Nestled just a short drive from Kunming, Leju Village and its surrounding areas offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore ancient Yi architecture (古彝建筑), indulge in artisanal delights, and experience the harmony of multiple ethnic cultures, the Yi ethnic (彝族) minority is one of the ethnic groups in China with a long history and ancient culture. Key attractions include the tranquil Leju Village with its traditional rammed-earth houses, the immersive Leju Ethnic Cultural Park, the charming Leju Zhiyan Guesthouse, and the culinary adventures of Tuanjie Town, where rural life and fresh local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Discover the beauty of Leju Village
Leju Village (乐居村), a serene and picturesque ancient Yi village (古彝村) that feels like a pearl lost in the river of history. It nestled among lush green hills and clear waters, is a place where time seems to stand still. Each brick and tile of the village, built on the contours of the hills, exudes the charm of ages past and the harmony of nature.
The most humble yet striking structures here are the rammed-earth houses. These unadorned buildings, though lacking in ornate decorations, stand as testaments to the passage of time and the resilience of their builders. Leju Village offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to slow down, relax, and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of this ancient settlement. You don't need a guidebook to explore Leju Village. Simply wander along the stone-paved paths and let the village's timeless beauty unfold before you. The old streets and alleys, with their dark-tiled roofs and earthy yellow walls, form a warm and welcoming picture of daily life. Amid the lively atmosphere, you'll find a peaceful and enduring charm.
Jiuxi Handmade Bread: savoring time in every bite
Wandering through the cobblestone paths of Leju Village, you can't help but be drawn by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread. This scent leads visitors to a quaint courtyard with a golden sign reading "Obsessive Dough Kneading Disorder" (重度搓面症患者) – a humorous and inviting tagline for Jiuxi Handmade Bread (九犀手作面包).
As you delve deeper into the village, the rich smell of bread becomes more intoxicating. The blend of pure wheat and artisanal baking creates a warm and inviting scene. Jiuxi Handmade Bread is a shining gem of Leju Village, seamlessly blending tradition and modernity, nature and culture.
Each loaf of bread here is more than just food – it's a reflection of a deep passion for a better life. From selecting premium ingredients to hand-kneading the dough, from precise fermentation to careful baking, every step is infused with the utmost dedication and love for quality bread.
Stepping into the shop feels like discovering a treasure trove of bread. The array of breads, with their golden crispy crusts and soft, cloud-like interiors, is mesmerizing. Some are studded with various dried fruits, each bite offering a delightful surprise. The warm, inviting aroma permeates the air, allowing visitors to momentarily forget the worries and noise of the outside world.
Exploring Leju Ethnic Cultural Park
Another must-visit treasure in Leju Village is the Leju Ethnic Cultural Park (乐居民族文化园) in Kunming. The park is a living history book, with every corner waiting to be explored by those who appreciate cultural heritage.
One highlight is the cultural heritage exhibition room, which encapsulates 600 years of Leju's history. The room showcases over 300 precious artifacts, from ancient production tools to vibrant ethnic costumes. Each item tells the story of the Yi people's wisdom and hard work, offering a glimpse into their authentic and simple past.
Walking through the park feels like traveling through time, witnessing the industrious hands that wove everyday life and the beautiful attire that displayed ethnic pride. The park is especially stunning in spring, with blooming flowers and a 26-meter-long embroidered scroll depicting scenes from "Along the River During the Qingming Festival," reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship of the artisans.
Additionally, the park features unique button art and masterful calligraphy and paintings. Visitors can admire these intricate pieces, further enriching their experience of Leju's cultural and aesthetic heritage.
Relaxing in Leju Zhiyan Guesthouse
The entire building complex of Leju Zhiyan Guesthouse (乐居之眼名宿) is built along the hillside, facing west to east. The owners have integrated elements of Leju's landscapes into the courtyard design, using local stones and plants to create a miniaturized version of the natural world. Within the courtyard, visitors can feel the essence of the countryside, with small streams flowing and wildflowers blooming along rustic paths.
In the morning, you're gently awakened not by the harsh sound of an alarm but by the melodious birdsong and the gentle murmur of flowing water. This natural symphony is a refreshing way to start the day, leaving you feeling revitalized and serene.
Around the tranquil courtyard, you can peruse the well-stocked bookshelves, enjoying the smell of old pages as you bask in the afternoon sun. Alternatively, you can curl up in the tea room with a cup of fragrant tea, letting your thoughts wander freely. The guesthouse also offers an entertainment room and a mini cinema, where you can challenge friends to a game of pool or immerse yourself in a film, adding a touch of excitement to your stay.
A culinary adventure in Tuanjie Town
A visit to Tuanjie Town (团结乡) offers a feast for the senses, starting with the famous "Huajiao Chicken (花椒鸡)." The moment you step into this hidden gem, you're greeted by the sight of slowly turning windmills and expansive green lawns, creating a serene pastoral scene. This is not just a food haven, but also an ideal spot for photos and connecting with nature.
The menu features an array of rustic delights, including crispy fish hot pot, pumpkin blossoms, and apple pancakes. The fresh, farm-to-table flavors are a true culinary delight, offering a taste of simplicity and romance in every bite.
In this idyllic corner of the world, you can let your mind rest and your taste buds revel in the rich, peppery goodness of Huajiao Chicken. At Tuanjie Town's Peach Blossom Fishing House (桃花源渔家), a local restaurant, you can embark on an impromptu countryside adventure and savor the joys of rural life.
Here in Leju Village, Tuanjie Town, old houses, tiled eaves, traditional kilns, and quaint coffee shops coexist harmoniously, bringing new life to this ancient settlement. The village, once quiet and forgotten, has become a new treasure on the outskirts of Kunming. Are you ready to enjoy a leisurely weekend in Leju Village? don't forget to share your unique experiences!
Getting There
Leju Village is about 36 kilometers from downtown Kunming, and it takes approximately 45 minutes by car. For public transportation, you can take bus C61 from West Bus Station (西站公交站) to Tuanjie Town Station (团结乡站), then walk 1.4 kilometers, with taking around an hour and a half to getting there. Parking in the Leju village is convenient, and entry is free.
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