Tangdian Site of Neolithic Culture in Gejiu City, Honghe
Overview
The Tangdian Site of Neolithic Culture (倘甸新石器文化遗址) is an archaeological site located about 20 kilometers north of Gejiu City (个旧市), in the northeastern corner of Tangdian Village (倘甸村), at an elevation of approximately 1,400 meters. The site was excavated from March to April 1993, revealing significant artifacts that date back to the Neolithic era, providing valuable insights into the early cultures of the region.
Geographic Location
The site is positioned 1.5 kilometers east of Tangdian Village in the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), China. The geographical features include:
- Elevation: Approximately 1,400 meters above sea level.
- Topography: Characterized by a slope that descends from east to west. The eastern cultural layer is relatively thin, while the western layer has a thickness of up to 145 centimeters, indicating better preservation conditions.
Cultural Significance
Since 1990, excavations have uncovered numerous artifacts, including:
- Stone Tools: 31 pieces, including:
- Stone axes (石斧)
- Scrapers (刮削器)
- Perforated tools (穿孔石器)
- Stone walls (石壁)
- Stone balls (石球)
- Pottery Items: 40 pieces, including:
- Plates (盘)
- Bowls (钵)
- Jars (罐)
- Ceremonial vessels (尊)
- Basins (盆)
These findings showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Tangdian Neolithic site, making it one of the most prominent late Neolithic sites in the Honghe Prefecture. The site’s artifacts reflect the daily life, technology, and cultural practices of the inhabitants during the Neolithic period.
Archaeological Research
In the spring of 1993, the Honghe Prefecture Cultural Heritage Administration (红河州文管所) and the Gejiu Museum (个旧市博物馆) conducted a thorough investigation and preliminary excavation. They estimated the site’s area to be approximately 1,000 square meters. The site is distinguished by its cultural accumulation, which is categorized into six layers. The archaeological data collected is crucial for understanding the Neolithic cultural types in the Honghe River Basin, offering empirical evidence for researching Yunnan’s Neolithic cultural characteristics.
Additional Information
Tangdian is located on the northern outskirts of Gejiu City, defined by the following coordinates:
- Longitude: 103°37′—103°45′ east
- Latitude: 23°01′—23°06′ north
Nearby Attractions
- Gejiu City (个旧市): Known for its tin mining history and beautiful landscapes.
- Jiangchuan Lake (江川湖): A scenic area nearby, perfect for picnics and nature walks.
- Xingyi Cave (兴义洞): A natural cave offering stunning geological formations.
How to Get There
- By Car: The most convenient way to reach the Tangdian Site is by car. From Gejiu City, take the road north towards Tangdian Village, approximately a 30-minute drive. The route is scenic, with picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
- Public Transport: Local buses operate from Gejiu City to Tangdian Village, with a journey time of about 45 minutes. Be sure to check the latest schedules.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The site can be visited year-round, but spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are particularly pleasant due to the mild weather and blooming flora.
- Preparation:
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, as the site may require trekking through uneven terrain.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if planning to explore nearby attractions.
- A camera is recommended for capturing the stunning landscape and historical artifacts, but be respectful of any restrictions regarding photography.
- Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth knowledge about the site and its significance. Local guides often share rich stories and insights about the cultural history and significance of the artifacts.
- Respecting the Site: Follow all posted guidelines, refrain from touching artifacts, and ensure you leave no trace to help preserve this important cultural heritage site for future visitors.
