员立即从东门入城，登上东北角钟楼指挥队伍，红军战士搭起云梯从西门攻入城内。

1949年4月9日，云南人民讨蒋自卫军永焜支队兵临会泽城下，在炮火的掩护下，利用缴获的TNT炸药爆破北城门，攻入县城。
2013年5月，会泽古城被列为国家历史文化名城。

地质地貌
会泽地处滇东北高原，乌蒙山主峰地段。山高谷深，沟壑纵横。山川相间排列，山区、河谷条块分布。地势西高东低，南起北伏，由西向东呈阶梯状递减。会泽的地貌景观主要有三种类型：以山地地貌为主，次为盆地地貌，部分为冰川地貌。
气候特点
会泽属典型的温带高原季风气候，四季不明，夏无酷暑，冬季冷寒，干湿 分明。会泽立体气候特点突出，从南亚热带至寒温带气候均有分布。
会泽平均海拔2200米以上，高原空气稀薄，辐射波短，日照时间长。年平均晴日225天，年日照2100小时，年平均气温12.7℃。春季升温快，秋季降温快。

建筑布局

古城布局
会泽古城不大，最初是土城，为首任知府王永玺所建，后于雍正年间知府崔乃镛历时一年半建为石城，城周长2374.3米，宽4.6米，高5米。老城十字街是古城的中心，一横一纵两条街道交会构成个“十”字，加上方形的城墙，整个古城其实就是个“田”字形。
会泽现存古城是清代所建，距今约有300多年的历史，保存着各类珍贵的文物古迹、比较完整的城市格局和部分历史街区。城区范围北到义通河、南至钟屏街、东到翠屏街、西至京运大街，面积约0.95平方公里。
三区是在中心城区周围3个古代筑城的遗址，分别为：城西北的水城遗址、城西南的土府遗址、城东的土城遗址。
二街是会泽古城内最具代表性的历史文化街区，头、二、三道巷历史文化街区以及十字街历史文化街区。
十九点是指四川会馆、陕西会馆、江西会馆（万寿宫）、湖广会馆等19座古建筑。

建筑群落
会泽会馆群
据统计，会泽有馆藏文物8000余件，其中国家级文物67件。会泽会馆林立、寺庙众多，名居民宅独具特色，被誉为“明清古建筑博物馆”。明清时期曾建有会馆、寺庙108座，现存会馆、寺庙38座，特色民居65处。以八大会馆为代表的会泽会馆群被列为国家重点文物保护单位。
乾隆时期，清政府已经把铜矿开采的重点转移到国内，东川会泽一带的铜矿得到了极大的开发，铜厂在最鼎盛时期达到33个。
会泽铜矿采冶规模空前的兴旺发展，吸引了赣、浙、桂、川、黔等地的官商、富贾、工匠、平民拥入东川府。这些外来客为了自身的经济利益和安全，“同乡结党”，兴建同乡会馆；“同行结会”，设立行业庙会；“同教联宗”，建立宗教寺庙。会泽共有各省会馆、寺庙100余座。

古城民居
会泽民居可分为联排式和合院式两类，东西两公里长的东内、外街、西内、外街和南北一市里长的南北街、外街，多为联排式民居；头道巷、二道巷、三道巷及丰乐街，则是合院民居集中之地。县城的合院式民居已远不只是满足建筑作为“庇护所”的需求，更多地是体现了房主一种自我价值的满足感，所以类型各异，风格不同，其中有二进院、三进院、一颗印、重堂式、三间两耳式、三坊一照壁、四合五天井、走马串阁楼等，表现出一种相似而非相同的特点。
民居几乎都有即在屋脊上面两段瓦沟上用板瓦搭成拱形，其头部则为一高翘起的筒瓦，像猫的两只眼睛，虎视眈眈地注视着前方的两个采光通风洞。当地人称为“猫洞”，据说它除了采光通风外，实则是起辟邪的作用。除了猫洞，还有“猫拱墙”，即房屋的两侧，为一段圆弧形的山墙，类似于两只弓着背的猫。圆弧形的山墙受力较均匀，地震时不易倒塌，最主要的是加入隔壁邻居失火，猫拱墙可以隔断相邻的火势，起到封墙火的作用。这些细微的建筑符号，表征了会泽多元文化交融的情况。

主要景点
文化古迹
湖广会馆
湖广会馆俗称寿佛寺、东岳宫，系湖广籍同乡在会泽所建会馆，云南省重点文物保护单位。[10]
湖广会馆座落于县城东北面宝善街，建于明末清初，门楼戏台、前殿、中殿、后殿及东西偏殿两厢书楼、花园规整地排列在一中轴线上，占地面积8474．4平方米，建筑面积3127．6平方米，整个建筑气势恢宏，气宇非凡，《禹王宫碑》载：“殿宇庄严，久为楚表”。

