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Southwestern Jianchuan County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province.
It is the only surviving ancient market on the Tea Horse Road, preserving its original folk customs and traditional culture.
Nestled in the southwestern part of Jianchuan County, between the scenic areas of Dali and the ancient city of Lijiang, lies the enchanting Shaxi Ancient Town. This historic town, with Sideng Street at its heart, offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Yunnan. Visitors can explore Xingjiao Temple, the ancient theater stage, traditional shops, horse inns, and the picturesque red sandstone streets lined with century-old trees and ancient alleys. Shaxi is a haven for those who enjoy leisurely days, soaking up the sun, and indulging in cultural photography.
Shaxi boasts a history that stretches back over 2,400 years to the Spring and Autumn Period (770-221 BC), when it was a significant bronze smelting base. During the Nanzhao period (649-902 AD), Shaxi served as a crucial buffer zone between the Tang Dynasty and the Tibetan Empire, facilitating economic and cultural exchanges along the ancient Tea Horse Road. As a major stop on this trade route, Shaxi thrived with bustling markets trading tea, silk, leather, gemstones, and precious medicinal herbs. The discovery of salt wells in the nearby Misha area during the Tang Dynasty further boosted Shaxi's prominence, transforming it into a vital salt distribution center for Tibet and northwestern Yunnan.
Sideng Square Street is the soul and core of Shaxi, historically serving as the town's commercial hub. Located at the center of Shaxi Basin, this area is a prime example of feng shui, combining temples, theaters, shops, and horse inns into a functional and picturesque ancient market. The street, shaped like a carpenter's square, stretches approximately 300 meters north to south and 100 meters east to west, with its surface paved with red sandstone slabs. Two ancient locust trees, hundreds of years old, stand proudly in the center of the street.
Xingjiao Temple, located on Sideng Street in Shaxi, was built in the 13th year of the Yongle reign (1415 AD) during the Ming Dynasty. The temple complex covers an area of 6,240 square meters and includes the main hall, middle hall, temple gate, and theater stage. The temple's layout features three courtyards, with the main hall, middle hall, Guanyin Tower, temple gate, and theater stage aligned along a central axis. The entire complex spans 120 meters from east to west and 52 meters from north to south.
The ancient theater stage, facing Xingjiao Temple, is a focal point for local festivals and celebrations. During ethnic festivals, the Bai people of Shaxi don their festive attire, play traditional instruments, and gather at Sideng Square to sing and dance. The most lively event is the annual "Prince's Festival" on the eighth day of the second lunar month. According to local tradition, performing on the ancient theater stage is a rite of passage for Shaxi residents, highlighting its cultural significance.
Built in the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, Yujin Bridge is one of Shaxi's four scenic spots, known as "Iron Bridge Locks the River." The bridge spans the Heihui River, standing majestically with its simple yet elegant design. The view at sunset is particularly stunning, making it a favorite spot for photographers.
Mushroom Foraging in Shaxi
A visit to Dali is incomplete without experiencing the thrill of mushroom foraging. Join a local guide and head to the pine forests near Shaxi to hunt for wild mushrooms. The best time for foraging is during the rainy summer months when the climate is humid. Mushroom foraging is like a treasure hunt, with surprises waiting under every pine tree.
Tips:
Advance Booking: Arrange a guide in Shaxi the day before your foraging trip and confirm the meeting point and time.
Gear Up: Wear long sleeves, a hat, sunscreen, and bring plenty of drinking water.
Route: Shaxi Ancient Town ➺ Baoxiang Temple ➺ Shizhong Temple ➺ Shadengqing ➺ Shaxi Ancient Town
Shibaoshan, located 25 kilometers southwest of Jianchuan County, is renowned for its red sandstone formations resembling tortoise shells, lions, elephants, and bells. The mountain's grottoes are often referred to as the "Dunhuang of the Southwest."
Baoxiang Temple:
Also known as "Shibao Temple," Baoxiang Temple is perched on the cliffs of Shibaoshan. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and features impressive cliffside sculptures of Maitreya Buddha and Guanyin. The temple's construction showcases the ingenuity and skill of ancient Chinese craftsmen.
Shizhong Temple:
Shizhong Temple, located in Shibaoshan, is an ancient temple with a history that dates back to an unknown period. The temple's main hall once housed a large reclining Buddha adorned with a floral robe, pearl crown, and red beads. The temple also features Tang and Song dynasty rock carvings and Buddhist stone sculptures.
Shadengqing:
From Shizhong Temple, follow the signs to Shadengqing, a 3.5-kilometer hike offering panoramic views of the Shaxi Basin. After reaching Shadengqing, continue the 3-kilometer trek back to Shaxi Ancient Town.
Public Transport: Take a bus from Kunming, Dali, or Lijiang to Jianchuan County, then transfer to a green rural minibus to Shaxi Ancient Town.
From $ 302
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