Zhuomulang Village

Dali, once the capital of the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom and Dali Kingdom, boasts a long history and is one of Yunnan's few nationally recognised historical and cultural cities, teeming with diverse tourist attractions. Among them, the Dali Ancient City stands as a prominent representative. Yet, beyond the ancient city, lie many other uniquely charming villages. Let’s explore one such gem - Zhuomulang Village.

Zhuomulang Village exudes an ancient charm, immersed in its own poetic allure. Due to its relatively remote location, it predominantly showcases pastoral landscapes. Layer upon layer of terraced fields, century-old ancient trees, and the ethereal mist all conspire to lovingly cradle Zhuomulang Village within the embrace of Weishan Mountain. The locals speak a different language, and the transportation here isn't well-developed, making visitors feel as if they have entered a hidden paradise.

Located in the eastern part of Dacang Town, Weishan County, Dali Prefecture, Zhuomulang Village is around 60 kilometres away from Dali’s urban area, taking roughly two hours by car.

As Zhuomulang's ancient village has not undergone tourism development, you will not find much information about it online. However, it is known to be the residence of the descendants of the Nanzhao Kingdom.

Speaking of the Nanzhao Kingdom, there are tales to tell. During the Tang Dynasty's Tianbao reign, the Nanzhao Kingdom engaged in a battle with the Tang Dynasty, leading to the near annihilation of the Tang army in Dali. From then on, the Nanzhao Kingdom broke free from Tang's rule, standing proud and independent, now tracing back a history of over a thousand years.

Zhuomulang Village was once chosen as a refuge by the descendants of the Nanzhao Kingdom during times of adversity. Nestled halfway up the mountainside, the entire village sits in relative seclusion. To enter the ancient village, you need to travel along a narrow rural road flanked by mountains on one side and cliffs on the other, making it quite treacherous. From a distance, the full view of the village comes into sight. The village is ingeniously built into the mountainside, with homes stacked one on top of another, presenting a magnificent spectacle.

Zhuomulang Village, after all, was the homeland of royal descendants, rendering it richer in cultural heritage compared to other ancient villages. At the entrance of the village stands a monumental archway with the three characters "Zhuo Mu Lang," shining with brilliance. Stepping into the narrow alleys, you will find artistic posters everywhere, brimming with charm. Especially the villagers' homes, though they may appear simple on the outside, they reveal grand gateways and imposing buildings once you step inside - more akin to palaces than ordinary residences, exuding a sense of luxury and grandeur.

Zhuomulang Village is a settlement of the Yi ethnic group, and their style of clothing differs significantly from the norm. While the general Yi ethnic attire revolves around red and black tones, which are simple and plain, Zhuomulang Village's ethnic clothing predominantly features vibrant colours like bright red and green, adorned with intricate patterns. Here, in these remote mountains, there is no shortage of flamboyance. Particularly with women's attire - the vests, skirts - every detail reflects a regal quality, and being hand-embroidered only adds to their preciousness.

Every stitch and thread are carefully sewn by the Zhuomulang women themselves, and some say that a Zhuomulang woman's entire life revolves around the needle and thread.

Zhuomulang Village's Yi ethnic singing follows a strict set of rules and bears rich regional characteristics. A diverse array of Yi folk music is presented here, protected and passed down through the generations, carrying a thousand years of Yi ethnic history and culture, embodying the allure of Yi music.

Although Zhuomulang Village is just one of the many ancient villages in Dali, its distinguished royal heritage shines through, making it an exceedingly rare and culturally rich ancient village in the Dali region.

Notes: Pictures from the Internet, copyright belongs to the original author, such as infringement please contact us to delete.