Why is Ruilijiang River So Special

Ruilijiang River, 53-kilometer long and 200-meter wide, is a main river in western Yunnan Province. Ruilijiang River has been listed as one of the state-level resorts characterized by the picturesque scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Ruilijiang River plays an important role in connection of Burma and Yunnan Province, which feeds more than then thousand of people.

Floating along Ruilijiang River, you can experience the unique beauty of Ruilijiang River, which will make you enjoy yourself so much as to forget to leave here. There are many tourist attractions, such as Bambusa multiplex and subtropical fruit trees, when you come here, your eyes are occupied by these beautiful attractions.

Where is Ruilijiang River-Location

The upper reaches of the Ruilijiang River is called Longjiang River, originating from the west side of Gaoligong Mountain, flowing through the counties of Tengchong, Longchuan and Lianghe, and Wanding, Ruili and finally flowing into the Irrawaddy River. More than 20 kilometers of the Ruilijiang River belong to the boundary river between China and Burma.

How to Get to Ruilijiang River

It is very convenient to get to Ruilijiang River. Take a taxi in Ruili Bus Station, which takes about 15 RMB.

Best Time to Go

June-December are the best time to visit Ruilijiang River.

Introduction of Ruilijiang River

The Ruilijiang River was known as Nanmaojiang River in ancient times, namely, the Wushuihe River. In the Yuan and Ming Dynasties, it was called the Chuanjiang River. The Qing Dynasty was also known as the Longchuanjiang River, also known as the Ruilijiang River. This river irrigates the tens of thousands of hectares of fertile land in China and Burma, feeding nearly a million people. The upper reaches of the Ruilijiang River is called Longjiang River, originating from the west side of Gaoligong Mountain, flowing through the counties of Tengchong, Longchuan and Lianghe, and Wanding, Ruili and finally flowing into the Irrawaddy River. More than 20 kilometers of the Ruilijiang River belong to the boundary river between China and Burma. It is one of the important rivers in the western part of Yunnan Province and belongs to the subtropical perennial river.

The Ruilijiang River preserves the complete vegetation types and abundant wildlife resources and beautiful natural landscape resources from the seasonal rain forest to the evergreen broad-leaved forest transition zone. There are more than 600 species of higher plants and 216 species of vertebrates in this area. The source of water sources for rivers such as the Mengyuehe River, Nanhuan River, Mangbang River and Nanlan River. It was approved as a provincial nature reserve in May 2002, with an area of 73,500 hectares.

Nearby Attractions

Zhaduo Waterfall
Moli Waterfall is located in Moli Valley, also called Zhaduo Waterfall, and hides in deep mountains and forest. the clean water falls from 40-meter cliff, it’s like a white silk flying and dancing in the wind, you can hear the falling sound of water far away. There is a small brook flowing under the waterfall. The whole part of the waterfall is the soul of the scenic area, it’s very enjoyable to watch and feel the waterfall in the morning when the sun rises. It’s also very worthy to go there in summer, you can feel splashes from the waterfall and splash on your face, it’s very nice and cool.

One-Tree Forest
In fact, One-Tree Forest is a large banyan tree, which has a history of more than 900 years, with 32 earial roots streight pinning into the earth. Banyan is a special and unique landscape in Ruili, it’s everywhere no matter in the vallies or villages or on the sides of the roads. people value banyan as holy tree, so they only plant these trees but don’t cut them. The big Banyan is in the one-tree forest park, and it’s 28 meters, what makes it more precious is that it has been standing there for over 200 years. The tree has many aerial roots hanging down from above, and they are interwined with one another, ending in the root. there are also so many aerial roots hanging down and they took roots in the earth, forming a forest that makes up of pillar-like roots, thus one-tree forest is shaped. It’s a very attractive and magical natural scenery. One-tree Forest has become a scenery that tourist must go, and it’s one of the hottest sceneries in Ruili. 

Wanding Bridge
Wanding Bridge is located on the urban side of the downtown of the Wanding Town; it is the boundary bridge between China and Myanmar; it is also an important channel for the exchange of trade and economic and cultural communication between the Chinese and Burmese.

Why is Jade Dragon Snow Mountain So Special?

Located between 100.04′-100.16’east longitude and 27.03′-27.40′ north latitude, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Mountain) is the southernmost glacier in the Northern Hemisphere. Consisting of 13 peaks, among which Shanzidou is the highest with an altitude of 5,600 meters (18,360 feet), the mountain stretches a length of 35 kilometers (22 miles) and a width of 20 kilometers (13 miles). Looking from Lijiang Old Town in the south which is 15 kilometers (nine miles) away, the snow-covered and fog-enlaced mountain resembles a jade dragon lying in the clouds, hence the name.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.

Main Attractions in Jade Dragon Snow Mountain?

Highlights

Since Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a hot tourist place, it has a series of highlights to make your tour here an unforgettable memory, such as the Blue- Moon Valley, the Glacier Park, the Spruce Plateau, Ganhaizi, Dongba culture, Impression Lijiang, and Baisha Mural, etc. Just go and explore it!

Blue-Moon Valley (White Water River)

There is an extremely blue river meandering through a lush valley of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Seen from a distance, it resembles a blue crescent moon inlaid at the foot of the mountain. That’s how this place got its beautiful name – Blue Moon Valley. However, blue is not the only looking of the river. If it rains, the white mud and limestone rubbles at the riverbed will be swirl up, making the water as white as milk. Therefore, local Naxi people name it White Water River (Baishui River)

The White Water River is converged by the melted snow and ice running down from Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The water is freezing; even in summer, people still cannot bear the piercing cold when they can’t help dabbling in the river. But it is a favorite iced drink in summer. Legend has it that, when two Naxi youngsters fall in love, the boy will be tested by standing barefoot in the cold river in winter to show his committed love for the girl. Folks believe that this tested love will last forever in the presence of the holy snow mountain. So, the river is considered the Love River in local people’s mind.

The Glacier Park

The Glacier Park Cableway is the highest cableway in Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is the mountain of lowest latitude in Eurasia that has present glaciers, so you can see maybe for the first time the various kinds of present glaciers and the remnants of ancient glaciers that are the essence of the global glaciers. Moreover, you will be amazed at the very charming scenery of the various shapes of serac pillars at the end of the glaciers, which shows blue and green under the sunshine and called the “Green Snow Peaks”. And you can see this wonderful view by taking the tramway up to the park at 4680 m.

Spruce Meadow

The Spruce Meadow Cableway can reach to 3200 meters of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The Spruce Meadow is also called the “Third Country for dying for love”, and according to the materials of Dongba, one person can live without worry in the “Jade Dragon Third Country” for the abundant beautiful clothes, delicious food, etc. And if a couple die for love at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, their souls will go to this “country” and live happily. So it is famous worldwide as the place for dying for love.

