Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1This place is going to be turned into a tourist spot soon, so visit before it changes too much. (2:07)
- Tip 2Explore the unique architecture of the rammed-earth houses and their interconnected rooftops. (2:13)
- Tip 3Observe the traditional layout of rural houses, with upper floors for living and ground floors for livestock. (3:33)
- Tip 4Learn about the history of the Ziqi Kingdom and its significance to the Yi people. (4:51)
- Tip 5Observe the contrast between inhabited and abandoned houses, reflecting the village's changing population. (5:22)
- Tip 6Visit local restaurants to experience the local cuisine and interact with the community. (12:09)
- Tip 7Observe the local livestock, such as cows, horses and sheep, and their role in the village's rural economy. (15:32)
Explore the captivating Chengzi Ancient Village, a hidden gem in rural Yunnan, with Honglin Li. This historic Yi settlement, once part of the Ziqi Kingdom, boasts unique rammed-earth houses with interconnected rooftops. Discover the village's fascinating history, dwindling population, and transformation into a tourist attraction, all while experiencing the charm of this ancient homeland.
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This video follows Honglin Li's journey to Chengzi Ancient Village, a historical Yi settlement nestled in the eastern part of Yunnan province. The village, with a history stretching back over 500 years, was once home to over a thousand households but now only about 30 families remain.
The video highlights the unique architecture of the village, characterized by rammed-earth houses interconnected in a layered maze-like pattern on the hillside. These houses, locally known as tu zhang fang, are built with rammed clay and wood, seamlessly blending with the natural landscape. A distinctive feature is the use of flat, terraced rooftops as courtyards, drying areas for crops, and connecting spaces between homes. This design cleverly maximizes land use in the mountainous terrain.
The narrative also delves into the village's rich history, tracing its origins to the Ziqi Kingdom, an ancient realm of the Yi people. While much of the kingdom's history remains shrouded in mystery, the village stands as a testament to generations of Yi people who have called this place home. The video captures the quiet transformation of the village into a tourist attraction, raising questions about preserving its cultural heritage amidst the changes.
Honglin Li's exploration of Chengzi Ancient Village offers a glimpse into the daily life of the remaining residents, showcasing interactions with locals and providing a personal perspective on the village's evolving identity. The video's intimate portrayal of the village's unique features, history, and current state makes it a captivating journey into a forgotten corner of Yunnan.
The video concludes with a sense of urgency, emphasizing the need to appreciate and preserve this historical site before it's too late. The emotional impact of witnessing a once-thriving community dwindling in size leaves a lasting impression, highlighting the importance of cultural preservation and sustainable tourism.