Yunnan Trip Day 3
March 14, Cloudy.
In the early morning, the sun struggled to squeeze through the thick clouds, casting its rays upon Shuangjiang. After enjoying breakfast at the Shuangjiang Grand View Elysian Hotel, I boarded the bus, ready for a fulfilling day.
As the bus moved forward, the clouds outside the window resembled a flock of lazy sheep, drifting slowly. Soon, we arrived at the Banhong Anti-British Memorial Site—Hulugwangdi. Stepping onto this land, I could almost feel the weight of history. In 1934, British troops invaded the Banhong and Banlao regions, attempting to plunder the rich mineral resources. The Banhong King, Hu Yushan, resolutely summoned the 17 Wa kings, made a blood oath, and took up arms against the British. This moving struggle demonstrated the Wa people's unwavering determination to defend their homeland. Standing on this land, gazing at the historical displays and sculptures, I could almost picture the Wa warriors, weapons in hand, bravely resisting the foreign invaders. A deep respect for my ancestors welled up within me.
After lunch, driven by curiosity about ancient cultures, I headed to the primitive tribal village of Wengding. Wengding, meaning "a place shrouded in clouds and mist" in the Wa language, felt like a secluded, mysterious world upon my arrival. The thatched houses, built with the most basic materials, stood in a charming disorder. The thatch on the roofs swayed gently in the wind, as if whispering ancient tales. The village was permeated with the unique culture of the Wa people. The ubiquitous bull head stakes symbolized their reverence for nature and spirits. Here, the Wa people still maintain their traditional way of life, weaving cloth, brewing wine, and crafting handicrafts. Each skill carries the memory of their ethnicity. Their warm hospitality and genuine smiles brought me a sense of pure warmth.
As night fell, I checked in at the Cangyuan Buruok Hotel. After a short rest, I went to the Yangyun Grand Hotel for the long-awaited bull head feast. As I entered the hotel, a rich aroma filled the air. A huge bull head was placed in the center of the dining table, surrounded by various special side dishes. The meticulously cooked bull head was tender and melted in my mouth, each bite bursting with rich ethnic flavors. Amidst laughter and conversation, I concluded this fulfilling and wonderful day, looking forward to more surprises tomorrow.