江西会馆
江西会馆，俗称江西庙
、万寿官，是江西人在会泽县城建的会馆，位于县城北面江西街的中段，建于清康熙五十年(1711年)，占地7545．92平方米，建筑面积2594．74平方米，整个建筑坐南朝北，沿中轴线作纵深布局，为三进两跨院，建有门楼戏台、正殿、后殿。东侧为小花园，西侧是小戏台。始建于清康熙五十年（1711年），雍正八年（1730）毁于兵燹，乾隆二十七年（1762）重建。2006年5月，被国务院公布为全国第六批重点文物保护单位。

唐继尧故居
唐继尧故居座落在县城北内街三道巷14号，占地面积851.1平方米，属会泽清代中晚期传统民居、封闭式四合院建筑。始建于清同治六年（1867），清光绪十五年（1889）唐继尧的父亲唐学曾购置此宅院。
会泽文庙
会泽文庙位于会泽县古城街道堂琅社区七组灵壁路南侧会泽一中校园内。占地面积约20000平方米。始建于清康熙六十年（1721），系东川知府任俊舫首倡并捐资兴建。

水城古汉墓
1997年，云南省文物考古研究所派员会同曲靖地区文物管理业务人员经过实地踏勘，2002年1月，开始了大规模的勘探和发掘工作。这一古墓群东西长1公里余，南北宽300—500米。
墓葬中出土器物编号338个，出土器物近400件。出土器物以陶器为主，另有部分青铜器、铁器、银器、鎏金饰品及玛瑙饰品等。陶器包括有罐、釜、盆、甑、豆、碗、壶、仓、灶、井及房屋模型等；铜器主要有：洗、釜、壶、甑、碗、镜、灯、带钩及钱币等；铁器主要有剑、削、釜、三角架等；鎏金铜饰品有铜泡、泡钉、壁、墫等；银器主要为银手镯；玛瑙饰品有珠、管等。发掘出土的文物与“夜郎文化”有十分密切的关系。

自然景观
金钟山
金钟山位于云南会泽县城南面，与县城紧紧相连。因其状如钟而得名，也称“七曲名山”。金钟山上始建于清雍正5年（1727年）、于乾隆56年（1791年）重修的文昌宫，与位于公园西侧马鞍山上的文笔塔、华宜寨的魁阁呈三角对立、相互辉映的“文运”之势。

历史文化
民俗文化
会泽海腔
会泽海腔有着较为固定的曲调，海腔历史悠久，代代相传，词可以适时翻新更换，但所形成的曲调却固定了下来，成了“凝固的音乐”，调子高，有很大的艺术难度。
堂琅古乐
会泽堂琅古乐，又名洞经音乐。“洞经”系道家经典的统称，洞经音乐用于道教礼乐活动，唐宋时期盛行中原，明清之际流传各地，官绅文人争相谈演，晚清以后，逐渐失传。传到会泽后，受到了当地文人士子的欢迎，并进行了创造性的融合，发展成风格独具的堂琅古乐，它既完整保持着洞经音乐的庄重、古朴、静淡、超然的意境，又吸纳了宫廷音乐的典雅，同时糅入了江南一带汉曲丝竹乐韵和当地的滇剧及俚俗音乐，反映了会泽历史文化名城多元文化的内涵特点。

民族节日
二月二
二月二这天，在会泽乃至滇东北地区有为小孩剃长发、大人剃个龙抬头的习俗。据说，男人们这天理了发，便会像龙抬了头，日后会兴旺发达，好运连连。每到农历二月二，会泽县城周围十里八乡的大人小孩就会走出户外上金钟山逛庙会，剃头发，祈求安康。

古城特产
会泽斑铜
斑铜的制作工艺有别于青铜器，这种人工多种金属合成的制作工艺浇铸成型后，在表面形成不同规则的自然晶斑，流光溢彩。《滇海虞衡志》记载：“锤造炉瓶成冰形，而斑斓者为斑铜”，斑铜是会泽独特的一种民间手工艺，采用含铜量在90%以上的自然铜为原材料，经过手工艺人手工锻打之后，使得其中含有的其他金属元素“再结晶”而产生斑驳的金属纹。然后再通过一些特殊方法的处理之后，把这些金属斑显现出来。采用传统的手工锻打的生产方式现在称之为“生斑”。
铁胆石
会泽铁胆石有千奇百怪的天然造型、变化莫测的金属图纹、富丽堂皇的
金属光泽，总让人不得不惊叹于大自然的鬼斧神工，倍受奇石收藏界的关注和宠爱。在第四届中国成都(国际)奇石博览会暨首届中国西部古玩珠宝、根艺、书画鉴定展销会上，会泽出品的9件铁胆石获大奖，其中驾车乡张小友的铁胆石作品“佛娃”获得金奖。
奇彩土豆
薯型小巧、色泽绚丽、营养丰富、水份少、淀粉高、味道可口，是无污染的绿色食品，被誉为“薯中精品”。

