Heshun Ancient Town

Historical Overview

Founded in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty, Heshun thrived as a trading post for tea, horses, and jade. Its residents, many descendants of Silk Road merchants, established overseas communities in Myanmar, Thailand, and beyond, earning it the title “China’s First侨乡 (Overseas Chinese Hometown).” The town survived WWII intact, preserving its cultural DNA. In 2005, it became a national AAAAA-level tourist attraction, balancing preservation with sustainable tourism.

Structural Layout

The town is laid out around a crescent-shaped lake, divided into three zones:

1. Residential Zone: A labyrinth of 800+ courtyard homes with fire-resistant “Seal-Script” roofs and moon gates.
2. Cultural Zone: Featuring the 1928 Heshun Library (China’s oldest rural library) and the Ai Siqi Memorial Hall.
3. Commercial Zone: Restored silk road inns, jade workshops, and teahouses lining Willow-Fringed Canal.
   Key infrastructure includes 18 stone arch bridges, 3km of canals, and 12 ancestral temples.

Major Attractions

1. Heshun Library: A 94-year-old library housing 120,000 rare books, including Ming Dynasty manuscripts.
2. Ai Siqi’s Former Residence: The birthplace of China’s first Marxist philosopher, with interactive exhibits.
3. Yuanlong Pavilion: A 400-year-old Taoist temple overlooking rice terraces.
4. Wenchang Palace: A Confucian academy with a 15-meter-tall “Imperial Edict Stele.”
5. Laundry Pavilions: Nine unique stone pavilions where women washed clothes while gossiping for centuries.
6. Benteng Guild Hall: A 19th-century商会 (chamber of commerce) showcasing opium-trade artifacts.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Half-Day Classic Route:
   East Gate → Heshun Library → Wenchang Palace → Laundry Pavilions → Yuanlong Pavilion → Return.
   Highlights: Library, pavilions, and panoramic lake views in 3 hours.

2. Full-Day Cultural Route:
   East Gate → Ai Siqi Residence → Benteng Guild Hall → Jade Workshop → Silk Road Museum → Evening Lantern Show.
   Highlights: Philosophy, jade carving, and immersive history exhibits.

3. Multi-Day Immersive Route (2 Days):
   Day 1: Residential Zone trail with home-cooked meals in courtyard inns.
   Day 2: Cycling tour to nearby hot springs and Dai minority villages.
   Highlights: Rural life experiences and cross-cultural interactions.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via Ctrip, Fliggy, or the official Heshun WeChat account (up to 7 days in advance).
• On-Site: Tickets available at the East Gate ticket office; arrive early to avoid queues.
• Prices:
  • Standard Pass (all zones): ¥55 (adults), ¥30 (students/seniors).
  • Night Tour (6–9 PM): ¥30 (includes lantern show).
  • Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.

Transportation

• By Bus:
  • Tengchong Bus Station → Heshun (30 minutes, ¥5).
• By Taxi:
  • Direct from Tengchong Airport (20 minutes, ¥40).
• By Tour:
  • Group tours from Dali/Lijiang include jade market visits and hot spring stops.
• Departure: Shuttle buses depart every 20 minutes to Tengchong/Baoshan.

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Season: February–April (blossoms), October–November (cool weather).
• Avoid Crowds: Weekdays; weekends host domestic tourists.
• Weather: Pack layers (10–20°C year-round) and rain gear (June–September).
• Essentials:
  • Wear comfortable shoes (cobbled streets).
  • Carry cash for small shops and tea ceremonies.
  • Respect local customs (ask before photographing residents).
• Prohibitions: Drones, littering, and touching ancient steles.