Shundang Cremation Tombs in Yunlong County, Dali
Overview
The Shundang Cremation Tombs (顺荡火葬墓群) are a significant historical site located in Shundang Village (顺荡村), Baishi Town (白石镇), Yunlong County (云龙县), Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). Recognized as a key cultural relic, these tombs date back to the Ming Dynasty (明代) and were officially listed as a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China on March 5, 2013.
Location and Size
- Geographical Location: Shundang Village, Baishi Town, Yunlong County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China.
- Historical Period: Ming Dynasty.
- Protection Level: National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit.
- Area: Approximately 15,000 square meters.
Historical Background
The earliest inscriptions found at the Shundang Cremation Tombs date back to the sixth year of the Yongle reign (永乐六年, 1408 AD) and the latest to the first year of the Wanli reign (万历元年, 1573 AD). In 1974, cremation urns were discovered during construction activities at Shundang Primary School. The tombs are an important site for the study of ancient customs and ethnic cultures.
Structure and Features
The tombs are oriented from west to east and arranged in a step-like fashion. There are approximately 1,000 cremation tombs and 85 Sanskrit inscriptions, alongside 7 Sanskrit steles. Each burial site typically consists of two chambers, with the main chamber containing the cremation urn and the side chamber for accompanying vessels. The urns are mostly grayish-white ceramic, standing about 30-40 cm tall and often contain burial items such as jade rings and copper swords.
Inscriptions and Artifacts
The inscriptions include numerous Sanskrit carvings, which are crucial for the study of ancient Chinese culture and language. The largest stele measures 1.03 meters in height and 38 centimeters in width. The base of the stele often features intricate designs of mythical creatures, lotus flowers, and other symbols of Buddhism.
Cultural Significance
The Shundang Cremation Tombs are notable for:
- Chronological Documentation: The tombs provide a clear chronological record through inscriptions that span various reigns of the Ming Dynasty.
- Sanskrit Inscriptions: They contain a wealth of Sanskrit inscriptions, making them vital for the study of the history of Sanskrit in China.
- Artistic Value: The tombs are renowned for their artistic craftsmanship, showcasing diverse styles and intricate designs.
- Ethnic Culture: The inscriptions offer insight into local ethnic cultures, enriching the understanding of historical social practices.
Preservation Efforts
- 1987: Designated as a county-level cultural relic protection unit by Yunlong County People’s Government.
- 1988: Listed as a key provincial cultural relic by Dali Prefecture Government.
- 2003: Recognized as a key provincial cultural relic by Yunnan Provincial Government.
- 2013: Added to the national list of key cultural relic protection units.
How to Get There
To reach the Shundang Cremation Tombs, you can drive from Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture via the Hanyi Expressway (杭瑞高速), then take the Dayangyun Expressway (大漾云高速) and G215 highway to Shundang Village. The total distance is approximately 200 kilometers.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for exploration.
- Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the historical context and significance of the tombs.
- Cultural Respect: When visiting, be respectful of the site as it holds significant cultural and historical importance.
