Border Ancient Village

Introducing Border Ancient Village

Located 12 kilometers south of Heqing City in Dali, 54 kilometers from Lijiang, and 132 kilometers from Dali, Yunnan Border Village covers approximately 50 mu (approximately 16 acres) and is a unique tourist destination with traditional Chinese architecture. Its architecture is unique and its scenery is peculiar: winding paths, though not secluded, and scenic views, though not captivating. It is home to a nearly forgotten group of frontier people, said to have originally lived on the China-Myanmar border. They lacked ethnicity and lived a primitive lifestyle, sheltering themselves with leaves, eating raw and cold food, and dwelling in trees.

The courtyard of the ancient village is lined with rows of small thatched houses, resembling the shacks of melon farmers in a melon field. While not particularly elaborate, they are neatly organized, tidy, and clean. The skulls of unidentified animals hang from the huts, and tools for defending against wild beasts and hunting are placed in front of them. There are also nets on the ground and in the trees, said to be used for catching birds. Borderland residents now wear clothes. Men wear only black trousers, while women wear bikinis or, occasionally, long gowns. They are tanned and sturdy, and both men and women go barefoot. The scenic area is divided into five sections: "Face Painting and Body Smell," "Hunting," "Guest Welfare," "Special Abilities," and "Wedding Customs."

The Face Painting and Body Smell Area demonstrates visitor security checks; the Hunting Area showcases the skills of catching prey in harsh environments, as catching prey in the ancient village is difficult, so it's simply a display of skill. The Welcoming Area showcases the passionate and wild ways of welcoming guests, with singing and dancing. The Miraculous Skills Area showcases the many extraordinary skills of the borderland people that are incomprehensible to the world outside, such as licking steel plates, eating charcoal, walking barefoot on glass, catching piglets, eating leaves and bark, "bird-man," "flying hunting," drinking raw blood, and eating raw meat. The Wedding Customs Area showcases the wedding customs of the borderland people, which are very different from those of the rest of the world. However, since there are no performances in this area, it's unclear how they differ.

Climate and best time to travel

The plateau has a monsoon climate with dry winters and wet summers; the ancient border village is a unique folk house style tourist area on the Dali tourism line, suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Face painting and body smelling area, hunting area, welcoming area, extraordinary skills area, wedding customs area;

It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours

Tickets

100 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-20:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Border Ancient Village

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

Border Ancient Village has a long history, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, and is famous for its well-preserved architecture. It is an important cultural site in Yunnan, offering insight into the region's ethnic diversity and history. The village's location near the border gives it historical significance as a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange.

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

Border Ancient Village is located in Dali, Yunnan, China. To reach the village, you can take a bus or taxi from Dali city center, which is about a 40-minute drive. There are no metro services, so public transportation or private transport is the best option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Border Ancient Village is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the natural surroundings are most beautiful. Summer can be busy with tourists, while winter is quieter.

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

The entrance fee for Border Ancient Village is typically around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit. Some tour packages may include the cost of entry, and online bookings are available for certain tours.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (such as public holidays or summer) to avoid long lines. You can book tickets online 1-2 days before your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Border Ancient Village typically takes about 2-3 hours, allowing time for sightseeing, exploring the village's streets, and enjoying the natural surroundings. If you plan to hike or visit nearby landmarks, you may need additional time.

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

• The old town with its traditional architecture and well-preserved buildings.
• The surrounding natural landscapes, including the nearby hills and forested areas.
• The local markets and workshops showcasing traditional crafts and goods.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, with some tour guides speaking basic English. Audio guides may also be available in Chinese, with limited English options depending on the service provider.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The elevated spots around the village offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Photograph the village's traditional buildings, especially the old houses and narrow alleyways.
• The nearby hills and forests are great for nature photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main streets of the village to get a feel for its layout and architecture. Then, visit the local workshops and markets before heading to the outskirts for a hike to the nearby hills for scenic views. If time permits, explore the surrounding natural areas for a peaceful escape.

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

Night visits are not typically available at Border Ancient Village, and there are no light shows. However, the village is beautifully lit in the evening, providing a serene atmosphere for those who want to explore at a quieter time.

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

Border Ancient Village can be crowded during national holidays and the summer tourist season. The best times to visit for fewer crowds are early mornings during weekdays, particularly in the spring and fall.

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

There are public toilets available in the village, as well as a few small shops selling snacks and local products. Rest areas are limited, but there are several cafes and restaurants nearby where you can relax and enjoy a meal.

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

The village has some cobblestone streets and uneven paths, which may make it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children and elderly people in good health should be able to explore the village with some effort. Consider wearing comfortable shoes for walking.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted in many shops, cards and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are commonly used in the area, making it easy to pay digitally.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local restaurants in the village offer traditional Yunnan dishes, such as rice noodles and grilled meats.
• There are small cafes along the main street serving tea, coffee, and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local restaurants, although halal options are limited. It's recommended to check with restaurants ahead of time if you have specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are a few guesthouses and boutique hotels near the village for those looking to stay in the area.
• For more options, you can find hotels in Dali city, which is about a 30-minute drive away from the village.

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

• Erhai Lake is a nearby scenic spot, ideal for a day trip.
• The Three Pagodas in Dali are another popular attraction that can be easily combined with a visit to the village.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are several souvenir shops in the village selling local handicrafts, textiles, and pottery. The typical souvenirs include handwoven scarves, traditional jewelry, and painted wooden items.

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

• Public buses and taxis are available to travel from the village to Dali city for further exploration.
• For a more scenic trip, renting a car or using a private driver is a convenient option to explore the surrounding areas.