The Grape Well in Zhaotong City
Chinese Name: 昭通市葡萄井
English Name: The Grape Well in Zhaotong City
Location: The Grape Well is located about 10 kilometers west of Zhaotong City, at the base of Laoya Cliff.
Description:
The Grape Well is a natural spring with a unique feature: instead of flowing or trickling, it emerges from hidden crevices in the cliff face, producing clusters of bubbles that resemble grapes. The bubbles vary in size but are generally round, transparent, and resemble beads strung together, creating the appearance of a necklace of sparkling pearls.
The Grape Well is not only a natural wonder but also holds cultural significance for the Yi people. According to local belief, it is a place where the souls of the Yi ancestors return. The Yi people traditionally direct the spirits of their deceased to Zhaotong, specifically to the Grape Well. It is said that water from the well is precious and should be consumed sparingly, as water in the afterlife is costly and hard to find. The well’s water is considered a rare and cherished resource, especially compared to the decaying water found elsewhere.
Legend of the Grape Well:
There are several enchanting legends associated with the Grape Well. One tale suggests that once, the Queen Mother of the West descended from the heavens and instructed a couple living at the foot of the mountain to plant a vineyard. When the Queen Mother drank from the spring on a moonlit night, a luminous pearl fell into the water. The next day, the spring produced clusters of translucent grapes. Another story tells of a mother and son who were impoverished. The mother, who was ill and desired grapes to quench her thirst, was helped by the Goddess of Mercy. The goddess transformed the old well in front of their home into a miraculous well that produced grapes, curing the mother’s illness. However, due to the mother’s growing greed, the grapes eventually reverted to pearls, leaving only the sparkling bubbles behind.
Cultural Significance:
The Grape Well is closely tied to the Yi ethnic group, who view it as a sacred site with deep cultural and historical connections. Many Yi scholars believe that the Yi people’s origins are in Zhaotong. Historical records indicate that the ancestors of the Yi people migrated from Zhaotong to other regions. The Grape Well is considered one of the sacred sites for the Yi people, and it remains a symbol of their ancestral heritage.
How to Get There:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Zhaotong Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange private transportation to the Grape Well.
- By Train: You can take a train to Zhaotong Railway Station. From there, take a taxi or local bus to the west of Zhaotong City.
- By Bus: Regular bus services run from major cities in Yunnan to Zhaotong City. After arriving at the Zhaotong bus station, you can take a taxi or local transportation to Laoya Cliff.
- By Car: If driving, follow the G5611 expressway to Zhaotong City. From there, head west to Laoya Cliff. Follow local signs to reach the Grape Well.
The Grape Well in Zhaotong City
