Guineng Village

What are the most recommended things to do in Guineng Village?

  • Stroll through the village to admire traditional Dai-style architecture and wooden houses.
  • Interact with local residents to learn about their daily life, customs, and handicrafts.
  • Participate in local cultural activities or festivals if visiting during special events.
  • Take photographs of scenic spots, including terraced fields, rivers, and village landscapes.
  • Hike surrounding hills for panoramic views of the village and nearby countryside.

Introducing Guineng Village

Guineng Dazhai Village, located in Lianzhu Town, Mojiang County, Yunnan Province, was founded in the fourth year of the reign of Emperor Xianzong of the Yuan Dynasty, giving it a 360-year history. Located 14 kilometers from Mojiang County, it is a Hani village located on the Tropic of Cancer. It has four villager groups, 219 farming households, and a population of 890.

At the foot of the village lies the Shuigui River. Its upper reaches flow through the Mojiang Gold Mine, one of the "Ten Thousand Taels of Gold Lines in China." As a result, the river carries a large amount of gold sand. As the Shuigui River passes through Guineng, its flow slows, causing the gold sand to settle on the riverbed. This is where our ancestors began panning for gold, sparking a village-wide gold rush. Every household in the village had a homemade panning bed, attracting a large number of non-local prospectors. Later, the government banned illegal gold panning, and the craze subsided. Now, with approval from relevant authorities, the Shuigui River is open to tourists, allowing them to experience the thrill of gold panning for themselves.

Dazhai Village is home to the largest concentration of the Haoni (Budu) branch of the Hani ethnic group in Mojiang. The village retains a large number of traditional Hani dwellings—the earthen houses. These are the primary building type in Dazhai Village. Nestled against a hillside, the village is lushly forested. Rows of these houses are shaded by bamboo and palm trees. Surrounded by terraced fields and a tranquil stream, the industrious and resourceful Hani people have integrated their beautiful architecture into nature. This makes Dazhai Village a prime example of the Hani landscape, a quintessentially integrated landscape of forest, village, terraced fields, and river.

Climate and best time to travel

Guineng Village has a subtropical monsoon climate. You can see the most distinctive earthen houses with a civil structure. They are simple and solemn, connected to each other layer by layer. In the distance, there are green mountains and clear waters in the village, making it a suitable place for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day


Most Popular FAQs for Guineng Village

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Guineng Village is a traditional Dai ethnic village in Pu’er, Yunnan. It preserves Dai culture, architecture, and agricultural practices, offering insight into the region’s ethnic heritage and rural life.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The village is located in Pu’er, Yunnan. Visitors can reach Guineng Village by taxi or private car from Pu’er city center. Local buses may connect nearby towns, and walking is ideal for exploring the village itself.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The village is open year-round. Morning or late afternoon visits are best for photography and avoiding midday heat.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance is generally free. Certain cultural shows or guided experiences may charge a small fee, payable onsite.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not required for general visits. If attending special cultural performances, booking a few days ahead is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours is usually sufficient to walk around the village, interact with locals, and enjoy the scenery.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Traditional Dai wooden houses and stilt architecture
  • Local temples and shrines
  • Village river and small bridges
  • Surrounding terraced fields and gardens

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are occasionally available in Chinese. English tours are limited, so self-guided exploration is common.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Hills surrounding the village for panoramic views
  • Village river and bridges at sunrise or sunset
  • Courtyards and traditional houses for cultural photography

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Enter from the main village entrance, walk through the central streets, visit temples and gardens, then explore the outskirts and nearby fields for scenic viewpoints.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not available. Special events or cultural performances may be scheduled during festivals.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The village is usually quiet. Weekdays and non-festival periods are the least crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities include public restrooms, small cafes, local craft shops, and resting areas. Water and snacks can be purchased from village vendors.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main streets are walkable, but some areas have uneven paths. Elderly and children should take care on stairs or sloped paths; wheelchair access may be limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used. Some shops may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries serving Pu’er and Dai cuisine are available nearby, including small tea houses and family-run restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; vegan or Halal options may be limited, so checking in advance is recommended.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, boutique hotels, and homestays in Guineng Village or nearby Pu’er towns offer convenient accommodations.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Puer Tea Plantations
  • Mengwo Zongfo Temple
  • Other ethnic villages and rural cultural sites in Pu’er

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local handicrafts, woven textiles, bamboo products, tea, and small cultural artifacts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis, ride-hailing services, or private cars are recommended to continue exploring nearby villages, temples, or Pu’er city.