Shangzhulu Village in Yuanyang County, Honghe
Overview
Shangzhulu Village (上主鲁新寨村, Shàngzhǔ Lǔ Xīnzhài Cūn) is located in Yuanyang County (元阳县, Yuányáng Xiàn), Honghe Prefecture (红河州, Hónghé Zhōu), Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán Shěng). Nestled in the mountainous region, it lies 2 kilometers east of the Zhulu Village Committee and 21 kilometers from the Shengcun Town government. Covering an area of 0.75 square kilometers at an altitude of 0.99 meters, the village enjoys an average annual temperature of 14°C and receives 1,370 mm of rainfall, making it suitable for crops such as cassava, grass fruit, and potatoes.
Key Attractions
1. Terraced Rice Fields
The village is famous for its breathtaking terraced rice fields, providing stunning views that attract photographers and nature lovers. Walking through the terraces offers an immersive experience of the Hani people’s hard work and the beauty of the landscape.
2. Hani Culture
Visitors can engage with the vibrant Hani culture, participating in local customs, traditional clothing, and festivals. Cultural activities, including traditional dances and music performances, allow for a deeper understanding of the Hani way of life.
3. Scenic Views
Shangzhulu Village is renowned for its spectacular views of the sea of clouds, especially on days when the cloud cover lasts until noon. The stunning sunrise and sunset views across the terraced fields provide excellent photography opportunities.
4. Local Cuisine
The village offers a chance to taste authentic Hani cuisine, featuring local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Specialties include rice cooked in bamboo and various vegetable dishes that highlight the region’s agricultural practices.
Population and Health
Shangzhulu Village has 46 farming households with a total population of 332 people, including 171 males and 161 females. The entire population is engaged in agriculture, with 225 individuals considered part of the labor force. The village is exclusively inhabited by the Hani ethnic group. By the end of 2007, 264 villagers participated in rural cooperative medical care, achieving an 80% participation rate, with 40 people benefiting from minimum living allowances. The villagers primarily rely on a local health clinic and the town health center, located 2 kilometers and 3 kilometers from the village committee, respectively. The village also has one public restroom.
How to Get There
Shangzhulu Village is easily accessible from the town of Yuanyang.
Transportation Options
- By Car: Renting a car or hiring a driver from nearby cities, such as Kunming (昆明, Kūnmíng), is convenient for reaching the village.
- Public Transport: Local buses operate routes from Yuanyang to various villages, including Shangzhulu. Check local schedules for the latest information.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit are from late September to early October for the rice harvest season and from late January to early March for rice planting.
- What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring a camera and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
- Respect Local Customs: Engage respectfully with the local community and learn about their traditions and practices.
- Accommodation: Consider staying in local guesthouses for an immersive experience in Hani culture.
Visiting Shangzhulu Village provides a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Yuanyang County, making it a must-see destination.
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