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Visitors to the original communal village of the Wengding Wa people can explore the traditional wooden houses, interact with local Wa people, learn about their unique culture and customs, and enjoy scenic walks in the surrounding natural beauty. Cultural performances and traditional craft workshops are also popular activities.
The original Wa village of Wengding is located in Wengding Village, Mengjiao Township, Cangyuan Wa Autonomous County, Lincang City, Yunnan Province. It is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and rich ethnic customs. Wengding Village has retained the original Wa residential architectural style and original Wa customs and practices. It is the best-preserved original village to date and a must-see attraction for Lincang's cultural tourism.
Wengding, meaning "a place shrouded in clouds and mist" in the Wa language, is the heart of Wengding Village. Home to 97 households and over 500 people, all of them Wa, Wengding boasts a history of nearly 400 years. The Yang family was the first to establish the village, and the position of village chief is hereditary within the Yang clan. The village complex comprises a gate, residential buildings, village posts, and a sacred forest.
The villagers of Wengding were originally nine families who migrated from Wa State in Myanmar to a place called Manghui. As the population continued to grow, the headman arranged for his brother to lead four families to Wengding to build a new village. His brother then became the headman of the Wengding village, forming the current ecological village where the four major surnames of Yang, Xiao, Zhao, and Tian live together as clans.
The subtropical low-latitude mountain monsoon climate is characterized by dense forests and surrounded by mountains. The climate is pleasant, the land is fertile, and the weather is beautiful. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Visiting the primitive Wa village of Wengding, you'll find a singing area within the village. This is also where Wa collective activities like playing wooden drums and butchering cattle are held. The entire village is composed of stilt-style bamboo and wooden houses, facing the sun and backed by the mountains. Logs form the framework of the houses, with wooden planks for the walls, thatched roofs, and bamboo planks for the floor. Extending eaves provide both shade and protection from the rain.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
35 yuan/person
08:00-18:00
The original communal village of the Wengding Wa people is an ancient settlement of the Wa ethnic group, famous for its rich cultural heritage. The village is notable for preserving traditional Wa customs, architecture, and lifestyle, providing visitors with a rare glimpse into one of China's indigenous communities.
The village is located in Lincang, Yunnan Province, in the southwestern part of China. It can be reached by taxi or private car from Lincang city. There are no direct metro or bus routes to the village, but local buses may be available to nearby areas, followed by a short walk or taxi ride.
The village is generally open year-round, and visiting hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the surrounding landscapes are at their most beautiful.
The entrance fee is typically around 40-60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance or, in some cases, online via third-party platforms or local tourism websites.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays. A few days in advance should suffice.
You can fully explore the village and surrounding areas in 2 to 3 hours. If you wish to engage in cultural activities or explore more remote areas, you may need an additional hour or two.
The must-see highlights include the traditional Wa-style wooden houses, the communal gathering areas, the scenic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding mountains, and the cultural exhibitions showcasing local customs and crafts.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be rare, so it is advisable to arrange for a bilingual guide in advance if you prefer assistance in English. Audio guides are not commonly available.
The best viewpoints include areas overlooking the entire village, the surrounding terraced fields, and the nearby mountains. These spots provide great opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Begin with a walk through the village, visiting the traditional homes and communal areas. Then, head to the higher ground for panoramic views of the landscape. Don’t miss cultural performances and workshops offered by the locals.
Night visits are not generally available, as the village is a peaceful rural location with no significant nighttime activities. However, special tours focusing on Wa culture may be offered during the day.
The village can become crowded during public holidays and peak tourist seasons, particularly during the summer months. For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays in the off-season (late autumn or early spring).
Basic facilities are available, including restrooms and a few small shops selling local crafts and snacks. There are no large restaurants or extensive food options, so it is recommended to bring water and snacks with you.
The village’s terrain may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors, as it involves walking through uneven paths and climbing some areas. Children will enjoy the village, but they should be supervised due to the rural environment and hiking paths.
Cash is commonly used, and mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller shops or local stalls, so it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases.
There are no large restaurants inside the village, but small local eateries offer traditional Wa food, including rice, vegetables, and meat dishes. For more options, head to Lincang city.
Vegetarian options are available, as many dishes are based on rice and vegetables. However, vegan and halal food options may be limited. It's recommended to check with the restaurant before dining.
There are basic guesthouses and small hotels in the nearby towns and villages. For a wider range of accommodations, Lincang city offers more options, including mid-range hotels and resorts.
Nearby attractions include the stunning landscapes of Lincang, the Yunling Mountains, and the historical town of Cangyuan, which is known for its cultural diversity and ethnic villages.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling traditional Wa handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. Local products like bamboo items, handwoven baskets, and embroidered clothing are popular souvenirs.
After visiting the village, taxis or private vehicles are the best option to continue your trip to Lincang city or other nearby attractions. Local buses may be available, but taxis provide a more convenient and flexible option.
