Yisala | An ancient Yi village

❥ Yisala is located in Renhe District, Panzhihua City, Sichuan Province. Since the Ming and Qing dynasties, Yisala Village has been the warm home where the Li and Pu Yi people have settled for generations. Today, Yisala Village has existed for more than 600 years, with about 1,500 villagers living here, among whom the Yi people account for 96% of the total population, making it the largest natural Yi settlement in China, known as 'China's No.1 Yi Village'. ❥ The entire ancient village is built against the mountain, with hundreds of residential buildings stacked on top of each other. The houses are made of earth and wood structures, and the unique red exterior walls are very eye-catching among the mountains. The local customs are simple, the ethnic cultural heritage is profound, and the unique architectural color is similar to that of Seda, hence Yisala is also known as 'Little Seda'. With its distinctive architecture, green mountains, blue waters, and ancient stone paths, the village has a three-dimensional structure that suits various photography styles and is very photogenic. ❥ The village roads crisscross like a spider web, with undulating cobblestone paths connecting the entire ancient village, full of historical charm. The houses are very close to each other, with alleys connecting front and back doors. Walking through the narrow lanes, one moment you are among lively crowds, and the next turn brings you to a quiet courtyard. The villagers' houses are basically each with a yard, one main room and two wings, forming a quadrangle with a well, white walls, and green tiles, with high ridges and flying eaves. ❥ The local Yi people have lived here for hundreds of years, playing cards, chatting, frolicking, cooking... It's as if you've stepped into the everyday life of these streets and alleys in a second, very leisurely and full of happiness. Yisala Village just built a large greenhouse last year and planted blueberries. It was also my first time seeing blueberries grown in flower pots. The villagers sell their own special products and fruits at affordable prices. On the way there, you will pass a viewing platform where you can overlook the entire Yisala ancient village. You can stop to take some photos, but because the road is narrow to avoid traffic jams, it is a one-way street and you will not return the same way, not passing this spot again. ❥ Yisala is a well-preserved ancient Yi village. Having seen too many overly commercialized ancient towns, my first encounter with Yisala ancient village gave me an unexpected surprise. It has unique scenery and a profound historical heritage. There is no commercial development, the temperature is pleasant, it is rarely promoted, niche, and the scenery is beautiful! There are no souvenir shops in the village, nor any noisy commercial facilities. The simple folk houses are authentic, outshining many ancient towns. There are not many tourists, so you can enjoy a leisurely and comfortable time.