Pingtan Miao Ethnic Village of Xinhua Town in Fengqing County, Lincang

Chinese Name: 临沧市凤庆县新华乡紫薇村平坦苗寨
English Name: Pingtan Miao Ethnic Village of Xinhua Town in Fengqing County, Lincang

The Pingtan Group of Zimei Village exudes a rich ethnic cultural atmosphere. The Miao people here are mainly divided into three groups: “Qing Miao,” “Bai Miao,” and “Hua Miao.” Their ancestors migrated from Guizhou, and due to the isolation provided by the mountains and the Lancang River, many of their customs have been preserved relatively intact to this day.

With azure skies, floating white clouds, and lush green crops that resemble a vibrant robe, the beautiful Miao mountain village is adorned with graceful elegance. Gentle breezes, curling smoke from kitchen chimneys, buzzing bees, fluttering butterflies, and the joyful sounds of people and horses create a lively scene. The Miao people, who love to dress in bright red and green, lead colorful lives as vivid as this picturesque robe. The unique Miao “Three-Course Tea” is as delightful and varied as a beautiful landscape, leaving a lasting impression and making visitors reluctant to leave this enchanting place.

This is Pingtan Natural Village, nestled at the foot of Niujian Mountain, the second highest peak in Xinhua Township. The village is surrounded by rolling mountains and walnut groves that cover the green slopes. The melodious songs of birds and the fragrance of flowers can be found everywhere. The village is dotted with traditional houses, featuring blue-tiled roofs and white walls, scattered among the mountains. The simple and honest local customs are as remarkable as the picturesque scenery.

The Miao people here are skilled in weaving, love to sing and dance, and excel in brewing “Wotuo Luo” wine. Their courtship rituals, such as singing to exchange love tokens, matchmaking with the help of the elderly, and wedding ceremonies accompanied by songs across the Milky Way, are especially distinctive. The village also boasts handmade hemp cloth Miao costumes, vibrant and adorned with colorful patterns and jingling bells. In Pingtan Village, one can experience the most authentic and diverse Miao culture. The “Hegao Dance” appears and disappears before your eyes, the “Lusheng Melody” echoes softly in your ears, and the “Mountain Song Tune” stirs your heart. Visitors can immerse themselves in the unique local customs, savor tea, and appreciate the rich cultural heritage shaped by this land.

Transportation:

Pingtan Natural Village in Zimei Village is 12 kilometers from the township government and 120 kilometers from the county seat.

TIPS:

Pingtan offers a wide variety of delicious foods, with a particularly renowned specialty being “Wotuo Luo” wine. This rich and aromatic wine, brewed from grains, is an essential part of Miao celebrations, especially weddings. It is often brewed two or even ten years in advance and stored in an attic. The wine is traditionally consumed by inserting a bamboo stick into the bottom of the jar, with a piece of cloth tied to the end for filtration. Guests are expected to drink a full bowl when offered.