Nuodeng Ancient Village, located in Yunlong County, Yunnan Province, is a captivating destination steeped in history and cultural heritage. Situated 165 kilometers from Dali, this ancient village once thrived as a commercial hub due to its salt well, playing a crucial role in the region’s economy. Today, Nuodeng remains a well-preserved time capsule, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich past through its architecture and traditions.
view of Nuodeng at foot of the mountain.
Getting There
Transportation Options:
-Self-Driving/Personalized Travel: Highly recommended for convenience, as there are no trains to Nuodeng. If you opt for a private customized tour, you won’t need to worry about transportation. This option offers flexibility and convenience, especially when traveling with family or friends.
-Publish Transportation: Start at Dali Express Bus Station to Yunlong County, which takes about 3.5 hours. From there, you can find transportation to Nuodeng. Not recommended.
Distance:From Dali, it’s a 2-hour drive on the highway. If coming from Shaxi, the journey is scenic with beautiful views.
Parking and Access：
Parking: Free parking is available at the foot of the mountain.
– Entry: Vehicles are not allowed inside the village, so visitors must walk up the stairs. Mule services are available for carrying luggage at a cost of 20-30 RMB. This is a special service at way to Nuodeng village.
mule service
way to village
Key Attractions
1. Large Green Tree
Location: Central position in the village.
– Experience: A gathering spot for villagers to relax and for children to play, creating a serene and picturesque setting. Nearby, the Large Green Tree Inn, which offers a rustic charm with its stone slabs, carved windows, wooden pillars, and red couplets.
Large green tree
Large green tree
2.Jade Emperor Pavilion
– Location: A ten-minute uphill walk from the Small Green Tree.
– Experience: An ancient, unadorned structure that stands as a testament to time. Inside, you’ll find the world’s only mural of the twenty-eight constellations, a vivid and awe-inspiring piece of art.
Jade Emperor Pavilion
3.Nuodeng Ham
– Famous Dish: Made internationally famous by the documentary “A Bite of China,” Nuodeng ham is a must-try. Guests at the Large Green Tree Inn can enjoy this delicacy, which needs to be ordered an hour in advance. Another local favorite is the ham and egg noodles available for breakfast at the Small Green Tree Inn.
Nuodeng Ham
Nuodeng Ham
4.Foot Bath by the Large Green Tree
– Experience: Enjoy a traditional herbal foot bath, prepared by a family with five generations of medicinal knowledge. The treatment, costing 60 RMB per person, involves soaking your feet in herbal water while relaxing on a lounger, overlooking lush greenery.
Accommodation
Location: Staying in guesthouses halfway up the mountain or higher is recommended for the best views, especially at night when the sky is filled with stars.
Facilities: Most guesthouses are basic, so lower your expectations regarding amenities.
Practical Tips
1. Footwear: Wear comfortable sports shoes, and avoid high heels due to the steep stairs.
2. Preparation: Carry only essential items; use mule services for heavy luggage.
3. Seasonal Considerations: Plan visits to maximize the chance of clear skies for stargazing.
Nearby Attractions
– Yunlong Taiji Viewing Platform: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
– Dalang Dam: Another scenic spot worth visiting.
Yunlong Taiji Viewing
Dalang Dam
About Nuodeng
Perched on a hillside, Nuodeng is a village where time stands still. The cobbled stone paths that lead you through the village are only accessible by foot or mule, the main form of transportation here. If you’re planning a short stay, it’s advisable to store your larger suitcases in Dali or your next destination, though bringing your luggage is possible with the help of mules that carry it from the foot of the mountain. The journey itself is a part of the charm of visiting this secluded village.
The Last Word
Unlike the more popular destinations in Dali, Nuodeng remains off the beaten path, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds. The entire village is peaceful and quiet—find a hotel with a great view, and you’ll wake up to a panorama of green mountains. Take a deep breath in the crisp morning air, relax, and greet the world with renewed energy. By nightfall, the village falls into a tranquil silence, broken only by the occasional chirping of crickets or distant barks of a dog. Sit on a terrace under the starry sky, feel the breeze, and listen to the soft melodies of traditional flutes—it’s a perfect moment of serenity. If you’re lucky, clear skies will reveal a canopy of stars, even the Milky Way. Nuodeng fulfills the dream of experiencing an ancient, authentic Chinese village untouched by excessive commercialization. Welcome to Nuodeng.
