Ximuchi Village of Dianzhong Town in Eshan County, Yuxi
Qimuchi Village (栖木墀村) is located in Xiaodianzhong Village Committee (小甸中村委会), Dianzhong Town (甸中镇), Eshan County (峨山县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province. It is an ancient village situated along a historical trade route between Northeast Yunnan and Southwest Yunnan. The village is 43 kilometers from Shuangjiang Street (双江街道) in Eshan County and 4 kilometers from the Dianzhong Town government center, with convenient transportation.
History and Culture
Qimuchi Village (栖木墀村) was formed during the early Qing Dynasty and has a history of over 400 years. It was once a vital stop on the Tea-Horse Road connecting Northeast and Southwest Yunnan during the Qing and Republican periods. The village preserves 43 engraved scripture printing blocks dating back to the Tongzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty, including texts such as Nishan Baochan (尼山宝忏) and Ganying Zunjing (感应尊经). In 2016, the village was listed in the fourth batch of China’s Traditional Villages, and in 2019, it was named one of the third batch of “Characteristic Villages of Ethnic Minorities in China.”
Folk Customs
Qimuchi Village (栖木墀村) is home to Yi (彝族), Hani (哈尼族), and Han (汉族) ethnic groups, with a rich and diverse folk culture. Since the Qing Dynasty, the village has hosted cultural activities such as flower festivals, lantern festivals, fighting events, dragon worship, and the unique “Welcoming Grandfather (接爷爷)” ritual, known for its lively atmosphere. The village is also known for its long history of woodworking and architectural craftsmanship.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Qimuchi Village (栖木墀村) enjoys a mild climate with distinct seasons. The annual average temperature is around 15°C, and rainfall is abundant. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.
Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time
Traditional Residential Architecture
Qimuchi Village (栖木墀村) preserves more than ten traditional courtyard houses that are over 100 years old. These buildings feature elegant, time-honored designs that reflect the architectural traditions of central Yunnan.
Recommended visiting time: 1–2 hours
Guandi Temple
Built during the Xianfeng reign of the Qing Dynasty, the Guandi Temple (关公庙) is one of the village’s most iconic landmarks. It is architecturally exquisite and holds high historical and academic value.
Recommended visiting time: 1 hour
Surrounding Natural Scenery
The village is surrounded by mountains and rivers, with terraced fields and serene flowing streams, making it an ideal destination for hiking and photography.
Recommended visiting time: 2–3 hours
Transportation
Public Transport
Take a local bus within Eshan County (峨山县) to Dianzhong Town (甸中镇), then transfer to local transportation to reach Qimuchi Village (栖木墀村).
Self-Drive
Drive from Eshan County (峨山县) and follow road signs toward Qimuchi Village (栖木墀村); the entire journey is about 43 kilometers.
Cuisine
Local cuisine in Qimuchi Village (栖木墀村) focuses on Yi ethnic specialties such as eel, free-range chicken, tofu sausage, and cured meats. Unique local dishes also include wild bitter flowers and pickled bean shoots.
Shopping
Shopping is centered in the village center, where you’ll find local handmade crafts and agricultural products such as embroidery, bamboo weaving, and specialty foods.
Accommodation
Local Homestays
Offer basic lodging and a chance to experience authentic rural life.
Nearby Hotels
Hotels in Eshan County (峨山县) are conveniently located near the village and offer comfortable lodging.
Travel Tips
- Environmental Protection: Please protect the environment and do not litter during your visit.
- Respect Local Customs: When participating in cultural activities, be respectful of local traditions and practices.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning: Arrive in Qimuchi Village (栖木墀村), explore traditional residential buildings and learn about local architectural heritage.
- Noon: Enjoy local specialty cuisine.
- Afternoon: Visit Guandi Temple (关公庙) and admire its ancient charm.
- Evening: Stay at a local homestay.
Day 2
- Morning: Explore the surrounding natural scenery; enjoy hiking and photography.
- Noon: Lunch at a homestay.
- Afternoon: Return to Eshan County (峨山县) or Yuxi City (玉溪市), end of the tour.
Qimuchi Village (栖木墀村) attracts visitors with its unique natural scenery and rich historical and cultural heritage. Whether you’re strolling through the ancient village or admiring the surrounding landscape, you’ll be immersed in the village’s distinctive charm. We hope you enjoy a memorable journey in Qimuchi Village.