Yak Meadow

After one hour driving of the sightseeing bus from Ganhaizi Meadow, you can arrive in Yak Meadow Parking Lot and take the Yak Meadow Chairlift to Yak Meadow. Yak Meadow at the northern edge of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain has different but various picturesque sightseeing in each season. Here you can both appreciate the splendid image of the snow mountain at the best position, and see the local people driving their domestic animals up to the mountain. You can feel the original and simple life in this great place

Impression Lijiang Show

The Impression Lijiang is a large-scale live-action performance directed by the world famous director Zhang Yimou who is the chief director of both the opening and closing ceremonies of the 29th Olympic Games held in Beijing in 2008. 500 local people from 10 minority nationalities perform this amazing show at the height of 3100 m. This show provides you a “BOOM” to your eyes and ears, with their wonderful dancing and singing and the unique fine background of the white Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as well as the blue sky.

Watching this great performance, you can know Lijiang from many aspects. The gallant men, respectable women, emotion to life and nature, historical scene on the Ancient Tea Horse Road, love to different people, hope for the sacred kingdom, and the sincere heart to the heaven, etc. all express the pure, hospitality and optimism of the local people in Lijiang.

Yulong Skiing Resort in Yunnan 玉龙雪山滑雪场
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xue Shan), located near Lijiang, is the southernmost glacier found in the northern hemisphere. Its tallest peak has an altitude of 5,596 meters, which is said to be the world’s most difficult climb and thus to this day remains a virgin peak. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Ski Resort is located at an altitude of 4500m to 4700m and covered in snow all-year-long.Featuring excellent snow quality and long snow season, it attracts countless ski lovers from all over the world. In order to provide the best conditions, the resort bought snowmaker from the United States and snow grooming machine from Canada.

The Best Time To Visit The Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

The best time to visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is during autumn and winter, especially in January, February and April, when the sky is clear and you can have a better view of the snow mountain the beautiful natural scenery.

Where to stay in Lijiang

Baisha Holiday Resort Lijiang, invested by Yunnan Exploration Travel, is located in Baisha Ancient Town in the Eastern Himalayas of Yunnan Province, in a plush valley at 2450m elevation, at the foothills of majestic, snow-capped Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Introduction

Dazhai Village is located in Lianzhu Town, Mojiang County, Yunnan Province. It was founded in Yuan Xianzong for four years and has a history of 360 years. Dazhai Village is 14 kilometers away from Mojiang County and is a village inhabited by Hani nationality on the Tropic of Cancer. It has four village groups, with 219 households and 890 people.

Hani Ethnic Minority

The Hani ethnic minority shares the same origin with the Yi and Lahu ethnic minorities. According to historical records, they all evolved from the ancient Qiang people. The Qiang people used to be a nomadic tribe living in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Later one branch of them moved south and early by the 3rd century, their forefathers had inhabited the swampland along the Dadu River and Yalong River. In the 7th century, they immigrated into the area near Mt. Ailao and Mt. Wuliang. In the Tang and Song dynasties, this area was successively reined in by the Nanzhao and Dali kingdoms. The Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) established a prefecture to rule the Hani and other ethnic groups in Yunnan. The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) exercised its rule through local chieftains, who were granted official posts. During the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) court officials replaced the chieftains.

The Hani ethnic group comprises over twenty subgroups. They used to be called Hani, Aini, Kaduo, Biyue, Heni, etc. With the founding of the PRC in 1949, following consultation with the ethnic group, it was decided to agree upon the official name of Hani ethnic minority.

The Hanis are engaged in agriculture and build their two- and three- storey houses of bamboo, mud, stone and wood on hill slopes. The areas inhabited by the Hanis have rich natural resources. Being subtropical, the land is fertile and the rainfall plentiful — ideal for growing rice, millet, cotton, peanuts, indigo and tea. Growing on the rolling Ailao Mountains are pine, cypress, palm, tung oil and camphor trees, and the forests abound in animals such as tigers, leopards, bears, monkeys, peacocks, parrots and pheasants.

Traditional Residence 

Dazhai village is the Mojiang Hani (Budu) branch of the most concentrated village. The village has retained a large number of Hani typical residential earth-form house. The earth house is the main building in the natural village of Dazhai. The village is built around the mountain. The hillside is lush with trees. Dragon bamboo, palms covered with rows of untidy earth palms. The hardworking Hani people incorporate beautiful buildings into nature Dazhai natural village has become the “forest-village-terrace-river” four-in-one Hani landscape typical.

Featured Agriculture

The natural village of Dazhai, which is rich in high-quality purple rice, has attracted much attention because of its popularity in the market. People in the natural village of Dazhai always use the original Hani method of planting purple rice, and use pure ecological organic fertilizer. This makes the purple rice of Kuineng-Dazhai always have the characteristics of fragrance, stickiness, slippage, and waxy. “Compendium of Materia Medica” records that purple rice has the functions of nourishing yin and tonifying kidney, invigorating spleen and warming liver, activating eyes and activating blood. It is called “medicine valley” and is a “precious gift” left by Hani people to the world.

Featured Culture

In addition to Hani earth house, purple rice, there are unique local characteristics of gold-mining culture in Dazhai natural village. At the foot of the village, there is a river called “Shuigui River”, whose upstream flows through the Mojiang gold mine, one of the “national gold lines,” so that the river carries a large amount of gold sand. When the Shuigui River passes through Kuineng, the flow rate slows, so that the gold sand deposits on the riverbed. The ancestors began the gold washing, and there was setting off an upsurge of gold mining in the village. Every family in the village had a home-made bed and attracted a large number of gold miners from outside the country, which was later quelled by the government’s ban on illegal gold mining. Now, with the approval of the relevant authorities, the river Shuigui Open to visitors, you can experience the fun of gold mining.

The Hani people have lived in Guineng Village for a long time, formed a unique national culture and customs, and completely preserved, became a natural “Hani Culture Museum.” The unique traditional culture of Dazhai village, such as “Earthen House”, “High Quality Purple Rice Production Area”, gold mining history, embroidery technology and other traditional cultures, attracts more and more tourists to set foot on this hot land.

How to Get there?

1. By Air

There are no airports in Mojiang County. Visitors can take a plane to Simao District, Puer, then take a long-distance bus to Kuineng-Dazhai Hani Ethnic Village.

2. By Train

Pu’er Railway Station is the middle station of the Yumo Railway under construction and an important station for the Laos section of the Trans-Asian Railway. It is expected to be put into use by 2020.

3. By Long-distance Bus

Tourists can take long-distance bus at Kunming South Passenger Station to Mojiang County Passenger Station.

Why is Cizhong Village So Special?

Cizhong, a Tibetan word meaning a big village, is a village co-inhabited by Tibetan, Naxi, and Chinese Han. It is famous for a 100-year-old Cizhong Catholic Church. More than 100 years ago, French missionaries built a Catholic church here. There are seven ethnic groups in Cizhong Village, including Tibetan, Han, Lisu, Naxi, Bai and Nu. Today the relationship between Tibetan Catholics and Tibetan Buddhists is generally cordial. The two communities celebrate traditional festivals together and interfaith marriages are no longer rare.