特色美食
羊八碗
羊八碗以会泽优质山竭羊为主要原料，采用蒸、煮、炒、炸、炖、焖、溜、滑等多种烹饪技法，制作的精美羊八碗系列美食：峰浪望月、羊干巴、葱芫杂碎、黄焖羊肉、红烧羊肉、香葱沫肉、四季水煮、糊辣炒肚等名菜。
稀豆粉
稀豆粉采用优质豌豆去壳，经水泡、磨浆、过滤后煮沸，稀稠适中，配以荞丝、油条，佐以芝麻油、花椒油、姜泥、蒜泥、葱丝等调料，味道鲜美。
虹鳟鱼
虹鳟鱼被誉为“水中人参”，头小，骨少、肉厚，肉质鲜嫩，味美带有海味，无腥，蛋白质和脂肪含量高，胆固醇几乎为零。鱼肉生吃，鱼皮油炸，鱼头清炖，鱼骨清蒸，生鱼片蘸红醋或绿芥末吃尤其美味。
燕麦粑粑
燕麦粑粑是用燕麦面粉精制而成。
会泽炸洋芋
会泽炸洋芋脆皮酥心满口香，麻辣适中调料齐。
会泽舂饵块
会泽舂饵块，饵块是云南名特小吃之一，烹饪方法有烤、炒、煮、卤、炸等，风味各异。西汉时史游所著的《急就篇》有“饼饵麦饭甘豆羹”、“溲米面蒸之则为饵”的记载。
都督汤
都督汤，用洋芋泥、米汤、食用油等制成，味道鲜美，营养丰富，是唐继尧当年最喜爱吃的一道名菜。
荞面汤
荞面汤，用苦荞面粉和优质酸菜加工而成。
豆花米线
豆花米线以米线、豆花为主，配以少许豆芽、韭菜和特制汤料，佐以芫荽、葱花、花椒油、辣椒油、芝麻油、肉末、酱油和醋。

景点门票
开放时间
开放时间：全天开放

Overviw of Yibang Old Town

Yibang Old Town（倚邦古镇）which is one of the six famous ancient tea mountains in Yunnan is located in Xiangming Town（象明乡），the north of Mengla County（勐腊县），Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture. It is an important and famous Puer tea town and was also the prime place for tribute tea procurement in Qing Dynasty. Mansong tea（曼松茶）， the raw material of Jingua tribute tea（金瓜贡茶）with over 200-year-history,  is known as the best tea in Yibang Old Town（倚邦古镇） while the truth is that the Puer tea will be more fragrant with longer history.

Chinese Name:倚邦古镇
English Name: Yibang Old Town in Mengla County, XishuangBanna
Keywords: Yibang Old Town, Puer tea in Mengla County, Mansong tea
Location: Located in Xiangming Town（象明乡），the north of Mengla County（勐腊县），Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture

Formation and Development

The history of Yibang Old Town is difficult to examine in detail, however, it is certain that why the earliest people migrated to this remote mountain forest to settle down is closely related to the abundant tea tree resources here. As a conclusion, we know that there was tea first, and then there was the people and tea culture. Hence, Yibang Old Town gradually became the hub of the tea. A cluster of merchants gather together, making this town a thriving place in population and business. It can be said that the town is born of tea.

History

At the end of the Qing dynasty, the Puer tea production and trade center of the six famous tea mountains moved gradually to Yiwu Ancient Town（易武古镇）as the society was unrest, the banditry was rampant, the mainland merchants were afraid to trade in mountains, and the rise and development of the Yiwu ancient tea mountain. After 1912, Puer tea in Yibang Tea Mountain reappear the gradual recovery momentum in production and marketing. In 1942, Jinuo nationality and Yao ethnic groups revolted against Yibang ancient town, which turned the ancient town into a ruin.

In the historical record, Yibang, the street market on the top of the hill, was only a relaxation spot for the peddlers purchasing Puer tea here at first. The horse caravan has to stop here to relax and get supply, so it is also the starting point for the Ancient Tea-horse Road. Because of the rapid development of the tea, Yibang Old Town once grew to a famous tea distributing center besides Puer（普洱）, Simao（思茅）.

Several trade routes centered on Yibang Old Town of reliance radiating into the surrounding areas, lead to the mainland or the neighboring countries such as Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar and other Southeast Asian countries. Year after year, the horse caravan overcame countless unbelievable hardships and created an ancient road, the Ancient Tea-house Road which carries the historic and profound economy and culture.

It is said that Mansong tea buds（曼松茶尖） that are picked before every Tomb-sweeping Day were erected with boiling water. In addition to its unique qualities, it was designated as the special tribute tea of the emperor. So there was a folk song in the local area sings like that: “There grows rare tea on the hills of Yibang Town（倚邦镇）, which fascinates the emperor so much. The tea with good quality is on the Yibang Mountain（倚邦山）while Yiwu Town enjoys the good reputation.”

