The Silent History of Western Yunnan | Heshun Ancient Town

Nestled among the mountains of western Yunnan, Heshun Ancient Town is like a hermit, quietly telling stories of the past. More than 600 years ago, during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty, a group of soldiers and their families from the Central Plains came to this place to settle down. They left their hometowns and started a new life in this strange land, becoming the first builders of Heshun. The seeds of Central Plains culture were sown here. The people of Heshun have always valued education and culture. The men went to Myanmar, India, and other places to do business, and after achieving success, they returned to their hometowns to give back. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, many private schools and academies were established, cultivating a large number of scholars. The tradition of respecting teachers and valuing education continues to this day, with students inspired by their ancestors to keep the ancient town alive with the sound of reading. In modern times, Heshun is closely connected to the world. The Burma Road passes through the town, and during the War of Resistance against Japan, it was a transit station for students and patriotic overseas Chinese. Supplies were transported from here to the front lines, and young people set out from here to save the country, writing legendary stories. Time passes, and as you walk into Heshun, the bluestone roads wind through ancient buildings such as the Cun Ancestral Hall and the Li Ancestral Hall, with flying eaves and exquisite wood carvings, showcasing family glory. In the Heshun Library, ancient books and documents are abundant, and the fragrance of knowledge fills the air. The Wild Duck Lake reflects the Laundry Pavilion, a gentle guardian for the families of overseas Chinese. Today, Heshun welcomes visitors from all over the world with open arms. The elderly chat under ancient trees, children play in the alleys, and tourists are enchanted by the idyllic scenery and cultural charm. It is a living history, with its tranquility, depth, and warmth, allowing every visiting soul to find a home, and steadily moving towards tomorrow in the tide of the times.