Where is Cizhong Village – Location

Cizhong Village is an administrative village in Yanmen Township, Deqin County, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. Located in a gentle slope on both sides of the Lancang River Gorge, it borders Gongshan County of Nujiang Prefecture in the east, Cikatong Village in Xiaru Township in the west, Badong Village in Yanmen Township in the south, and Chunduole Village of Yanmen Township in the north, with an average altitude of 1,800 meters.

Climate of Cizhong Village

The climate in Cizhong belongs to cold temperate mountain monsoon climate. The climate is greatly affected by altitude. The latitude effect is not obvious. As the altitude rises, the temperature decreases and the precipitation increases. Most of the seasons are unclear. The winter is long and the summer is short. The dry season and wet season are usually obvious. The average annual rainfall is 633.7 mm. The precipitation in the rainy season from May to October accounts for 77.5% of the annual precipitation. 

How to Get there

Tourists need to get to Shangrila first and then transfer to Deqin county. Long-distance bus is the main transport means getting to Cizhong Village. Every day, there are many shuttle buses to Cizhong from Deqin County. The last bus from Deqin to Cizhong is 3 p.m.

There are buses running from Deqin to Badong via Cizhong, Deqin to Cizhong Village, and Deqin to Weixi via Yanmen township. It takes less than 2 hours from Deqin to Cizhong.  Except the buses from Deqin to Badong, visitors shall take another 20 minutes to get to Cizhong by walking.

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Cizhong is from March to May and June to August. Of course, every Monday is the best time to visit Cizhong, because visitors can experience Catholic devoutness to Catholicism.

Main Attractions

Cizhong Catholic Church
It is a French Catholic church, first established in the 6th year of Tongzhi in the Qing Dynasty (A.D.1867). The church is constituted with French buildings and Chinese pavilions, special in architecture. It is one of Yunnan’s most important churches.

Accommodate at Cizhong Village

A good rest plays a significant part in a travel, so choosing a favored lodging place in Cizhong Village should be taken into account. Most local families can offer accommodation. Here we recommend Songtsam Cizhong Lodge, Deqin Qianxi Hotel.

Attractions Nearby

Yubeng Village
Yubeng Village is situated at the foot of the Meili Snow Mountain Range. From Upper Yubeng, trekkers have access to the Base Camp, and Ice Lake hikes. From Lower Yubeng, you can find the paths to the Sacred Waterfall, and if you are a hardcore hiker, Holy Lake, which from a higher vantage point, has an unobstructed view of the Kawa Karpo Peak (6,740 meters), and most of the rest of the mountain range.

Meili Snow Mountain
Meili Snow Mountain is one of the most sacred mountains of Tibetan Buddhism. In the 1930s, they were praised by American scholars as the most beautiful mountains in the world. Meili Snow Mountain boasts numerous snow-clad ridges and peaks, thirteen of which are more than 6,000 meters above the sea level. The highest peak Kawagebo, which rises to 6,740 metres, has never been summited.

Feilaisi Monastery, Deqin
Feilai temple, the best place to watch goden peaks of Meili mountain at sunrise. So if u plan to watch sunrise, it’s absolutely a good idea to live at Feilai temple the night before. But actually it is unusual to see the golden peaks. The peaks of the mountains are often surrounded with clouds due to the high altitude they are. And this makes more interesting for Meili. 

Useful Travel Tips

►Many villagers have their own wine. Tourists can have a taste if interested.
► Respect local customs and culture.

Tours including Cizhong Village

15 Days Three Parallel Rivers Overland Adventure with Dulongjiang River Valley and Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking
9 Days Shangri-La Circle Tour and Three Parallel Rivers Adventure (Depart from Lijiang)
13 Days Three Parallel Rivers Circle Adventure with Tiger Leaping Gorge and Yubeng Village Hiking Tour

About Shigu Ancient Town

Shigu Ancient Town is one of the famous ancient town at the river bank of the upper reaches of Yangtze River. As there is a drum-shaped stone tablet carved with white marble, hence the name of the town. The diameter of the stone tablet is 1.5 m and the thickness is 0.7 m. It is said that if the society is unrest, the drum will craze, but when the society is peaceful again, the drum will close up.

Where Is Shigu Ancient Town?

Shigu Town is 70 km away from Lijiang. Bordering Jiuhe Township, Longpan Village, Shitou Village,Liming Village, it is also a strategetic area of each dynasty.

History of Shigu Ancient Town

Commerce and trade in here was developed, there were quite a lot of merchants came here for business and settled down here. Also there was a portion of people engaged in trade outside. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Shigu Ancient Town set up supply and marketing cooperative, food, food service industry such as state-owned and collective agency business. After the reform and opening, fair trade of Shigu Ancient Town was more prosperous. Near the Shigu Street, there is rich talcum mine, according to historical records, as early as the Yuan dynasty has been mined. In 1966, a talc factory was established in Shigu, the product sold in distant markets outside the county. Marble storage in here is also abundant. The “Red Army Long March Memorial” built in Jinsha river west bank. Mineral resources are talc, placer gold, manganese, zinc and sulphur. And Shigu Ancient Town produced traditional bamboo strip cap and pot cover. And it has specialty of orchids. It is one of pilot units of “national five hundreds of small towns construction”, in 2005, it has been listed as “one of the national 100 classic red tourism scenic spots”, was listed as top of the red tourism products lines.

 What to See in Shigu Ancient Town

● Yangtze River First Bay
Yangtze River First Bay is located between Shasongbi Village of Shangri-la County and Shigu Town of Lijiang City, 130 km from Shangri-la County. The Yangtze River runs from the “World Roof” Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. When it passes here, it suddenly takes a sudden turn for over 100 degree, and runs to northeast, forming a huge V-shaped bay. People called it the Yangtze River First Bay.

● Drum-shaped Stone Tablet
As there is a drum-shaped stone tablet in the town, hence the name. The tablet is carved with white marble. It is said that the stone drum was used to suppress Tubo during the Three Kingdoms. There were no words carved on the stone drum until Mu Gao, the chieftain of Lijiang defeated Tubo and engraved inscription on it.

● Tiehong Bridge
There is a cable suspension bridge named Tiehong Bridge (Iron Rainbow Bridge) in the town. The bridge has a long history and is of antique beauty.

● Red Army Monument of Crossing the River
The Shigu Town is located on a slope of a mountain and facing the Yangtze River. The Red Army Monument of Crossing the River is in a park at the west of the town.

● Jujin Ancient Ferry
70 km north to the Shigu Town, there is another ancient town, Judian. It used to be the cultural center of Naxi people. It was named Jujin in Yuan Dynasty. At that time, it was not just the only routes from Wexi to inland, but also the only ferry for the communication between Dali and Tubo.

● Lijiang Horse
At the market of Judian, you may see horses here. These horses are in gentle temperament, with not so big body, but they could load heavy goods. It is one of the 3 treasures in Lijiang.

