Yunnanyi Ancient Town, located 20 kilometers from Xiangyun County at an altitude of 1,980 meters, is a historical treasure nestled in a scenic dam area. Once the most important and prosperous hub on the Tea Horse Ancient Road, it played a crucial role in the Southwest Silk Road, an essential trade route in the post road system in ancient China. This ancient town is where diverse transportation modes—caravan, road, pipeline, and air—converged, making it a living testament to the evolution of human transport history.
Announced as a national-level historical and cultural village, Yunnanyi was also included in the first batch of traditional Chinese villages. The town is home to numerous historical relics and boasts rich cultural heritage, with unique geographical and cultural significance. Its legacy provides immense value for future generations, preserving a deep connection to the past and offering a fascinating glimpse into the history of human development and trade.
History
The name Yunnanyi Ancient Town comes from both historical tales and the evolution of place names. Its origins date back to the second year of Yuanfeng in the Western Han Dynasty (109 BC), when Emperor Wu of Han, inspired by a dream of vibrant clouds in the south, established Yunnan County in this area. During the Yuan Dynasty, a courier station was set up here to facilitate communication.
In 1384, the 17th year of the Hongwu period in the Ming Dynasty, the county seat was relocated to Erhai Wei City (present-day Xiangyun County), and Yunnanyi continued to serve as an important courier station, preserving its historical role in the region. This rich history and its association with transportation and trade have shaped the town’s unique identity.
Baima Temple
Nestled on Baima Temple Mountain, Baima Temple is named after the revered General Bai Ma. It was originally established during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty. While the original structure was destroyed over time, the current temple was rebuilt in the 1980s by local villagers who raised funds to honor General Bai Ma. The main hall of the temple faces west to east and stands as the highest point in Yunnanyi Ancient Town.
During the War of Resistance Against Japan, the temple served as an anti-aircraft position for artillery units. Today, it remains an important cultural landmark, attracting hundreds and thousands of pilgrims each year on the fourth day of the first lunar month for the temple fair.
Entrance to Yunnanyi Ancient Town
The entrance to Yunnanyi Ancient Town is marked by an iconic pavilion and memorial archway, setting the tone for the historical journey ahead. Adjacent to the parking lot, visitors can also find an ancient airplane landing site, adding a unique layer of history to the area before entering the town.
Yunnanyi Tea Horse Ancient Road
The Yunnanyi Tea Horse Ancient Road stretches over 1,700 meters, passing directly through the village. With a width of 3.5 meters, the road is entirely paved with blue-stone slabs, preserving its historical integrity and ancient charm. This trade route, once vital for the transportation of tea and horses, has deep cultural significance. Not only did it facilitate commerce, but it also played a crucial role in cultural exchange and the integration of various ethnic groups across regions. The ancient road is a living testament to the region’s rich heritage and its role in shaping the area’s historical landscape.
Cen Gong Memorial Temple
Originally established as a courier station, the Cen Gong Memorial Temple was constructed during the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty. The current structure, built in traditional style, features a single-eave cliff roof, compact yet functional design, and a spacious courtyard surrounded by high, imposing walls. This early Qing Dynasty building was once the residence of governor Cen Yuying, a high-ranking official responsible for both military and civilian affairs during the Xianfeng period of the Qing Dynasty. The temple stands as a significant historical site, reflecting the strategic importance of the region and the legacy of its military and administrative leadership.
Yunnan Caravan Culture Museum
The Yunnan Caravan Culture Museum was once a grand horse shop capable of hosting caravans with over 300 horses. Recently renovated, now it serves as a vibrant museum dedicated to showcasing the rich caravan culture. Visitors can explore the lifestyle of caravans, learn about their languages to communicate with horses and other caravans, and gain insight into the idea of the way caravans live, especially in trade and cultural exchanges along the ancient trade routes.
Guo Family Courtyard
Constructed in the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China, the Guo Family Courtyard covers 339 square meters and is a classic two-level courtyard house with a unique structure, meaning a horse get on from one side of the building is able to get down from other side without turning its body. Its small blue tile roof, heavy eaves, and wooden structure give it a unique architectural charm.
During the War of Resistance Against Japan, it was repurposed as the command center for the Allied forces. Today, it stands as a memorial hall to the Sino-Indian-Burma War Zone of World War II, displaying over 100 WWII artifacts preserved by the locals of Yunnanyi. Many of these items, such as hand-cranked electric generators and telephones, remain in remarkable condition and serve as poignant reminders of the wartime era.
Street Crossing Buildings
In ancient times, to protect against theft, banditry, and wild animals, wealthy villages and towns built street crossing buildings at key intersections. These unique structures were elevated slightly above surrounding shops and houses, offering a strategic vantage point for surveillance. In April 1936, the Red Army led by He Long, Ren Bishi, and Guan Xiangying passed through these ancient streets, marking a significant historical moment for the town.
Image Sources: People’s Government of Xiangyun County, Xiangyun County Cultural and Tourism Bureau, Xiangyun County Integrated Media Center,wikipedia
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