Puchun Village in Honghe County, Honghe

Overview

Puchun Village (普春村, Pǔchūn Cūn) is located in the southeast of Azha River Township (阿扎河乡, Āzhā Hé Xiāng), Honghe County (红河县, Hónghé Xiàn), Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán Shěng). It is situated 45 kilometers away from the township government, with access primarily via unpaved roads. The village is bordered by Yuanyang Shalatuo Township (元阳沙拉托乡, Yuányáng Shālātuō Xiāng) to the east and south, Guozhe Village Committee (过者村委会, Guòzhě Cūn Wěiyuánhuì) to the west, and Yuanyang Shalatuo Township again to the north.

Population and Health

Puchun Village currently has 615 households, with a total population of 2,934 individuals, including 1,520 males and 1,407 females. Among them, 1,496 are engaged in agriculture, and the labor force consists of 1,514 people. The village is primarily inhabited by the Hani ethnic group (哈尼族, Hānízú), who make up the majority of the population.

By the end of 2009, no villagers were enrolled in rural social pension insurance. However, 2,350 individuals participated in rural cooperative medical care, with a participation rate of 80.40%. There are 200 villagers receiving minimum living allowances. Medical care mainly relies on the township health clinic, which is 45 kilometers away. The village has no public toilets, and all 615 households live in mixed conditions of humans and livestock.

Cultural Geography

Puchun Village Committee (普春村委会, Pǔchūn Cūn Wěiyuánhuì) possesses unique folk cultural resources, particularly known for its local mountain songs, with “Ouloulanlou” (欧楼兰楼) being the most representative tune. Traditional dances like the “Eight Immortals Dance” (八仙舞) and various musical instruments such as flutes, xiaos, sanxians, and erhu are prominent in the community. The terraced rice field culture in Puchun is distinctive, where many farmers live year-round in small mushroom-shaped shelters amidst the fields. During the spring plowing season, visitors can witness a beautiful fusion of mountains, terraced fields, small streams, shelters, and farmers at work.

Azha River Township

Azha River Township (阿扎河乡, Āzhā Hé Xiāng) is located in the southeastern part of the county, 64 kilometers from the county seat, Yisa (迤萨, Yǐsà). It covers a total area of 166.9 square kilometers and is home to various ethnic groups, including the Hani, Yi, Han, and Yao peoples. The township is rich in minority culture and is known as the “Land of Song and Dance” and “Land of Palms.” It is recognized as the origin of the Hani multi-voice songs and the “Yuezuo Dance” (乐作舞), both listed as national intangible cultural heritage.

The “Ten Thousand People Long Street Song and Dance Festival” is a traditional celebration organized spontaneously by the villagers. Originating from ancient times, this festival showcases the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Each year, on the first Sunday of the lunar June, folk art performance teams from various villages gather at the township government to perform. Participants of all ages, dressed in festive attire and playing homemade instruments, compete in showcasing their village’s songs and dances, irrespective of weather conditions.

Hani Multi-Voice Folk Songs

Hani multi-voice folk songs celebrate labor, love, and the beauty of rural landscapes. These songs are performed with both instrumental accompaniment and a cappella harmonies, showcasing distinct ethnic and regional characteristics. In May 2006, they were included in the first batch of national intangible cultural heritage. The songs are predominantly found in several Hani villages centered around Puchun and thrive in a natural environment that is relatively isolated, allowing for the preservation of their unique culture.

Traditional planting songs sung during the rice-planting season are a treasured part of Hani culture. Women aged 16 and older, as well as middle-aged women, are adept at singing these songs. The connection between the Hani people and their terraced fields is profound, with songs resonating through the landscape during the planting season, reflecting their rich cultural heritage.

How to Get There

To reach Puchun Village, you can drive from Honghe County seat to Azha River Township, which takes about 1.5 hours. The last segment involves traveling on unpaved roads, so a suitable vehicle is recommended. Public transportation options may be limited, so plan your trip accordingly.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the spring plowing season to experience the vibrant rural culture and beautiful landscapes.
• Accommodation: Consider staying in nearby towns or villages for a more immersive experience.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local dishes, such as Hani dipping chicken and rice flower fish.
• Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and cultural performances.