Xiaozhongdian Site of Chieftain Mu’s Castle in Shangri-La , Diqing
The Xiaozhongdian Site of Chieftain Mu’s Castle (木土司城堡遗址, Mù tǔsī chéngbǎo yízhǐ) is located on the west side of Gongxia Village (公下村, Gōngxià cūn), in the联合村公所 (Liánhé cūn gōngsuǒ) of Xiaozhongdian Township (小中甸乡, Xiǎo zhōngdiàn xiāng) in Shangri-La County (香格里拉县, Xiānggélǐlā xiàn), Diqing (迪庆, Dìqīng). The specific date of the castle’s construction is unknown. Xiaozhongdian is a vast and fertile plain within the Tibetan area of Diqing, making it an ideal location for the Mu Chieftain to station troops and cultivate land. As the first military fortress heading into the Tibetan region, Xiaozhongdian held significant strategic advantages, being easily defensible and beneficial for retreat.
During this time, the Mu Chieftain constructed the castle within the influence of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism (噶举派, Gá jǔ pài), allowing for interaction with high-ranking monks and promoting Tibetan Buddhism to exert control over the Tibetan populace.
Introduction
Beginning in 1253, the Naxi (纳西族, Nàxī zú) hereditary chieftain Mu Zeng (木增, Mù zēng) emerged as a prominent leader in the northwest region of Yunnan. He was popularly known as “Mu Tianwang” (木天王, Mù tiānwáng).
Historical Context
Mu Tianwang’s influence extended into areas such as Zhongdian (中甸, Zhōngdiàn), Deqin (德钦, Déqīn), and parts of Sichuan (四川, Sìchuān) including Xiangcheng (乡城, Xiāngchéng), Batang (巴塘, Bātáng), as well as Tibetan regions like Yanjing (盐井, Yánjǐng) and Mangkang (芒康, Mángkāng). To solidify his rule, he constructed numerous military fortresses and villages along the way, with the Xiaozhongdian Castle being a typical example.
Geographic Location
The site of the Mu Chieftain’s Castle is positioned to the west of Gongxia Village in Xiaozhongdian Township, Shangri-La County. The exact date of its construction remains unclear. As a wide and fertile Tibetan plain, Xiaozhongdian served as an advantageous location for the Mu Chieftain to station troops and cultivate land. The castle’s strategic advantages included ease of attack and defense, as well as a beneficial position for retreat.
Despite the dilapidated state of the Mu Chieftain’s Castle since the Republican era, it is challenging to imagine the grandeur it once held. Today, this historical site evokes a profound sense of time and history. The castle consists only of crumbling walls, constructed of rammed earth. The southern wall features an entrance, while a pair of elegantly styled stone monkeys can be found within the remaining wall on the left side. The remaining walls stand over 2 meters high and 0.7 meters thick. The ruins are accompanied by a path made of tiles and cobblestones. The site spans approximately 1.5 kilometers in length and about 1 kilometer in width. There are no watchtowers surrounding the ruins, but remnants of the highest points can still be faintly observed.
Cultural Significance
Xiaozhongdian Castle is a key historical site that reflects the strategic and cultural interactions during the reign of Mu Tianwang. The castle served not only as a military stronghold but also as a center for the promotion of Tibetan Buddhism. The Mu Chieftain utilized Buddhism’s influence to consolidate power and establish a connection with the local Tibetan population.
How to Get There
To reach the Xiaozhongdian Site of Chieftain Mu’s Castle:
- By Car: Drive from Shangri-La city center to Xiaozhongdian Township. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
- By Public Transport: Local buses may operate routes to Xiaozhongdian Township; check for availability and schedules at the Shangri-La bus station.
Travel Tips
- Respect Local Customs: When visiting historical and cultural sites, be mindful of local traditions and practices.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the ruins and dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions.
- Take Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
- Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes and ruins, but be respectful of any restrictions on photography in religious or cultural areas.
- Plan Ahead: Check the weather and local conditions before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Xiaozhongdian Site of Chieftain Mu’s Castle is not only a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region but also a testament to the enduring legacy of Tibetan culture.
