Datan Village in Yuanjiang County, Yuxi
Datan Village (大滩村) is located in Yuanjiang Hani, Yi and Dai Autonomous County (元江哈尼族彝族傣族自治县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province. It lies in the upper and middle reaches of the Yuanjiang River, bordering Shiping County (石屏县) to the east, Honghe County (红河县) to the south, Mojiang County (墨江县) to the west, and Xinping County (新平县) to the north. Yuanjiang County enjoys convenient transportation and is an important node along the Kunming–Bangkok International Corridor. Major routes like the China-Laos Railway and G8511 Kunming–Mohan Expressway pass through the area.
History and Culture
Yuanjiang County is an autonomous county with Hani, Yi, and Dai as its main ethnic groups. It boasts a long history and vibrant ethnic culture. The region around Datan Village (大滩村) is known for its cultural diversity, where different ethnic groups live in harmony. This has fostered a colorful array of traditions, such as the Hani people’s Palm Fan Dance (哈尼族棕扇舞) and the Yi people’s “Ali” (彝族“阿哩”).
Local Customs
Datan Village and its surrounding areas are home to various ethnic minorities, offering rich and colorful folk customs. Visitors can experience traditional lifestyles of the Dai, Hani, and other ethnic groups, including their unique architectural styles, clothing, cuisine, and festivals.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Yuanjiang County has a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct vertical climate zones. The mountainous areas are cool with an average annual temperature of 14.4°C, while the valleys are hot, with an average annual temperature of 23.9°C and no frost year-round. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities.
Recommended Attractions and Suggested Visiting Time
Datan Village (大滩村): Experience ethnic culture and traditional lifestyles. Suggested visit time: 2–3 hours.
Yuanjiang Honghe Valley World’s Highest Bridge (元江红河谷世界第一高桥): Admire the blend of modern engineering and natural scenery. Suggested visit time: 1–2 hours.
Nanuo Hani Cloud Sea Terraces (那诺哈尼云海梯田): Marvel at the spectacular terraced fields and the farming culture of the Hani people. Suggested visit time: 2 hours.
Transportation
Self-Drive: From Kunming, drive along the Kunming–Mohan Expressway. The total distance is about 220 kilometers, taking around 3 hours.
Public Transport: Take a long-distance bus to Yuanjiang County, then transfer to local buses or taxis to reach Datan Village.
Local Cuisine
Yuanjiang County is known for its ethnic cuisine, such as Dai-style barbecue, bamboo rice, and sour soup fish. In addition, tropical fruits like Yuanjiang mangoes and dragon fruit are worth trying.
Shopping
In both Yuanjiang County and Datan Village, you can buy ethnic-themed souvenirs, such as Dai brocade (傣锦) and traditional Dai clothing (傣族服饰).
Accommodation
Yuanjiang Grand Hotel (元江大酒店): Located at No. 2 Hongqi Road, Yuanjiang County. Offers a pleasant environment and convenient transportation.
Local Farmstays: Experience rural life and enjoy home-cooked meals.
Travel Tips
- Respect the customs and traditions of local ethnic minorities.
- Protect the environment and avoid littering.
- During festival seasons, visitor numbers may increase, so it is advisable to book accommodation and transportation in advance.
Itinerary Suggestions
Day 1: Arrive in Yuanjiang County, check in to your hotel, explore the county, and enjoy the local nightlife.
Day 2: Visit Datan Village to explore ethnic communities, experience traditional lifestyles, and taste ethnic cuisine.
Day 3: Visit the Yuanjiang Honghe Valley World’s Highest Bridge or other attractions, then return to the county and conclude your trip.
Datan Village (大滩村) is a destination rich in ethnic charm, with cuisine, culture, and natural landscapes all waiting to be explored. We hope this travel guide helps you better plan your journey and enjoy the beauty and hospitality of Yuanjiang (元江).
