Yangzong Town of Chengjiang County, Yuxi

Yangzong Town (阳宗镇) is located in the northern part of Chengjiang City (澄江市), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省), at the northern foot of Liangwang Mountain (梁王山), the highest peak in central Yunnan. It is the northernmost area of Yuxi. To the east, it borders Caodian (草甸) in Yiliang County (宜良县), Kunming City (昆明市); to the south, it connects with Longjie Subdistrict (龙街街道) and Jiucun Town (九村镇); to the west, it is adjacent to Wujiaying (吴家营) and Qidian (七甸) in Chenggong District (呈贡区), Kunming City (昆明市); and to the north, it faces Yangzong Lake (阳宗海). The town government is located in the Yangzong Village Committee (阳宗村委会), 34 kilometers from Chengjiang City (澄江市) and 60 kilometers from Kunming City (昆明市).

History and Culture

Yangzong Town (阳宗镇) has a long history. It was formerly known as “Qiangzong” (强宗), which later evolved phonetically into “Yangzong” (阳宗). During the Han Dynasty, this area was part of Yuyuan County (俞元县) under eastern Yunnan. In the Nanzhao Kingdom during the Tang Dynasty, it was governed by Heyang Prefecture (河阳郡). In 937, during the Dali Kingdom, it was one of the 37 administrative divisions in eastern Yunnan, known as the “Qiangzong Division” (强宗部). In 1276, during the Yuan Dynasty, Chengjiang Road (澄江路) was established with Qiangzong County (强宗县) under its jurisdiction. In 1669, during the Qing Dynasty, Yangzong County (阳宗县) was abolished and merged into Heyang County (河阳县). During the Republic of China period, Yangzong belonged to the Fourth District of Chengjiang County (澄江县). Yangzong Town (阳宗镇) was officially established in January 1988.

Folk Customs

Yangzong Town (阳宗镇) is known for its rich and diverse folk culture, with the most distinctive being Guansuo Opera (关索戏), a traditional form of Nuo opera. It is believed to have originated during the Three Kingdoms period and is performed to commemorate the general Guansuo (关索), who followed Zhuge Liang (诸葛亮) in his southern expeditions. Other local folk arts include Dongjing ancient music (洞经古乐), showcasing the unique cultural charm of the area.

Climate and Best Visiting Time

Yangzong Town (阳宗镇) enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons and mild weather. The annual average temperature is approximately 15.5°C. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is cool and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful.

Recommended Attractions and Suggested Visiting Duration

Yangzong Lake (阳宗海): A well-known freshwater lake in Yunnan Province, renowned for its crystal-clear water and scenic beauty.
Suggested visiting time: 3–4 hours.

Longquan Temple (龙泉寺): Located southeast of Yangzong Lake (阳宗海), it features an ancient tree over a thousand years old and a tranquil environment.
Suggested visiting time: 1–2 hours.

Puzhao Temple (普照寺): Another historical and cultural site in Yangzong Town (阳宗镇), valued for its heritage.
Suggested visiting time: 1 hour.

Transportation

Public Transport: You can take a dedicated bus route from Chengjiang City (澄江市) to Yangzong Town (阳宗镇).
Self-Driving: Depart from Kunming (昆明), drive along the Kunming–Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速) to Chengjiang (澄江), and follow road signs to Yangzong Town (阳宗镇). The total travel time is about 1 hour.

Local Cuisine

Yangzong Town (阳宗镇) offers delicious farmhouse-style cuisine, especially featuring local lake fish such as anti-wave fish from Yangzong Lake (阳宗海), as well as fresh vegetables and lake delicacies. Popular local snacks include rice noodles (米线) and rice cakes (饵块).

Shopping

Shopping is concentrated in the town center, where you can find a variety of local handicrafts and agricultural products such as embroidery, bamboo weaving, and specialty local products (土特产).

Accommodation

Chengjiang Boman Hotel (澄江泊漫酒店): Located near Yangzong Lake (阳宗海), it offers beautiful surroundings and full amenities.
Local Farm Stays (农家乐): Offer accommodation and a chance to experience rural life.

Travel Tips

• Protect the environment: Please avoid littering and help keep the area clean during your visit.
• Respect local customs: When participating in folk activities, be respectful of local culture and traditions.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:

• Morning: Arrive in Yangzong Town (阳宗镇) and visit Yangzong Lake (阳宗海) to enjoy the lake and mountain scenery.
• Noon: Taste local specialties for lunch.
• Afternoon: Visit Longquan Temple (龙泉寺) and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
• Evening: Check in at your hotel and rest.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit Puzhao Temple (普照寺) to explore local history and culture.
• Noon: Lunch in the town center.
• Afternoon: Return to Chengjiang (澄江) or Kunming (昆明), concluding your trip.

Yangzong Town (阳宗镇) attracts many visitors with its unique natural beauty and vibrant folk culture. Whether strolling along the lakeshore or joining in local traditions, you’ll experience the charm of this small town. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Yangzong Town (阳宗镇).