To the middle of Qianlong period, there planted mountains of tea trees in Yibang Mountain, stretching from Buyuanjiang River to Xikong Mountain, with a total area of more than 13 million square meters. Tea production and trade got its pomp, with more than 500 tons tea production every year. Some stone tablets recording the tea matters of the Qing dynasty witness the prosperity of Yibang Town as a result of the tea production and trade.

However, when we tread upon the curve and dusty the road with chuckholes in the forest to Yibang street, we can see that there is no former glory leaning on the street. What displayed in front of us are the old wrecked road, the obsolete rooms, and tranquil and peaceful street. In addition to the tread worn smooth road, it is so difficult to find out the morphology of the streets in the past days.

Attractions and Relics

There are a considerable historical site in Yibang Old Town, especially the well-preserved tea culture and history relics.  The Ancient Tea-horse Road paved with grey and black stones stretching far away, records and manifests the extensive and profound Puer tea history and culture of the ancient tea mountains.

The main monument also contains the official tomb of local Chieftain Cao Dangzhai and his wife in Yibangzhai Village. Chieftain Cao who passed away in 1799 in Qing dynasty, was given the virtues monument（功德碑）by the imperial family in the second year of Emperor Qianlong（乾隆二年）, which records the Cao family’s feats in managing the tribute Puer tea. According to that, it’s not difficult to figure out that Qing dynasty attaches great importance to the six famous ancient tea mountains.

There still maintains three green stone tablets of Qianlong（乾隆）, Daoguang（道光） and Guangxu（光绪） period of Qing dynasty in the village committee, showing the significant tea events of that time. Visitors traveling to the tea worship hall beside the Mountain God Temple of Xinfazhai Village（新发寨）can still view the relics where the tea farmers and merchants sacrifice tea ancestor, Kongming（茶祖孔明）and the tea tree gods. Visitors can also see the prosperity of Puer tea in that days through the relics of the Jiangxi Temple（江西庙） in Anle Village（安乐村）, the ruins of the Sichuan Guild Hall（四川会馆）.

Attraction Transportation

Take a bus from Jinghoong Bus Station（景洪汽车站）to Mengla County（勐腊县）， and then take a chartered bus or a taxi to the town.

Attraction Travel Tip

Traveling Hours: All day
Traveling Seasons: March to April

Kunming Old Town (昆明故城) is a replica of ancient architecture located at the east gate of Yunnan Ethnic Village (云南民族村), covering an area of over 50 acres. It features 18 ancient-style buildings constructed in the architectural style of old Kunming, designed to represent a condensed version of the traditional city.

Overview

Kunming Old Town is situated next to the Yunnan Ethnic Village, encompassing over 50 acres and comprising 18 uniquely styled commercial buildings. The total operational area exceeds 20,000 square meters. Unlike the minority villages within the ethnic village, Kunming Old Town showcases the architecture from the Ming (明) and Qing (清) dynasties, fully reflecting the leisurely culture of old Kunming’s marketplaces. This location not only provides business opportunities for various merchants but also serves as an important hub for local residents and the general public of Kunming to engage in commercial activities, leisure, shopping, and experiencing ethnic customs. As a result, it has become a popular stop for numerous tourists.

In addition to the exquisite scenery and the towering Ethnic Pavilion (民族坊), the area features a large sculpture of the “Dianwang Gold Seal Inscription” (滇王金印铭), which represents the distinctive architectural style of old Kunming. It has become a refined exhibition area showcasing Han Chinese culture within the Yunnan Ethnic Village. The streets are lined with charming shops offering a variety of vintage-style specialty products, including beautiful clothing, exquisite tea packages, freshly milled silverware, and elegant hand drums, enticing visitors who come to explore the ethnic village.

Details of Kunming Old Town

• Chinese Name: 昆明故城
• Area: Over 50 acres
• Operational Area: Over 20,000 square meters
• Location: East Gate of Yunnan Ethnic Village (云南民族村东门)

Description

Kunming Old Town is located at the entrance of Yunnan Ethnic Village and spans over 50 acres. It consists of 18 ancient-style buildings built in the architectural style of old Kunming, resembling a miniature version of the traditional city.

Style

Kunming Old Town sits adjacent to the Yunnan Ethnic Village, housing 18 uniquely designed commercial buildings covering approximately 50 acres with an operational area exceeding 20,000 square meters. Unlike the minority villages within the ethnic village, Kunming Old Town displays the architectural style of old Kunming from the Ming and Qing dynasties, thoroughly embodying the leisurely marketplace culture of old Kunming.

