How to Explore the Ancient City of Shiping?

The ancient city of Shiping, located in the northwest of Honghe Prefecture, is a renowned cultural city in southern Yunnan with a history spanning over a millennium. Here's a guide to the best ways to experience it: 【Must-See Ancient Architecture】 1. **Yuan Jiagu's Former Residence**: Visit the Qing Dynasty residence of Yuan Jiagu, the only Zhuangyuan (top scholar in the imperial examination) in Yunnan's history. Explore the architectural layout of the four-sided courtyard with five sunken wells and immerse yourself in the culture of the imperial examination system. 2. **Temple of Literature Complex**: Stroll through Shiping's Temple of Literature and Yuping Academy, admiring the largest Ming and Qing Dynasty Confucian architectural complex in southern Yunnan. The carved ceiling of the Dacheng Hall is particularly exquisite. 3. **Ancient Prefecture Yamen Area**: Visit the ruins of the Ming Dynasty Shiping Prefecture Yamen and capture the essence of ancient times in the well-preserved bluestone streets and alleys. 【Local Experiences】 - **Tofu Feast**: Tofu workshops are scattered throughout the ancient city. We recommend trying the charcoal-grilled tofu with a special dipping sauce. In the evening, head to the tofu barbecue night market outside the west gate to experience the lively atmosphere. - **Intangible Cultural Heritage Exploration**: Visit the Wutong Zouyin (copper inlaid with silver) workshop to observe this national-level intangible cultural heritage craft. You can even customize your own silver pieces. 【Nearby Extensions】 - **Yilong Lake Cycling**: Located 3 km from the city, a 36-km cycling path around the lake takes you through wetlands. In winter, observe tens of thousands of rare migratory birds, and in summer, admire the vast lotus fields. - **Baoxiu Ancient Town**: A 20-minute drive away, the wood carvings in the Chen Family Ancestral Hall in Zhengying Ancient Village are considered one of the finest examples in southern Yunnan. The best time to visit is from September to November, when the weather is cool and the Tofu Culture Festival takes place.