Nayun Ancient Town (娜允古镇) is the last well-preserved Dai ancient town in China and has been designated as a historical and cultural city of the Dai ethnic group. Despite its long history, Nayun retains the distinctive characteristics and charm of a traditional Dai town, rich in the diverse culture of Dai chieftains. It boasts significant historical and artistic value.
The town is composed of “three cities and two towns,” organized in a hierarchical layout from top to bottom. During the chieftain era, the upper town was home to the chieftains and their servants, the middle town housed officials and their families, and the lower town accommodated junior officials. The two small towns, Mangfanggang and Mangfangmao, were settlements for forestry officials and hunters. The Menglian Xuanfu Office, situated at the highest point of the upper town, and the Buddhist temples in both the upper and middle towns stand majestically near this historic site, reflecting the town’s rich cultural heritage.
Travel Information about Nayun Ancient Town
Ticket and Opening Hours
Admission Fee: Free entry.
Opening Hours: The ancient town is open all day, while the Xuanfu Office operates from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit
Nayun Ancient Town, primarily featuring cultural and architectural landscapes, is suitable for visits year-round. However, the best time to experience the town is during April and May when the “Divine Fish Festival” takes place, bringing a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
Transportation to the Scenic Area
Location: Nayun Town, Menglian County, Pu’er City.
From Kunming: Take a bus to Simao, then transfer to a bus heading to Menglian County. Nayun Town is within walking distance from the county seat.
From Pu’er: There are hourly buses departing from the Pu’er Bus Station to Menglian County, with a travel time of about 6 to 7 hours.
Attraction Ratings
- Cultural Significance: ★★★★
- Unique Features: ★★★★
- Leisure Activities: ★★
- Scenic Beauty: ★★★
- Romantic Atmosphere: ★★
- Adventure Level: ★★★
Highlights of Nayun Ancient Town
Menglian Xuanfu Office
The Menglian Xuanfu Office, commonly known as the “Menglian Tusi Mansion,” was established during the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty in 1406. It served as the administrative headquarters for the Dai chieftain, the Dao clan. This historical site is notable for being the only ancient architectural complex in Yunnan that combines Han and Dai architectural styles. The Xuanfu Office occupies over 12,000 square meters and consists of three main halls, including the main hall, discussion hall, rear hall, guest rooms, and other auxiliary buildings, forming a majestic architectural ensemble with unique characteristics.
Over the span of more than 500 years, from the Ming Dynasty to the Republic of China, 28 generations of hereditary chieftains governed from this office. During this time, the Dai chieftains of the Dao clan would send tributes to the Ming Dynasty emperor. The Yongle Emperor granted them the title of “Menglian Chief Executive” and bestowed official robes and other honors. In the 48th year of the Kangxi period (1709), the chieftain of the Dao clan traveled to the capital to pay tribute, and the Qing Dynasty conferred upon them the title of “Menglian Hereditary Deputy Chief” along with a gold seal, official attire, and a clan flag. The Xuanfu Office preserved today was rebuilt in the fifth year of the Guangxu period (1879).
What is the Xuanfu Office?
The Xuanfu Office represented a feudal administrative authority established by the central government in the border regions, categorized into three tiers: Xuanwei Office, Xuanfu Office, and Anfu Office. The Xuanfu Office held military authority, granting it the power of life and death, akin to a local “king.” Typically, the Xuanfu Office in Nandian was ranked at the seventh level, equivalent to a county magistrate. However, in special circumstances, such as receiving superior officials or engaging in diplomacy with neighboring states, the ranking could be elevated to as high as the fourth level.
Shangcheng Buddhist Temple
Shangcheng Buddhist Temple was established in the seventh year of the Tongzhi period (1868) and is also known as “Jinger” in the Dai language, which means “Dragon City Buddhist Temple.” Situated near a grove of dragon blood trees, it is an important part of Nayun Ancient Town. According to local legend, there is a stone cave within the temple that connects to the Longtan (Dragon Pool) in the Nanlei River. It is said that the dragon from the Longtan often travels through this passage to listen to sermons at the temple, leading to its alternate name, “Longmian Temple.”
The Shangcheng Buddhist Temple has a significant reputation and served as the dedicated temple for the chieftain’s family during the Tusi era. Renowned monks from both China and abroad often stay here when they visit Menglian.
The entire temple complex consists of several components, including the main hall, monk quarters, main gate, corridors, scripture pavilion, and both golden and silver pagodas. The main structure, the Buddha hall, features a hip roof with three eaves, constructed in a traditional timber style. It is supported by 56 round columns arranged in eight symmetrical rows. Inside the temple, a statue of Sakyamuni Buddha occupies the main altar, surrounded by various offerings of colorful banners contributed by devotees. These banners depict Dai myths and legends, vividly illustrating the history, architecture, production, lifestyle, religion, and beliefs of the Dai people through folk paper-cutting, weaving, and painting.
Related Details: In Menglian, every Dai village has its own Buddhist temple, which serves not only as a center for Buddhist activities but also as a hub for the dissemination of Dai culture. The exquisite architecture, sculptures, and murals within the temple, along with the prayer flags created by Dai devotees, all highlight the special place that Buddhism holds in the hearts of the Dai people.
