Tancheng Square in Shangri-La, Diqing
Tancheng Square (坛城广场) is a renowned tourist attraction located in Shangri-La City (香格里拉市), Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), China. Modeled after the Potala Palace (布达拉宫) in Lhasa (拉萨), it serves as a cultural, artistic, and religious hub for Tibetan culture. Situated on the western side of Shangri-La City, Tancheng Square is a popular gathering place for locals, especially lively during the evenings when many engage in traditional square dances known as Guozhuang (锅庄).
Location
Address: Near Changzheng Avenue (长征大道), Shangri-La City, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州香格里拉市).
Travel Guide
Preparation
- Determine Travel Time: The best seasons to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is beautiful.
- Book Transportation and Accommodation: Options include flying or taking a train/bus to Kunming (昆明) before transferring to Shangri-La. Book local hotels or inns in advance for a comfortable stay.
- Pack Essentials: Due to the high altitude of Shangri-La, bring warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. Also, prepare cameras for capturing the stunning scenery.
Getting to Shangri-La
- From Kunming: You can either take a direct flight to Diqing Airport (迪庆机场) or travel by long-distance bus.
- Local Transport: Upon arrival, take public transport, a taxi, or rent a car to reach Tancheng Square.
Exploring Tancheng Square
- The square features many traditional Tibetan buildings adorned with exquisite murals and sculptures.
- Visit the temples within the square to learn about Tibetan Buddhism (藏传佛教) and its cultural history.
- For photography, the best times are early morning or late afternoon when lighting is softer and crowds are smaller.
Discovering the Shambhala Wheel of Time Cultural Exhibition Center (香巴拉时轮坛城文化博览中心)
Located at the heart of Tancheng Square, the Shambhala Wheel of Time Cultural Exhibition Center is a magnificent structure designed according to the concept of a round heaven and square earth. This 60.4-meter-tall, 11-story building is a landmark of Tibetan architecture in Shangri-La, featuring a stupa-like golden top.
Exhibitions
- The center showcases various exhibitions, including “Treasures of the Tibetan Region,” “Colorful Shambhala,” “Impressions of the Snowy Region,” and “Shangri-La.” These displays highlight the rich diversity of Tibetan culture, history, and religious art.
- From the first to the eighth floors, the exhibition halls serve as windows into the profound world of Tibetan culture, connecting visitors through a coherent narrative.
Notable Features
- The center houses the largest indoor statue of the Kalachakra Buddha (时轮金刚佛像) in China, exuding a sense of solemnity and insight into the nature of causality.
- It also features the largest indoor three-dimensional Kalachakra mandala (时轮立体坛城), showcasing a stunning blend of art and spirituality.
- Over 2,000 precious artifacts narrate the wisdom and labor of the Tibetan people, encapsulating their history and lifestyle.
Architectural Beauty
The Tibetan-style architecture, resembling a blooming lotus, is adorned with vibrant Thangka (唐卡) paintings and filled with the aromatic scent of Tibetan incense, creating a serene atmosphere. The craftsmanship of Tibetan knives (藏刀) and the legendary tales of King Gesar (格萨尔王) resonate deeply within Tibetan hearts, inspiring generations in their pursuit of peace, freedom, and happiness.
How to Get There
From the nearest airport (Diqing Airport), you can take a taxi or public transportation directly to Tancheng Square. If you arrive by bus, local transport options are readily available to facilitate your visit.
Travel Tips
- Altitude Consideration: Due to Shangri-La’s high elevation, be mindful of altitude sickness. Acclimatize by taking it easy on your first day.
- Cultural Respect: Be respectful when visiting temples and interacting with locals. Learning a few basic Tibetan phrases can enhance your experience.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local Tibetan dishes available in nearby restaurants.