Not only does it provide business opportunities for various merchants, but it also serves as a crucial gathering place for local residents and the broader Kunming community to engage in commercial activities, leisure, shopping, and experiencing ethnic customs. According to Yuan Bing (袁兵), the general manager of Yunnan Ethnic Village, “The opening of Kunming Old Town is not only a specific measure to enhance the quality of the Spring City but also one of the important ways to upgrade the business model and expand service functions of Yunnan Ethnic Village.”

Most of people have been to Ancient Town of Lijiang(丽江古城), however they maybe unclear the differences and connections of Ancient Lijiang and old town of Lijiang City（丽江古城区）. old town of Lijiang City is one district belongs to Lijiang City, Yunnan Province, and it administers 4 streets, 4 countries, 1 town, namely totally 18 communities, 35 villages.

Ancient Lijiang has won the titles of one of the most desirable ten Chinese small cities, one of the 100 most interesting cities on the planet, the most favorite tourist city for Europeans, and Chinese excellent tourist city.

Such a good place had better visit further attentively. We are supposed to take each ancient village of old town of Lijiang City as roads map and walk around. The Chinese country has published three batches of Chinese traditional villages. There are 502 Yunnan villages listed in the national traditional villages list. Yunnan ranks first in the whole country, while among these 502 villages, there are 48 ancient Liliang villages, and there are 16 villages come from old town of Lijiang City. For knowing these ancient villages better, Yunnan Exploration specially edits and compiles the main tourist attractions and highlights of these ancient villages, and provides reference for you as private customized further tourism planning strategy.

Qihe Town(七河镇)，old town of Lijiang City, 7 ancient villages included.

1.Jin’an Village(金安村)

Jin’an Village is a natural village affiliated to the Yangjian Administrative Village(羊见行政村), Qihe Town（七河镇）, ancient downtown of Lijiang City. From the south to the north, the ancient Jin’an village is covered by the hundred-year ancient canals and the main roads which connect to each farmer’s. Take full use of the ditches on both sides of the roads, plenty of rains fall down and drain to Jinsha River(金沙江). The village is clean and hygienic, and there are green trees and red flowers set the farmhouses off. Rippling rivers, singing birds and the landscape garden villages are integrated perfectly.

How to go to Jinan Village by Self-help in-depth Tour

Jin’an Village is a village affiliated to the Yangjian Administrative Village, Qihe Town, the old town of Lijiang City. It is 2 km away from Yangjian Administrative Village and 25 km away from the government of Qihe Town.

2、Xinminxia Village(新民下村)

Xinmin Down Village is a natural village affiliated to Xinmin Village Committee(新民居委会) of Qihe Town. It has the longest history and the most profound cultural heritage. The beautiful village is located at the foot of lofty Xishan Mountain（西山） and on the side of Yigong River(漾弓江). Xinmin Down Village used to be called as “Duoruoke” (垛若科) by the Lijiang Naxi ethnic people since there was a ramp at the south of the village. The ramp was the first ramp when Caravan walked along Tea-horse Ancient Route from Nanzhao(南诏) to Lijiang. Consequently it was also called “Lishou Village”(丽首村) by the Bai ethnic people of Dali.

How to go to Xinmin Down Village:

Xinmin Dow Village is affiliated to Qihe Town, the old town of Lijiang City, and is 17 km away from Lijiang City.

3、Nanxi Village(南溪村)

Nanxi Village is a natural village affiliated to the Gonghe Village Committee(共和村委会) of Qihe Town, the old town of Lijiang City. It is an ancient village that inherits Dongba Culture(东巴文化). Nanxi Village is located in an alpine flat dam at the top of Wenbi Peak（文笔峰） in Huangshan Town（黄山镇）, Lijiang City. It is 3200 meters above sea level and has the highest altitude and the most unique location of Naxi village in Lijiang. Like Wenhai(文海), every late spring, when the wildflowers are full of hillsides, the colorful florets are entirely blooming and on the alpine meadows. The view is just like beautiful brocade, even if it is not the most gorgeous, people’s hearts are very intoxicated.

How to get to Nanxi Village

Nanxi Village is located in the northwest of Qihe Town, 24 kilometers away from Lijiang City. Cycling or chartered is recommended.

4、Donguan Village(东关村)

Dongguan Village is a natural village affiliated to the Gonghe Village Committee of Qihe Town. It is located at downslope of the first gate of Lijiang Three-Gates, namely the Yulong Gate(玉龙关) which is a Naxi ethnic inhabited village and is adjacent to Guanyin Gorge（观音峡） which is a famous scenic spot in Lijiang. When we mention Dongguan Village characteristic tourism, we must talk about twenty-four filial pieties culture in Dongguan Village: Dutiful Offspring Temple（孝子庙） is located in Dongguan Village, and the temple was built in the spring of the 14th year of Emperor Guangxu (that is, in 1887). The temple’s doors and windows take 24 filial pieties as themes and the craftsmanship are very meticulous and beautiful, fully demonstrate the traditional virtues of Chinese millenniums civilization.