Recommended Visiting Route

There are two ways of traveling Shigu Ancient Town, the first is to charter a car to Shigu Town directly, and the second is going to Liming Laojun Mountain via Shigu Ancient Town. Departing from Lijiang Old Town and passing Lashi Lake, and then there are two roads can lead to Shigu town, one is bypassing north side of Tiejia Mountain to Xionggu village, and going northward to the riverside then going upstream westward to Shigu; another is throwing over Tiejia Mountain from Tai’an to Baihanchang, going westward to Shigu. Two roads are all around 65 km, the first road condition is quite good, but the second road can give people a surprise that when you go the path winds along mountain ridges and suddenly Yangtze River First Bend appears. Since Qing dynasty, Shigu Ancient Town has formed quite busy market.

Shigu Ancient Town Accommodation

Stone Drum (Shigu) Town is just one of Lijiang’s many landmarks to discover. Usually the recommended time for a visit is about 1-2 hours. So most of the tourists will not choose to stay at Shigu Town for overnight but go back to Lijiang or continue to Shangrila city. You can browse the accommodation part of Lijiang or Shangrila to check the best hotels we recommend for you. Anyhow, there are some Shigu Town local guesthouses introduced to you.

Hotel Name	Add.	Tel.
Five Six Seven Guesthouse(五六七客栈)	Liwei Road near Shigu Pier, Shigu Town, Lijiang, Yunnan	0888-5472567
Lijiang Shigu Climbing Base Youth Hostel(丽江石鼓攀岩基地青年旅舍)	Daxin Village, Shigu Town, Lijiang, Yunnan	13801052361
Lijiang Shihong Guesthouse(丽江石虹宾舍)	Shigu Street near Shigu pavilion, Shigu Town, Lijiang, Yunnan	0888-3193828, 1368783545
Lijiang Jingufang Villa(丽江金谷坊山庄 )	Drifting Scenic Area, Shigu Port, Shigu Town, Lijiang, Yunnan	1398888662
Yulong Jinwan Hotel(玉龙金湾酒店)	First Bend near 225 provincial Road, Shigu Town, Lijiang, Yunnan	13578487563

How to get to Stone Drum Town

In the bus station or some main hotels in the Lijiang Old Town, there is special tour bus to Shigu Ancient Town (Yangtze River First Bend), or people can take bus to Weixi or Shigu Ancient Town.

1. Take regular bus from Lijiang Bus Station to Weixi. It passes by Stone Drum Town. The mountain where the town is located is one of the best view points to enjoy the First Bend.
2. Take private minivans from Jinkai Square in Lijiang. It costs around CNY 20 per person.
3. The bus from Lijiang to Shangri-La passes by several viewing platforms for the First Bend.

Travel Tips

● The temperature difference is big between day and night, especially when it is rain. You should take some thick and long sleaves with you to prevent getting cold. Do not forget to prepare some Cold medicine and intestinal medicine. 

●As Lijiang is located on plateau, the ultraviolet (uv) radiation is very strong that you should bring sunhat and sun scream with you.

● Chinese name: Hutiao Xia 虎跳峡
● Type: Gorges & Canyons, Nature
● Keywords: Tiger Leaping Gorge, Hikking, Lijiang spot
● Altitude: about 1800m
● Best Time: April to June, September to October
● Recommended Visiting Hours: about 3 hours
● Recommended Time for Hiking: 2 days
● Opening Hours: 09:00~16:30
● Admission Fee: 65 RMB for lijiang part
● Location: Shangri-La and  Lijiang

Why is Tiger Leaping Gorge So Special?

Once upon Lijiang, Yunnan China, as the top 10 hiking destination, you will never miss the Tiger Leaping Gorge.
In the hikking process of Tiger Leaping Gorge, you will through some of the most naturally beautiful and diverse landscapes in a close and far distance period.

Tiger Leaping Gorge is spectacular and crown as the deepest gorge in the world. Foreign backpackers started hiking in the area in the 1980s and now Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tour has been one of the most famous hiking tour all around the world. From the top of Tiger Leaping Gorge, you can look down the steeply angled (70-90 degrees) mountain sides to the rushing Jinsha River with its 18 frothing rapids more than 200 meters below.

How to Get in Tiger Leaping Gorge

•By Vehicle: fast and convinient

1.Take bus from Lijiang Transport Service Center Bus Station to Tiger Leaping Gorge. It departs at 08:00 and 08:30 every morning and takes around 1.5 – 2 hours to reach there.
2. Charter a car from Lijiang. It costs around CNY 300 to 400 per day.
3. The Gorge is located between Lijiang and Shangri-La, so visitors can take the inter-city buses of the two and ask the driver to drop you off at the gorge.

From Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge: At Lijiang Bus Station, travelers can take bus to Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge at 08:00 and 08:30. For travelers who want to get to Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge,

you can first reach Hutiaoxia Town and then hire a car to the Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge. Hutiaoxia Town is 9 km from Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge and 33 km from Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge. Also, buses are available at Lijiang Bus Station to Daju. It takes about 2 hours from Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge. To leave Tiger Leaping Gorge, travelers can takes buses from Tina’s House, Hutiaoxia Town and Daju.

From Shangri-La to Tiger Leaping Gorge: At Shangri-La Long-distance Bus Station, travelers can take bus to Hutiaoxia Town first and the hire a car to Upper or Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge. It takes about 2 hours to Hutiaoxia Town. There is no direct bus to from Shangri-La to Daju.

• Hiking: High Path or Gravel Road, strenuous but more fun

1. It’s quite popular to hike along the gorge, and you can follow the signs made by other visitors along the way.
2. This is a great sightseeing stop with enormous photo opportunities. But the Tiger Leaping Gorge tour is long, so you are not suggested to bring many bags. Bring your camera, wear skidproof shoes, and be prepared to be astonished. Besides, 1-2 bottles of water are necessary.
3. Some difficulties may occur in the hiking along Tiger Leaping Gorge, you can choose to ride the local horse on the way.
4. The best time to visit the Tiger Leaping Gorge is April – June and September & October due to the good weather condition.

Where is Tiger Leaping Gorge?

About 100 km north from Lijiang, Tiger Leaping Gorge is precisely located between the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山, in the Yulong Naxi County, part of the city-prefecture area of Lijiang) and the Haba Snow Mountain (哈巴雪山, in the the Shangri-La County, part of the Diqing prefecture).

Tiger Leaping Gorge Four Sections

Tiger Leaping Gorge consists of 4 sections: The Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge Lijiang Section, The Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge Shangri-La Section, The Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge and The Lower Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge-Lijiang Section

The Upper Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge (Lijiang Side) (上虎跳峡丽江段) is well-developed with nearly 5.2 km of round trip walkway and a prefered spot for most visitors. Located about 9 km (5.750 miles) away from the Qiaotou Village, the Upper Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge is the narrowest section. There is a huge rock lying in the center of the river; dividing the riptide into two parts. It is said that a tiger once leapt from the east bank, clearing the rock, to land on the west bank. The name of the rock “Tiger Leaping Gorge Rock” comes from the legend.

Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge-Shangri-La Section

Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge-Shangri-La Section(上虎跳峡-香格里拉段) is face to The Upper Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge (Lijiang Side). Lijiang Scetion and Shangri-La Section sahre the wonderful Tiger Leaping Stone and Middle Rapids in the middle of Yangtze River. Upper Gorge is 9 kilometers from Hutiaoxia Town. The famous scenic areas of the Upper Gorge are the mouth of Tiger Leaping Gorge, making it the narrowest section. The hiking trail is plank road which is are suitable for hiking no matter you are elder or young people. It takes about two hours to hike Upper Gorge.

Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge

Middle Gorge is 33 kilometers from Hutiaoxia Town. Hike downhill from Zhang’s Guesthouse, then you need to hike about 1~2 hours to the bottom of the gorge – Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge. There are two famous high ladders connecting upper place to lower place because of no available road. Get down to the river side, you will see the Jinshan River shrinks in a narrow valley, and get blocked by several huge stones. Listen to the deafening voice of water flapping at the stones, and explore the nearby. From the Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge, you have two choices: back to Tina’s House or Halfway Guesthouse, and transfer back, or keep hiking to next destination – Hetaoyuan. For those who are hike down from Zhang’s Guesthouse to the Middle Gorge and transfer back via high lappers, it takes about 3 hours all the way. For the road is steep and muddy, please consider your physical condition if you want to hike this path.

Lower Tiger Leaping Gorge

Lower Gorge is 5 km away from Daju. It is less crowded and traveled by less people. Travelers can hike from Daju to Lower Gorge or from Middle Gorge to Lower Gorge. If you come from Middle Gorge, it takes 3 hours from Yixiantian to Hetaoyuan. After get to new ferry dock, get a ferry across to Daju. A scenic and relaxing journey ends to the hike.

Legends of  Tiger Leaping Gorge

It is said that a hunter was chasing a tiger through the gorge many years ago. When it reached the narrowest point the tiger leapt across the Jinsha River, escaping the furious hunter. The rock where the tiger made its jump is now an iconic viewing point.

There is another legend that a rich Lijiang ruler, Lord Mu, rode on his tiger to go along the side of Jinsha River one day. He and tiger went to a relatively narrow area, the tiger leaped to a large rock in the center of the river. The tiger landed but Lord Mu was not landing at the same time and had dropped into a rolling river. Time has passed, there left a tiger leaping stone for future generations.

Recommended Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Routes

Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Routes	Time
• Lijiang – Qiaotou – High Trail – Middle Tiger Leaping Stone – Ferry – Daju – Yulong Snow Mountain (Maoniuping) – Lijiang	3-4 Days
• Lijiang – Qiaotou – High Trail – Middle Tiger Leaping Stone / Upper Tiger Leaping Stone – Qiaotou – Lijiang / Zhongdian	2 Days
• Lijiang – Qiaotou – High Trail – Middle Tiger Leaping Stone – Baishuitai , Haba Village – Zhongdian	3-4 Days

What to Visit in Tiger Leaping Gorge

• Middle Tiger Leaping Stone

This sight is located more than 500 meters vertically down from Tina’s Guesthouse.

• Daju Ferry

Daju is situated past Walnut Grove at the northeast end of Tiger Leaping Gorge, on a large flat shelf of land on the opposite side of the Jinsha River from the Tiger Leaping Gorge trails.

What to Eat in Tiger Leaping Gorge

All of the guesthouses provide local food and simple western food because it has been a long history of Tiger Leaping Gorge hiking for international tourists.These tourists taught local people how to cook western food with local food.So it is very convenient to enjoy very nice food along the Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Where to Stay in Tiger Leaping Gorge

There are a lot of hostels along the hiking route of Tiger Leaping Gorge, here are some hostels recommended by Yunnan Exploration and Yunnan Adventure.
Tinas International Youth Hostel(中峡国际青年旅舍/中峡客栈)
Naxi Family Guesthouse（纳西雅阁）
Sean’s Spring Guest house（山泉客栈）
Woody Guesthouse (山白脸客栈)
Zhuoma Guesthouse (卓玛客栈)
Teacher Zhang’s Guesthouse (张老师客栈)
Halfway Guesthouse (中途客栈)
Daju Guesthouse (大具客栈)

Influential Persons in Tiger Leaping Gorge

Tina Tian(田姐), the boss of Tina’s International Youth Hostel;
Feng Jiangpei(冯将培), the boss of Halfway Guesthouse;
Li Yuan(李元), the boss of Naxi Family Guesthouse;
Xia Shanquan(夏山泉), the boss of Sean’s Spring Guest house

Attractions List in Tiger Leaping Gorge

Hetaoyuan Village
Bendiwan Village
Nuoyu Village
28 Zigzag Turns
The Upper Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge (Lijiang Side)
The Upper Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge (Shangrila Side)
The Middle Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge
The Lower Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge
Guanyin Waterfall of Tiger Leaping Gorge
The Sky Ladder
Changsheng Village
Yixiantian
Bamboo Forest
The Middle Stone and Middle Rapids
Yachaguo Village
Guanyin Temple
Xincun Village
Daju Ferry
Daju Town
Hutiaoxia Town
Haba Snow Mountain
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Three Parallel Rivers Natural Reserve in Yunnan Province

Nearby Attractions

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a mountain massif near Lijiang. It is the southernmost glacier in the Northern Hemisphere. There are 13 peaks all together and the group of mountains stretches about 35 kilometers from north to south. The highest peak is named Shanzidou at an altitude of 5,596m. On the eastern side of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, there is a deep valley where the Yangtze River runs. Tiger Leaping Gorge is in the northern part of the valley and Yuhu Village Is located in the south of the valley. Travelers can see Jade Dragon Snow Mountain over Tiger Leaping Gorge, Yuhu Village, Black Dragon Pool Park and other locations.

Haba Snow Mountain

Haba Snow Mountain is a mountain in southeast of Shangri-La, rising above the northwest side of Tiger Leaping Gorge, opposite off Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with the highest peak of 5,396 m. It boasts glaciers, lakes and waterfalls and contains one of the best preserved nature reserves. Each year from June to August, millions of azaleas are in blossom. To avoid the rainy season, the best time to travel Haba Snow Mountain is mid-March to June, mid-September to mid-December.

Useful Travel Tips

1. Best Time to Travel

April, May and June in the Gorge is the finest time for hiking Tiger Leaping Gorge with crisp air. September, October are the second best time to hike Tiger Leaping Gorge. June to August is the rainy season and the road is sloppy. Try to avoid the rainy season. After October the weather turns to cold, if you want to go, bring warm clothes.

2. What to Pack

Due to the mountainous steep and narrow road, a pair comfortable strong walking shoes are very necessary. Also pack light shirts and warm jacket. It is sunny, and gets hot easily because of hiking. While in the night, it is usually cold and windy. Before hiking, remember to pack with some water. An alpenstock is also necessary. You can also take a flashlight for the possible outage of electricity. A pair of gloves is helpful when passing some steep roads. Sun creams are MUST to prevent from the strong sunlight. Bring raincoat during the rainy season.

