Xiangyun Old Town in Dali
Overview
Xiangyun Old Town (Xiangyun Gu Cheng, 祥云古城), previously known as Yunnan City (云南城) and Erhai Wei City (洱海卫城), derives its name from the Han dynasty tale “Cai Yun Nan Xian” (彩云南现). Archaeological findings from Qinghua Cave (清华洞) in 1962, including stone axes, stone chisels, pottery, and charcoal remnants, indicate that humans have inhabited this land since the Neolithic period. Established as Yunnan Prefecture in the third year of the Jianxing era of the Shu Han dynasty, it served as a political, economic, and cultural hub in Northwestern Yunnan for over 300 years.
The ancient city of Yunnan, now known as Xiangyun Old Town, was founded in the 15th year of the Hongwu era of the Ming dynasty (明洪武15年), designed in a square layout resembling a large seal. The bell and drum tower (钟鼓楼) serves as the central axis, harmonizing with the surrounding geography, including Phoenix Mountain (凤凰山) to the east and Wolong Mountain (卧龙山) to the west. The city walls are built of bricks and stones, featuring over a thousand defensive battlements and surrounded by a moat, with gates named Zhenyangmen (镇阳门), Zhenhaimen (镇海门), Qingpingmen (清平门), and Renhemen (仁和门). Inside the city, five streets and thirteen alleys accommodate numerous ancient buildings, including official residences, temples, clan halls, and traditional homes.
Other Names
- Xiangyun County Ancient District (祥云县古城区)
- Qinghua Cave Ancient Town Tourism Area (清华洞古镇旅游区)
Location
- Belongs to: Xiangyun County (祥云县), Dali Prefecture (大理州), Yunnan Province (云南省)
- Built: 15th year of Hongwu, Ming Dynasty
- Cultural Heritage: Eastern city gate and bell drum tower are key protected cultural relics.
History of Xiangyun Old Town
Xiangyun Old Town, originally known as Yunnan City and Erhai Wei City, was a true “Ancient Yunnan City,” constructed during the Han and Tang dynasties and completed in the Yuan and Ming dynasties. The city embodies rich historical significance and cultural heritage, reflecting its importance as a regional center.
Scale and Design
Xiangyun Old Town is laid out in a square seal shape. The design harmonizes with the surrounding hills, symbolizing a connection to nature. The central bell and drum tower stands as a focal point where the town’s main streets converge, adorned with inscriptions reflecting its cultural essence. The city’s architecture, featuring ancient stone walls and elegant buildings, conveys the fusion of Central Plains culture and Southern Yao culture, making it a unique example of Han Chinese urban design in a region dominated by ethnic minorities.
Cultural Heritage Protection
Xiangyun County’s Eastern City Gate and the bell and drum tower have been designated as key cultural relics by the Yunnan Provincial Government since December 18, 2003.
Eastern City Gate (东城门)
The Eastern City Gate is part of the Ming dynasty Erhai Wei City, built in 1382 under the direction of the military commander Zhou Neng. It remains a critical site for studying the Ming dynasty’s architectural and urban planning.
Bell and Drum Tower (钟鼓楼)
The bell and drum tower stands prominently in the town center, constructed in 1386. Its exquisite design features a four-story structure with intricately designed roof eaves. The tower serves as a historical marker, connecting four main streets and reflecting the architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Current Situation
In recent years, Xiangyun County has focused on urban development while emphasizing the protection of historical sites. The balance between preserving the old town’s character and fostering modern growth has resulted in a vibrant community with a greening coverage rate of 27.85%.
Travel Information
How to Get There
- By Air: The nearest airport is Dali Airport (大理机场), which offers flights from major cities.
- By Train: High-speed trains connect Kunming (昆明) to Dali, followed by local transportation to Xiangyun.
- By Road: Buses and taxis are available from Dali and surrounding areas.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The spring and autumn months offer mild weather and beautiful scenery.
- Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, especially when visiting temples and historical sites.
- Local Cuisine: Try local delicacies in the ancient streets; don’t miss out on traditional Yunnan dishes.
- Safety: Be cautious in crowded areas and secure personal belongings.