How to go to Dongguan Village:

Dongguan Village is 17 kilometers away from the ancient downtown of Lijiang City and 6 kilometers away from Lijiang Airport.

5、Zhongpai Village(中排村)

Zhongpai Village is a natural village affiliated to Wufeng Village Committee(五峰村委会) of Qihe Town, the old town of Lijiang City. In Zhongpai Village, new farmhouses could be seen everywhere. And in every courtyard of each household, you can see the distinctive Bai ethnic architectural elements. Besides, there is tradition of going to the temple fair on 3rd March. On 3rd March of the lunar calendar every year, the Bai ethnic people from Lijiang and Heqing(鹤庆) must go to mountain temple and take part in the temple fair. How bustling the spectacle is!

How to go to Zhongfeng Village, Wufeng Village:

Wufeng Village is 15 kilometers away from the government of Qihe Town. The road is a cement road which is convenient transportation.

6、Xinmin Shangcun Village(新民上村)

Xinmin Upper Village is a natural village affiliated to Xinmin Village Committee（新民村委会）. Ancient roads, ancient trees and ancient temples are three treasures of Xinmin Upper Village. There are more than 200 ancient trees around this village, and the age of the trees is more than two or three hundred years old. The old temple in the middle of the village is named “Kuixing Pavilion”(魁星阁)。 It was built in Daoguang Bingwu, namely 1864 year. Nowadays, this ancient temple has become a place of social activities for the local elderly. In Xinmin Upper Village, there are many historical sites such as the Temple of Heaven(天堂庙) on the Jiutai Mountain(九台山) and the White Pagoda (白塔).

How to travel in Xinmin Upper Village:

Xinmin Upper Village is located in Xinmin New Village, Qihe Town, the old town of Lijiang City. It is 0.9 km away from the village committee and 5 km away from Qihe Town. It is only half an hour’s drive from Lijiang to the Xinmin Upper Village, and we can take a bus.

7、Gonghexiguan Village (共和西关村)

Gonghexiguan Village is in Qihe County, the old town of Lijiang City, Yunnan Province. It was included in the list of traditional Chinese villages in 2012. Xiguan Village is located at the Yulong Gate(玉龙关) of the Three Major Gates of Lijiang Dam. It is the only gateway and military fortress for the tea-horse ancient road from Lijiang to Tibet. Lijiang Chieftain Lord Mu had built custom and barrack here. On January 25, 1639 A.D., Xu Xiake(徐霞客), the great traveler of China, entered the custom of Gongheiiguan Village with the invitation of Chieftain Lord Mu. Xu wrote and left the extravagant praise “Beautiful gorge is covered by bend water and fields”（ 坞盘水曲，田畴环焉）. Guanyin Gorge（观音峡） is the first key of Lijiang, so it is called “the first scene of Lijiang.”

How to go to the Xiguan Village by self- tour in the old town of Lijiang City:

Gonghe Xiguan Village is located in Qihe Town, the old town of Lijiang City, Yunnan Province. It is just in the north of Qihe Town and only 17 kilometers away from Lijiang City.

Suhe Street(束河街道), the old town of Lijiang City (3 ancient villages included)

8、Longquan Village(龙泉村)

Longquan Village is an administrative village of Shuhe Street in the old town of Lijiang. Longquan Village is located at the core of Lijiang Scenic Areas. It is the pivot point for visiting the scenic spots of old town of Lijiang, Yulong Snow Mountain(玉龙雪山), Lugu Lake(泸沽湖), First Bay of Yangtze River(长江第一湾)and Three Parallel Rivers(三江并流). The ancient town is surrounded by mountains and rivers, and the houses are well-proportioned and facing the country lanes. Look down at Yulong Mountain from the north, and look up Xiang Mountian and Wenbi(文笔) from the southeast, the four seasons’ sceneries are changing and mysterious.

Longquan Village is the earliest settlement of the Naxi ancestors and the birthplace of Chieftain Lord Mu. It is an important station of the tea-horse ancient road in history. It completely preserves Caravan Culture(茶马文华), Cultivation Culture（农耕文化）, Naxi Culture （纳西文化）and Ecological Culture（生态文化）. It is known as the “Hidden Paradise at the down Sown Mountain”, “Mysterious Naxi Ancient Village” and “The Hometown of the Millennium Springs”. The natural scenery, folk customs, historical sites and multicultural landscapes, all these are the complement and extension of the old town of Lijiang.

How to go to Longquan Village:

Longquan Village is located at northwest of old town of Lijiang, namely 4 kilometers away from of old town of Lijiang, and is the core of Shuhe Ancient Town.

