Wanyao Village of Ningzhou Subdistrict in Huaning County, Yuxi
Wanyao Village (碗窑村) is located in Shangcun Community (上村社区), Ningzhou Subdistrict (宁州街道), Huaning County (华宁县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province. Nestled at the foot of Huagai Mountain (华盖山) to the northwest of Huaning County’s urban center, it is the birthplace of Huaning Pottery (华宁陶). The village is approximately 15 kilometers from the Ningzhou Subdistrict Office and 53 kilometers from the Yuxi municipal government.
History and Culture
Wanyao Village (碗窑村) was established during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty in 1396. It was founded by Che Peng (车朋), a potter from Jingdezhen (景德镇), Jiangxi Province, who settled here and built kilns to produce ceramics. Since then, the Huaning pottery industry has flourished. The name “Wanyao” (碗窑) literally means “bowl kiln,” reflecting its ceramic-making heritage. With a history of over 600 years, it was once a major ceramic production hub in central Yunnan, with products distributed across various regions.
Folk Customs
Wanyao Village (碗窑村) retains many ceramic cultural traditions. Every year, from the 8th to the 15th day of the second lunar month, local kiln owners and workers gather at the Kiln God Temple (窑神庙) to pray for prosperity in the pottery business. The village also observes the custom of “Kiln Street Fair” (赶窑街), during which visitors can try their hand at pottery techniques such as mixing materials and wheel throwing. There are also dragon kiln opening events and live auctions.
Climate and Best Visiting Seasons
Wanyao Village (碗窑村) enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with an average annual temperature of around 16°C. The climate is mild and pleasant, with four distinct seasons. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is comfortable and the natural scenery is at its most stunning.
Recommended Attractions and Suggested Duration
Ancient Dragon Kiln:
Explore the historic dragon kiln and learn about traditional Huaning pottery firing techniques.
Suggested visiting time: 1–2 hours
Ceramic Culture Exhibition Center:
Showcasing the history and craftsmanship of Huaning ceramics, ideal for pottery enthusiasts.
Suggested visiting time: 1 hour
Surrounding Natural Scenery:
The natural environment around Wanyao Village (碗窑村) is picturesque, perfect for hiking and photography.
Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hours
Transportation
Public Transport:
Take a local bus within Huaning County (华宁县) to Ningzhou Subdistrict (宁州街道), then transfer to local transport to reach Wanyao Village (碗窑村).
Self-Drive:
From Huaning County (华宁县) town, follow road signs to Wanyao Village (碗窑村). The total distance is about 15 kilometers.
Local Cuisine
Local dishes feature specialties of Huaning (华宁), including yogurt bread (酸奶面包), papaya drink (木瓜水), Huaning oranges (华宁柑桔), and Yuxi tobacco leaves (玉溪烟叶).
Shopping
Wanyao Village (碗窑村) offers numerous ceramic craft shops where visitors can purchase locally made pottery products.
Accommodation
Local Farm Stays:
Provide lodging services with a chance to experience local rural life.
Nearby Hotels:
Hotels in Huaning County (华宁县) town are conveniently located and easily accessible from Wanyao Village (碗窑村).
Visitor Tips
Environmental Protection:
Please be mindful of the environment—do not litter during your visit.
Respect Local Customs:
When participating in folk activities, please respect local cultural traditions and customs.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1:
- Morning: Arrive in Wanyao Village (碗窑村), visit the Ancient Dragon Kiln (古龙窑) and learn about Huaning pottery.
- Noon: Enjoy local specialty dishes.
- Afternoon: Visit the Ceramic Culture Exhibition Center (陶瓷文化展示中心) to learn more about the history and craftsmanship of Huaning ceramics.
- Evening: Check into a local farm stay for rest.
Day 2:
- Morning: Shop for local handmade souvenirs in the village center.
- Noon: Have lunch at the farm stay.
- Afternoon: Return to Huaning County (华宁县) or Yuxi City (玉溪市), ending the tour.
Wanyao Village (碗窑村) attracts numerous visitors with its distinctive ceramic heritage and vibrant local traditions. Whether you’re wandering through the ancient village or getting hands-on with pottery-making, you’ll experience the charm and history of this unique destination. We hope your visit to Wanyao Village (碗窑村) will be an unforgettable journey.