Middle Town Buddhist Temple
Middle Town Buddhist Temple is located not far from Upper Town Buddhist Temple and is known for its exquisite Dai folk murals and gilded decorative patterns on the walls. These artworks serve as invaluable artifacts for studying Dai history, culture, religion, and beliefs. During the Tusi era, this temple was exclusively used by the officials residing in the Middle Town of Nayun Ancient City.
Constructed in 1910, the temple complex comprises a main gate, main hall, corridors, octagonal pavilion, and the Buddhist Association office. Middle Town Buddhist Temple stands not only as a witness to the development of Dai culture and history but also as a crucial venue for the dissemination of Dai traditions, beliefs, and religious practices.
In addition to hosting various rituals, the temple plays a significant role in promoting and preserving the cultural heritage of the Dai people. It has become an important gathering place for the local Dai community to inherit and celebrate their ethnic culture, making it a vital aspect of their identity and social cohesion.
Legend of the Middle Town Buddhist Temple
According to local legend, a monk was assigned by Buddha to travel to Myanmar to retrieve sacred scriptures. After obtaining the texts, he returned home riding a horse that carried the scriptures. As he passed through the villages of Mangnong, Xiayun, and Manghong, the horse knelt down briefly on one front leg before continuing its journey. However, when they reached the location of the Middle Town Buddhist Temple, the horse knelt down on both front legs and refused to get up, despite various attempts to drive it away.
Recognizing that this spot was situated in the center of the ancient city and marked the place where the horse had knelt, the local people decided to build a larger Buddhist temple at that site. This legend highlights the spiritual significance of the location and reflects the deep connection between the Dai people and their cultural heritage.
Menglian Golden Pagoda
The Menglian Golden Pagoda is located by the banks of the Nanlei River and consists of a main tower surrounded by eight smaller towers. The main tower stands at a height of 32 meters, and each tower is adorned with wind chimes. When the wind blows, these chimes produce a melodious tinkling sound, creating a serene atmosphere reminiscent of a Buddhist paradise.
Among the supporting structures of the Menglian Golden Pagoda, the most significant are the four square pavilions that encircle the base of the pagoda. These pavilions are oriented toward the four cardinal directions and each houses one of the Four Heavenly Kings:
- South: The King of Growth, who governs the winds.
- East: The King of Holding the Nation, responsible for order.
- North: The King of Great Hearing, who controls the rains.
- West: The King of Broad Eyes, who ensures harmony.
Together, the Four Heavenly Kings protect their respective realms, symbolizing a balance that leads to “favorable winds and gentle rains.” This signifies bountiful harvests and peace throughout the land, reflecting the deep spiritual and cultural significance of the pagoda within the Dai community.
Mengwai Tusi Summer Resort
The term “Mengwai” in the Dai language translates to “a place where one can easily ascend to the heavens.” Nestled in a picturesque setting, this area is characterized by its lush mountains and flowing springs, creating a serene natural environment. It was chosen by the seventh Dai Tusi, Dao Pai, as his retreat after abdicating due to illness, establishing it as a summer resort for the Tusi family.
The Mengwai Tusi Summer Resort is located amidst dense forests and mountains, showcasing the rich Dai water culture and religious practices while preserving the deep-rooted Tusi heritage. Key attractions within the resort include the Dao Pai Tomb, which honors the former Tusi, and the Wangfu Tree (Husband-Watching Tree), a significant cultural symbol associated with local traditions and beliefs. This tranquil retreat offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lifestyle and customs of the Dai people, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the region’s history and culture.
Visitor Guide for Nayun Ancient Town
Accommodation in Nayun Ancient Town
Nayun Ancient Town, situated in Menglian County, offers a variety of accommodation options. However, if you plan to visit during the annual Shen Yu Festival (Divine Fish Festival) held in April and May, it’s advisable to book your room in advance to secure a place to stay.
Huangshi Hotel (煌市大酒店): Located on Lianhua Road, this hotel is conveniently accessible. It features clean and well-maintained guest rooms, complete amenities, and a comfortable atmosphere, making it one of the best hotels in the area.
Guyun Hotel (古韵大酒店): Found on the north side of Chengxi Road, this inn boasts a minimalist room style that is both cozy and inviting, providing a homely feel. It is equipped with an elevator, Wi-Fi, 24-hour hot water, and offers a pleasant environment for guests.
Cuisine in Menglian
Menglian’s culinary offerings are characterized by a preference for sour and spicy flavors. The locals have a strong affinity for tea, with Nayun Ancient Tea (娜允古茶) being rich and worth tasting. Notable local snacks include fresh lettuce (生菜), sour cow’s foot (酸牛脚), beef jerky (牛干), and Dai-style grilled fish (傣味烤鱼).
Yuanfa Restaurant (原阀口味): Located on the eastern section of Jianshe Road in Menglian County, this longstanding restaurant is known for its traditional Dai dishes. Popular menu items include sour bamboo shoots with chicken (酸笋鸡), bitter sausage soup (苦肠汤), and beef specialties (牛刹别).
Wanderer Cafe (流浪者): Situated next to the sports stadium at the end of Lianhua Road, this cafe offers not only coffee, snacks, and drinks but also local specialties made by the owner. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy authentic local flavors.