3. Accommodation Tips

There are many guest houses along the hiking trails, but the facilities are basic as this region is rural and far from cities. Convenient highways connect many villages. There are public washrooms, bathing room and hot water supply. The prices are ranging from 30 RMB to 200 RMB differing by facilities and location. Most guest house offer Chinese food. Some better guest houses also provide some basic western food and drinks.

4. Safety

Follow the high trail rather than the low trail. The high trail is no any problem for hiking. If you are independent travelers, try to find a local guide to go with you. They are experienced and know the way which will make you safe.

The Most Popular Tours Packages of Tiger Leaping Gorge

1 Day Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge Tour (Lijiang Part)
1 Day The Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge Tour (Shangri-La Part)
1 Day Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge Trekking Group Tour (Finishing in Lijiang or Shangri-La)
1 Day Tiger Leaping Gorge Highlight Hiking Tour from Bendiwan Village to Tina’s Hostel
2 Days Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Group Tour (Back to Lijiang from Hetaoyuan Village)
2 Days Tiger Leaping Gorge Trekking Tour with Daju Town and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
3 Days The First Bend of Yangtze River Rafting and Tiger Leaping Gorge Tour
3 Days Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tour From Qiaotou Town to Haba Village
4 Days Haba Snow Mountain Climbing Adventure with Tiger Leaping Gorge Tour
5 Days Lijiang City Tour with Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Adventure
6 Days Lijiang Hiking Tour around Tiger Leaping Gorge and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
7 Days Lijiang and Shangri-La Paradise Tour with Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Adventure
9 Days Kunming Dali Lijiang and Shangri-La Classic Tour with Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Adventure

Why is Dadenghan Dai Village So Special

The Daidenghan Dai Village is a Dai village in the south of Ruili. Dadenghan refers to “Big Golden Pond” or “Big Golden Lake” in Dai Language. The village is full of grapefruit trees, phoenix bamboos, and caryota urens(董棕). In the green forest, there are some stilt houses, which constitute a wonderful natural picture and is known as the “rural natural park”. It is one of the largest and most beautiful villages in Ruili.

Why is Huafo Mountain So Special

Huafo refers to “evolving into Buddha” in Chinese. Huafo Mountain is located in Mouding County in Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture. Huafo Mountain is one of the famous mountains for Buddhists congregation in Central Yunnan. The mountain stands there like a powerful lion, facing the east, striding forward with his chin up. 

Standing on the Mountain, visitors can enjoy themselves in the forest of nature. Various shapes of bamboos and plants can be seen here and there. Winding paths lead you up the mountain and there are streams going down from the mountain top. Temples and pagodas are also seen from a distance.  

Where is Huafo Mountain

Huafo Mountain is located in Mouding County, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is one of the famous mountains in Central Yunnan. 

How to Get There

After arriving at Mouding County, visitors can get to Huafo Mountain by taxi.

Best Time to Go

It is the best time to go to Huafo Mountain in the period from May to August. Because in this period, you will see the best scenery when you come to Huafo Mountain with azaleas all around the mountain.

Chinese Name:楚雄紫溪山
English Name: Zixi Mountain, Chuxiong

Chuxiong Zixi Mountain in Chuxiong City 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 Zixi Mountain in Chuxiong(楚雄紫溪山).

Located 15 kilometers west from the Deer City in Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture. Zixi Mountain, a provincial class scenic spot in Chuxiong includes Zixi Mountain and the Town of Deer, with an area of 850 km2.

Zixi Mountain is famed as “the first mountain in the central part of Yunnan” since ancient times. Contemporary specialists call it “the natural park”. within 160 square kilometers, there are thousands kind of plants, many kinds of animals and Buddhist buildings.

The park is a picturesque resort making tourists linger about. The green pine forest is stretching to heaven and the limpid streamlets are running through the mountain.

It is a nature protection area consisting of semi-humid evergreen broadleaf forest and Yunnan Pine forest mainly. It is the main water source for Chuxiong city for its forest coverage reaches 91%. There are more than 202 species of higher plants in 65 genus and over 107 species of animals. Actually, it’s a kingdom of plants and animals.

What’s more, it was once a gathering place for Buddhists. Lots of temples had been built so as to attract the bonzes to come and cultivate here. The Zixi Mountain also abounds with camellias. According to researches, the camellias were cultivated even 1000 years ago in the mountain. The camellias are the second to none in Yunnan in the varieties of the species and colors. Camellia in Yunnan exceeds all in China, and camellia in Zixi exceeds all in Yunnan as a saying goes.

With the altitude of 2000 meters, Zixi Mountain is considered as “the first mountain in the central part of Yunnan” since ancient times. It is considered to be the holy land for Buddhism even when it was in the Song Dynasty. There are thousands kind of plants, many kinds of animals and Buddhist buildings. Records say many famous historical hierarches had been cultivated them here. In the Ming and Qing Dynasty, Zixi became a famous Buddhism place. Today, there are 68 relics of Buddhism temples and 21 Buddhism towers remained here. The environment is quiet and the scenery picturesque too, with the green pine forest stretch to horizon, and red azalea decorated in it, limpid streamlets running through the mountain.

Plant
There are more than 202 species of higher plants in 65 genus and over 107 species of animals. Actually, it’s a world of plants and animals.

Camellia: 
The Zixi Mountain also abounds with camellia. According to the research, there were more than 60 camellia plants in the area which are believed to be cultivated 200 years ago in the mountain. The history of the cultivation, the variety of the species and the enrichment of the color of the camellia here are the second to none in Yunnan. There’s a saying: Camellia in Yunnan exceeds all in China, and camellia in Zixi exceeds all in Yunnan.

Torch Festival
There is a saying here says that if you don’t dance during the torch festival, it will remain a great pity in your life. From here we can figure out the importance of the local torch festival. Besides the open fire party, an activity name “carry bride” is also very interesting. 10 girls are chosen from the crowd to be the brides and covered with traditional red head shawls. 10 young men are also chosen from the crowds to be the bridegrooms. Then the brides and the grooms are asked to dance together for some time. Then, the brides are placed in a different order and the grooms are asked to find their original brides. Those who find out the correct one may carry her away. And those who fail to find the right one will be fined to make performance in public with their face covering with inks.    

Origin of famous flowers in Yunnan province£ºOf the eight most famous flowers in Yunnan Province (namely camellia, orchid, azalea, yulan, gentian, yingchun and green plush fungus), seven can find their origin here in Zixi Mountain.

How to get there:
Minibuses go form Chuxiong to Zixi every 30 minutes at the Hongqi Hotel and it is very convenient for the visitors. Tourist facilities are well developed in the Zixi Mountain area. You can spend about RMB 80 staying here for a day and a night. Communication will not be a problem since the telecom signals cover all the mountain areas here.

