Mengnong Sishu Chieftain Palace in Yuanyang County, Honghe

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Chinese Name:元阳猛弄土司府
English Name: Mengnong Sishu Chieftain Palace in Yuanyang County, Honghe
Keywords: Mengnong Chief Palace, Yuanyang Terrace Fields
Location: 4 kilometers away from Laohuzui Rice Terraces
Admission Fee: ¥10
Opening Hours: All Day Long

The Menglong Tusi Residence (猛弄土司府), also known as the Menglong Tusi Office, is a well-preserved historical site located approximately 20 kilometers south of Xinjie Town in Yuanyang County, Yunnan Province, China. It stands as one of the best-preserved Tusi residences in the region.​

🏛 Architectural Features

The residence is built into the mountainside, facing south, and covers an area of approximately 4,006.5 square meters. Constructed during the Qing Dynasty’s Yongzheng period (1735), it served as the administrative center for the Menglong Tusi, a hereditary local ruler. The complex includes stone steps, a main gate, four side rooms, a main hall, and a flower hall, all showcasing distinctive ethnic architectural styles.​

📜 Historical Significance

The Tusi system was a feudal governance model implemented by the Chinese imperial court in border regions, where local ethnic leaders were appointed as hereditary rulers. The Menglong Tusi encouraged agricultural development, including the cultivation of terraced fields, and implemented policies that promoted local prosperity. They also played active roles in national defense during the Republican era.​

🎭 Cultural Value

In 2004, the residence underwent restoration and was established as the Hani Culture Research Center and the Tusi Culture Research Center, focusing on the study and promotion of Hani culture and the Tusi system. It has become a central hub for Tusi culture in Southwest China.​

🧭 Visitor Information

• Address: Menglong Village, Panzhihua Township, Yuanyang County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province​

• Opening Hours: Please consult local tourism authorities or tour guides for current visiting hours.​腾讯新闻

• Accessibility: Approximately a 40-minute drive from Xinjie Town.​

• Activities: Visitors can explore the architectural complex, learn about the Hani ethnic history, and participate in traditional cultural events such as bonfire feasts.​

The Menglong Tusi Residence offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of the Hani people and the Tusi system, making it a valuable destination for cultural tourism in Yunnan Province.

About Mengnong Chieftain Palace in Yuanyang County

Mengnong Chieftain Palace in Yuanyang County of Honghe is built in 1735A.D, located in the north of Tengtiao River, belongs to Panzhihua Village. It’s 4 kilometers away from Laohuzui Rice Terraces, standing on the top of a mountain.

Chieftain is a appellation since Yuan dynasty, it’s a official position for the leader of minorities in border areas like the southwest region. It can be inherited with the permission of the authority. It’s a kind of political system for governing the border area with a minority leader During the feudal period.

The one with most concern is the 18 chieftains, among them, some are the brave pioneers, some are the heroes of guarding the border. Mengnong chieftain is the most notable one. They create the unique, mysterious chieftain culture.

National Protection War was broken out in 1915, Mengnong chieftain supported Tangjirao warlord and Cai’e warlord against Yuanshikan. Mengnong chieftains lead the people of all nationalities to resist the Japanese. The move is recognized and appreciated by the warlords and the public in Yunnan.

The house is constructed in a turret architectural style. There are birds and flowers patterns on the gate and pillars. The two side of Mengnong chieftain palace is the lodging place of soldiers. The courtyard is a  two-floor building. The whole house is quadrangle courtyard with 60 rooms.