Tomb of Duan Gong in Dali City
The Tomb of Duan Gong (段功墓) was designated as one of the first batch of municipal key cultural relic protection units in 1985. It is located at the foot of Yingle Peak (应乐峰) in the Cangshan Mountains (苍山), approximately 350 meters west of the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺三塔) and aligned with the Qianxun Pagoda (千寻塔).
Historical Background
The Tomb of Duan Gong dates back to the Yuan Dynasty (元代). The tomb’s owner, Duan Gong (段功), was a descendant of the Duan family, the kings of the Dali Kingdom (大理国), and the ninth governor of Dali Road during the Yuan Dynasty. In the twelfth year of the Zhizheng era (至正), which corresponds to 1352 AD, the peasant uprising leader Ming Yuzhen (明玉珍) and his brother Ming Er (明二) led an army of 30,000 to capture Zhongqing Road (中庆路, now Kunming). The Liang King (梁王) appointed Duan Gong as the Prime Minister (平掌政事, chancellor) in gratitude for his assistance in rescuing him and married his daughter, Princess Age (阿盖公主), to Duan Gong. As Duan Gong’s power grew, the Liang King feared he would threaten his rule in Yunnan and conspired to have him killed. After Duan Gong was murdered in the twenty-seventh year of the Zhizheng era (1367), he was buried near the Three Pagodas. Following his death, Princess Age took her own life in grief, and their son, Duan Bao (段宝), succeeded as the tenth governor of Dali in the first year of the Hongwu era (洪武元年, 1368).
The tomb faces east, originally a circular earthen mound with a diameter of about 8 meters and a height of 2 meters, topped by a stone stela that has since been destroyed, leaving only the mound.
In 1942, Mr. Guo Moruo (郭沫若) wrote the play “Peacock’s Heart” (孔雀胆) based on extensive materials provided by Yang Yaning (杨亚宁), a reporter from Yunnan Daily (云南日报) who was from Jianchuan in Dali (大理剑川, 白族). This play later inspired adaptations in various theatrical forms, including Peking Opera (京剧), Huadeng Opera (花灯), Dian Drama (滇剧), ballet, and Bai Opera (白剧), increasing awareness of Duan Gong’s historical significance. The tomb offers valuable insights into the history of Yunnan during the Yuan Dynasty, and its protective scope has been incorporated into the Chongsheng Temple and the Three Pagodas complex.
Location and Attractions
The Tomb of Duan Gong is situated within the cultural tourism area of the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺三塔), about 2 kilometers northwest of Dali Ancient City (大理古城) in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州). This site is part of the renowned Three Pagodas, which are iconic landmarks in the Dali area and a significant cultural heritage of Yunnan, attracting numerous visitors.
While the Tomb of Duan Gong may not be as prominent as the Three Pagodas, it is a historical site worth visiting. The tomb retains its ancient style and aura of history, allowing visitors to appreciate the cultural heritage and the natural beauty surrounding it. Nestled at the base of Yingle Peak, the environment is serene, offering stunning views of the Cangshan Mountains and opportunities for relaxation and leisure.
In summary, the Tomb of Duan Gong is a culturally rich destination that, while less conspicuous than the Three Pagodas, provides visitors with a sense of historical depth and cultural continuity. Guests can enjoy the tranquility of the area while soaking in the surrounding beauty.
How to Get There
To reach the Tomb of Duan Gong, you can take a taxi or a private vehicle from Dali Ancient City, which is approximately a 10-minute drive. Public buses also operate in the area, providing convenient access to the cultural tourism district.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and stunning scenery, making them the best times for a visit.
- What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a camera for photography, and water to stay hydrated during your visit.
- Cultural Respect: Be respectful when visiting historical sites; follow any posted guidelines and maintain a quiet demeanor to preserve the solemnity of the location.
- Local Cuisine: Consider trying local Bai cuisine (白族) in Dali, as the region is known for its delicious food options.