Tips:
1.One of the wonders in Zixi Mountain is the camellia cultivated more than 1000 years ago, which is believed to be the oldest one in China. It is called Tongzhimian, meaning “face of the child”, as two colors of flowers will bloom, first red, then white 2.Recommended time for a visit£ºA day and a night to enjoy the wild life 1.One of the wonders in Zixi Mountain is the camellia cultivated more than 1000 years ago, which is believed to be the oldest one in China. It is called Tongzhimian, meaning “face of the child”, as two colors of flowers will bloom, first red, then white 2.Recommended time for a visit£ºA day and a night to enjoy the wild life

Introduction

Jianshui Confucius Temple (建水文庙) is located in Jianshui County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It was first constructed in the 22nd year of the Yuan Dynasty’s Zhiyuan period (1285 AD), making it over 700 years old. Over the centuries, the temple has undergone more than 40 expansions and renovations. Covering an area of 114 acres, its current scale, architectural level, and preservation are second only to the Confucius Temples in Qufu (曲阜) and Beijing (北京).

Historical Background

The Jianshui Confucius Temple was built in accordance with the style of the Confucius Temple in Qufu (曲阜), with a palace-style layout centered along the north-south axis. Several independent buildings are symmetrically arranged on both the east and west sides. The original main buildings included a pool, two halls, two wings, two pavilions, three towers, four gates, five pavilions, five shrines, and eight plaques, totaling 37 buildings. Today, except for the destroyed Xingtan (杏坛), Shepu (射圃), Zunjing Pavilion (尊经阁), Wenxing Pavilion (文星阁), Jingyi Pavilion (敬一亭), and Zhaiting Pavilion (斋亭), the other 31 buildings have been well-preserved.

On June 25, 2001, the State Council of the People’s Republic of China designated Jianshui Confucius Temple as a national key cultural heritage site.

Geographical Location

• Location: Jianshui County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province

• Era: Ming (明), Qing (清)

• Area: 114 acres

• Protection Level: Fifth batch of National Key Cultural Heritage Sites

• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 18:00

• Approval: State Council of the People’s Republic of China

Architectural Layout

The Jianshui Confucius Temple follows the architectural style of Qufu Confucius Temple. The temple features a strictly regulated and magnificent layout with the central axis running from north to south. Covering an area of 114 acres (76,000 square meters) and with a depth of 625 meters, the temple is divided into six spatial sections. The main buildings include:

• One Pool (泮池)

• One Platform (杏坛)

• One Garden (射圃)

• Two Halls (大成殿, 崇圣殿)

• Two Wings (东庑, 西庑)

• Two Pavilions (东明伦堂, 西明伦堂)

• Three Towers (尊经阁, 奎文阁, 魁星阁)

• Four Gates (棂星门, 大成门, 金声门, 玉振门)

• Five Pavilions (敬一亭, 思乐亭, 斋宿亭, 西碑亭, 东碑亭)

• Six Shrines (仓圣祠, 忠义孝悌祠, 名宦祠, 崇圣祠, 景贤祠, 乡贤祠)

• Eight Plaques (太和元气坊, 洙泗渊源坊, 礼门坊, 义路坊, 道冠古今坊, 德配天地坊, 圣域由兹坊, 贤关近仰坊)

The temple’s layout is intricately designed, with a harmonious blend of dense and sparse arrangements, high and low levels.

Major Buildings

Pan Pool (泮池)

The Pan Pool, historically known as the “school pool,” is an essential feature of the Confucius Temple. The term “Pan” signifies the school’s grandeur, but people commonly call it the “Sea of Learning” (学海) to symbolize endless learning. Unlike the semi-circular pools in most Confucius Temples nationwide, Jianshui’s Pan Pool is uniquely elliptical and covers 45 acres (29,700 square meters), making it the largest and most distinctive of its kind in the country.

Zushi Yuan Source Plaque (洙泗渊源坊)

Located in the center of a crescent-shaped terrace, the Zushi Yuan Source Plaque is inscribed with the phrase “万世宗师” (“Master of All Generations”). “Zushi” refers to the two rivers, the Zushu and the Sishu, near Confucius’s birthplace. The plaque commemorates the profound and enduring influence of Confucianism. Built in the 43rd year of the Qianlong period (1778), this traditional five-opening, three-arch gate is made of wood and stone, with a total area of 180 square meters. The plaque is flanked by stone carvings of dragons, kylins, lions, and elephants.

Lingxing Gate (棂星门)

The Lingxing Gate, also known as the “Heavenly Field Star” (天田星), honors the star that governs the selection of scholarly talent. The gate’s unique feature is the four central pillars that protrude through the roof, rising more than two meters above the roofline. These pillars are adorned with blue-and-white porcelain from the Yuan Dynasty. The gate is a three-bay single-eave structure rebuilt in the 50th year of the Qianlong period (1785). The roof is covered with green tiles, and the structure is 14.6 meters wide, 3.6 meters deep, and 6.8 meters high.

Kuixing Pavilion and Wenchang Pavilion (魁星阁, 文昌阁)

On the east and west sides of the garden stand the Kuixing Pavilion and Wenchang Pavilion. Kuixing, one of the twenty-eight constellations, is responsible for the examination of scholars, while Wenchang symbolizes the prosperity of education. The Wenchang Pavilion is a two-tiered, double-eaved, gable-and-pitch roof structure, rebuilt during the 13th year of the Yongzheng period (1735). It houses the statue of Wenchang Dijun, the ancient Chinese deity who governs success in exams and career.

Xingtan (杏坛)

The Xingtan is said to be the site where Confucius taught his disciples. Originally built during the Yuan Dynasty, it was destroyed and later rebuilt in 2000. The current structure is a three-bay single-eave pavilion with a height of 10.3 meters and a width of 7.12 meters. The pavilion is surrounded by stone railings, each adorned with traditional Chinese auspicious patterns. Inside, the pavilion features exquisite carvings of dragons, phoenixes, and flowers.

Jinsheng and Yuzhen Gates (金声玉振门)

The Jinsheng and Yuzhen Gates, built in the 18th year of the Jiaqing period (1813), are named after the praise for Confucius by Mencius, who said, “The sound of gold begins the order; the sound of jade finishes it.” These gates represent the progression of Confucian teachings. The two gates are each 5.3 meters wide, 5.3 meters deep, and 5.8 meters high, with blue-tiled roofs.

Dacheng Gate (大成门)

Rebuilt during the 18th year of the Jiaqing period (1813), the Dacheng Gate is a three-bay, single-eave structure with a tiled roof. It is 13.31 meters wide, 5.5 meters deep, and 7.4 meters high. The gate is an imposing structure, and the phrase “Dacheng” (大成) refers to Confucius’s concept of achieving the highest moral and intellectual accomplishment.

Xianshi Temple (先师庙)

Also known as the Dacheng Hall, the Xianshi Temple is the main hall where sacrifices to Confucius are made. The hall’s three gold characters “Xianshi Miao” (先师庙) were written by Wang Wenzhi, a calligrapher during the Qing Dynasty. Supported by 28 large columns, the hall features intricate carvings and a roof decorated with yellow glazed tiles. The hall is a five-bay structure with a deep interior, measuring 26.95 meters in width and 18.5 meters in depth. The hall is adorned with detailed carvings, including images of dragons, birds, and auspicious symbols.

