Discovering Jianchuan old town and the rich culture of the Bai ethnic group
CGTN
00:52

Jianchuan old town is located in the heart of Jichuan County in southwest China's Yunnan Province. Embraced by the Laojunshan mountain range to the west and Jianhu Lake to the east, this quiet old town is a  concentration of the history and culture of the Bai ethnic group.

The structures of Bai architecture are unique. Houses are built following the format of "four grid with five courtyards" or "three squares with one screen wall" to allow more light and air in the house, which were designed based on the Bai people's proximity to nature.

Many traditional Bai art and handcraft still continue as part of the residents' lives here. Black-clay pottery is one of them. These pottery are everywhere in Bai people's daily life, such as tableware, tea sets, or auspicious sculptures that people believe would bring good luck.

About "Go! Yunnan" series:

Yunnan Province in southwest China boasts of spectacular natural landscapes, biodiversity and diverse ethnic groups. Among China's 56 recognized ethnic groups, 25 are found in Yunnan. This livestream series will take you on a tour to six cities or autonomous prefectures in Yunnan and see the little-known food, scenery and folk customs. Stay tuned for our upcoming livestreams!

(Cover image is a screenshot from the video.)

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