Nangu Pillbox in Yuanyang County, Honghe
Overview
The Nangu Pillbox (南古碉堡, Nán Gǔ Diāo Bǎo) is a significant historical structure located on a small hill approximately 300 meters south of the Daping Township Government (大坪乡政府, Dàpíng Xiāng Zhèngfǔ) in Yuanyang County (元阳县, Yuányáng Xiàn), part of the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州, Hónghé Hānízú Yízú Zìzhìzhōu) in Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán Shěng). Built in 1900 during the 26th year of the Guangxu era (光绪, Guāngxù) of the Qing Dynasty (清, Qīng), this ancient pillbox was established as a military fortification for border defense.
Architectural Features
The architectural design of the Nangu Pillbox is characterized by its diamond shape, constructed entirely from stone slabs except for the flooring. Here are its key dimensions:
- Height: 4.3 meters
- Length: 10.4 meters
- Width: 6.3 meters
Atop the pillbox is a decorative pagoda (宝顶, Bǎodǐng) that stands 1.1 meters tall. The northeast wall features a strategically placed door for access, flanked by two gun ports on each level aimed toward the main road. Above the entrance, a stone plaque is inscribed with the words “雄镇南” (Xióng Zhèn Nán), meaning “Heroically Guarding the South,” highlighting its defensive purpose. The pillbox is further protected by a robust stone wall that is 2.4 meters high, 1.2 meters thick, and 110 meters long. In 1990, the Nangu Pillbox was recognized as a cultural relic protection unit by the local government of Yuanyang.
Geographic and Climatic Context
The Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture is located in the southern part of Yunnan Province and features diverse geographical formations, including limestone mountains, plateaus, valleys, basins, and hills. This region is characterized by:
- High elevation differences: Leading to complex terrain.
- Ample rainfall: Contributing to a lush landscape.
- Sunny climate: Favorable for agriculture and tourism.
- Subtropical plateau monsoon climate: With a small annual temperature variation.
The Tropic of Cancer passes through this prefecture, resulting in a gradual increase in temperature and humidity from north to south, creating a humid and warm climate. The rainy season spans from May to October, while the frost period lasts from late November to February of the following year. To enjoy the best weather conditions, it is recommended to visit the region in March-April or September-November, avoiding the hot, rainy summer months.
Accessibility
How to Get There
Yuanyang County is approximately 326 kilometers from Kunming (昆明, Kūnmíng). Travelers can take advantage of several bus services available at Kunming’s various long-distance bus stations, which offer direct routes to Yuanyang.
- Nanya Station (南遥车站, Nán Yáo Chēzhàn): Offers daily buses to Yuanyang.
- Daytime Services: Fast express buses.
- Nighttime Services: Sleeper buses for overnight travel.
Dining
The culinary scene in Honghe is vibrant and diverse, featuring notable local dishes such as:
- Hani Bamboo Tube Roasted Meat (竹筒烧肉, Zhútǒng Shāoròu): A unique dish where meat is cooked inside bamboo tubes, imparting a distinctive flavor.
- Authentic Mengzi Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles (蒙自过桥米线, Méngzì Guòqiáo Mǐxiàn): A traditional noodle dish served with a variety of fresh ingredients.
Travel Tips
- Accommodation: The cost of lodging in Yuanyang is quite affordable. Even the most upscale option, the Nan Sha Grand Hotel (南沙大酒店, Nánshā Dà Jiǔdiàn), is priced under 80 yuan per night.
- Nansha Town (南沙镇, Nánshā Zhèn): The newly developed county town offers better facilities and services compared to the older areas. However, the old county town is more economical and is recommended for those who want to capture the early morning light on the famous Yuanyang rice terraces.
- Photography: To photograph the stunning Yuanyang rice terraces at sunrise, consider staying in the old county town for easier access to prime viewing spots.
- Weather Preparedness: Depending on the season of your visit, prepare for humidity and potential rainfall. Bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
By following these tips, travelers can enjoy a rich cultural experience and the natural beauty that Yuanyang and its historic Nangu Pillbox have to offer.