Historical and Cultural Heritage

The Jianshui Confucius Temple (建水文庙) is a cornerstone in the study of Confucianism in southern Yunnan, earning the city the accolades of “Famous Literary State,” “Southern Yunnan’s Zoulu,” “Poetry and Calligraphy County,” and “State of Ritual and Music.” The temple’s role in “educating and transforming” has shaped the glorious cultural history of ancient Jianshui, significantly influencing the development of politics, economy, culture, religion, and architecture in southern Yunnan over a period of seven centuries. The Confucius Temple has become an essential part of the cultural heritage that underpins Jianshui’s status as a national historical and cultural city, with its rich historical deposits and profound cultural connotations.

Banyan-Cypress Symbiosis Tree

The Banyan-Cypress Symbiosis Tree, locally known as “Wan General Holding Bai Xian Bai” (万将军抱白小姐), is a unique and famous tree in the temple’s vicinity. According to legend, General Wan returned from a long military campaign and was reunited with Bai Xian Bai, a lady he deeply loved. Overcome with joy, they embraced tightly, vowing never to be apart. The tree symbolizes this vow, where Bai Xian Bai, a small-leafed Banyan tree, lovingly holds the ancient and sturdy Cypress tree. Over time, the two trees grew intertwined, with their branches and leaves interwoven, symbolizing eternal love. In reality, it is a robust, ancient Cypress tree embraced by a small-leafed Banyan tree, forming a unique spectacle in nature.

Cultural Relics Value

The Jianshui Confucius Temple is an important historical and architectural site for the study of Confucian culture in Yunnan Province and even across China. The “East Corridor of Steles” (东碑廊) houses the imperial edict from Emperor Wuzong of the Yuan Dynasty, which posthumously awarded Confucius the title “Great Sage and Literature King” (大成至圣文宣王) in 1308. This corridor also contains over thirty stone inscriptions from various dynasties, documenting repairs to the academy, temple landholdings, and sacrificial rites. The “West Corridor of Steles” (西碑廊) preserves inscriptions from the Ming and Qing dynasties, including scholarly examinations and moral governance steles, as well as local historical records and teachings from Confucian classics such as the Four Maxims of Chengzi (程子四箴). These stele inscriptions are highly valuable for academic and historical research, particularly for the study of ancient borderland culture and education.

Preservation Measures

In March 1983, the Jianshui Confucius Temple was designated as the first batch of county-level cultural heritage protection units in Jianshui County (建水县).

In January 1984, the temple was listed as a provincial-level cultural heritage protection unit.

On June 25, 2001, the Jianshui Confucius Temple was declared a National Key Cultural Heritage Protection Unit by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.

Tourist Information

Location

The Jianshui Confucius Temple is located in Jianshui County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province.

Address:
268 Lin’an Road, Jianshui County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province.

Transportation Information

• By Train:
  Take a train to Lin’an, then transfer to a long-distance bus to Jianshui. After arriving, you can walk or take a taxi to the scenic area (taxi fare is approximately 5 yuan).

• By Car:

1. From Kunming or Yuxi:
   Take the Kunming-Mo Highway → S304 or S214 → Cui Da Line to Tongjian Expressway, exit at Jianshui Toll Station → Yinghui Road → Lin’an Road.

2. From Honghe:
   Take Honghe Avenue → Jishi Expressway → Jianshui Interchange → Tongjian Expressway, exit at Jianshui Toll Station → Yinghui Road → Lin’an Road.

3. From Pu’er:
   Take Kunming-Mo Highway → Tianhou Expressway → Jishi Expressway → Jianshui Interchange → Tongjian Expressway, exit at Jianshui Toll Station → Yinghui Road → Lin’an Road.

Ticket Information

• Recommended Visit Duration: 2 hours

• Opening Hours: 08:00 AM – 06:00 PM

• Ticket Price:
  Combined ticket for Confucius Temple, Zhu Family Garden, and Swallow Cave: 133 yuan per person.
  Adult single ticket: 60 yuan.
  Children’s ticket: 30 yuan.

Why is Pianma Anti-British Monument and Museum So Special?

Covering an area of 950 square metres, with a height of 20 meters, Pianma Anti-British Monument, consists of 3 swords and 3 shields, meaning the great unity of Han, Lisu and Nu people to fight against British troops. 

Where is Pianma Anti-British Monument and Museum – Location

It is located in Pianma Town of Lushui County, Nujiang Prefecture, Yunnan. 

History and Culture

After swallowing up Myanmar in 1986, British Empire tried to invade China. British Empire imposed a series of unequal treaties upon China during Guangxu 12 years of Qing Dynasty(A.D. 1886). British troops occupied Pianma area in Xuantong year (A.D. 1910, December 26th ), making use of the ignorance of the officials sent by Qing government, they forced Qing government to divide line with Gaoligongshan Mountain in the unequal treaty.

Local ethnic people struggled against strong resistance in the crisis of Pianma, they united an army made up of Lisu, Nu, Jingpo and Dulong ethnic group, which is equipped with Suoyi (蓑衣), crossbow, broadsword, and spear to fight against British invaders in the primitive forest. They gave a hard hit to the troops, the latter fled to Gulang(古浪). This army was called “Suoyi Soldiers(蓑衣兵)” by the local people. The news spread across the whole country, Yunnan provincial official and Qing government raised a protest against British Empire, ordered all the villages to organize a civil corps to combat with British. The civil corps equipped with crossbow and broadsword, named “Crossbow Soldiers(弩弓队)”, then they joined with“Suoyi Soldiers(蓑衣兵)”. They attacked enemies at night, poisoned them and cut their water supply, so as to compel the British to have a meeting with China, admitting that Pianma(片马), Gulang(古浪), and Gangfang(岗房) is part of China. After the Revolution of 1911, a patriotic general of Yunnan Army, Li Genyuan(李根源), lead troops to station troops in Nujiang, breaking the conspiracy of British invaders.

In 1960, China and Myanmar signed a treaty on the land border between the two sides, Pianma finally returned to motherland. When Hu Yaobang(胡耀邦同志) made an inspection tour in Pianma, he thought highly of the spirit of resistance among the local ethnic group, meanwhile, he suggested to build a monument, and inscribed for the monument ”片马人民抗英胜利纪念碑”.

Pianma Museum

Apart from the special nature in the Gaoligong mountain range, Pianma has two small museum dedicated to historic events in the area. Pianma Museum is a famous WWII Museum in Pianma, Yunnan.

The Nujiang Tuofeng Aerial Line Memorial Hall housing “CNAC #53” the rebuild Douglas C53 of the China National Aviation Corporation which took part in the “Hump” flights to transports war supplies to and from China.

The “Pianma Anti British Victory museum” dedicated to the border dispute between colonial Britain and China known as the Pianma Event.

How to Get there

We can take a local mini-bus at Liuku Bus Station to Pianma, around 100 KM. It’s 580km from Kunming to Liuku. Express and sleeper buses leaving from Kunming daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, 13hrs ride. There are also buses from Dali(8hrs) and Baoshan(4hrs) to Liuku. Or take the bus to Lushui and then transfer to Pianma County.

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