Yunnan puts its exotic culture on display

MENTION Yunnan, most people think of such popular destinations as Kunming, Lijiang, Dali and Shangri-La. However, the southwestern province has many others to offer.

In collaboration with the Yunnan Tourism Development Committee, Yuyuan Garden Malls in downtown Shanghai is hosting the Yunnan Folk Art Exhibition through August 24. It features folk dances, local food and artworks, as well as iconic replica scenes from the city of Qujing in Yunnan.

Bordering Guizhou Province in the east, Qujing is the second-largest city in Yunnan, only after the provincial capital Kunming. It is home to eight ethnic groups, among them the Yi, Buyi, Zhuang, Miao and Yao. They all have different languages, outfits and customs.

In addition, the hugely varied landforms take you to see more, such as the Huize ancient town, Luoping cole flowers field, Luliang sand forest, Jiulong waterfalls and some tropical elements in the Phoenix Valley.

A giant coin modeled after the Jiajing Tongbao, the most common currency minted during the reign of Emperor Jiajing in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) was set up in the central plaza of Yuyuan Garden Malls, telling of the history of Chinese coins and the techniques of metal refinery in Yunnan over the past few centuries.

South of the plaza is a row of diaojiaolou (stilted houses) with Buyi ethnic elements. Back in Yunnan, they are usually constructed to overhang the water and be supported by many wooden pillars. Inside the Shanghai house, which serves as a handicraft center, visitors can watch and even participate in traditional spinning, hand weaving and vegetable dyeing courses with Buyi masters who are keeping their intangible heritage alive.

During the exhibition, two free shows will be held free of charge at 10-11am and 6:30-7:30pm east to the Huabao Tower, featuring the weaving dance of the Buyi minority and the wedding dance of the Yi people.

Date: Through August 24 Venue: Yuyuan Garden Malls Address: 234 Fuyou Rd