In a momentous recognition of cultural heritage, the ancient tea forests and villages of Jingmai Mountain in Pu’er, southwest China’s Yunnan Province, have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The decision was announced on Sunday during the 45th session of UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee in Riyadh.
The newly designated heritage site encompasses five old tea forests, nine ancient villages, and three protective partition forests. This unique cultural landscape showcases a thriving tea cultivation tradition dating back centuries, reflecting a harmonious relationship between the local communities and their environment.
A Living Heritage
Jingmai Mountain is home to diverse ethnic groups, including the Blang and Dai people, who have meticulously preserved their ancestral practices of tea cultivation and forest management. The ancient tea plantations are not merely agricultural sites but are integral to the social and cultural fabric of the communities.
The tea forests are characterized by age-old tea trees, some over a thousand years old, cultivated under a canopy of natural forests. This agroforestry system supports biodiversity and maintains ecological balance, embodying sustainable practices passed down through generations.
Preserving Culture and Nature
The nine ancient villages within the heritage site are prime examples of traditional architecture and community planning. The villagers live in wooden stilt houses clustered along the mountainside, maintaining customs and rituals that are deeply intertwined with tea culture.
The inclusion of Jingmai Mountain in the UNESCO World Heritage List highlights the global significance of preserving both cultural diversity and natural ecosystems. It acknowledges the locals’ efforts in safeguarding their heritage amidst modernization pressures.
A New Chapter for Jingmai Mountain
The recognition is expected to boost sustainable tourism, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the rich cultural traditions and pristine landscapes of Jingmai Mountain. Travelers can explore the ancient tea forests, engage with the local communities, and learn about the intricate processes of tea cultivation and production.
As the world turns its gaze to Jingmai Mountain, the challenge remains to balance tourism development with the preservation of its unique cultural and natural heritage. The local authorities and communities are committed to maintaining this balance, ensuring that the ancient tea forests and villages continue to thrive for future generations.
Embracing a Shared Heritage
The inscription of Jingmai Mountain as a UNESCO World Heritage site is not only a proud moment for China but also a celebration of humanity’s shared cultural heritage. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving traditional knowledge and practices that contribute to sustainable living and environmental stewardship.
For scholars, travelers, and tea enthusiasts worldwide, Jingmai Mountain offers a remarkable window into the ancient traditions of tea cultivation and the vibrant cultures that nurture them.
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Live: Explore ancient villages on the newly inscribed heritage site
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