Yunfeng Tunpu Scenic Area
Yunfeng Tunpu Scenic Area, located approximately 15 kilometers east of Anshun City in Guizhou Province, China, is a renowned cultural and historical site. The area encompasses over 40 well-preserved villages known as "tunpu," established during the early Ming Dynasty (14th century) as military settlements. These villages were strategically built to house soldiers and their families, serving both defensive and agricultural purposes. Today, Yunfeng Tunpu offers a unique glimpse into ancient Chinese military architecture and traditional lifestyles. Visitors can explore stone-built houses, ancient temples, and watchtowers, all reflecting the distinctive Ming-era architectural style. The local community continues to preserve traditional customs, including the performance of "Dixi" opera, a form of masked drama considered a living fossil of Chinese opera. In 2001, Yunshan Tun and Benzhai, two of the core villages, were designated as National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units. In 2005, Yunshan Tun was recognized as a "Chinese Historical and Cultural Village" by the Ministry of Construction and the State Administration of Cultural Heritage.
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Xixiu District, Anshun, Guizhou, China
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Yunfeng Tunpu Scenic Area: A Living Museum of Ming Dynasty Culture
Yunfeng Tunpu Scenic Area, located approximately 15 kilometers east of Anshun City in Guizhou Province, China, is a renowned cultural and historical site. The area encompasses over 40 well-preserved villages known as "tunpu," established during the early Ming Dynasty (14th century) as military settlements. These villages were strategically built to house soldiers and their families, serving both defensive and agricultural purposes. Today, Yunfeng Tunpu offers a unique glimpse into ancient Chinese military architecture and traditional lifestyles, preserving a fascinating "living fossil" of Ming-era culture.
What to See and Do
Explore Stone Villages: Wander through the well-preserved stone-built houses, ancient temples, and watchtowers. The architecture reflects the distinctive Ming-era style, with thick stone walls and narrow alleys designed for defense.
Tunpu Culture: Immerse yourself in the unique "Tunpu" culture, which has been preserved for centuries. The descendants of these Ming Dynasty soldiers still live here, maintaining many of their ancestral traditions.
Dixi Opera (地戏): Witness performances of "Dixi" opera, a unique form of masked drama considered a living fossil of Chinese opera. Performers wear wooden masks and enact historical stories, often with a strong military theme. Check for performance schedules.
Traditional Crafts: Discover local handicrafts, including embroidery, paper-cutting, and other traditional arts that have been passed down through generations.
Local Life: Observe the daily life of the villagers, who continue to live in harmony with their traditions, offering an authentic cultural experience.
Yunshan Tun and Benzhai: These are two of the core villages within the scenic area, recognized for their historical and cultural significance.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for exploring. The villages are particularly vibrant during festivals and when Dixi opera performances are scheduled. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
How to Get There
Yunfeng Tunpu Scenic Area is located in Xixiu District, Anshun. You can take a bus from Anshun city to the scenic area. Many tour operators in Anshun also offer organized day trips that include Yunfeng Tunpu.
Travel Tips
Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking on stone-paved streets and steps.
Respect local customs: Be mindful and respectful of the traditions and daily life of the villagers.
Photography: The unique architecture and cultural activities offer excellent photo opportunities, but always ask for permission before photographing individuals.
Check Dixi Opera schedule: If you want to see a Dixi Opera performance, confirm the times in advance.
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Yunfeng Tunpu Scenic Area
Yunfeng Tunpu Scenic Area, located approximately 15 kilometers east of Anshun City in Guizhou Province, China, is a renowned cultural and historical site. The area encompasses over 40 well-preserved villages known as "tunpu," established during the early Ming Dynasty (14th century) as military settlements. These villages were strategically built to house soldiers and their families, serving both defensive and agricultural purposes. Today, Yunfeng Tunpu offers a unique glimpse into ancient Chinese military architecture and traditional lifestyles. Visitors can explore stone-built houses, ancient temples, and watchtowers, all reflecting the distinctive Ming-era architectural style. The local community continues to preserve traditional customs, including the performance of "Dixi" opera, a form of masked drama considered a living fossil of Chinese opera. In 2001, Yunshan Tun and Benzhai, two of the core villages, were designated as National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units. In 2005, Yunshan Tun was recognized as a "Chinese Historical and Cultural Village" by the Ministry of Construction and the State Administration of Cultural Heritage.
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