9、Zhongxin Village(忠信村)

Zhongxin Village is a natural village affiliated to the Huangshan Community(黄山社区) of Shuhe Street. It is located at the foot of Xishan Mountain in Lijiang. The first sunshine of the Lijiang dam is sprinkled on the Naxi village which is backed by the green hills, facing the green mountains and full of green trees’ shade. The reason that Zhongxin Village is a traditional Chinese village is for the completely preserved Naxi residential buildings which stem from Qing Dynasty. Such as the green tiles and white walls, the three squares and one wall, the four-in-five patio, and the residential buildings that entering one door through two courtyards can be seen everywhere.

How to go to the traditional village, Zhongxin Village:

Zhongxin Village is located in the west of Shuhe Street, and is 2 km away from the Committee and 4 km away from Shuhe Subdistrict Office.

10、Puji Village(普济村)

Puji Village is a natural village affiliated to the Zhongji Community(中济社区) of Shuhe Street in the Old Town of Lijiang. Puji Village, Shuhe Ancient Town, Lijiang, is a Naxi village with intact forest covered. At the behind of Puji Mountain, there is full of pear trees. Every time when the pear trees bloom, the entire Puji Village is surrounded by white pear flowers. Besides, there are also plum blossoms and catalpa flowers. The scenery is very beautiful throughout the year.

How to travel to Puji Village

Puji Village is 1 km away from Zhongji Community Committee(中济社区居委会) and 2.50 km from Shuhe Street (Shuhe Ancient Town束河古镇). It takes 20-minute drive from the old town of Lijiang to Puji Village.

Jinshan County, the old town of Lijiang(3 ancient villages)

11 Guifeng Village(贵峰村)

Guifeng Village is located in the south of Lijiang Dongbazi(东坝子), east side is Qingshan（青山）, west side is Yugong River(漾弓江), and north side is connected to Liangmei(良美). The beauty of Guifeng Village is from the connection from mountains and rivers. Lijiang Guifeng Village is known as the “Little Yanan” (小延安)of Lijiang. The “Kainan Institute”（开南研习所）, a revolutionary site in Guifeng Village, has been included in the revolutionary traditional education base and the youth patriotism education base in Yunnan Province. Guifeng Community is one of the birthplaces of the Naxi Dongba Culture. The Naxi Cultural Training Hall, the Naxi Ancient Music Exercise, the Dongba Culture Heritage, and the folk songs and dances are still the main activities of the villagers.

How to go to Guifeng Village, Lijiang

Lijiang Guifeng Village is located in Jinshan County, the old town of Lijiang City, Yunnan Province, and it is 1.5 km away from Guifeng Village Committee and 12 km from Jinshan County. The transportation is very convenient.

12、Yangxi Village(漾西村)

The Yangxi Community is the southern gate of Lijiang. It is dominated by the Naxi people and has some ethnic groups such as Han, Bai, Tibetan and Yi Ethnics. Yangxi Village is backed by the Snake Mountain(蛇山), and the Gongjiang River（漾弓江） runs through the north to south, forms a unique natural scenery. The sedimentary history and culture make Yangxi more attractive: such as the discovered 100 thousand years long and rebuilt “Lijiang People’s Site” museum, and the national key cultural relics protection unit of the Ming Dynasty’s Chieftain Lord Mu Teach Offspring, still well preserved Wande Palace(万德宫). At same time, here is the first village of the Red Army’s long march when army went through Lijiang.

How to go to Yangxi Village, Lijiang by self- tour:

Yangxi Village is affiliated to Jinshan Bai Ethnic County, the old town of Lijiang City, Yunnan Province. It is located in the southeast of Jinshan Bai Ethnic County. It is 4 kilometers away from the Government of Jinshan County. It is a cement road which is convenient. It is 5 kilometers away from the old town of Lijiang City.

13、 Qilinang Village(启良村)

Qiliang Village is a natural village affiliated to Liangmei Village Committee(良美村委会) of Jinshan County, the old town of Lijiang City. The layout of Qiliang Village is not laid in line, but laid in the trends of mountains. The houses are naturally distributed, and the households are separated by green trees. The villages, landscapes, trees, fields and people are integrated perfectly. Qiliang Village has “six ancients”: ancient mines, ancient kiln, ancient temples, ancient roads, ancient wells, and ancient monuments. Today’s Qiliang has become idyllic beautiful scenery, and there are still old broken tiles and bricks aside the fields and among the ditches.

How to go to Qiliang Village

Qiliang Village is 1 km away from the committee and 5 km away from the Government of Jinshan County.

Cultural Street of the old town of Lijiang City(丽江古城区文化街道)

14、Xiangyang Village(向阳村)

Xiangyang Village is a natural village affiliated to the Dongjiang Committee (东江居委会)of Cultural Street. Xiangyang Village is 2.59 square kilometers mountainous area with altitude of 1960 meters. The annual average temperature is 14 °C. The whole village administers a villager group with 39 households and 163 rural populations.

Xiangyang Village is 4 km away from Dongjiang Committee and 20 km away from Cultural Street.

