Ningzhou Street (宁州街道) is located in the southwest of Hua Ning County, Yuxi City, Yunnan Province. It borders Panxi Town to the east across Denglou Mountain, connects to Huaxi Town to the south, adjoins Yangguang Town of Tonghai County to the west, and shares borders with Xiongguan Township and Lujun Town of Jiangchuan County to the northwest. To the north lies Qinglong Town, and to the northeast, it borders Tonghongdian Yi and Miao Autonomous Township. Ningzhou Street is 53 kilometers from Yuxi City government and 148 kilometers from the provincial capital, Kunming. The total administrative area is 437.8 square kilometers.
Cultural History
Ningzhou Street has a long history. In the fifth year of the Mongol Emperor Kublai Khan’s reign (1255), Ningzhou was established as a large administrative area, symbolizing peace and prosperity, and thus the name Ningzhou was given. After the liberation of Hua Ning in December 1949, the boundaries of Ningzhou were adjusted several times. In 1984, Ningzhou Town was established, and in 1998, Ningzhou Town was formed by merging the New Rural and Suburban Townships. In May 2011, Ningzhou Town was renamed Ningzhou Street.
Local Customs
Ningzhou Street is a multi-ethnic area, mainly inhabited by the Yi, Hui, and other minority groups, with rich cultural traditions. The Yi people celebrate traditional festivals like the Torch Festival and Yi New Year, featuring colorful performances and ceremonies. Additionally, Chongmai Village hosts a distinctive rural cultural tourism festival where visitors can experience Yi customs and enjoy intangible cultural heritage performances, such as the “Cat Cat Chopping” and the “Flower Drum Dance.”
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Ningzhou Street is located on the southern edge of the Dianzhong Plateau, featuring a moderate climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is most captivating.
Recommended Attractions and Visit Duration
Chongmai Village
Founded in the mid-Ming Dynasty, Chongmai Village is surrounded by mountains, offering a beautiful environment. The village contains 25 traditional residences from the Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China period, with well-preserved architectural features and rich Yi culture. It is recommended to spend 3 hours here.
Ningzhou Ancient City
Ningzhou Ancient City is known for its saying, “Nine Wells and Eighteen Alleys, with every alley leading to the city wall.” The only surviving Western-style building is the old site of the Bao’ai Hospital, which served as a contact point for the Chinese Communist Party during the War of Resistance. A visit to Ningzhou Ancient City is recommended for 2 hours.
Elephant Nose Hot Springs
Located in the southeastern part of Ningzhou Street at an altitude of 1,564 meters, Elephant Nose Hot Springs is the lowest point in the area. It is rich in hot spring resources, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and vacation. A half-day visit is recommended.
Transportation
Ningzhou Street has convenient transportation. Major roads like Ningyang Road run through the area. Visitors can take long-distance buses from Yuxi City or Kunming City to Hua Ning County, and then transfer to local buses or taxis to reach Ningzhou Street.
Cuisine
Ningzhou Street’s food features local specialties such as Hua Ning oranges, Hua Ning persimmons, and Yi dishes like whole roasted lamb, as well as Hui halal cuisine.
Shopping
Local products for purchase include Hua Ning oranges, Hua Ning persimmons, and dried wild mushrooms.
Accommodation
There are a few homestays and farmhouses in Ningzhou Street, offering simple but authentic local experiences. For those seeking better accommodations, it is recommended to stay in Hua Ning County.
Travel Tips
- Respect local customs, especially in minority-inhabited villages.
- Protect the environment when visiting natural attractions and avoid littering.
- Pack appropriate clothing and sun protection based on the weather.
Itinerary
Day 1:
Arrive at Hua Ning County and head to Ningzhou Street. Visit Ningzhou Ancient City to experience its historical charm.
Day 2:
Explore Chongmai Village, enjoy Yi cultural performances, and admire traditional architecture. In the afternoon, visit Elephant Nose Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
Day 3:
Taste local delicacies in the town, buy unique souvenirs, and then return.
Ningzhou Street is a place full of natural beauty and cultural charm. Both the natural landscapes and folk customs are worth exploring and experiencing firsthand. We hope you have an unforgettable journey here.
