Baya Zhongzhai Village of Jinuo Ethnic Town in Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna

Bayazhongzhai Village (巴亚中寨村) is located in the northern part of Jinuo Township (基诺族乡), Jinghong City (景洪市), Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (西双版纳傣族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is situated 8 kilometers from the village committee and 14 kilometers from the township government. Bayazhongzhai is a historic village where generations of the Jinuo ethnic group (基诺族) have lived.

History and Culture

The Jinuo people (基诺族) were the last ethnic group officially recognized in China. They mainly reside in Jinuo Mountain Township (基诺山乡), Jinghong City (景洪市), Xishuangbanna (西双版纳). Their ancestors have long lived in the Youle Mountain (攸乐山) region, which is one of the six famous ancient tea mountains in China and a historical source of Pu’er tea. In 2013, Bayazhongzhai Village (巴亚中寨村) was listed as one of the second batch of traditional Chinese villages with significant protection value.

Local Customs

The Jinuo people (基诺族) have a rich and unique culture, featuring traditional performances such as the Jinuo Drum Dance (基诺大鼓舞) and bamboo musical instruments like the “Qike Ami” (奇科阿咪). The “Temaoke” Festival (特懋克节) is one of their most important cultural celebrations. Their traditional diet is based on wild ingredients from the mountains, with signature dishes such as Winter Melon Chicken Stew (冬瓜煮鸡), typically slow-cooked in bamboo tubes.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Bayazhongzhai Village (巴亚中寨村) is located at an elevation of 900 meters. It enjoys a mild climate with an annual average temperature of 18–20°C and an annual rainfall of about 1400 mm. The best time to visit is from November to April when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Suggested Visit Time

Jinuo Ethnic Cultural Village (基诺民俗山寨):
Located between Wild Elephant Valley (野象谷) and the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden in Menglun (勐仑植物园), this village in Bapo Village (巴坡村), Jinuo Township (基诺乡), showcases the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Jinuo people.
Recommended time: 2–3 hours.

Bayazhongzhai Village (巴亚中寨村):
Take a stroll through the winding paths of the village, admire the traditional Jinuo stilted houses, and soak in the rich ethnic atmosphere.
Recommended time: 1–2 hours.

Transportation

From Jinghong City (景洪市), travel by road to Jinuo Township (基诺族乡) and continue to Bayazhongzhai Village (巴亚中寨村). The total distance is about 23 kilometers. Local rural buses and taxis are available.

Cuisine

Bayazhongzhai Village (巴亚中寨村) offers delicious dishes featuring Jinuo ethnic flavors. Recommended dishes include:

  • Winter Melon Chicken Stew (冬瓜煮鸡): A signature Jinuo dish, slow-cooked in bamboo.
  • Stir-fried Preserved Meat with Wild Flowers (火烧花炒腊肉): A specialty made with edible wild blossoms.

Shopping

Local specialties such as Pu’er tea (普洱茶) and handcrafted souvenirs are available at the village markets.

Accommodation

Bayazhongzhai Village (巴亚中寨村) has a few homestays and guesthouses with basic amenities. For higher comfort, hotels in Jinghong City (景洪市) are recommended.

Travel Tips

  • Respect the local customs and traditions, especially when visiting ethnic villages.
  • When exploring mountainous areas, be mindful of insect bites and carry protective gear.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Bayazhongzhai Village (巴亚中寨村), check in to your homestay, and visit the Jinuo Ethnic Cultural Village (基诺民俗山寨) to experience traditional Jinuo culture.
Day 2: Take a relaxing walk through Bayazhongzhai Village (巴亚中寨村), admire traditional Jinuo architecture, and enjoy the local ambiance.
Day 3: Shop for local specialties at the village market, then conclude your journey.

Bayazhongzhai Village (巴亚中寨村) is a captivating destination that combines breathtaking natural scenery with vibrant ethnic culture. Here, you can immerse yourself in borderland charm and experience the traditional lifestyle of one of China’s most unique minority groups. May your journey in Bayazhongzhai Village be an unforgettable one.