11 Hidden Historical Tales of Huanglong - #3 Will Change Everything You Know!

Tucked in Sichuan Province's highlands, Huanglong is more than just a breathtaking natural beauty featuring vibrantly coloured travertine lakes. Many people never find the decades of amazing history, mythical stories, and cultural value this UNESCO World Heritage site offers. From imperial ties to ancient Buddhist pilgrimages, these eleven amazing tales highlight the less well-known historical fabric of this great site. Every story gives the already breathtaking scenery more mystery and reveals how this natural beauty has over millennia affected Chinese history and culture.

1. The Ancient Tea Horse Road Connection

Few people know about the interesting episode in Chinese trade history that is the relationship of Huanglong to the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Serving as a vital rest stop along this major commerce route rivalling the well-known Silk Road in importance, Huanglong was a Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) station. Travellers between Tibet and central China would especially arrange their paths to pass through Huanglong not just for its strategic location but also for the supposed therapeutic powers of its waters. It was believed that the mineral-rich waters would aid in the recovery from the demanding trip across the difficult terrain for horses as well as people. Scattered throughout the several pools and temple sites, archaeological evidence has unearthed several objects from this era including ancient coins, tea bricks, and trade items. Because it gave access to somewhat secure mountain passage and good water supplies, the path across Huanglong was very valuable. According to historical accounts, several tea stores would plan their travels to coincide with Buddhist celebrations at Huanglong Temple, therefore blending commercial with religious observance. This dual use helped create Huanglong as both a commercial centre and a spiritual centre, therefore generating a special cultural junction that shaped regional customs and traditions for centuries to come.