Haini Village of Tacheng Town in Weixi County, Diqing

Haini Village (海尼村) is located in Tacheng Town (塔城镇), Weixi Lisu Autonomous County (维西傈僳族自治县), Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州), Yunnan Province. It sits in the northwest part of Tacheng Town, about 20 km from the town’s government center and 52 km from Weixi County seat. Haini borders Deqin County (德钦县) to the east, Pantian’ge Township (攀天阁乡) to the south, Yongchun Township (永春乡) to the west, and Kona Village (柯那村) to the north.

History and Culture

The name “Haini” (海尼) originates from the Naxi language. It was originally “Haizi Ni,” meaning “the place where ears are twisted.” Before the founding of the People’s Republic, it belonged to the First Bao of Pantian’ge Township (攀天阁乡). In 1950, it was incorporated into Tacheng District (塔城区); in 1954, Haini Township (海尼乡) was established; in 1958, it became Haini Management Zone of Tacheng Commune (塔城公社海尼管理区); in 1962, it was again called Haini Township; in 1969, it became Haini Brigade (海尼大队); in 1984, it reverted to Haini Township; and in 1987, it became Haini Administrative Village. Since 2001, it has been officially named the Haini Village Committee (海尼村民委员会).

Folk Customs

Haini Village is home to several ethnic minority groups, including Tibetan, Naxi, and Lisu peoples. Their interwoven cultures form a unique tapestry of local customs. Traditional performances such as the Reba Dance (热巴舞) and the Lisu A-Chi-Mu-Gua (阿尺木刮) are still practiced, and the village also boasts a vibrant heritage of ethnic costumes.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Located in the vertical valley region of the Hengduan Mountains (横断山脉), Haini Village experiences a subtropical to temperate monsoon highland climate, with distinct vertical climatic zones. The average annual temperature is about 13.1°C, and annual rainfall averages 1000.7 mm. The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery at its most beautiful.

Recommended Attractions

Traditional Residences of Haini Village (海尼村传统民居): Explore the unique architectural styles of local ethnic communities.
Lapu River (腊普河): A picturesque tributary of the Jinsha River (金沙江) that flows through the heart of Tacheng Town.
Yunnan Snub-nosed Monkey National Park (滇金丝猴国家公园): Tacheng Town is a critical habitat for the endangered Yunnan snub-nosed monkey, where visitors can observe them up close.

Suggested Duration for Each Destination

  • Haini Village Exploration: 1 day to experience local customs and culture.
  • Lapu River Excursion: Half a day to enjoy the natural beauty.
  • Snub-nosed Monkey National Park Visit: 1 day to observe rare wildlife.

Transportation

By Car: Drive from Weixi County (维西县) to Tacheng Town, then onward to Haini Village. The total distance is approximately 52 km.
By Public Transport: Take a bus from Weixi County Passenger Terminal to Tacheng Town, then transfer to local transportation to reach the village.

Local Cuisine

  • Weixi Multiflora Honey (维西百花蜜): A rich and fragrant local specialty.
  • Pise Meat (琵瑟肉): A signature Lisu dish with a unique flavor.
  • Clear Soup Fish (清汤鱼): Made with fresh fish from the Lancang River (澜沧江), known for its delicate taste.

Shopping

  • Ethnic Handicrafts: Items like wooden bowls and tsampa boxes (糌粑盒) embody strong ethnic characteristics.
  • Weixi Walnuts (维西核桃): A well-known local product of high quality.

Accommodation

There are Tibetan-style homestays available in and around Haini Village. These offer good amenities and the opportunity to experience Tibetan hospitality and traditions.

Visitor Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local religious beliefs and cultural practices when visiting.
  • Protect the Environment: Help preserve the pristine ecology of Haini Village.
  • Travel Safely: Roads to Haini can be rugged; drive carefully if self-driving.

Itinerary Suggestions

Day 1: Arrive at Haini Village, visit traditional homes, experience folk culture, and sample local cuisine.
Day 2: Tour Lapu River in the morning, then head to the Yunnan Snub-nosed Monkey National Park in the afternoon.
Day 3: Return to Weixi County or continue your journey to other attractions.

Haini Village (海尼村) is a culturally rich and ethnically diverse destination ideal for travelers who appreciate folk traditions and natural beauty. Here, visitors are warmly welcomed by locals and can discover the enchanting charm of ancient cultures. May your journey to Haini Village be rewarding and filled with unforgettable memories.