The fusion of Qiang and Tibetan cultures in Western Sichuan: Maerkang

🌄Maerkang, which means 'a place with a thriving flame' in Tibetan, is located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan. It is a city filled with historical charm and natural scenery.🏞️ 🌟About History: Maerkang is a confluence of Tibetan and Qiang cultures. The Tibetan and Qiang people here have created a rich and colorful ethnic culture. Walking through the streets and alleys of Maerkang, one can feel the profound cultural atmosphere. 🏞️About Attractions: 1️⃣ Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor Cultural Tourism Area: This is a highlight of Maerkang, with the official manor built against the mountains, majestic in appearance. It is not only a representative of Tusi culture but also a treasure of Tibetan and Qiang architectural art. Many people, like Shandao, yearn to explore the manor after reading Alai's 'Dust Settles'. 2️⃣ Dazang Temple: This temple is located deep in the mountains of Maerkang, with a tranquil environment, a holy place for practitioners. The Buddha statues and murals inside the temple are filled with a strong religious atmosphere, inspiring awe in visitors. 3️⃣ Songgang Watchtower: The watchtowers are a crystallization of the wisdom of the Tibetan people, towering into the clouds, incredibly sturdy. Standing under the watchtower, one can feel the tenacity and indomitable spirit of the nation. 💡Travel Tips: Maerkang is suitable for travel in all seasons, but Shandao believes the best seasons are spring and autumn. The climate is pleasant, and the scenery is delightful, making it the best time to experience the charm of Maerkang. 🌈Two-day tour in Maerkang, encounter the charm of Tibetan and Qiang cultures🌊 👣 Maerkang is not a large place, but because Shandao has lingered here on the G317 Sichuan-Tibet Northern Route, he feels that the Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor is worth wandering slowly. Walking, stopping, and looking around, a day passes quickly. Therefore, Shandao suggests staying in Maerkang for two days. 👣 🌄 Day One: Explore Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor, taste the Tibetan and Qiang culture 👣 In the morning, the first stop is, of course, the Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor! Walking on the stone-paved roads, feeling the weight of history, as if one could hear the glorious stories of the Tusi from days past. Unfortunately, Shandao did not go inside, as they were filming during the two days he stayed, and it was closed off. 👣 After lunch, we went to a nearby Tibetan family experience area to try our hands at making traditional Tibetan handicrafts, feeling the simplicity and sincerity. 👣 In the evening, we strolled through the streets and alleys of Zhuokeji, watching the water flow by, tasting authentic Tibetan and Qiang cuisine, and letting our taste buds also immerse in the rich cultural atmosphere. 👣 🏞️ Day Two: Hike to Songgang Zhibo Watchtower, embrace the beauty of nature 👣 On the second day, facing the fresh air, we headed to the Songgang Zhibo Watchtower. This ancient watchtower stands between the mountains, contrasting with the blue sky and white clouds. Hiking up the winding mountain path, one can feel the natural wonders. 👣 If there is time in the afternoon, we will go to Dazang Temple, where we can quietly listen to the chanting of monks, allowing our souls to undergo a profound purification. 🏨Hotel Recommendations Maerkang Dust Settles·Howard Johnson Hotel Maerkang Rongcheng Holiday Hotel Maerkang Qin Residence Hotel Vienna Hotel (Maerkang Branch)