Jinan Town, the old town of Lijiang City(丽江古城区金安镇)

Wubaili Village(五坝里村)

Wubali Village is a natural village affiliated to the Yixin Village Committee (义新村委会) of Jin’an Town, the old town of Lijiang City. Xi, Bai, Han, and Dai ethnic groups live together in this ancient village. There are tea-horse ancient roads sites in the village. In history, it has played a role in national fusion and integration. In the dense forests and woods, it is still faintly visible that the horses-walked roads and old lived-houses. On a small river called “Holy Drinking”(圣洁喝) that flows through the village, there is a stone arch bridge that is more than 610 years old. This stone arch bridge named “Golden Dragon Bridge”(金龙桥) is the essential part of tea-horse ancient roads.

How to go to Wubali Village Tourism:

Wubali Village is 7 kilometers away from Yixin Village Committee, and 17 kilometers away from the Government of Jinan Town, and 40 kilometers away from Lijiang City.

Dadong County, the old town of Lijiang City(丽江古城区大东乡)

Dadong Village(大东村)

Dadong Village is an administrative village in Dadong County. Dadong Village is located in the middle of Dadong County, the old town of Lijiang City. Dadong Village has rich and colorful folk culture, such as Dongba Culture, folk music and dance, special instrumental music, residential architecture, national costumes, food customs, traditional festivals, traditional crafts and numerous national folktales. Among them, the unique “Hot Beauty”(热美磋) music and dance has been included in the national intangible cultural heritage protection list.

How to go to Lijiang Dadong Village by self-driving tour:

Dadong Village is affiliated to Dadong County, the old town of Lijiang City, Yunnan Province, and is 68 kilometers away from Lijiang City.

Note: The number of traditional Chinese villages has reached 4,153. While the number of ancient villages in the “Chinese Traditional Villages List” in the old town of Lijiang City is 17 (the early 16 in the first to third batches and the seventeenth is added in from the fourth batch). Traditional Chinese villages, used to be known as ancient villages. Traditional villages contain rich historical information and cultural landscapes, which are the greatest legacy of Chinese farming civilization. Many ancient villages have become popular tourist attractions, the others are waiting to be protectively developed. Most importantly, the regrettable thing is that many local governments in China only care short-term GDP figures, and spend a lot of money to create fake local home stay, only make real treasures hidden in the mountains. Let us make the ancient villages travel prosperous, travel ancient villages and help the poor, what is really win-win situation.

Overview

Jincheng Old Town (晋城古镇) is located in Jincheng Town (晋城镇), Jinning District (晋宁县), on the southeast shore of Dianchi Lake (滇池) in Kunming City (昆明市), Yunnan Province (云南省). Surrounded by mountains on three sides and bordered by lakeside hilly plains, Jincheng Old Town was once the capital of the ancient Dian Kingdom (滇国) and is considered the birthplace and center of Dian culture.

Geographical Location:
Jincheng Town, Jinning District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province

Significance:
Birthplace and center of Dian culture

Characteristics:
Surrounded by mountains on three sides

Development History

Tracing back through historical records over the past two millennia, during the Han Dynasty (汉朝), Jincheng Old Town, formerly known as Dianchi County (滇池县), served as the administrative center for various regions, including Yizhou (益州郡), Jinning (晋宁郡), Ningzhou (宁州郡), and Jianning (建宁郡). During the Tang (唐) and Song (宋) Dynasties, it was part of the Nanzhao (南诏) and Dali (大理国) territories.

Modern historian Yuan Jiagu (袁嘉谷) remarked in his work “Dian Yi” (《滇绎》):
“Metropolises are the centers of politics. The political center of Yunnan from the Warring States period to the Tang Dynasty was in Jinning,” referring to present-day Jincheng Old Town.

In the Sui Dynasty (隋), Jincheng served as the administrative center of Ningzhou, where the governor Liang Pi (梁毗) expanded the city, stating that it spanned seven miles and had nine gates and twelve thoroughfares, indicating its grand scale at that time.

During the Ming Dynasty (明), in the 22nd year of the Chenghua era (1486), a brick city was constructed, featuring encircling walls and four main gates: Longxiang (龙翔), Nanxun (南熏), Fengzhu (凤翥), and Gongcheng (拱城). Over the following centuries, the city saw periods of destruction and restoration. By 1954, the remnants of the original city wall measured 4,100 meters in circumference and stood 4 meters high. The walls were completely dismantled by 1958.

The residential courtyards retained in the streets and alleys are mostly of “stilted” and “a seal” structures, adopting the courtyard layout of “three rooms and four annexes” and “two rooms and two annexes”.

The natural landscape around Jincheng Ancient Town is extremely beautiful. The well-known five-character ancient poem “One, two, three li away. Four or five households in a smoky village. Six or seven towers. Eight, nine, ten branches of flowers.” describes this scenery.