Dayanzi Cliff Painting in Mile City, Honghe
Overview
Dayanzi Cliff Painting (大岩子崖画, Dàyánzi Yáhuà) is an ancient rock art site located approximately 1 kilometer south of Gaodian Village (高甸村, Gāodiàn Cūn) in Mile City (弥勒市, Mílè Shì), part of Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州, Hónghé Hānízú Yízú Zìzhìzhōu), Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán Shěng). The cliff rises 25 meters high and stretches over 70 meters in length. Discovered in November 1986, the cliff paintings contain a central image measuring 1.5 meters in height and 3 meters in length, positioned 2 meters above the ground.
Description
The Dayanzi Cliff Painting features a diverse array of 46 identifiable figures, predominantly human figures, with animals and other symbols appearing as well. Notably, one figure is depicted as particularly tall and adorned with tail decorations. Another figure has a hollow triangular head, characterized by bold lines, which may indicate its significance, possibly as a leader or shaman.
Artistic Techniques
The painting employs pigments made from a blend of red iron ore powder (赤铁矿粉, Chì Tiě Kuàng Fěn) mixed with animal blood, showcasing ancient artistic techniques. The style and methods used in these paintings are similar to those found at Jinzidong (金子洞, Jīnzǐ Dòng), highlighting a shared cultural heritage in rock art across the region.
Historical Significance
The Dayanzi Cliff Painting not only serves as an artistic expression but also provides valuable insights into the lives, beliefs, and social structures of ancient communities in the area. The themes depicted suggest a connection to rituals, social hierarchies, and the natural environment, contributing to the understanding of the cultural evolution of the region.
Accessibility
How to Get There
To visit Dayanzi Cliff Painting, travelers can start from Kunming (昆明, Kūnmíng). Regular bus services run from Kunming to Mile City, and from there, visitors can take local transport or rent bicycles to reach Gaodian Village. The cliff painting site is a short hike from the village.
Travel Tips
- Transportation: Consider taking an overnight bus from Kunming to save time. Once in Mile City, local taxis or rental bikes are convenient for reaching the site.
- Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit are during the dry season, from October to April. This period offers pleasant weather and clearer views.
- Photography: While capturing the beauty of the cliff paintings is encouraged, be mindful of any restrictions to preserve the site’s integrity. Early morning or late afternoon light provides ideal conditions for photography.
- Local Cuisine: Explore the local food scene in Mile City, famous for dishes like “Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles” (过桥米线, Guò Qiáo Mǐxiàn) and Hani-style bamboo rice (竹筒饭, Zhútǒng Fàn).
- Cultural Respect: Show respect for the historical and cultural significance of the site. Avoid touching the paintings or leaving any litter.
By following these guidelines, visitors can have a fulfilling experience at Dayanzi Cliff Painting, deepening their understanding of Yunnan’s rich cultural and historical tapestry.
